Mabon. Not a word many people are familiar with - it's better known as Autumn Equinox. I remember it because my sweet dachshund Heidi was born on this day - the same day, same litter, as J.C. Wilder's EVIL little Bella. But I digress. ;>

At this point on the Celtic wheel of the year, the Oak King and the Holly King stand toe to toe, equal in strength as they vie for the hand of the Goddess. But after today, the Oak King will begin his ritual spiral to his symbolic "death", in a blaze of red and gold glory,  while the Holly King rises to reign with the Dark Goddess until spring.

To Remember The Light...

Take a little bit of summer memory with you as you enter fully into the dark half of the year! I've found a couple of easy-cheesy candle crafts even a clutz like myself can manage. :)

Sea Glass Candle Holder

Materials:

-Globe-style glass candle holder, large enough to hold a smaller one inside with room between them.

-Smaller plain glass holder, just large enough for a tea light.

-Small pieces of sea glass, either your own collection or from a craft store.

-Tea light.

Verra simple: Place the smaller glass holder inside larger one. Fill the space between them with sea glass pieces. Place tea light inside. You're done! The candle will emit a soft light.

Variation: You can also simply put some clean sand in the bottom of the larger globe, sprinkle in a few small shells and bits of sea glass, and plunk the tea light holder in the middle. Instant beach in a globe!

Sea Shell Candles

This is a little more complex, but it's a great way to use up bits of leftover scented candles.

Materials:

Whole sea shells, clam or whelk style.

Candle mold sealer (optional).

Smaller random shells.

Low temp hot glue gun.

Leftover candle stubs.

3-1/2" Wicking with clip.

Clean tin can, rim slightly bent to form a spout (glass jar is okay).

Fill shells with water to make sure they don't leak. Empty and let dry. Fill any holes with sealer.

Cut candle stubs into pieces, place in clean tin can and set in a saucepan into which you've put a couple inches of water to melt wax.

Meantime (never leaving pan unattended!) check to make sure the shells will sit with open side up. If not, use the glue gun to glue smaller shells to the base to prop it up level. Place the wick in the shell and secure to the bottom with sealer. It may stand up by itself. If not use a piece of craft tape across the top of the shell to prop it.

CAREFULLY, using tongs and oven mitts, remove the can (or jar) of melted wax from water and pour into shell. Watch the wax level, especially if you're using a whelk shell. You may want to pour a bit more in after it settles and hardens. Trim wick to 1/4 inch.

Carolan's Cauldron