The Three Wise Men, Advent, Waiting, and Looking Forward: My Three Wise Goals for the Holiday Season

Full disclosure: this is a tough Yuletide for me.



I usually get into the holiday spirit on Thanksgiving.  The Macy's parade usually does it for me, as they have a Class A Santa in a Top Drawer Sled.  This year, Ben and I were fortunate enough to enjoy the start of the season on a Disney Cruise and in the Magic Kingdom , a trip we'd been saving up for over three years.  THAT usually does it for me (because a Disney Christmas is a thing of beauty), but my Ho-Ho-Holiday Meter barely budged. I looked forward to my annual viewing of  "A Charlie Brown Christmas", only to find that ABC butchered it, removing the snowball throwing, the snowflake tasting, and even Shermie's line, "Every year it's the same.  I'm always a shepherd." Depressing, disappointing, and deflating.

This time of year is usually festooned with parties and dinners, allowing for reconnecting with family and friends, with silly sweaters and wacky gift exchanges, but this year has a lot of changes and challenges:  some family members are needing to sell their home, one family member passed a few months ago, work is slower than it's been all year, Chicago is bracing for its coldest winter since 1904, and then there's my Daddy, who's been in hospice care since mid-May.  When people ask me how he is, I simply say he's "Old Man River": he just keeps rolling along. I treasure the moments when his eyes are open, when he smiles one of his "all the angels are in their rightful places" smiles - because those moments are rare. Mostly, Daddy sits with his eyes closed or sleeps, listens to Big Band music or Me-TV, and is fed slowly and carefully via syringe by his angel-on-Earth caregiver.

And so I wait.  I've been is a state of waiting, of holding my breath, for months now. About Daddy, about work, about so many things.  The ground around me feels shaky. Uncertainty looms around every corner. Waiting, fearing, but very little Looking Forward to anything, as much as I try.  My Gratitude work keeps me connected to Spirit, but just barely.

I started thinking about Advent earlier this week, when a dear friend of mine gave me two Advent calendars, with the little windows and the tiny chocolates.  Although this dear one is basically shut-in because of some extreme medical conditions, she took the time to get these sweet little German Advent calendars for us.  This simple gesture started to crack the ice surrounding my heart. And it made me think about Advent, the four weeks when Christians typically start to look forward and anticipate Christmas, the festival celebrating Jesus's birth.

The Three Wise Men.  The Bible says they followed a star which took them to the Christ child.  They gifted him with rare, luxurious things to honor his divinity. Many theories agree that they were not "Three Kings from the Orient" but rather three astrologers, regal in the authority granted them due to their wisdom and knowledge of the stars. They utilized their knowledge which showed them something incredible was coming; it was written in the stars.

My knowledge of astrology is limited, but this I do know: Mars is in my Sun sign, Aquarius, until January 12.  That covers the entire holiday time frame. And what does Mars do?  Brings energy, vitality, courage and determination to a situation.  Mars is pretty much on Red Bull most of the time.  It's wise to treat Mars gingerly, because all that energy can get to be a bit spazzy. But still, it's more benefic than not.

So where is this going? It's reminding me that I most certainly do have the power within to bravely, powerfully go forth with my life. So, in the spirit of Looking Forward, I promise myself Three Wise Goals, gifts I give myself (that are not material) during this holiday season, which I'll put forth presently to honor MY divinity (Note: even if Mars isn't in your Sun sign, I challenge you to take this on,  See how it might shift you out of a holiday doldrum.). I'm even going to be fancy and name them after the three Wise Men:



My Three Wise Goals for Holiday 2014

1. Gaspar - Once a week, I promise myself a special meditation practice.  I might add unique music, incense, or take the meditation out on the road, meditating in a different location. I'll call this my "Frankincense" gift.

2. Balthasar - Maybe because the word "bath" is embedded in the name, I promise myself one weekly Magickal Bath, set with good intention, infused with deliciously-scented bubbles or salts, with maybe a glass of wine set on the edge of the tub because, you know, Wise Men (and ladies) need a little decadence once in a while. May this be my own personal "Myrrh"

3. Melchior - Of all the Magi's gifts, gold was the most precious.  So will this gift be, because it's about giving back.  Once a week, I shall give a present to someone who might not be expecting it.  Like a total stranger. And may each act be "Gold"en and blessed.

There.  I'm now actually Looking Forward rather than waiting or fearing. I thank God and my angels for enlightening me with this idea, and I hope you give it a try.

A very Carol Burnett Thanksgiving, circa 1970

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M0FcswyRDQY

You say your Thanksgiving weekend wouldn't be complete without a Youtube video from "The Carol Burnett Show" circa 1970, featuring groovy pilgrims, with special guest star Paul Lynde?

You're welcome.

31 Days of Spooktober, Day 31: Happy Halloween, babies!

(Not to be confused with "Happy Halloween Babies", which would look like this:)



Friends, I wish to thank you for following along this past month, while I posted various actual posts and semi-posts (like, just a photo or a video link), all revolving around the Halloween or Samhain theme.  It was a lot of fun for me, but sometimes daunting to keep to the one-per-day schedule.  Still, in looking back on the month, I'm pretty delighted with what I found, at times darned proud of my "scores".

And speaking of being daunted: what to write about on this, the Big Day, All Hallow's Eve, Samhain, a.k.a. "the Witches' New Year" What came up for me was the question, "What does Halloween mean to me?"

Growing up, it was all about Linus and the Sincere Pumpkin Patch, dressing up in creative, inexpensive costumes, trick or treating a little, but watching a LOT of classic horror films.  Playing the Disney Haunted Mansion album (which I would bring each year, without fail, to school, begging our teachers to allow us to trun down the lights and listen.  We were always thrilled with the chance to give it a spin, yawning in the face of what the "real" meaning of the day was supposed to be for us Lutheran kids: Reformation Day, when Martin Luther nailed the 95 Theses on the church door.). Having Mom put out the Gurley candles ("Don't burn 'em, Mom!"), hang up the cardboard decorations from the 60s and pour the candy corn into the little ghost-shaped bowl.  Apple cider, pumpkin pie. Listening to Chicago-area ghost hunter Richard Crowe on the radio late, late at night, telling us the story of Resurrection Mary for the umpteenth time - and loving every minute of it.

That was Halloween.  Take a stroll through this month's posts and you'll see I touch upon a lot of these classic holiday activities.  Oh - was almost remiss.  Here's the link to the Disney album, "Chilling, Thrilling Sounds of the Haunted House":

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DMS_3Vro6Ls

Nowadays, with those icky, plastic pop-up "Halloween Spirit" stores, blood 'n guts costumes and zombie make-up, "haunted houses" you can pay to walk through to view really sickening scenarios that foul, not scary, and adult Halloween costumes that will turn any woman into a streetwalker, I start to wonder where the warmth has gone.  Where's the fun, the social aspect (that doesn't involve lots of alcohol)?  Where's the magic of Halloween?

What I'm starting to learn is this: the magic hasn't gone anywhere.  You just have to know where to look for it (hence, why I fashioned the posts this month that I did). But another aspect of Halloween that I'm now incorporating into my celebration is observing Samhain.  It's New Year's today!  And what an auspicious time (the pagans had it going ON!): the weather is turning, things are darkening and hiding for the winter.  There is a sense of "end of one year, beginning of the next" - even more so than at December 31.

So, this Samhain New Year, I resolve to look for the magick in the stillness that is soon to come, to use the quiet dark time to write, reflect, meditate, and weave positive magick for the good of all.  I thank God for this amazing year of seeking, learning, creating, mourning, and celebrating.

The origins of orange black as traditional Halloween colors date back to the ancient Celts.  Orange stood for the harvest, for the final celebration before the arrival of winter.  Black stood for death, for darkening, for Nature's "closing up shop" for the next several months, for "going within".

May your Halloween and Samhain be filled with celebration and harvesting of life, crativity, and love.  May you be blessed with time for quiet, inner reflection, allowing you to let go of things that have "died off", that are no longer needed or serving your Better Angels. And may you be filled with glee and happiness, like that spooky little monster baby at the top of this post.

Blessings and Peace,

The Mid-Century Mystic

31 Days of Spooktober, Day 30: Really rare Halloweeny video featuring Carol Burnett

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T04jnqvUOlI

Okay, so there was a variety show called "The Entertainers".  And this happened ...

31 Days of Spooktober, Day 29: Paul Lynde, Paul Lynde, and MORE Paul Lynde!

Darlings, nothing says Halloween more than Paul Lynde!



What? You don't agree?  Well then, feast your eyes!  Glut your soul on the occlusive awesomeness of "The Paul Lynde Halloween Special" featuring Tim Conway, Florence Henderson and KISS!:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4psTeRpQ-1o

Here's the rare promo for the special: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s_vadNcrmmw

Still need MORE Paul for the 31st of October?  Look no further!  Here's both parts of the "The House That Uncle Arthur Built" episode of "Bewitched":


Part One:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i_hyT_ixM2o

Part Two:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YDb4LHz6MSs



(Seriously though, Paul Lynde was the best.  Always wanted an uncle like Arthur ...)

31 Days of Spooktober, Day 27: The Humble Theremin and Day 28: Disturbing Vintage Halloween Card

Ghosties and Ghoulies: our internet connection has been wonky, hence you're receiving two, two, two posts in one today:

Day 27 - So, full disclosure: I am not a musician.  Now, I sing pretty well, but as far as playing an actual, physical instrument, it's been rather a sad and pathetic losing battle.  The casualties include the clarinet I played when I was nine that was abandoned because I really hated having to clean spit out of it.  Mom always wanted me to play guitar so I could accompany myself singing, but there was no way I could get my fingers to form the appropriate chords.  Took piano in college: I can play one song using both hands and it is exceedingly simple.  Then there's the computer drum kit I begged for just ten short years ago; once it arrived, it became exceedingly clear that while I DO have rhythm, I am comparatively inept at having my feet play something different from my hands (a sad discovery, dashing all dreams of being the female version of Stewart Copeland, my drumkit hero).

I can sorta make my way around a Native American flute, but I'm definitely no N. Carlos Nakai. Still, I enjoy tootling around with it as it never fails to calm me through rough times.  But this I do in private.

Yet, I am not daunted.  There is ONE instrument that I have yet to try, but am very interested in attempting and convinced I can tackle it: the humble theremin.

You can learn more about the theramin at this link: http://www.theremin.info/

If you saw "The Day the Earth Stood Still", you've heard this ethereal instrument used to its best advantage.  That odd, otherworldly sound in the soundtrack is the humble theremin, a mainstay of science fiction films and old-timey radio and TV productions.

According to the incredibly informative website, www.theremin.info, the theremin was invented almost by accident: "The theremin was invented in 1919, by Professor Leon Theremin, also known as Lev Termen. Theremin was a talented Russian Physicist and capable cellist who noticed a strange phenomenon in an electrical circuit he was experimenting with. He noticed that he could change the capacitance of the circuit simply by moving his hand or body towards and away from it. He gradually refined this circuit, added a speaker, added a volume control that worked on the same principles, and the theremin was born."

I'm an Aquarian.  When I read my horoscope, they always remind me how I'm supposed to be this technological wunderkind.  Nothing could be further from my reality.  However, the theremin keeps pulling me in.  Maybe it is my connection to the world of technology, as humble as its brand of technology is.

A friend of mine, a very talented pianist who we employ as an accompanist for our old-time radio troupe, purchased a theremin.  The thrill of the show and tell the day he brought it to a rehearsal for one of our Halloween shows!  He allowed us inquisitive actors each a chance to play it, slowly waving our hands though the current, allowing the electronic squawks and rrrooooowwwrrreeeees to erupt, along with waves of glee from us theremin newbies.  It sparked something in me that has remained unrequited to this day. 

It's got a lot going for it as far as an instrument I feel I can master:

The sound is surreal, and seems like something beyond the veil, which appeals to my esoteric proclivities.  The playing is simple and doesn't require doing something different with one hand than the other - or incorporating your feet with a bass pedal.  There's no spit rag. And you don't suffer fingertip calluses with a theremin.

And, you get to be the coolest kid on the block.

********************************************************************************

Day 28: Here's your oddball, disturbing, "who killed the various pets of these children and then made them pose for a frickin' postcard?" bit of paper Halloween ephemera for the day, featuring a depressive ghost, Tiny Tim as a child and a dour Eddie Munster:



Scary, sombre Victorian children enjoying the heck out of Halloween

31 Days of Spooktober, Day 26: Sandra Dee is spooktacular!

Spooky Kiddos, I'm very busy today.  So I give you Sandra Dee (in a scary-fabulous terry cloth swing dress), a cardboard black cat, and a skeleton playing a guitar.

Happy Sunday!

31 days of Spooktober, Day 25: Harry Potter Butterbeer Ice Cream Sandwiches

I have a friend who made some Butterbeer ice cream.  She is now one of my best friends and most highly-favored persons.

Ever have Butterbeer?  If not, your life is a little smaller than it should be.

Which is why I leave this for you to do as you see fit:

http://www.offtmsm.com/2014/10/23/harry-potter-butterbeer-ice-cream-sandwiches-recipe-butterbeer/

You're welcome.

31 Days of Spooktober, Day 24: Theories about themes for American Horror Story, Season 5

A group of my girlfriends and I get together just about every week for our AHS viewing party.  It's a small affair, as there's only the four of us (many have asked to join us, but we prefer to keep the group as is).  We bring snacks, often make themed-cocktails (like last night's Bloody Orange, a take on a Tequila Sunrise, but with tangerine soda, white rum, grenadine, Pimm's #1, Apple spice liqueur, and a splash of Lillet.  No, I do NOT mess around here.), and prepare to get our pants scared off (which happens with great regularity.  And makes the cocktails a necessity).

But the other thing our little troupe does is take a stab (hello pun!) at figuring out what the next season's theme will be.  Thus far, we have not really hit the jackpot.  No, we haven't even come close.  But I have a feeling we might, just might, have two very viable theories this time around for Season 5.

First of all, we know that we're to pay close attention to the first two episodes for hints dropped by the series' creator, Ryan Murphy.  And so we did.  And we all fell into the "it's gotta be outer space or space aliens" camp, as did many a blogger and entertainment soothsayer.  Yes, this season IS set in Jupiter, Florida.  Yes, Jessica Lange DID sing "Life on Mars".  Yes, a day player wore a nifty vintage tie with what looked to be the solar system printed on it.

Yes, yes, yes.  But Mr. Murphy has stated that is NOT the theme.  No "area 51" will be visited.  So, we got to thinking about some other clues.  These, too, were pretty obvious.  So obvious, in fact, that they didn't hit us until after a few weeks' worth of reflection.

So now, I give you what four nice ladies from the Chicago suburbs came up with for next season's theme.

1.  "American Horror Story: Devil".  Frankly, I do NOT like this theme.  Here's the situation: I saw "The Exorcist" when I was, like, 11 years old.  Way too young.  And it's haunted me for life.  So anything satanic or demonic does not sit well with me.  I'm quite the "positive life force" type.  But this idea works if you look at one of the first lines that's said in the first episode of Season 4, which is (I'm paraphrasing) something like "I had no idea I'd be walking into hell." And what does the doorway of the main freak show tent look like?  That would be the devil's mouth.

Now, let's piggyback this onto one of the AHS storylines that was left hanging.  Remember at the end of Season 1?  When the child, who was the offspring of one living and one dead parent, murders his babysitter?  That totally freaked me out, especially that eerie "chipper and happy" outro music.  Anyway, what happened to that child?  And, could one basically surmise that he's something "unholy"?  And could one further surmise that he could be some sort of anti-christ character.  The season would then be set in the not-too-distant future.  An alternate title could be something about the anti-christ.  Ick.  Freaks me out. I'd probably not even watch the season.  But this could be viable, given the hints and that dangling story line from the first season.  Murphy doesn't really link seasons or reuse characters, with the exception of this season and the second season with the character of Pepper, but this would be an interesting way to round out the entire series.

However, the theme that really intrigues me ...

2.  "American Horror Story: Victoriana" (alternate title: "American Horror Story: World's Fair").  The Victorian era was not full of lace doilies and floral teapots. Nope.  They had some interesting quirks, including their proclivity to photograph their dead in interesting poses (see http://thanatos.net/). But what were the clues in season 4 that would have us propose this idea?  And the Victorian era is pretty darned broad.  Where might this go?

Here are some of the main plot points:  "The Devil in the White City", spiritualism/mysticism, and Houdini. Now, let's think back to some of the clues. 

I already spoke about the ideas of hell and devils and such.  The entire story of serial killer H.H. Holmes and his castle of horrors is told with brilliantly grotesque specificity in "TDIWC" and those people who ventured in after the atrocities took place said it was "hell on Earth". And Holmes is the "devil" referred to in book's title. And, like the unsuspecting twins, scores of women walked, essentially, into the devil's mouth when they entered the Holmes death castle.

The Columbian Exposition, where Holmes found his victims, took place in Chicago.  In the second episode, Michael Chicklis's character speaks about working in Chicago at some point.  He also mentions Houdini's brother. The Houdini brothers' first major booking was at the Chicago World's Fair in 1893.

This takes us to the world of spiritualism, which was very popular in the Victorian era and continued into the 1920s.  Table tapping, Oujia boards, seances.  And Houdini went on a personal crusade to debunk those spiritualists.  And I can already see those phony psychics dressed in velvety robes, adorned with Jupiter, Mars, and the solar system.

So, those are our theories.  With special attention paid to the second one. Plus, Ryan Murphy is planning a companion series, "American Crime", so a final AHS season focused on the horrific Holmes crimes would be a solid stylistic segue.

Well, Mr. Murphy?  If we're right, could we be invited to the series' finale party please?  Just the four of us.  We like keeping the number small.

31 Days of Spooktober, Day 23: The Disney "Skeleton Dance" short

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h03QBNVwX8Q

I'll just leave this here and quietly walk away...

31 Days of Spooktober, Day 22: the vintagey Halloween awesomeness of D. Blumchen

So you want some incredible Halloween items that are vintage-looking but don't break the bank?  Go to D. Blumchen and Company fer cryeye!!

The following are instructions for crepe paper rosettes from the amazing people at D> Blumchen and Company.  Please visit their site for a bevy of Halloween items that will knock your witchy-striped socks off:  http://www.blumchen.com/halloween_shop.html

This is copied from the D. Blumchen site.  Go there for more how-to's!

31 Days of Spooktober, Day 21: "Monstrous Monkee Mash" episode of "The Monkees"

Ghoulies, sit back with your Bosco and enjoy a FULL EPISODE of vintage "Monkees" goodness.  I remember every year they ran the reruns, I'd always hope and pray this one would show up for Halloween.  And look!  My favorite Monkee as my favorite Universal Monster!  Doesn't get much better than this!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yYkEn9f_5hg

From psychobabble200.blogspot.com

31 days of Spooktober, Days 19 and 20: The new "Haunted Mansion" swag!!

Hello ghoulies!  I was not able to write yesterday because of a jam-packed schedule compounded with the fact that I threw my lower back out.  It happens every couple years or so.  The last time was because I was sitting for hours in a rental car while travelling all over the East Coast to visit vintage amusement parks for my book, "The Cotton Candy Road Trip".  Yes, I visited the last few parks on my journey barely able to walk. It was pretty pathetic.  This time, I was bending over to wash my face, and my back just said, "Okay - I'm done." And it doesn't matter how much exercise I do (cuz I'm power walking at TOP speed); my back was just kaput. (Shakes fist at onstage injury I suffered twenty years ago ... bah, bah and double bah).

So, what will make up for my absence?  And what will come close to soothing my tender back? Oh, looking at recent posts about the new Memento Mori shop in Disney World, with all items devoted to my beloved Haunted Mansion!

http://www.insidethemagic.net/2014/10/haunted-mansion-store-memento-mori-officially-opens-appropriately-amidst-halloween-season-at-walt-disney-world/

https://d23.com/walt-disney-world-memento-mori/

Image from D23.  Definitely a print I must own to add to my "Witches and Gypsies" wall in my meditation room.

More info about the store on the Disney Parks blog: http://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2014/10/memento-mori-shop-now-open-in-magic-kingdom-park-at-walt-disney-world-resort/

Some other "Die hard" fans made these things: https://d23.com/101614_haunted-mansion-fan-creations/

And this blogger is feeling pretty much like I'm sure I will when I finally get there in November: take my money!  You win!: http://www.themainstreetmouse.com/2014/10/10/ok-memento-mori-you-win-take-my-money/

Finally, a video tour of the store: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f9dIveVeZJ0

31 Days of Spooktober, Day 18: Boozy Autumnal Cupcakes!

My dear friend Zach makes the best cupcakes.  And they are decorated to the teeth.

I need to have Zach make me most of these cupcakes.  And I need it now.

http://www.buzzfeed.com/ryanbarrell/21-deliciously-boozy-cupcakes-to-warm-up-your-wint-10qjk

From Half Baked Harvest: Honey Toasted Hazelnut Chocolate Chunk Cupcakes with Boozy Honey Buttercream Frosting.

Oh, my god ...

31 Days of Spooktober, day 17: Vintage Gurley Halloween Candles!

http://www.pinterest.com/VTGHalloween/vintage-halloween-gurley-candles/

I've got one just like her.  Wick pulled out to keep her UNlit!

Check out this Pinterest page that's dedicated to vintage Gurley Halloween candles!

These little figurines played a huge role in my childhood!  I can still smell the waxy goodness.  I can also remember how I pulled out the wicks so my Mom wouldn't ever burn them; I just dug them as the wonderful pieces of Mid-Century art that they were!

So click the link above and enjoy!

P.S. I still have mine.  I have the Big Witch, several Little Witches (who I called "The Tabithas"), a couple ghosts, and a bunch of pumpkins.  I'll never part with them.

31 Days of Spooktober, Day 16: Do-It-Yourself Werewolf Kit ad!

http://geyserofawesome.com/post/1287007047/do-it-yourself-werewolf-kit-how-could-this

Yesssssssssssssssss!!!!!!!!!

I do love vintage ads.  take a look at this one, which I've found in various sources, but this one is being reblogged from Archie McPhee.

Now sadly, I can't seem to find this anywhere, like on Ebay or Etsy. And when I looked up Victor Specialties, I found a company that makes clamps, straps, hangers and gang boxes in the Bronx.  And I don't even know what half of those are ...

Anyway, back to the kit. I looked up "1964 werewolf calendar" and got nothing.  I Googled around various elements of this kit, got zip.  All I can say is, some girls might like to get together and have a make-over night.  THIS girl would like to take turns with her friends making up as a werewolf.

Is that weird?  Hey - don't be a wallflower!  Order your kit today!

31 Days of Spooktober, Day 15: Fun facts about the Haunted Mansion from D23

https://d23.com/from-the-magic-kingdom-to-the-movies-13-fun-facts-about-the-haunted-mansion/

I've been a D23 member for over a year now and I really enjoy all the rare historical photos and informational tidbits and oddities.  Like in the link above, wherein you'll learn a lot of nifty things about the signature Disneyland ride, the Haunted Mansion.

So grin your way through the "Haunted Mansion" movie stuff, and focus on the good stuff.

31 Days of Spooktober, Day 14: AHS Freak Show "Life on Mars"

Good lord, how I love this woman

https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=775663679136284

I'll be posting some tasty things from "American Horror Story: Freak Show" this month.  Because I wish to espouse the riches and benefits of the show to those who might otherwise be turned off by gruesomeness and oddity.

Three words: Get Over It.

Case in point, the gorgeous rendition of David Bowie's "Life on Mars" by Jessica Lange.  Portraying a down-on-her-luck cabaret performer, Lange embodied all the hope one would have who's toiled for years for that "big break" - but it never came.  Her triumph and desperation and exuberance and despair are all palpable.  And for those who have nitpicked and said that if it's set in the 50s, then why is she singing a song made popular in the 70s: it's the content of the song, the journey of the song.  And I'll also add that Bowie during his Ziggy Stardust period was all about decadence in performance - much like those German cabaret performers of the 30s.  Well played, Ryan Murphy.  Well played.

Enjoy.

31 Days of Spooktober, Day 13: How to make a wreath that would be the envy of the Cosmos Cotillion!

http://mid-centurymystic.blogspot.com/2013/10/how-to-make-bewitched-themed-wreath-for.html

Oh, my stars, I can't figure out how to re-post an older blog post.  So, here you go: the link for an older post I did about a year ago for a fantastical, magickal wreath I made, which is now a Halloween touchstone for me.  Click the link above to learn how to make a "Bewitched"-themed wreath!




Just look at the awesomeness. I did it all by myself (with the exception of Ben printing out the photos, because my printer is wonky. Witch's honor).

31 Days of Spooktober, Day 12: the spell scene from "Bell, Book and Candle"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9TesRoMisEw

You're welcome.

(P.S. - my Mom went to high school with her.  Isn't that kinda awesome?)

31 Days of Spooktober, Day 11: The Most Haunted Places in Illinois (a.k.a. Ghosts I Have Met)

Well, la dee da!  Seems as though there's been a list compiled of the most haunted places in Illinois!  Here it is, with accompanying EMF meter readings:

http://www.hauntedplaces.org/state/Illinois

Gotta admit, this is quite a thorough list; I've got a lot of catching up to do.  I've been to 34 of these places, plus a plethora more not listed here.  The following are little thumbnails of some of my encounters with the Unseen in Illinois:

• I can completely vouch for the energies found at Bachelor's Grove, where my husband and I found ourselves swept up in a vortex of negativity that made us skeedaddle out of the place like Warner Bros. cartoon characters - but not before snapping a number of photos, one of which captured a number of orbs dancing around my Dad's head.  He attracts things.
• I can also attest to the theatre at Morton College being one freaky place.  For it was there a group of friends and I did some Ouija board work back in the 80s - and had the added bit of fun of having one of the spirits we contacted hitch a ride with one of us back to his apartment. I also know people who saw the singing ghost in the last few rows of the theatre seats.

• The Red Lion Pub has a ladies' room with some interesting activity.  I felt watched as I washed my hands.  I felt "needed" by some sort of entity, who didn't want me to leave.

• I was with a friend when she saw "Resurrection Mary".  We filmed a portion of an episode of  "Unsolved Mysteries" and told our story.  I used to have a link to the Youtube video of our appearance, but the production company removed it due to copyright infringement (sad face).

• Smelled the scent of violets at Robinson Woods.  They wafted right by my nose like someone was holding a small bunch of flowers and quickly passed them right by my face.

Here are a couple that are not mentioned in the article, but should be:

• Naperville Cemetery: captured EVPs and also experienced electrical zapping cobwebby stuff.

• The intersection of Burlington and Quincy Streets in Naperville is the site of the horrific 1946 train wreck.  I had some amazing EVPs here, as well as clear communication using Ghost Radar and EMF meters.

I could go on and on, but then you'd be reading a good chunk of what will be a new book I'm working on.  You'll just have to bide your time.

Pleasant dreams ...

31 Days of Spooktober, Day 10: Drink Recipe! Freaky Punkintini

Whilst enjoying the DVR'd first episode of "American Horror Story: Freak Show", my friends and I delighted in a bit of seasonal tippling.  Introducing the Freaky Punkintini!!

So what's in this delicious glass of sin?  The following:

2 oz. Vodka (I used Grey Goose)

1 oz. Pumpkin Spice Kahlua

Splash of Vanilla Half & Half (or you could use regular half & half, if you must)

Wink of Jeremiah Weed's Sarsaparilla Whiskey

Pour all ingredients into a shaker, add ice, shake all freaky-like.  Pour into chilled glasses, rimmed with crushed Hazelnut Manner wafers (affixed to the rim by dipping it in apple juice first).

31 Days of Spooktober, Day 9: Time-Wastey Goodness of "What Universal Classic Monster Are YOU?"

http://www.playbuzz.com/oswalds10/which-universal-classic-monster-are-you

Oh, I really try to veer away from these games on Facebook, but since this one's seasonal, I figure, let's give it a roll.

So.  What Universal Classic Monster Am I?

"Even a man who is pure at heart and says his prayers by night, becomes a wolf when the wolfbane blooms and the autumn moon is bright" - Maria Ospensaya

The Wolf Man

Congratulations, you are the Wolf Man! People are drawn to you because of your mystery and intrigue, but every now and then you come out of your shell and let everyone see the real you. When you do, people and animals love your company so take pride knowing what power you have over people.

Check out Universal Classic Monsters: The Complete 30-Film DVD Collection featuring The Wolf Man, and the rest of the classic monsters available now!

Well, how about that?  Lon Chaney Jr.'s hirsute anti-hero was always my favorite.  I can swing with that. What's REALLY cool is that they mention there's a 30-film DVD collection now available! Here's the link from the NBC Universal store: http://www.nbcuniversalstore.com/universal-classic-monsters-the-complete-30-film-collection-dvd/detail.php?p=602255

31 Days of Spooktober, Day 8: Ben Cooper and the iconic Collegeville Halloween costumes!!

If you were a kid in the 60s or 70s, you definitely remember them.  Heck, you probably even wore them for at least one Halloween: the masks were plasticy, easily cracked, and were sometimes difficult to see through.  The costumes themselves, usually tied in the back and shredded by just looking at them.  Yes, maybe they weren't the sturdiest, but they were definitely iconic, colorful, and they transport you back to a simpler time, when you didn't have to have an adult walk around with you for Trick or Treat, when you didn't have to wear glow-in-the-dark or reflective gear for safety, when kids showed up at the doorstep dressed like popular Saturday morning cartoon characters or Universal Monsters, not some colorless 2010s toy or princess.

Yep, I'm talking about those individually-boxed Collegeville Halloween costumes for kids!



What I didn't know was that Ben Cooper designed costumes for the Cotton Club and the Ziegfield Follies back in the day!  The children's costumes were available from the 1930s through the late 80s. You could purchase them at Sears, J.C. Penney's, Woolworth's and your local five and dime (where I remember seeing them as a kid, at Stewart's 5 & 10 in the Southwest Side of Chicago, Garfield Ridge).Many of the costumes are highly collectible, especially if they are in their original boxes.  A book was even published in 2002,  Dressed for Thrills: 100 Years of Halloween Costumes & Masquerade by Phyllis Galembo, which featured photos and text regarding these iconic costumes.

You can learn more about them at the Collegeville Facebook page:  https://www.facebook.com/pages/Collegeville-Ben-Coopers-vintage-mask-and-costume-collectors/229579747092005#!/pages/Collegeville-Ben-Coopers-vintage-mask-and-costume-collectors/229579747092005

Or check out the 1966 catalog!: http://search.aol.com/aol/imageDetails?s_it=imageDetails&q=collegeville+costumes&img=http%3A%2F%2F2.bp.blogspot.com%2F-Yr1tby5dWOs%2FT7KSMUel7VI%2FAAAAAAAAEj8%2FKnGQwCEzDGs%2Fs1600%2FCollegevilleCostumes1966-Catalog-pages3-4.jpg&v_t=tb50-ie-customie9-chromesbox-en-us&host=http%3A%2F%2Fmonstermasks.blogspot.com%2F2012%2F05%2F1966-collegeville-costumes-catalog.html&width=181&height=117&thumbUrl=http%3A%2F%2Ft3.gstatic.com%2Fimages%3Fq%3Dtbn%3AANd9GcRyaI4bknvXvk9j8IM9ftjGPlFQlKdFl4vBEc-nwx9-OTZocD8dhdtoqFdkbw%3A2.bp.blogspot.com%2F-Yr1tby5dWOs%2FT7KSMUel7VI%2FAAAAAAAAEj8%2FKnGQwCEzDGs%2Fs1600%2FCollegevilleCostumes1966-Catalog-pages3-4.jpg&b=image%3Fq%3Dcollegeville%2Bcostumes%26v_t%3Dtb50-ie-customie9-chromesbox-en-us%26s_it%3DimageResultsBack%26oreq%3Ddacb8f6acee64721bff8a7b7753ee946&imgHeight=1041&imgWidth=1600&imgTitle=of+costumes+and+masks.&imgSize=420426&hostName=monstermasks.blogspot.com

Want to own one?  Check out this link on Ebay: http://www.ebay.com/bhp/collegeville-costume



Can't get enough "memory lane"ness?  Take a stroll through this extremely well-documented Flickr site, devoted to the art of the Collegeville mask: https://www.flickr.com/photos/22686070@N08/sets/72157609652753603/

31 Days of Spooktober, Day 7: "American Horror Story: Freak Show" All the wonderful Mid-Century freaks!!

The cast of AHS Season 4, in all their Mid-Mod splendour.

http://www.mtv.com/news/1954006/american-horror-story-freak-show-premiere-review/

I will not get so excited I pass out.   I will not get so excited I pass out.  I will not get so excited I pass out.

Tomorrow night is the premiere of "American Horror Story: Freak Show".  I've been a fan of the show since its inception and haven't missed an episode.  Even when they're almost too graphic to watch (Hello Season One's black vinyl jumpsuit-clad folk!), even when certain images are presented that are horrifically burned into my retinas for the rest of my life (like Season Three's "atmospheric" attic torture chamber).  I'm not a slasher/gore afficionado one iota.  I am easily disturbed; content warnings for film and TV that warn "may be upsetting for more sensitive viewers" are directly aimed at me.  My husband has absolutely NO sympathy for my post-show ramblings about how gross/disgusting/perverse the show is (he will not watch a minute of it). So why, oh why, am I drawn to it?

A few salient reasons.

1.  The writing is amazing.

2.  The acting is amazing.

3.  The direction is amazing.

4.  Ditto for the art direction.

Its gaggle of Emmys is proof positive that AHS has it over many a major motion picture in all of those categories.  But it's got yet another thing in its slimy back pocket: it's got style.  And when I say "style", I'm talking about stylized style as well as sartorial/design style.

I think the reason why AHS doesn't make me squirm too much is that, although scenarios presented are done so realistically, there's a bit of a heightened reality to the lighting, sets, even the acting.  Jessica Lange is a great example; her acting can be "over-the-top" and completely believable at the very same time.  Simply put, I'm in awe of her.  And I'm equally in awe of Ryan Murphy, who is able to extract such brilliance from his performers, to house those absolutely stomach-churning situations in a world that could be pulled out of a well-conceived graphic novel (I'm recalling Season Two's MANY moments of terror, juxtaposed with moments of pop culture whimsy, evident here in the "astonishingly zippy for a musical number set in an insane asylum": "The Name Game" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lvbRwgadw80 ).

And now for the style part.  And, for this season, I'm talking Mid-Century splendour and grime, in beautifully equal amounts. The Mid-Mod Mystic is bouncing up and down in her chair!!!

As a Mid-Century enthusiast, I can't find the words for how exquisitely happy I am that Mr. Murphy is setting "American Horror Story: Freak Show" in the 1950s.  It was an era of an almost dainty, "scrubbed clean" aesthetic - at least on the surface.  There were also subcultures (burlesque, Beat, drug) that were decidedly more seamy. If the above poster is any indication, it looks like Ryan Murphy will be exploring both sides, but especially the darker world of the traveling freak show, a world I got a taste of while writing my book, "The Cotton Candy Road Trip".  But I'll be writing more about that in an upcoming post.  Suffice it to say, I am enthralled with that world - and have huge respect for the performers who keep it alive in the 21st century.

31 Days of Spooktober, Day 6: "I Want to Be Evil" by the marvelous Eartha Kitt

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SS02GeKuWQ4





It doesn't get more Mid-Century, mystical or Spooktober than this.  I can't count the ways that I love this video.  Just do yourself a favor and watch this.  Great interp!

31 Days of Spooktober, Day 5: Hitchcock Halloween Decor

My darling Hitchcockian throw pillow

So you know, you can get THE best things in the world at the Kane County Flea Market.  And so you also know: it's less "flea" than "really cool things that are mostly antique but are also, at times, home-made".

Case in point, my new bit of Halloween decor, handmade by The Clay Penguin (that's her Etsy store, but I met her in-person at the Flea; her name is Lisa Cramer).  Here's a link to the store: https://www.etsy.com/shop/TheClayPenguin  And. in case you're curious: the design on the pillow is by graffiti artist Banksy: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Banksy  I bet you could order your OWN Hitchcock "The Birds" pillow at her Etsy shoppe.  Or maybe you'd like eight or more!

Ms. Cramer, a.k.a. Clay Penguin Lady, is a sweet gal and had a great selection of items, some handmade, others vintage, at her table at the Flea.  We shared our stories about our love of Hitchcock, namely "The Birds", and I told her about the time I saw the film at the Hollywood Palms on the Big Screen and Tippi Hedren was indeed there to introduce the show, but had a cold so only spoke for a short period of time.  And speaking of short, Tippi's about 3 feet tall.  I know this because I was entering the ladies' room as she was exiting.  She's still absolutely stunning in her 80s.

The beautiful Ms. Hedren and Crow

I also mentioned that at this viewing of the film, there was a young girl who came TOTALLY decked-out as Tippi, in torn and bloody skirt suit, with fake bird neatly attached to her head.  And I said if I could've adopted the child, I would've. The child waited in line to have Ms. Hedren autograph her Tippi Hedren Barbie doll.  Here is a photo of said doll:

I own the doll

Such was my day at the Flea.  Now to decide how else to Hitchcockify my digs for the season ...

31 Days of Spooktober, Day 4: Pumpkin Squares

Yep, today you get a recipe.  And you also get me renaming the month as Spooktober, because I find that to be a little "kickier".

So, here's the recipe I like, that I've used for at least two decades:

http://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/pumpkin-bars

Yes, it's the one from Taste of Home, but it's identical to the one I've used.  Feel free to substitute apple sauce for the canola oil.  You get a fluffier, lighter, moister square. Oh, and these work perfectly well sans cream cheese icing.  I actually prefer them that way.

BONE Appetit!

31 Spooky Days of October, Day 3: The Mummer's Dance

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qxTpvA-pUG0

If you read about Loreena McKennitt, what will inevitably come up is the question, "But is she Pagan?"

The answers have been inconclusive.  But this song, THIS SONG, makes the line of query irrelevant.

It's magickal, pure and simple.

Enjoy.

And you can read more about what a Mummer's Play is, which is what the song is based upon, here:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mummers_play

And here be Mummers:

The 31 Spooky Days of October, Day 2: The Eyes of Hitchcock!!

http://vimeo.com/107270525

Let this hypnotizing piece of video art carry you away. Hitchcock used close ups on eyes to heighten the terror, to allow you to feel the terror through the characters' eyes.  Just another bit of Hitchcockian brilliance.




Read more about it here:

http://www.openculture.com/2014/10/the-eyes-of-hitchcock.html

Boo!

31 Spooky Days of October, Day 1: Rare Bewitched Promos!!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g1xmGgmkDtw

In an effort to bring you only the best in Spooktober entertainment, I give you vintagey, rare, "Oh my GOSH where did they FIND this stuff?!" promos and commercials from the 60s. Don't miss the second one, that features Elizabeth Montgomery, Judy Carne ("Laugh-In") and Marlo Thomas ("That Girl")!!  A true Mid-Mod spectacle!

I'll be seeking out strange and unusual clips, images, information, recipes, poems, things you can buy on Etsy, things you can make - all Halloween or Samhain-centric - all month long.  Just felt right to start the month off with an ode to one of my biggest heroes and influences.

Enjoy, be you witch, mystic, curiosity-seeker, or Mid-Mod enthusiast!  I'd love to hear your thoughts and inspirations about what makes this time of year special to YOU.

Blessings - TMCM

The News: I shall endeavor to write a book about spirituality. Because there is much more than this ...

But it won't be just another book about spirituality.

It'll be about the idea of "more than".

Some of my inspiration comes from this song:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Qta5_pY9y0

Throughout my life, even as a tyke, I was always drawn to the more than, what's just beyond the horizon, what's just beyond our grasp.  The unknown, the esoteric, the paranormal.  But not the dark side. I acknowledge it, but never embrace it.  I've always known that good does win out. And I've always known, always felt, guided, supported, and comforted by forces not always seen, but often felt, sensed.

This family felt completely normal to me

I know most kids have rich fantasy worlds.  Mine were extraordinarily clear and vibrant.  And I was always, from as long as I can recall, drawn to the mystical and magical: not with a sense of whimsy, but a sense of belonging.  Samantha Stephens, Mary Poppins, even in some ways the Adams Family: these were my people.

So, today I officially announce to the world that this book project is under way. Some portions have been under way for years, but kept veiled in secrecy.  Let the veil fall.

This Mystic is ready to reveal what it's like to visit the More Than every single day.

Words to ponder:

Hamlet:
And therefore as a stranger give it welcome.
There are more things in heaven and earth, Horatio,
Than are dreamt of in your philosophy.
Hamlet Act 1, scene 5, 159–167

Autumnal equinox and grapey grapes

I was drawn to grapes today.

"Sweetie," I called to my hubby as I sat down to watch a bit of telly. "Can you please bring me a bowl of grapes?"

This is not a common occurence.  I rarely sit and scarf down an entire bowl. 

"Well, that's not something I hear you say everyday" said the Hubs. He then brought me a clear glass bowl filled with both red and black grapes and I inhaled them. Sweet, juicy, yielding to my bite.

And then I recalled it was Mabon, the autumnal equinox, and went, "Ha! Okay then!" It all made sense.

Today's celebration is about the ending of the summer harvest and the start of the cool weather harvest; that includes the succulent grape. And it reminded me that magic at this time of year can revolve around said grapes.  And, suddenly, I became inspired.

On Wednesday, I'll be leading a New Moon ritual for myself and my wonderful husband.  Because there's lots of exciting newness to be grateful for. And, by golly, we'll be adding wine to our celebration!  It will be used to consecrate sacred space, as well as for giving thanks. And for enjoying because, come on, it's wine.

Mabon is also about light and dark, as today we have an equal amount. So it's a perfect time to focus on dark and light in our lives. No grey areas. Or, at least, if you're allowing a grey area in, it's time to really delve into the "whys" about it.

A blessed autumnal equinox to all. Sip it in, slowly, like a rich, fruity red wine. I know I'll be.

The balance of beauty and chaos

On Wednesday, September 24th, we'll be heading into a New Moon phase.  It'll be in Libra:

http://astrology.about.com/od/themoon/qt/NewMoonLibragen.htm?nl=1



What fascinates me most about this article by Molly Hall is the idea of beauty vs. chaos.  It really struck me, the following quote by Vangelis, of all people: "Beauty is harmony which comes from chaos. But we invest in chaos. And why do we invest in chaos, because chaos is more profitable than peace. That's why."

Think about that for a moment. We invest in chaos.  Now, what probably comes to mind first is the idea of countries investing in war.  At least that's what came up for me.  War is profitable, creates bumps in the economy for the better.  But I don't think I need to go into the pain and negativity that war also brings.

But besides war, we have a tendency to invest energy and focus on the negativity in our lives.  It hits us viscerally and stays with us.  For a moment: think about the last time you were cut off in traffic, or verbally slighted, or were the recipient of a dirty look.  It hit deep.  We recall it easily. It's more "profitable" for our psyches sometimes because it feeds our need for drama, which can be a cheap, tawdry alternative to something deeper and more profound.

Now, try to quickly recall a moment, very recently, where you received something beautiful and positive.  If you're like me, it might take a tad more time to really recall it, to feel it, to let it reverberate in you.  And, frankly, that's a shame. 

How can we learn to allow beauty to hit us viscerally in a way we're then able to recall more easily?  One way is to train ourselves to become more present in those quiet moments when beauty touches our souls.  The next time someone compliments you, or you hold the hand of a loved one, or hear a glorious symphony, sit still and allow yourself to feel the moment deeply.  Where does it "settle" in your body?  That beauty deserves to be held deep inside, to feed our cores.

Another trick to try is a minute or so each night devoted to recalling those small, quiet beautiful moments.  It doesn't take long at all to make it a habit, to recall three things you are truly grateful for tht happened earlier in the day.  It can become a part of your evening habits.

Now, as for the upcoming New Moon: I'm planning a New Moon ritual for my husband and myself.  I'm still working on the details, but I'll share them with you as the date gets closer.  Until then, ask yourself, "What chaos am I willing to transmute into beauty?" What comes to mind first for me is the cacophony that is my office.  I am willing, focused and entirely able to turn that apple carving face of a space into a beautiful, blushing Pink Lady apple of a room.

Current office condition

Future office condition