My Books
Reading, writing and expressing myself through language are vital to me. I've written fiction since I was a child and as an adult have had articles published in various alternative lifestyle magazines. Since becoming a mother, I have been interested in children's books and the messages they give to children about life. To this end, I try to make sure at least some of the books they read reflect aspects of their lives which differ from the mainstream so they don't see themselves as 'different' in an unhelpful way. It was this thought which inspired me to write Freya and Heath are Home Educated and the follow-up for older children, Adventures of the Homeschoolers: THE GENIE IN THE TEAPOT is now available. My non-fiction books on Paganism and Witchcraft build on my own practice in that area and my experience in moderating a Witchcraft website and being a Witchy agony aunt. My novel Towards the Sea combines many of my interests with a mystery story set on the coast. To see my books for home educated children, books on Paganism and fiction please click these links:
I also love to share books that have inspired me or that I've enjoyed for whatever reason, so I've put together a page of recommended reads for adults and children. I shall be adding to this page regularly, so check back every now and again if you want ideas for reading! Recommended Books
Paganism
I'm not into trying to change the colour of my eyes with spells or of accusing other people of 'not being a proper Witch', but I am into down-to-earth, common sense magic. I like to concentrate on my own practice rather than nitpick about who is initiated or who is not. I advocate a sense of personal honour and responsibility. My Paganism is active, environmental, day-to-day, attempting to live in an alternative manner from the mainstream, and not focused on rituals or tools. More recently I have been finding myself more drawn to the path of Druidry. For those with no experience of Paganism, I would just like to add here that it does NOT involve the devil at all, and is actually a peaceful, earth spirituality.
To receive festival reminders, hints and tips on Paganism, thoughts, ideas and meditations directly to your phone via text, text 'PAGAN2U' to 63336. It costs 98p to subscribe and 25p per text after that (maximum of £3.50 per month). See Pagan page.
Parenting
As a wife and mother, I practise attachment parenting, sometimes called natural parenting because it is closer to the way that parenting has been done for millions of years than the usual methods of today's western world. I love and respect my children and am totally against smacking or aggression towards them. See Parenting page.
Home Education
This is something I only really looked into a couple of years ago but am already passionate about. I want to give my children the space to breathe, enjoy their childhood and love learning for its own sake. See Home Education page.
Green Living
I consider this vital and inextricably linked both with being a Pagan and with being a parent. Ethical living, organic living and fair trade all play a part in this. We all need to do what we can. See Green Living page.
Highly Sensitive Trait
Do you find the world overwhelming fairly quickly and need to escape back to your bolt-hole to recharge your batteries while others castigate you for being a lightweight? If so, you may be Highly Sensitive. See Highly Sensitive Trait.
Seasonal Affective Disorder
Winter depression affects many people in Northern countries. If you can't afford to up sticks and go and live nearer the equator, you'll have to learn to cope. Read about my experience, see SAD.