fire – Author M. A. Phillips

Socially Distant Summer Solstice

This time last year, my grove celebrated the Summer Solstice together. We gave gratitude to the Kindred, to the sun, and to the network of rivers that connect us all in the North Country. We gave an offering of yellow flowers to Manannán mac Lir. This year, I missed my people, my grovemates. We willContinue reading “Socially Distant Summer Solstice”

30 Days Magical Roots Challenge – Days 12-15

I feel like there’s a maelstrom swirling around inside me lately. Along with relaxing to some of my favorite shows, I’ve been throwing myself into writing. Writing anything – my book, blog updates, tweets, even my first fanfic – just to keep that swirl of stressful worries from tearing me open. With that in mind,Continue reading “30 Days Magical Roots Challenge – Days 12-15”

4th of July Bonfire

Instead of fireworks, we had a bonfire in the backyard. We did use a few sparklers which delighted my daughter. Plenty of sparkles without all the noise. She made an offering of birdseed to the Nature Spirits. I made offerings of drink to the Ancestors and Gods. I sprinkled juniper berries into the fire forContinue reading “4th of July Bonfire”

Faux Candles for Imbolc: A Toddler-Friendly Craft

Bee shows a greater interest in what I do, and she loves to honor nature outside and inside at her nature table / play altar. The one thing she was missing was a representation of fire – one of the Three Hallows in my Druidic tradition, and an important part of any Celtic spirituality. I’veContinue reading “Faux Candles for Imbolc: A Toddler-Friendly Craft”

Bonfire Under Full Moon

It’s a work night, so we can’t stay up to enjoy the whole lunar eclipse. However, we simply had to take advantage of the excellent viewing conditions to catch the beginning. What a great excuse for family time around a bonfire? Before building the fire, I gave an offering of milk to Brighid, and prayedContinue reading “Bonfire Under Full Moon”

Exploring Rocket Stoves

I’ve been really curious about rocket stoves. I see people interested in sustainability, survival skills, and camping post about them from time to time. Turns out, my father has been interested too. He’s more mechanically-minded than I am, so he made one using BPA-free cans (supplied by yours truly). I also helped him byContinue reading “Exploring Rocket Stoves”