Showing posts with label luck. Show all posts
Showing posts with label luck. Show all posts

Tuesday, 16 January 2024

Practical Magic: Does Your Mug Manifest Your Wishes?

I'm very particular when I pick what mug I'm going to use and I’ve got a collection of what I think of as lucky mugs for different situations. You can see just a few in the photo above: 

  • A mug for when I'm writing about magic
  • A mug for when I'm reading and don't want to be disturbed
  • A mug for when I want a bit of love and comfort.

I've got other ones too. In fact I'll be talking a bit about another mug on Wednesday evening in an online workshop on charms and amulets via the College of Psychic Studies. 

I believe that pretty much anything you feel has the right symbolism can help you manifest what you want in everyday life - even mugs.

Do you have a lucky mug - or more than one?

Please leave a comment.

Previous related posts
http://www.badwitch.co.uk/2024/01/my-workshops-on-charms-candle-magic.html
http://www.badwitch.co.uk/2023/11/labyrinths-my-mazing-charity-shop-find.html
http://www.badwitch.co.uk/2022/08/honeysuckle-tea-for-lammas-protection.html
http://www.badwitch.co.uk/2015/06/review-cup-of-destiny-tea-leaf-reading.html

Tuesday, 16 May 2023

It's Bad Luck to Buy a Broom or Wash Blankets in May

Did you know it's supposed to be bad luck to buy a new broom or wash blankets in May?

I discovered this when I was doing some research for the online talk I'm giving on cleansing and protection magic this evening. I always try to make sure any talks or workshops I run are pertinent to the time of year so I looked into the folklore related to cleaning things in May.

Steve Roud in The Penguin Guide to the Superstitions of Britain and Ireland points to an old Devon phrase: 

"Buy a broom in the month of May
Sweep one of the house away"

He doesn't know the reason behind the belief, but I wonder whether its actually based on something practical. Traditonally broom heads were often made from birch twigs or the broom plant, while the handle was made of a straight pole of wood. No plastic back in the day. It might be that trees are best coppiced or pruned earlier or later in the year, either before the sap rises or after birds have finished nesting.

Regarding blanket washing, Steve Roud quotes an Oxfordshire saying:

"Wash blankets in May
You'll soon be under clay"

He can't think of any practical reason behind this, and neither can I. I do have a sleeping bag that needs a clean at the moment. I'm not very superstitious but I might just wait until next month to give it a wash just in case. 

What do you think about either of these sayings?

(Note: I earn commission from advertisers for some links. This helps support my blog at no extra cost to those who read my posts.)

Previous related posts
http://www.badwitch.co.uk/2023/01/witchy-crafts-mini-broomstick-jewellery.html
http://www.badwitch.co.uk/2023/02/energy-work-what-will-stay-and-what.html
http://www.badwitch.co.uk/2016/05/witches-do-cobwebs-help-or-hinder-your.html
http://www.badwitch.co.uk/2016/07/ghostbusters-mystic-guide-to-cleansing.html

Friday, 13 January 2023

Folklore: Horseshoes for Protection and Lucky Charms

Horseshoes are one of the most instantly recognised symbols for good luck. You'll see them on charm bracelets, greeting cards, and of course as gifts to a happy couple getting married. At one time real ones were regularly nailed above doorways to protect all within from harm, although that's less common in cities nowadays simply because you don't get so many horses there. 

The best kind of horseshoe for luck is the one you find by chance. I picked up the one in the picture when I was on a country walk. I've not got round to putting it over my doorway yet - although perhaps I should do as I've had a run of misfortune recently.

According to folklorist Steve Roud, in the Penguin Guide to the Superstitions of Britain and Ireland, finding a horseshoe was considered lucky at least as far back as the 14th century. That's a good couple of centuries before recorded evidence of them being stuck to walls. If you did find one, you were supposed to pick it up, spit on it, throw it over your shoulder, and make a wish. 

Nailed above doors, horseshoes were at one time specifically thought to ward against witches entering your home. Melusine Draco in The Secret People mentions an old rhyme that goes:
The first thing you will see
At the house of rich or poor
To keep the witches out
A horseshoe’s o’er the door;
I can vouch for the fact they don't act as a barrier to modern witches, but historically the word "witch" was often used to mean any kind of cursing. Nowadays, the most they're likey to do is make a witch pause and nod in approval at your magical house protection. 

One frequent debate is about which way the horseshoe should go. Some say you should have it with the points upwards to keep the luck in, while others say the round bit should be a the top so the bad luck can run off. Another theory is that the pointy bits represent the horned god (or sometimes the devil) and witches should hang their horseshoes that way in honour of whatever horned one they prefer. However, there's no evidence that belief is particularly ancient, according to Steve Roud. 

While my horseshoe is genuine, you can make lucky charms with pretty much whatever you want. I go by the theory that what a thing symbolises and how you feel about it is the most important thing when doing magic. You could use materials such as card, clay or wood to make a horseshoe shape. Decorate it how you like, then visualise it protecting your home and bringing luck to all within.

(Note: I earn commission from advertisers for some links. This helps support my blog at no extra cost to those who read my posts.)

Previous related posts
http://www.badwitch.co.uk/2020/03/folklore-friday-13-and-flying-penis-for.html
http://www.badwitch.co.uk/2021/11/yule-folklore-charms-sixpences-and-stir.html
http://www.badwitch.co.uk/2011/09/talismans-and-amulets.html
http://www.badwitch.co.uk/2018/08/exhibition-spellbound-magic-ritual-and.html

Tuesday, 26 October 2021

A Lucky Black Cat Poppet for Black Cat Appreciation Day

Tomorrow is National Black Cat Day in England. It is held each year on 27 October in this country and was started by Cats Protection with the aim of promoting the beauty of black cats. 

According to animal charities, black cats are more difficult to find homes for because some people think they are unlucky. Personally, I've always thought of them as symbols of good luck. In fact I describled how to make a black cat charm for good luck in my book Pagan Portals - Poppets and Magical Dolls. Here's the quote from the book:

Lucky black cat charm 

As a talisman to bring good luck, make a black cat-shaped poppet from felt, small enough to keep in your pocket or bag. Inside the cat put a mixture of herbs and items associated with luck such as an acorn and dried heather, clover or mint. Add a few strands of your own hair – and a few strands of fur fallen from your own cat if you have one. Put a yellow or gold ribbon around the neck of the cat and to it hang a small metal charm associated with luck, such as a four-leaf clover. Enchant the cat on a Sunday when the moon is full or nearly full. Say: ‘I name you my good luck cat and charge you to attract the best that can happen in all things.’ 

The one I made has a green ribbon rather than a yellow one, as green can symbolise money and I wanted to good fortune in that sense too. It's fine to adapt spells you find in books or online to suit your own needs.

You can find my books, including Pagan Portals - Poppets and Magical Dolls, in the following shops and online stores:

Plase note I earn commission from some links.

Friday, 13 March 2020

Folklore: Friday 13 and a Flying Penis for Luck


We might all be looking for something to give us a bit of extra good luck this Friday 13, and we might even wear some sort of amulet or talisman to symbolically ward us from ills. If we were living back in Roman London, that might have taken the form of a flying penis. While penises were generally thought of as protective symbols, giving them wings was thought to make them extra effective against air-borne threats. Other versions of the charm had a clenched fist on the other end (a gesture with phallic connotations), while some were just the member on its own.

According to Atlas Obscura, mothers would often give their children penis amulets to wear because child mortality was particularly high in Roman cities. You can see the photographed set of lucky Roman penis amulets in the Museum of London while others are in London's Wellcome Collection. Of course, if you really want to avoid getting ill today you are probably best avoiding public places, and washing your hands regularly rather than relying on a lucky charm.

Links and previous related posts
http://www.badwitch.co.uk/2009/02/friday-13th-lore-luck-and-superstitions.html
http://www.badwitch.co.uk/2019/09/friday-13-luck-then-full-harvest-moon.html
https://www.atlasobscura.com/articles/romans-used-to-ward-off-sickness-with-flying-penis-amulets
https://www.museumoflondon.org.uk/museum-london
https://wellcomecollection.org/works/fj3kkk9m

Monday, 2 September 2019

Pagan Eye: The Eye of Hamsa in a Palm

Someone who reads my blog emailed me with this picture. They wrote:
Good eve! I was wishing I had some supernatural or divine photos to send you... then I remembered that I hold the Eye of Hamsa in my palm. In college I showed it to the anthropology professor who said wow, I never thought I would see that in person. 
Allegedly only one person has it on earth at a time. In Hindu, it is considered a blessing from Krishna. Christianity calls it a mark of protection from the Mother Mary - and Islam refers to it as a sacred favor from Muhammed... so here are some pictures I just took of it.
The Eye of Hamsa is often used in protection amulets, particularly popular in the Middle East and North Africa. It is usually depicted as an open hand with an eye in the palm. The open hand is an image that has been used for protection in many cultures and throughout history. Eyes are also protective symbols.

Thanks very much for sending me the photo. I think you are lucky to have that protective symbol on your own hand.

My Pagan Eye posts show photos that I find interesting - seasonal images, pagan sites, events, or just pretty pictures. If you want to send me a photo for a Pagan Eye post, please email it to badwitch1234@gmail.com Let me know what the photo shows and whether you want your name mentioned or not. For copyright reasons, the photo must be one you have taken yourself.

The photo is copyright the photographer.

Links and previous related posts
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hamsa
http://www.badwitch.co.uk/2019/05/pagan-eye-magical-spell-on-millennium.html
http://www.badwitch.co.uk/2019/03/pagan-eye-ancient-yew-tree-at-kingley.html
http://www.badwitch.co.uk/2019/02/pagan-eye-west-wickham-oak.html
http://www.badwitch.co.uk/2018/08/pagan-eye-lammas-meltdown.html

Friday, 10 May 2019

Folklore & Superstitions: Shoes in the Walls and Attics


I'm superstitious about shoes - and so were a lot of people in the past.

A BBC News story, "Northampton museum 'concealed shoes' index to go online", says that an index of 3,000 shoes discovered in walls is to be digitised. That's great news for anyone interested in folklore. The news story also says the superstition of concealing shoes in buildings started around the Middle Ages in England, but died out in the 1900s. I'm honestly not so sure it has died out. For a start, putting old shoes in the attic is something I do myself.

I don't mean I just put shoes in the attic along with other old stuff I'm storing; I mean I put them there because I am superstitious about them.

My superstition is this: I feel that shoes I have worn almost daily for ages, which have been like a second skin to me and have soaked up my sweat and sometimes the blood of my blisters, have a deep connection to me. If you think about it, we wash the sweat off our clothes, but rarely wash our shoes - although sometimes a pair of stinky trainers have gone in the washing machine. Our shoes are our interface with the Earth beneath us, they protect our feet as we wend our way in daily life. They help us walk towards our goals and they help us safely home again afterwards. They can become almost a part of us - even a part of our identity.

I am reluctant to throw that away into the rubbish, even when a pair of shoes has worn out. That picture at the top of the page shows one of my favourite pairs of canvas shoes. I haven't worn them for years because they have holes and let in water, but I haven't thrown them away. I'm too superstitious.

Once, I had another pair of canvas shoes that I wore and wore for years, and loved. They had a pattern of little dancing stick figures around the edge that reminded me of a Sherlock Holmes story, which was why I bought them. I was wearing them when I first kissed a boyfriend who was my soulmate for 10 years. The shoes lasted as long - which is pretty amazing for canvas shoes. I finally decided to leave them behind in a rubbish bin at the end of a lovely holiday that my boyfriend and I had shared. They really were not wearable any more and I wanted lighter luggage.

Shortly after we got home, the relationship started to go wrong. I knew I should not have thrown those shoes away.

When my mother died, I put her favourite slippers into the loft. I feel they keep something of her energy in the house. That pair of canvas shoes in the photo will soon join them. Yes, I am superstitious about shoes. Does anyone else share my feelings?

What are your thoughts about your old shoes? Do you happily throw away your favourite footwear when it is worn out, or do you feel that doing that means throwing away a little bit of yourself?

Links and previous related posts
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-northamptonshire-48126627?
http://www.badwitch.co.uk/2017/03/concealed-revealed-hidden-objects.html
http://www.badwitch.co.uk/2018/09/impressions-of-spellbound-magic-ritual.html

Thursday, 26 July 2018

Folklore: Lucky Charms at the Horniman Museum


Lucky charms are probably the most widely spread example of popular magic. Even today, many people have them in the form of items of jewellery, trinkets or ornaments.

They might be things that are commonly held to be symbols of protection or good fortune, or they might be something personal for the individual, like a favourite mug or a cuddly toy given by a loved one.

The newly refurbished World Gallery at the Horniman Museum in south London has a whole new display of English magical charms and amulets. They are mostly from the 19th and 20th century and were collected by folklorists including Edward Lovett.

The photos here show some of the items in the display. I took the picture at Wonderful World Late. One case shows a map of England indicating where each charm was found and a bit about its history. You can see a close-up of a couple of items in the picture at the top.

I'm guessing that today few of us - even witches - would choose to stick pins in a sheep's heart to "take off" a spell, but many might still consider holey stones - or hag stones - to be lucky. Personally, I've got quite a collection of them. I've even blogged about a spell to keep the holiday spirit, which involves finding a pebble on a beach - ideally one with a hole in it.

Another part of the magical charms display shows modern photos of people wearing jewellery they believe is lucky or protective. One image shows someone wearing a pentacle, which is a symbol with many different meanings. For pagans, it is protective and also represents the elements of earth, air, fire, water and spirit. Some see it as a symbol of Venus, while for Christians it represents the five wounds of Christ.

The Horniman Museum is at 100 London Road, Forest Hill, London, SE23 3PQ. You can find out more here about its collection of magical charms and amulets here: https://www.horniman.ac.uk/collections/stories/magic-charms-and-amulets/story-chapter/keep-safe-and-well-working-magic-into-charms-and-amulets

Links and previous related posts
https://www.horniman.ac.uk/
http://www.badwitch.co.uk/2016/10/a-night-of-magic-at-horniman-museum.html
http://www.badwitch.co.uk/2014/07/spells-protection-from-bad-luck-and.html
http://www.badwitch.co.uk/2012/08/spell-keep-holiday-spirit.html
http://www.badwitch.co.uk/2018/07/pagan-eye-horniman-museum-wonderful.html

Friday, 13 July 2018

Magical Dolls: WWI Lucky Fums Up! Doll


As it is Friday 13th with all its associations of bad luck, I thought I'd blog about a little doll that was thought to bring good luck back in the dark days of the First World War.

Girlfriends and family of soldiers going away to fight at the front frequently gave their loved ones tiny Fums Up! dolls as lucky charms. The doll and postcard in the photos are on display in the Museum of Witchcraft and Magic in Cornwall. Other examples were made of brass or silver. The MWM  sells modern Fums Up figures in pewter.

This Fums Up! has a lucky four-leaf clover symbol on its head. Others had thumbs up signs and some had wooden heads you could use to touch wood. There was a rhyme to boost the magic:
My head is made
Of wood most rare
My thumbs turn up
To touch me there.
To speed my feet
They’ve Cupid’s wings:
They’ll help true love
’Mongst other things.
Proverbial is
My power to bring
Good luck to you
In everything.
I’ll bring good luck
To all away –
Just send me to
A friend to-day.
Over the past week I've blogged about several magical dolls associated good luck, including mascots, Merrythoughts and fertility dolls. In the past I have also blogged about poppets used for curses, which were on display at the Museum of Witchcraft and Magic. I spent quite a bit of time at the museum when I was researching my book Pagan Portals – Poppets and Magical Dolls.

I will be doing a free launch event for Pagan Portals – Poppets and Magical Dolls at Treadwell’s Books in London tomorrow, July 14. If you want to pop along, you can reserve a place here: https://www.treadwells-london.com/event/signing-poppets-and-magical-dolls/

You can also view the book at publisher Moon Books’ website: https://www.johnhuntpublishing.com/moon-books/our-books/pagan-portals-poppets-magical-dolls

Links and previous related posts
http://www.badwitch.co.uk/2017/05/pagan-eye-dolls-from-poppets-pins-power.html
http://www.badwitch.co.uk/2018/07/magical-dolls-folklore-wishbones.html
http://museumofwitchcraftandmagic.co.uk/
http://www.moon-books.net/books/pagan-portals-poppets-magical-dolls
https://www.treadwells-london.com/event/

Monday, 2 July 2018

Magical Dolls: Football, Mascots & Lucky Charms

Did you know that the word "mascot" historically meant little witch?

Mascots, when they are cuddly toys, are magical dolls as well as just being a way to support a sports team.

Any fan of football or other sports and games will be familiar with team mascots. They are used as an identity symbol and something to help boost morale during the game. Big competitions often have their own mascot for the entire event - such as the Russian bear for 2018 Football World Cup.

Mascots can be people, animals or objects and they can be used by individuals, organisations and army regiments as well as for sports.

Although nowadays mascots tend to be represented by people in costumes - as well as toys that fans can buy - mascots were rather different historically. Their origin also blends both practical and magical intentions.

They probably started as live animals rather than people dressed up in costumes or dolls. This would have had a dual effect and purpose. A scary predatory beast could have been intended to strike fear into the opposing side, but displays of team mascots were probably also used to entertain and excite spectators before games began.

Although some mascots are still real animals, over time many became stylised representations. This in turn became people in costumes and then cuddly toys. The latter are also an obvious sales and marketing opportunity that could hardly be ignored.

Even today, many sports fans think of a mascot as a good luck charm. They might not consider themselves superstitious, but nevertheleless will bring one along when they watch a game in the hope that it just might help their team win. And the magic of mascots is right in the etymology of the word.

According to the Merriam-Webster student dictionary:
The ancestor of mascot is the Latin word masca, used in the Middle Ages to mean "witch." Masca passed into the Romance speech of southern France as masco. Later it developed a derivative mascoto, literally meaning "little witch" but actually used to mean "charm" or "magic spell." ...The word mascoto came to be mascotte in modern French, meaning a "good luck charm." It was made popular by the operetta La Mascotte in 1880. In this operetta "la mascotte" is the lovely young woman Bettina, whose influence brings victories to the army of the prince of Pisa. English later borrowed the word as mascot, with the meaning "a person or thing thought to bring good luck." 
So, if you have a mascot and are watching the World Cup, don't forget that it is a magical doll - a "little witch" - that you can use to wish good luck to the team you support.

I have written a book on magical dolls called Pagan Portals - Poppets and Magical Dolls, published by Moon Books.


Pictures: Russia World Cup Mascot (You can view the 2018 Russia World Cup mascot on Amazon); goat mascot and Goat Major of the Royal Regiment of Wales, Cardiff, Wales (photograph by Greg O'Beirne, shared under Creative Commons).

Links and previous related posts
http://www.moon-books.net/books/pagan-portals-poppets-magical-dolls
https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/babb/11693090/The-weird-and-wonderful-world-of-football-club-mascots.html
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mascot#/
http://www.wordcentral.com/cgi-bin/student?book=Student&va=mascot



Tuesday, 14 March 2017

Superstitions and Rituals About Bingo


Bingo players are an oddly superstitious bunch that believe in a whole host of different rituals. While they might not believe in pagan magic, they do believe in their ability to change their fortunes with a few well-placed totems.

There’s not much in the way of strategy when it comes to playing bingo, so it makes sense that people turn to a bit of magic to help them succeed instead. They can include a number of different things, from playing at the same time to wearing some lucky socks. Make no mistake, these small rituals can make an impact when believed in.

Some of these charms are pretty standard, perhaps a four-leafed clover, and others are a bit more whacky. They can include things like troll dolls or other tchotchkes that have some meaning to the player. Even bingo sites in the UK like bingosweets.com play on this by decorating their sites with the luckiest symbols around.

Mantras are also used to this effect, with players repeating their own spells to themselves. Given enough weight, these players on bingo sites are able to make up their own private lucky charms. Rituals have to start somewhere and this craft can have a huge effect on their luck.

The simple act of invoking luck might seem fruitless, but it can have some very real psychological effects. This can allow people to attribute their success to a specific series of actions or items, which means they are more likely to experiment with this again. Though they may not be consciously associating this with their success on bingo sites, they may be likely to spend more when they feel lucky.

Conversely there are also unlucky aspects that a lot of players will steer well clear of. In British culture, we have so many day to day items and animals that we consider to be unlucky. Ivory and peacock feathers are traditionally thought to be unlucky as well as black cats, magpies and other animals.

Bingo is intrinsically linked with the culture of the UK so it makes sense that many UK players are at least aware of them. Within superstition there is a phenomenon that it doesn’t matter if it really works, but there’s no harm in doing it anyway. This way of thinking means that many people that don’t class themselves as being superstitious will take part in this kind of activity.

There are many small things that the average bingo player will do, wear or simply have around to help them win. Whether this helps or not is unclear but there could be something giving these players an extra chance to win. Combine this with special offers and research then you can be a lucky player too.

This article was written by Jane Gordon

The photos show a couple of things that, in folklore, are considered to be lucky.

Thursday, 29 December 2016

Astrology: Will 2017 be your Lucky Year?


Astrologer Russell Grant looks at how lucky each Sun Sign will be throughout 2017 with a focus on specific dates and months:

Aries (Mar 21/Apr 20)
A financial, creative or emotional gamble could pay off handsomely on August 21st, thanks to a lucky Solar Eclipse. Be sure to roll the dice on this fateful day. From January through to early October, you’ll be very successful working with a partner. Teaming up with someone who has excellent social skills will work to your advantage. While they focus on attracting clients and improving customer relations, you should concentrate on generating sales. If you want to start your own business, it would be wise to form a partnership with someone with an impeccable reputation. After October 10th and through to the end of the year, you could receive several windfalls. An inheritance, insurance refund or legal settlement will allow you to finance a cherished dream. Use this extra money to travel, study or write. Going to an overseas university is also a possibility. Alternatively, your romantic partner could get a great job in a foreign country, prompting you to relocate. This grand adventure will strengthen your bond, drawing you closer together than ever before.

Taurus (Apr 21/May 21)
Tremendous luck will help improve your health in 2017, particularly between January and early October. Take this opportunity to get in shape, improve your diet and practise relaxation techniques. If you take good care of your body, you’ll feel energised and attractive. Your increased energy will attract a range of job opportunities. If you’ve been out of work, you’ll get at least one good job offer. A position involving writing, research or teaching could come your way in July. Accept this chance, as it will bring both intellectual stimulation and emotional fulfilment. In mid-October, your good fortune will take the form of a relationship. Teaming up with someone who knows your wants and wishes will put you in the path of love, money and creative fulfilment. If you work in an artistic field, you would be wise to find a talented agent, manager or editor. When you feel as if you’re out of your depth, don’t hesitate to hire a seasoned professional. You will benefit from their expertise so don’t begrudge them their fee.

Gemini (May 22/Jun 21)
You’ll have tremendous good fortune with creative pursuits during the first ten months of 2017. Whether you’re a performing artist, writer or craftsperson, you could make a lot of money from your talent. Take this opportunity to go on auditions, submit your work for publication or sell your handiwork. In mid-October, your health might well improve. This is a good time to improve your diet, get more exercise and practise relaxation techniques. If you’ve been dealing with a persistent ache or pain, a talented health professional can pinpoint the source of the trouble. Follow their advice to the letter. Ending a toxic relationship or leaving an oppressive work situation is also worth considering. Finding a better job will be easy between mid-October and the end of the year. Working unusual hours could be a good arrangement for you. Alternatively, you might get a job connected with the arts or linked to the environment. Pursue work that fills you with passion. Being excited to be doing a job you like will fire your energy and fuel your creativity.

Cancer (Jun 22/Jul 23)
Your home life could be a source of great joy and happiness between January and early October. Spending lots of time with your nearest and dearest will bring out the best in you. Hosting a family reunion or anniversary will be more fun than you think. If you want to move to a bigger or better place, this is the time to start looking around. You’ll be able to find somewhere at a reasonable price. Serendipity is at work as a generous or kind relative might be able to help financially. If you already love your abode, take this opportunity to do some home improvements that will increase the value of your property. You can also buy some beautiful furniture, prints and pictures. By mid-October, your good fortune will take the form of creativity. Developing your artistic talent will give you an attractive glow that’s hard to resist. If you’re single, you won’t be for long. Have fun playing the field. You’ll have a choice of several admirers. Choose the one that admires and fires your imagination. You’ll benefit from having a creative cheerleader.

Leo (Jul 24/Aug 23)
Providence could prompt you to further your education between January and early October. Taking a stimulating course will put you in touch with some interesting individuals. It will also make you rethink your aims and aspirations. You might decide to pursue a career as a self-employed freelancer. Learning a foreign language or mastering a musical instrument is also a possibility. By mid-October, your good fortune will focus on the home front. Acquiring or renting a new property could be on the cards. Look into every nook-and-cranny for a down payment. Alternatively, you could come into an inheritance. Be sure to attend a family get together. You’ll have a wonderfully nostalgic time connecting with relatives and remembering old times. News of an engagement, marriage or pregnancy will bring everybody together in a spirit of harmony. If you’ve been having problems with one of the family, you’ll have a chance to repair the relationship during the final three months of the year. Extend a tentative olive branch and you won’t be disappointed.

Virgo (Aug 24/Sep 23)
You will have plenty of opportunities to increase your income between January and early October. If you want a better paid position, you should be able to find one with relative ease. Work related to property, public relations and the law should be especially lucrative. A welcome gift or bonus could also come your way during this period. You should follow up a chance to study in the autumn. If you hear about an exciting course, sign up immediately. Don’t lose a chance to fulfil your destiny. The knowledge you acquire will be useful, both professionally and personally. Not only will you be able to use your newfound skills to find work, but you’ll also make some really great friends amongst your fellow students. A series of short trips will keep you on the move during the last three months of the year. You’ll enjoy these changes of scenery. If you need a new car, buy one between mid-October and late November. You’ll find a reasonable model that serves you well and gives little trouble, especially if you go for an extended warranty.

Libra (Sep 24/Oct 23)
You are brimming with self-confidence, wit and charm, especially from January through to early October. Attracting love, abundance and creative fulfilment will be easy. Are you looking for romance? Would be admirers will beat a path to your door. Choose an offbeat rebel who helps you loosen up. If you’ve ever wanted to start a business, this is a fantastic time to set the wheels in motion. Having a distinctive logo will attract customers to your door. It’s important to offer distinctive products and services that are a reflection of your own values. When it comes to artistic pursuits, this is the ideal time to go on auditions, submit work for publication or sell your handiwork. By mid-October, your income will increase significantly. Making money from creative pursuits is a strong possibility. Alternatively, you could land a lucrative job with significant benefits. Be sure to take advantage of a generous retirement package or profit-sharing scheme. Use this period of prosperity to build your own little nest egg. Have a cash reserve means you can do the sort of things you want to do without having to watch every penny and that will give you the freedom and independence you crave.

Scorpio (Oct 24/Nov 22)
Good fortune suffuses the spiritual side of life from January to early October. Converting to a different religion, forging new cultural links, taking up an esoteric interest or communing with nature will help you transcend the everyday mundane problems of life that cause stress. Donating your time or money to a charity will also result in lucky breaks for you. You could find love while working at a fundraiser or get offered a job while volunteering at an animal shelter. By the middle of October, you’ll have an opportunity to showcase your talent. If you’re in the performing arts be sure to go on auditions. You could be given a role of a lifetime. Are you a writer? Submit your work for publication. Are you into arts and crafts? Show your work to a boutique owner who sells handcrafted merchandise. Going into business for yourself will also be successful, especially if you put a personal stamp on your work. Prepare for your star to rise between mid-October and the end of the year, when people will be highly appreciative of your unique talents.

Sagittarius (Nov 23/Dec 21)
Your social network will bring a plethora of opportunities from January right through to early October. Whether you want to find love, get a job or sell a property, you should spread the word among friends. Someone will be able to connect you with the perfect option to meet your needs. If you get a chance to lead a large group, take it. Not only will you gain valuable experience, you’ll also be able to use this position as a springboard to bigger and better things. Attend as many parties, casual get-togethers and professional conferences as possible during this period. You’re sure to make friends with influential people. By mid-October the focus will be on your private life. Solitary pursuits like reading and writing will be therapeutic. You’ll gain a stronger sense of yourself by listening to your intuition. By carving out more private time, you’ll be able to develop a writing project or embark on a spiritual journey. There’s every chance you will go on a solitary holiday during the final three months of the year.

Capricorn (Dec 22/Jan 20)
There’s good luck in your professional life between January and early October. Go for a promotion, start a business or assume more responsibility. You’ll impress both your peers and superiors during this golden time. If you are an artist, this would be an ideal time to put your work on display. Never turn away an opportunity to stand in the spotlight. You’ll get a receptive audience wherever you go. By mid-October, the importance of work will recede and you’ll be able to pour more energy into your social life. Fulfilling a childhood dream is a strong possibility during the final three months of the year. Turn to influential friends for help with this goal. You’ll be surrounded by supportive people who only want the best for you. Expanding your social circle is always a good idea so be sure to attend as many gatherings and professional conferences as possible as the year draws to a close. You could meet someone who will have a pivotal effect on your life at a festive holiday party.

Aquarius (Jan 21/Feb 19)
2017 brings a chance to travel, write and study extensively throughout the first nine months of the year. Be sure to schedule at least one long distance journey between January and early October. Visiting a country that has fascinated you since childhood will attract love and prosperity. By mid-October, you’ll be very busy with work. You’ll have a wonderful chance to climb the ladder to success. Someone in the career structure will be preparing to retire, leaving a space for you to occupy. You’ll have to work hard to win this position, but don’t worry. Your energy and enthusiasm will take you far. If you have your own business, you’ll have one of your best years ever. The secret to your success will be offering rewards to repeat customers. Offering discounted products and services to the public dramatically increase profits. If you play your cards right, you’ll be able to open additional outlets or expand your offerings. Your methods will be so innovative that they’ll attract the attention of the people who matter. You may be interested in taking up a position in your local or even national media.

Pisces (Feb 20/Mar 20)
A run of good luck will come through your best friend, romantic partner or business contacts between January and early October. Whether you’re invited to go on a vacation, a lavish shopping trip or an impressive professional conference, you should say “YES!” With the February Eclipse in your sign the Universe is poised to reward you for all the generosity and kindness you’ve bestowed on others. Don’t turn your back on these rewards. By mid-October, serendipity will take the form of mind expanding and horizon widening activities. Getting an advanced degree, publishing a compelling piece of writing and travelling the world are all possibilities. Legal matters could also go well for you, as long as you conduct yourself with integrity. If you have a chance to settle a case out of court, do it. Resolving this matter will leave you free to pursue the activities and relationships you love. Exploring your spiritual side is sure to bring you great happiness. This can involve anything from converting to a different religion, communing with nature or taking up a devotional practice. Try connecting with those things that make life meaningful for you on a daily basis.

© Copyright Russell Grant Astrology Limited

Credit: www.russellgrant.com

Friday, 13 November 2015

Friday 13: Cats, Tombs, Pubs and Witchcraft

So here we are at another Friday 13th. As those who have been reading my blog will know, I have had some disastrous Friday 13ths in the past. This time, I have been so busy I almost didn't have time to write a post for this morning - but I've got so much planned for today that I'm excited and wanted to share.

And the thing I'm most looking forward to is having lunch at London's cat cafe - Lady Dinah's Cat Emporium. I've been wanting to visit ever since it opened, but it gets booked up so far in advance I kept not being able to make a reservation.

However, perhaps there is something about the association between cats and bad luck that meant fewer people wanted to take a risk on a Friday the 13th of going to a place full of felines. I found a table was available and I booked it.

Personally, I don't think cats are bad luck at all - witches and cats are natural companions and I am sure the company of a bunch of friendly moggies can only make my day better.

After that I am planning doing something else that the more superstitious minded might say was a tad unlucky - going for a walk in a graveyard. My list of resolutions for this year including going to Tower Hamlet's Cemetery - the only one of the Magnificent Seven Victorian cemeteries that I haven't yet seen. I thought I'd take the opportunity to tick another thing off the list while I was in East London and the weather forecast was good. Of course, being Friday 13, maybe that will change to dark and stormy. I've got my finger's crossed.

And, apparently, there are a lot of cat-related superstitions about the weather. According to Are You Superstitious?by Lore Cowan, if a cat sneezes it is a sign of wet weather, and if it sits with its back to the fire there will be a storm. I'll be watching the cat cafe residents carefully for signs.

In the evening, I have a ticket booked for a talk called Margaret Murray: Witchcraft theory and the ‘lunatic’ fringe? at The Petrie Museum of Egyptian Archaeology. Margaret Murray was an academic at University College London, which the museum is attached to.

Although her theories on witchcraft, published in her book The Witch Cult in Western Europeare now largely discredited, her importance as one of the people who influenced and inspired modern pagan witchcraft is unquestionable. The talk should be interesting - but apparently I will need luck to be on my side to get a seat as it is completely sold out.

If that isn't a busy enough day, In between all those things I am hoping to check out a pub that might be the venue for an exciting new monthly meeting, due to start next year.

I can't give any more details yet, but watch this space.

So, with such an event-packed day, taking in so many different things, what could go wrong - even if it is Friday 13? Do wish me luck.

Photos: The picture at the top is from the Cat Wisdom Oracle.

Links and previous related posts
http://www.badwitch.co.uk/2015/03/friday-13-solar-eclipse-death-tower-and.html
http://ladydinahs.com/
http://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/margaret-murray-witchcraft-theory-and-the-lunatic-fringe-tickets-17149796503
http://www.badwitch.co.uk/2014/10/london-necropolis-kensal-green-cemetary.html
http://www.badwitch.co.uk/2015/01/my-10-new-year-resolutions-for-2015.html
http://www.badwitch.co.uk/2013/04/bargain-hunting-cat-wisdom-oracle-cards.html
The Witch Cult in Western Europe

Thursday, 26 March 2015

Pagan Eye: Pumo - Good Luck Charm from Italy


Passing through Borough Market - the wonderful food market near London Bridge - the other day, I saw this good luck charm in the window of an Italian cafe called Pulia. I had to stop to have a look and take this photo.

The good luck charm is a ceramic flower bud and is called a pumo. The sign invites people to touch it so that good luck rubs off.

Doing a bit of research, I found out the pumo comes from the Italian region of Puglia, where the ceramic ornament apparently appears everywhere - adorning the outside of buildings as well as in kitchens and windows. Although the pumo in the cafe was in the shape of a flowerbud, I've learnt that others are in the form of acorns or pine cone buds. The plural of pumo is puma.

The charm is thought to date back to pagan times and was a symbol of the goddess of fruitfulness Pomona. In Puglia, puma are traditionally given as wedding gifts or to bestow good luck on a new home. Nowadays, many are sold as souvenirs to tourists.

My Pagan Eye posts show photos that I find interesting - seasonal images, pagan sites, events, or just pretty pictures. If you want to send me a photo for a Pagan Eye post, please email it to badwitch1234@gmail.com Let me know what the photo shows and whether you want your name mentioned or not. For copyright reasons, the photo must be one you have taken yourself.

Links and previous related posts
http://www.delectabledestinations.com/puglia-pumo-de-fiore-good-luck-charm/
http://www.thatsarte.com/blog/highlights/have-you-ever-heard-of-the-pumi/
http://boroughmarket.org.uk/
http://www.badwitch.co.uk/2008/10/godfdess-of-week.html
http://www.badwitch.co.uk/2013/02/pagan-eye-kusu-islands-wishing-well-and.html
http://www.badwitch.co.uk/2014/11/pagan-eye-native-american-horse-totem.html
http://www.badwitch.co.uk/2012/07/pagan-eye-roman-temple-of-fortuna.html
@Puliauk

Friday, 13 March 2015

Friday 13, Solar Eclipse, Death, Tower and 10 of Swords


Today is the second Friday the 13th in two months and next Friday there is a solar eclipse. How many more days of ill omen do you need so close together before you start thinking there might be trouble ahead?

Personally, I have had a series of unlucky Friday 13ths, but I know statistically people are no more likely to have bad things happen on a Friday 13 than on any other day. Likewise, solar eclipses are not necessarily bad news.I am often more concerned if I repeatedly draw tarot cards that traditionally mean misfortune.

About this time last year I drew the spread you can see above - Death, The Tower and the Ten of Swords. They are among the scariest cards in the set. The deck I drew them from - The Victorian Steampunk Tarot - has some particularly dark images too.

It was at a time when things were not running smoothly in my life. Among various problems, my husband had lost his job in a particularly unpleasant way, my freelance work was going through a lull and we were struggling to find enough money to live on. When I drew the cards above one morning, I was worried about what might be coming next. I photographed the cards and waited. Whatever happened would be a learning experience - and perhaps something to blog about in the future. This Friday 13 seems the right time.

First, a look at what the cards mean.

Death: As I said on my blog last October: "Death comes to us all and all that lives must die. Of course, drawing the Death card, number 13 in Tarot's Major Arcana, doesn’t usually mean we are about to meet an untimely demise. It does, however, remind us that death is always all around us as an essential part of the cycle of life."

The Tower: This is a card about sudden loss or destruction. It is a card I kept drawing in the weeks leading up to the unexpected ending of a long-term relationship many years ago. Like Death, it is a card of transformation, only less gentle and natural. Nevertheless, the change it brings can eventually turn out to be for the best even if it doesn't seem like that initially.

Ten of Swords: This is another card about things coming to an unpleasant end. The Victorian Steampunk Tarot (in which the suit is represented by bees) says: "The Ten...shows dramatic endings; it is a common card for betrayal, redundancy, or the end of a relationship or friendship."

You can understand I was at least a little concerned for the future. But what happened?

The next day a stray cat I had been feeding in my garden (the grey tabby in this photo) had a bad accident. I heard him meowing at my door, which he usually did when he wanted food. When I opened the door, I saw the poor moggy's tail was almost severed. It was badly broken and dripping blood. He was obviously in great pain and distress. I popped him in a pet carrier and took him to Cats Protection.

The vet at the animal charity kept him in to run tests on his general health before deciding what to do. I was by now certain that once the cat had been treated, I would give him a home. The next day, I had a phone call from Cats Protection with even more bad news. The poor cat had tested positive for FIV - feline Aids. I would not be able to keep him because of the risk of infection to my other cats. It was touch and go whether the beautiful, friendly creature would have to be put down. I was heartbroken.

Thankfully, Cats Protection does everything it can to save cats. It managed to find the stray (minus its tail) a home willing to take in an FIV-positive moggy.

Was that what my cards had been about? I don't know for sure, but it seems possible. In any event, the ending was better than it could have been and I trust that the cat is still alive and happy and having the best care possible.

Why I am blogging about this now, is that I think it shows however bad omens might be - from Friday 13ths and eclipses to scary tarot cards - the outcome isn't necessarily a complete tragedy.

I hope you have a day in which only good things happen.

Links and previous related posts
http://www.timeanddate.com/eclipse/solar/2015-march-20
http://www.badwitch.co.uk/2014/06/friday-13-camera-woes-on-my-scotland.html
http://www.badwitch.co.uk/2009/07/solar-eclipse-myths-and-meanings.html
http://www.badwitch.co.uk/2014/03/review-victorian-steampunk-tarot.html
http://www.badwitch.co.uk/2014/10/tarot-death-meaning-and-symbolism-at.html
http://www.cats.org.uk/

Monday, 21 July 2014

Spells: Protection from Bad Luck and the Evil Eye

I recently got two emails from people who were going through some bad luck and felt that someone wishing them ill will might be the cause.

The first email said: "Someone has cast a spell on me to steal my luck. It started by getting fired on Friday the 13th of all days, then to follow with not finding a job, and its been almost a year. Usually I find a job within a week of leaving the last one. I really think someone has cast a spell on me, and I want it to stop. I have done my fair share of spellcasting and I don't know if there is a way to reclaim luck. So if you have an idea, and would share, please let me know."

The second message I got said: "Things are going very badly for me at the moment, in several different areas. When discussing some of these things earlier with a friend, she said, "Did you win some kind of anti-lottery? Have you pissed off any evil witches lately?" So firstly I wanted to ask please, is such a thing even possible? If it is possible, how can I protect myself against it?"

The first thing I would say is that just because you are going through a period of bad luck, it doesn't necessarily mean that anyone has cursed you - at least not deliberately using a spell. Most people do experience bad lack from time to time in their lives. Things often go in cycles, as on the Wheel of Fortune Tarot card, and things usually get better eventually.

However, belief in the Evil Eye (or ill will or negative energy) being either deliberately or unintentionally directed from one person to another is a very long-held idea and one that I do believe can happen. It isn't usually even a witch who does it; perfectly ordinary people are capable of sending negative energy to another person if they have strong enough mean wishes about them. If you are experiencing a run of bad luck it can't hurt to do a little protection magic to keep negative energy - or the Evil Eye - at bay.

The easiest protection against negative energy that I know of (and have used in the past when a neighbour was being seriously horrible towards me) is to put a small mirror, facing outwards, in each of the house windows with the intention of deflecting any negative energy away. The mirrors can be really tiny. I used a few small mirrors of the kind you might have in a make-up bag.

You could also try leaving an onion or apple in the corner of each room. This is an old folk remedy for soaking up negative energy and bad luck. When fruit or veg have gone mouldy, take them far from your house and bury them.

I also have a witch ball, pictured above, hanging in my window. As well as looking nice, witch balls are said to ward off evil spirits and negative energy by capturing them in the shiny interior. Unwanted spirits are supposedly enticed by the ball's colours and reflection and can't resist having a look inside, where they are trapped, thus protecting your home. If you have a witch ball you should apparently inspect it regularly; if it goes dim and tarnished, it has done its job in capturing some ill luck. That means it is time to remove the ball and bury it a long way from your home, just like the apple or onion.

Witch bottles are another traditional type of protective magic and many of these have been unearthed outside the front doors of old houses. These were usually stone jars filled with pins, a wax effigy of a heart and urine. Like the witch balls, they trapped negative energy, curses or ill will that would otherwise have entered your home. They were traditionally sealed with wax and buried under the doorstep. If you want to make a modern witch bottle, then you might prefer to substitute vinegar for urine.

Hope that helps and hope things get better for the two people who emailed me and anyone else who is reading this and is having a hard time.


Previous related posts
http://www.badwitch.co.uk/2008/08/witch-bottles-and-protection-magic.html
http://www.badwitch.co.uk/2009/12/witch-balls-and-spirit-balls.html
http://www.badwitch.co.uk/2013/09/review-pagan-portals-hoodoo-folk-magic.html

Thursday, 19 June 2014

Wisewoman's Words: Claiming After an Accident at Work

The other day someone wanted to know if I could turn their boss into a toad. Now, despite calling myself The Bad Witch, I am actually very nice and not in the habit of cursing people, so rather than produce a potion to slip into the board meeting coffee to transform the directors into slug-eating amphibians, I asked what the problem was.

They did appear to have a genuine grievance. They had suffered an injury while at work that seemed minor at the time, but they said was still giving them trouble several months later. Their boss had a different opinion about it and was not being helpful or sympathetic.

In bygone centuries the law did little to protect the ordinary worker. If a medieval stonemason fell off his flying buttresses or an 18th-century agricultural labourer had an unfortunate encounter with his new-fangled seed drill, they may well have had to turn to the local wisewoman to get redress. However, in the 21st century we are lucky enough to have the law on our side. If you have a work accident that wasn’t your fault then you can claim compensation – which is really rather more useful than just making your boss uglier and wartier than he already is.

Your employers have a duty to protect you from risks, to pay you sick pay and give you time off if you need it. They should also report any accidents or injuries in the workplace. Of course you also need to be sensible, follow all the health and safety guidelines and use any protective equipment provided. However, if you have been injured at work and feel that your employer hasn’t done all they could to help, you can make a claim for compensation. Trade unions can offer legal services to members, but most workers will need to use a specialist personal injury lawyer. This needn’t be expensive as many claims lawyers, such as Leo Claims, offer a no win/no fee service.

As a witch and wisewoman, I always recommend getting all the help you can when trying to solve a problem. Practical solutions should be used before resorting to divine intervention – but it can’t help to ask Lady Justice, the ancient Goddess of Law and Order whose statue stands today on the Old Bailey in London, to help in any legal matters.

The photo shows Lady Justice on top of the Old Bailey. It is by Jongleur100 and is reproduced under Wikimedia Commons.

Links and previous related posts
http://www.leoclaims.com/accident-claims/accident-at-work
http://www.badwitch.co.uk/2014/05/pagan-eye-common-toad-my-new-little.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lady_Justice
http://www.nidirect.gov.uk/accidents-in-the-workplace

Friday, 13 June 2014

Friday 13 - Camera Woes on my Scotland Holiday

Friday 13 is a day I've come to dread. Although statistics show that in general it isn't a particularly unlucky day, it has been for me. I have had a string of unfortunate events on pretty much every Friday 13 since I wrote a blog post saying Friday 13 isn't actually unlucky. I'm tempted to think some god associated with Friday 13 is showing me the error of my ways :)

My bad luck today: my camera lens is broken.

OK, it had been playing up a bit over the past few days, ever since both I and it got thoroughly soaked in a sudden downpour. I've been on holiday in Orkney all this week, and the weather had been gloriously sunny when I visited Maes How chambered tomb. I walked across the open fields from my car wearing just a thin T-shirt and jeans and carrying my camera. When I went into the tomb the sky was clear and blue; when I came out there was torrential rain, thunder and lightning. I had nothing to prevent my camera and lens getting drenched.

Over the next few days I got a few error messages on my camera, gradually getting more frequent. Today, Friday 13, the lens and the camera have utterly stopped speaking to each other - I just get an connection error message when I try to take a photo.

A very kind man, Mark Findlay, who runs Findlay's Photo Shop in Kirkwall, Orkney, spent a long time trying to get my camera working. He managed to find out what the problem is, but didn't have the facilities to dismantle my lens and repair it.

Looking on Amazon to see how much a replacement lens costs made me realise that I would have been better off if the camera body had broken rather than the lens. Although my camera - a Canon EOS 40D digital SLR - takes great photos, it is an old model. The lens that no longer works - a Canon EF-S 17-85mm lens - has an RRP of over £500 and even on Amazon costs a few hundred pounds.

Mark the nice camera shop man gave me details of a recommended repairer - Camserve - and also a good place to order second hand photographic equipment - Ffordes Photographic, in Inverness. I'll check them out.

My camera does still seem to work with my telephoto lens and my wide angle lens, I can borrow my hubby's iPhone and I have an old compact digital camera at home. I also have loads and loads of photos I took earlier in the week to go through, so I can still blog about the amazing places I have visited in Orkney and show pictures of them.

I do hope your Friday 13 is better than mine.

Links
http://www.findlaysphotoshop.co.uk/
http://www.camserve.co.uk/
http://www.badwitch.co.uk/2009/11/friday-13-unlucky-for-some.html
http://www.badwitch.co.uk/2009/02/friday-13th-lore-luck-and-superstitions.html
Canon EF-S 17-85mm f/4.0-5.6 IS USM Lens

Friday, 11 April 2014

Gamblers' Superstitions and Lucky Charms

This post was written by guest blogger Karina Taylor:

Do You Believe in Lucky Charms?
Some of the people who believe most strongly in the power of tokens that can alter destiny – lucky charms or talismans – are gamblers, and it’s easy to see why. It’s often said that “the house always wins”, which may be true over the long term, but if it was literally true all the time, nobody would bother spinning a roulette wheel or buying a lottery ticket ever again, would they?

As a witch I’m often asked to recommend some way of increasing people’s chances of winning at games like poker and slots, and my reply is usually something like – well, if I could do that, I’d be rich myself, wouldn’t I?

Trying Out Charms
It’s interesting, however, to look at the things gamblers put their faith in. If they have a “lucky charm” of some kind and they happen to win, of course it’s going to reinforce the idea that it was the charm that did it. Perhaps that leads to a sense of confidence in the gambler, which lasts until the next loss! Different cultures have had different ideas of what’s lucky over the centuries. If you want to try some of the following out yourself, practice online first at a site like Gaming Club, where you can play for free while you work out what game suits you.

Different Types
Everyone’s heard of the idea of a rabbit’s foot being lucky, but how about a badger’s tooth? Watch out though – they’re only lucky if you keep them on your left side! Or you could try keeping hold of a piece of Lucky Bamboo. It’s not actually bamboo, so don’t be fobbed off by the florist. A lucky charm that’s easy to get hold of would be the Three Keys. It is just as it sounds – three keys (no more, no less) on a keyring.

Some charms make attractive silver jewellery, whether you believe in their power or not. India’s Mystic Knot (pictured left) is a well-known example, representing Lakshmi, Goddess of Wealth. The Vikings believed that acorns were a lucky symbol, and to this day many gamblers wear a silver or gold acorn. Any material will do, including a real acorn of course!

Charms for Pros
Professional gamblers have developed lucky rituals and symbols of their own. Johnny Chan (pictured right), a pro poker player, used to sniff oranges to get rid of the stale tobacco smell inside casinos. Since those days, orange has become his lucky colour (and fruit!) Sam Farha, another poker pro, had an unlit cigarette in his mouth while playing. Probably luckier than a lit one...

If you’re going to try these ideas out, remember that success at poker and blackjack relies on a thorough knowledge of the game and a degree of experience. Don’t be fooled into thinking that winning your first ever hand automatically means that your lucky cufflinks are working!

(Images courtesy of lucktrader.com, fengshuishop.com, home-of-poker.com)

Links and previous related posts
http://www.badwitch.co.uk/2012/06/spell-lucky-talisman-bracelet-to.html
http://www.badwitch.co.uk/2010/06/football-birds-and-lucky-underpants.html
http://www.badwitch.co.uk/2011/09/talismans-and-amulets.html
http://www.bbc.co.uk/religion/religions/hinduism/deities/lakshmi.shtml
http://www.gamingclub.co.uk/