The Sunday Times: Issue #29

Although it is still very much summer weather here in Florida, tomorrow marks the first day of autumn and the autumnal equinox. The equinoxes mark the two times a year when there are equal lengths to day and night, symbolizing balance. Historically, this was the time of year when friends would gather to preserve the summer's bounty in cans or jars to prepare for the colder months ahead. It's also a great time of year to honor our ancestors and build an altar, as it is naturally a time to reflect on life's cycles of death and renewal - in this case, looking forward to darker days and the dead of winter.

I have an altar in my studio dedicated to my ancestors both recent and distant. I plan to offer them their favorite scents, flowers, and prayers. I try to ask them for specific help that they can offer me through the next couple months. I already have so much evidence in my life that this truly works, but I understand if it feels a bit too woo for you. If anything, try to take a moment on Monday to pause and reflect on the end of one season and the beginning of another. Take stock of what you've achieved so far this year and give thanks for the blessings of summer.

In this issue I'll share some photos of my altar, announce some items new to the shop, and give you a sneak peek at the next ring completed for Paradiso pt. II.

So pour yourself a cup of tea and get comfy.

The light and the dark are the same in length, Have equal time and equal strength. But soon the darkness will prevail, And the light and the dark will begin to pale, But do not be afraid, Do not dismay, For this is the rhythm of nature's way. Rejoice in the abundance that this year bears, Breathe deep in the coolness and change in the air, Have gratitude and blessings, keep toll And may this shift in nature lighten your soul.

- Autumnal Blessing

MY ANCESTRAL ALTAR

A PLACE TO GIVE THANKS AND ASK FOR HELP

I realize that this might be a funky subject for some of you - but try and keep an open mind to the ideas of giving thanks and asking for help. Whether or not you believe your ancestors can hear you, an altar is a place to reflect on how you came into this world (if it weren't for them, etc) and what you are currently struggling with. It also helps me feel close to my grandparents whom I love and miss dearly.

Here's what I have on my altar:

At the top I have a bundle of sage to help cleanse the air - it's the first step in my ritual so it's helpful to have it at the top. I also have a framed portrait of Anne Stafford, my 13th-great-grandmother. She was a lady-in-waiting to Catherine of Aragon and served in the household of Mary I.

On the next level is my 5th-great-grandfather, Jacob North. I have a portrait of him, a member of the Shawnee, along with three Hopi kachina dolls, Falcon, RoadRunner, and Warrior.

Next I have a level dedicated to two powerful grandmothers. On the left is Margaret Pole. You may recall from Issue 7 the story of how she plays a very important role in my creative life. She is my 14th-great-grandmother and was a very powerful woman during the Tudor period. As Countess of Salisbury, she was one of the most wealthy women in England.

On the right is Laura Hastings. Laura is much closer in the worldly timeline to me as she is my 4th-great-grandmother. She along with her husband became two of the most prominent citizens of Brookfield, Massachusetts.

Between them is a vial of rose-scented oil that I sometimes waft while asking for their help. I also have a hinged silver book of saints.

The bottom level is dedicated to my closest relatives, my first and second grandparents. In the center I have photos of myself with my grandmother, Dorothy (Dot). I also have her favorite necklace (that she's wearing in the photo). The photo on the right is really dear to my heart because it shows me reaching for her.

I'm so grateful to have this necklace of hers and the watch of my other grandmother to feel close to them. Jewelry need not be expensive in order to be a powerful and meaningful inheritance. I also bring in flowers to offer them whenever I pick some from our garden.

If you are interested in creating an altar, it doesn't have to be this elaborate. Just gather anything you have related to anyone you want to connect with. Or it can be as simple as going outside and gathering flowers, acorns, leaves, etc to reflect on nature's gifts. Mine started very small and grew larger as I did more research and found more photos. Let me know if you ever want to start on Ancestry.com, I'd be happy to help!

NEW FISH

THAT ARE READY-TO-SHIP

WHAT'S COMING THIS WEEK

READY-TO-SHIP FONTANELLAS AND VESSELS

I'm excited to offer three custom-patina'd silver Fontanellas this week along with a fresh batch of pearl vessels. I will also have two Mingnolo rings, one engraved with a palm tree and one with a "K" as well as a new Ethiopian Opal beaded necklace. Stay tuned, I'll send an email out once I know when this little refresh will release.