In the last week or so we have had a full moon, Anzac Day, and the Samhain Festival (Halloween) for witches here in the Southern Hemisphere. The witch celebrations are based on those practical events, and necessity, way back in the day. Samhain is a celebration of the foods we have harvested and made to store for the colder winter months.

The energy around these recent events has been heavy, emotionally. Fortunately, we are a little like the moon and a little like nature, and our emotions wax and wane and change.

A new month is a good time to literally sweep away the negativity, so that a fresh new start can be made. It’s getting cooler, but not too cold. I am reminded that the kitchen witches from long ago knew to make potions – i.e. immune support – to keep healthy during the winter. Honey, garlic, lemons, turmeric, cinnamon, clove…leafy greens, apples, pineapples, elderberry and cranberry. What are your favourites for keeping colds and flu at bay?

I’m reminded of balance; a life not too sedentary and not to full of flurry and busy-ness. Who amongst us has that part right? The tempo of life changes through the seasons of our lives, but we can retain the essence of who we are, despite the changes. What gets me is those well-meaning people who try to tell us how we should be living our lives. I hope my words are taken how I intend them – sharing what I have learnt in my journey so far.

My re-discovered passion for writing fiction has come at the perfect time. The words just tumble off my fingers onto the electronic page as I write about Stella and Luna, who you have met if you have read my books, and Beth, who you will meet soon. The working title for her first book is Autumn Leaves Are Falling although I have been told it’s not a good title for a paranormal cozy mystery. Can anyone guess where I got the idea for the title from?

May the new month be full of moments that make you smile.