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!!! HAPPY NEW YEAR !!!

Many from the lands enjoyed the formal dress up holiday  night of food and music offered by the Ball held. Everyone got to dance at least once that wished a dance. It is reported that two ladies even received a kiss beneath the mistletoe that abound throughout the festive decorations. It was this night that Honeee announced her pregnancy and that she foresees another daughter to wrap the King around her baby finger once born sometime in spring. It was a quiet peaceful night outside as snow fell adding to the festive feel of the yuletide season. There are more events in the planning for the winter months.

This month Queen's Tea was held by Caillean Meldrum of the Moors. It was a night to pamper the Queens and ladies attending as their guests. Scented water, rose petals floating and the addition of masseuses to work out the stress that accumulates. Wine, drink and food a plenty all added to the relaxing night. Caillean, a friend of the queen's from years past brought back a bit of nostalgia. A possible Treaty was discussed in the near future between our kingdom and theirs. We will be looking for the announcement to come in the near future.

Cory Jacob Buchanan.  He is a successful novelist in the horror genre from London, and a Baron by title.  His claim to fame; those twisted tales that make us look over our shoulders on the way home and peek under our beds at night.  That talent that leaves readers going back for more and more, hardly quenching their appetite for the darker stories. During the winter months of last year, he relocated from his London Estate to move and settle for a time within the lands of Heathfield.

"It was the idea of a calmer lifestyle that drew me to these lands.  It makes it easier for me to write and control my mind.  Not being distracted every second by what new and wild scandal was being the talk of the town and every relative and debutante had to rush and tell me."  Does this mean that he was a much sought after gentleman?  True, with those daring dark looks and brilliant blue eyes that nearly glowed with the tone, not to mention his well kept stature, it was understandable.  But, why one who spent his time writing novels that left people dead or seriously maimed?  It wasn't a glorious showing.  "They were after the fame that came with my name and title.  London is full of many of those, as you would know living there as well."

There was truth to his words. But, why would he, of all people, constantly be known to go to each and every ball or party that sent him an invitation?  "I went because of the people there.  So many with deep underlying, utterly ugly dispositions.  I would get a feel for their actions and use them for villains or those helpless victims that would meet their demise."

Wouldn't some of these people catch on, knowing exactly who they were?  Or even by name alone?  "I would change the names to save face.  Yet, there were several that picked up on the fact that it was them being represented.  I can't think of anyone who protested the gesture.  They actually enjoyed what I did, merely because they were immortalized through literature."

He has recently released his newest title, 'The Ghost Shadow.' A twisting tale that involves a string of dockside murders that lead the hero through a daring chase to catch the villain.  "I am excited about this, feeling it might just be my best yet.  Though, I do plan to continue on this streak for as long as I can."

Cory has plans for at least three more novels to be published in the coming year, after first taking a short break to indulge in the season.  For all titles that have been published by Mr. Buchanan, head for the BookStop and pick up a copy or copies today.

Life Around Here

With not only the winter season upon us but of the holidays, it found life about the lands to be on that upbeat of wonder and anticipation. The children and bigger children were making use of the snow as it came. There has been enough to make snowmen, forts and piles of snowballs. Some of the teens had it down to a science to strategically place the piles so they were always armed on the run. So the snow wars had started and the tally amongst those participating on a grander scale than most realized. It was a learning experience in mocking life situations on a larger scale. The Thistle had been decorated and some of those decorations included mistletoe which certain ones took advantage of. 'Tis the season and maybe practice for Valentine's Day not so far away. The missing chair had been found and returned even if the culprits have not been at this point.

Various events were offered in other lands, those from here made it to if they could. It is a busy season and the weather holding out at normal levels if not a bit on the warm side. This is not expected to last and only comes in spurts for the lakes are frozen over having ones out skating on the sleek surface. Winter games and events already started on personal levels. New faces are about and old ones expected to return. As we enter the new year, these months are the ones those about should be careful of their plans for they bring the most snow, blizzards have plagued before and coming without due warning. Teams of huskies are still available and cabins marked on the map hanging in the various taverns to become familiar with if one should become stranded to where they might find shelter. Most homes are open to those stranded, don't be afraid to knock. May this new year be a safe, healthy and happy one.

Births: None this past month. Marriages: Lord Neale Frasier and Kathleen Cleary. Engagements: Andrew MacNeil and Isabeau Quinn. Aedan McAhearne and Antoinette Cairns.

Thought for the Day

One kind word can warm three winter months.  ~Japanese Proverb  --submitted by Sara Devonshire

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January: This month you will be setting the boundaries between your ability to please everyone in your life and what is best for you. And surprise! You will be choosing yourself over the other people in your life. Personal relationships are going to take the biggest hit on this time. And things in this area of your life could be very tense on the 9th, 11th, 14th, 23rd and 24th. So, anyone close who is not clear of what your boundaries are will find out on these dates. And for those of you without a partner, you will have plenty of energy to start the hunt for one. And they are more likely to get a very clear picture of who you really are and not whom you want them to find attractive.

ASTROLOGICA

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OTHER LIFE FORMS

Griffins -- The regal griffin (also spelled gryphon) is thought to be the offspring of an eagle (king of the air). Its plumage ranges from cream to deep brown, yet some specimens have feathers with a deep, dark bluish sheen. While many griffins migrated to Europe from the Middle East in the thirteenth century, most remain desert-dwelling. They roost in high places and are only likely to be spotted when they fly in search of food. Their bones are commonly discovered, although they are often mistaken for the bones of dinosaurs

The adult griffin is about the size of a lion but far stronger. Despite their formidable natural advantages, griffins are very rare. Unlike less fantastical hybrids like mules, however, they can reproduce. Their eggs are said to be made of agate. Griffins are resistant to the poison of dragons and very hostile to horses. For this reason, the offspring of a grifin and a horse - the hippogriff - is considered to be a symbol of the enduring power of love. --from: Arthur Spiderwick's Field Guide

 ....is off with her husband this month on an extended vacation for the holidays. She will be back next month with her usual column. Keep the questions coming. All will be answered and caught up with.

 A very Happy New Year for everyone. 'Other Life Forms' was placed in lieu for your enjoyment. If liked enough it will be kept.

What Winter Means to Me

Winter is a time of many contrasts.  The beauty of pristine white, with the stark contrast of a stream not yet iced over, the blue shadows of the night against the diamond-like sparkles that come from light, the delicate creations of ice that can decorate the trees. That same snow can be dangerous when it drifts and covers roads, making it hard for some to get out, the ice can grow so heavy it causes limbs to crack and make roads icy.

For the farmer, it's still a time of hard work.  Animals must be fed and sheltered, protected from hungry predators, and sometimes rescued from snow drifts. Fresh snowfall means clearing paths, cleaning off roofs, maybe unfreezing water supplies.  It also means that some will put out hay and corn for wild animals.  And yet, there's the other side. Children playing in the snow, snowmen dotting the commons, the footprints of rabbits and birds.  Cold days where you need to be bundled up lead into cozy nights near the fire.

Winter is a time of rest for the earth, of short days and longer nights, but even through the darkest of days there is always the knowing that spring will come again.

By --- Sarah McDonough

Recipes of the Month

CRUSTADE GENTLE

  1 Pie shell, previously baked. * Veal, boiled or roasted until done, then ground * Hard-boiled egg yolks, diced * Almond Milk * Marrow, diced

Combine ground veal with diced egg yolks. Thoroughly blend with Almond Milk until you have a thick, wet mixture. It should be "stondyng" - that is, thick enough to hold its shape. Place the diced marrow in the bottom of the pie shell; cover with the veal filling. Bake until the filling has set and slightly browned. Serve forth!  -- submitted by Amethyst Daniels

BROWN RICE and CHICKEN CASSEROLE

10.75 ounces thickened cream of asparagus soup * 10 3/4 fluid ounces milk * 1 1/2 cups water * 1 pound chopped cooked chicken * 1 cup uncooked brown rice * 1 1/2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese * 1 cup chopped onion * 3 cloves garlic, crushed * 1 tablespoon dried parsley * 1 1/2 teaspoons dried basil * 1 teaspoon dried dill weed * salt and pepper to taste

Heat oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C). Lightly grease a medium casserole dish. In a large bowl, mix the soup, milk, water, chicken, rice, green beans, Cheddar cheese, onion, and garlic. Season with parsley, basil, dill, salt, and pepper. Transfer to the prepared casserole dish. Bake 1 1/2 hours in the preheated oven, until rice is tender. If water is absorbed too quickly, add more as needed. -- submitted by Emmy Jo Johnson

QUICKIE COOKIES

2 cups sugar * 1/4 cup cocoa, * 1/4 cup butter * 1/2 cup milk * 3 cups quick rolled oats * 1/2 cup peanut butter * 1 tsp vanilla

Combine first four ingredients in a saucepan and bring to a full boil for one minute. Remove from heat and add last three ingredients. Work Quickly - drop by teaspoonfuls onto wax paper. This recipe cannot be doubled. -- submitted by Julia Traugott

POTATO SOUP

  6 potatoes, peeled and diced * 2 carrots, diced * 3 cups water * 2 tablespoons chicken bouillon powder * ground black pepper to taste * 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour * 3 cups milk * 1 tablespoon dried parsley * 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme

In a large stock pot melt the butter add the onions and cook over medium heat until the onions are translucent. While the onions are cooking, place the diced potatoes, carrots, water and chicken soup base in another stock pot and bring to a boil. Cook until tender, about 10 minutes. Do not over cook. Season with ground black pepper to taste. Add the flour to the cooked onions to make a paste. Gradually add the milk and stir well. Cook over low heat stirring constantly until warmed through. Add the potato and carrot mixture. Stir in the parsley and thyme and heat through. Serve hot. -- submitted by Sarah McDonough

SCOTCH SOUP

  3 lbs. mutton from fore-quarter * 2 qts. cold water * ½ tablespoon salt * ¼ teaspoon pepper * 2 slices turnip * ½ onion * ¼ cup flour * Carrot (¼ cup, each, cut in small cubes) * Turnip (¼ cup, each, cut in small cubes) * 2 tablespoons pearl barley

To prepare this Scotch Soup Recipe, first wipe meat, remove skin and fat, and cut meat in small pieces. Add water, heat gradually to boiling-point, skim, and cook slowly two hours. After cooking one hour, add salt, pepper, turnip, and onion. Strain, cool, remove fat, reheat, and thicken with flour diluted with enough cold water to pour easily. Cook carrot and turnip dice in boiling salted water until soft; drain, and add to soup. Soak barley over night, in cold water, drain, and cook in boiling salted water until soft; drain, and add to soup. If barley should be cooked in the soup, it would absorb the greater part of the stock. Barley may be omitted; in that case sprinkle with finely chopped parsley and serve with croutons. -- submitted by Sarah McDonough

New Year's Day Superstitions and Magic

There's and old superstition that whatever you find yourself doing on New Year's Day - that's what you'll spend most of your time at during the rest of the year. In past times and places where people took this belief seriously, they would try to make this self-fulfilling prophecy a good one. They would surround themselves with revelry and cheer on New Year's Day - primarily with feasting and visiting friends.

Like so many old superstitions, this practice can be seen to have both magical and psychological benefits. If you hold to this belief, you consciously create enjoyable experiences. The intent is that these actions will manifest continuing positive circumstances throughout the year. This is an act of imitative magic. It also reminds you that in order to maintain emotional well-being you have to make room in your life for merriment and playfulness.

If you want to adopt this custom of starting the New Year out auspiciously, make it special by incorporating a number of magical practices: 

* Start the day with some simple rite to help you focus on your ideals. Exercises that combine visualizations of goals with prana breathing, candle burning, crystal work, tarot meditation, etc. 

* Positive affirmations stating what a lucky prosperous, rewarding, and fulfilling year you're going to have are likely to be more meaningful and effective than New Year's resolutions.

* Try to arrange your day so tat you can incorporate something to give pleasure to each of your five senses: sight, sound, touch, smell and taste.

* Recognize the need for balance between active and reflective states and expansive and contractive phases. Be aware of the balance of yin and yang principles in your day. Seek a harmonious relationship between work and relaxation.

* Be sure to include a special salutation to your personal deities to ensure their inspiring presence throughout the year. One further thought: magically oriented people, being the eclectic types that they are, may have more than on New Year to celebrate. Spring Equinox marked the start of the year for the Persians, many Native American Groups, and others who felt it the best time for new beginnings. Some ancient cultures celebrated New Year's Day twice annually, because they divided the year into halves. The Celts and some Teutonic groups reckoned Beltane (the beginning of the warm season - May 1) and Samhain (the beginning of the cold season - Nov 1) as he special dates dividing the year. Other Teutonic tribes and some ancient Grecian subgroups reckoned by the summer and winter solstices, and some Mesopotamian groups divided the year between Autumn and Spring. Among the many other dates, past and present, marking the beginning of the new year are Rosh Hashanah, commemorating the Creation, dedicated to self improvement and observed by the Jews around mid-September; the flooding of the Nile River in ancient Egypt (around July 19)/ and the first New Moon in the Chinese lunar calendar, usually between Jan 21 and Feb 19. With so many potential new beginnings to observe, you can make it a point of renewing yourself and your ideals throughout the year!

-- submitted by Kathleen Cleary Frasier  (Taken from the Magickal Almanac)

Gossip from the Wharf
"If you believe these - I have lands in Rhydin to sell you"
by The Wharf Crones - Matty and Pearl

All gossip that comes in through the port, and places least expected,  you can be sure that Matty and Pearl know every little tidbit and then some added. Embellishing is a way of life to make the tale far more colorful. If something is not certain nor clear, it is easy to fill in those gaps; there is nothing like assuming. They will make sure all gossip gets around come rain or shine and the sharing of a tea biscuit.

**Rumor has it the fun in the snow has been geared around the exotic Egyptians. One male tumbling with a princess, of which she has made our tabloids before with another prince, and one young exotic female of the same family who was out making piles of snowballs after being shown by a recent arrival. Is there more to these cold rendezvous? Will they become heated in contrast of the medium? We are watching!

**It is rumored that very same princess, who seems to end up more on her back, has been seen snooping around trying to hunt down suitable women for her twin brothers. Those very twin brothers are both sporting beards to fool one and all and so the pranks may well begin if their sister gets a foothold at all.

**This recent arrival has hailed heated responses riling a kings man's sister and even a fight with his cousin's beau. We are counting the days for him being taken to task, will he last? We want to know! Hot tempered and blooded if only he was a few decades older!

**We are taking up bets on the half naked male Egyptian, the one giving growling lessons late at night,  if the ladies can keep their hands off or not. I bet no because I'm sending Pearl to check this one out.

**Which brings us around to the shipwrights and our continual interest with them so close to our home. The one prince who keeps us guessing who his real interest is, or even if he has one over all them, was reported dancing with the Laird's daughter at the Ball through all the dances, in place and hardly moving. Were they sleeping on their feet or were there whispered words even our ears couldn't hear? Oh, to have been lint on his shoulder! Will the Rom that has returned stir the pot again? We can cross our fingers, eyes and toes in hope! We live for drama.

**Now for the other Ship Dish as rumor has it, he has stolen away his very own tasty morsel and is hiding out at his mansion. He's not been seen for a week, nor has she. What's really cooking? Will they still smell of Italian Cuisine or will one more eligible bite the dust? We're having a tougher time getting near the place with hint of a spirit bear about, anyone have information? We'll be sure to gobble it up in a seven course meal!

**It has been rumored that one very sexy mature cowboy has been hiding out on his brother's ship to avoid the list of women his sister came up with. Will she find him and ship them all out with him and his brother, killing two birds with one stone? Or will they escape the webs being woven and head out onto the high seas? We're considering becoming stowaways!

**Now there seems to be two lists about, will they be matched up? We want to know. Hell, we want to get on that list for some of those older males. We have most of our teeth!

**The foothills turned out to be flatlands and the Marquis once more surrounded by lovelies, will ever one capture his heart again or is he doomed like the saying - water, water everywhere but not a drop to drink? I've got a lovely young daughter in all seriousness!

**Has the clock shop turned into a dance studio? Late at night one of the brothers was seen dancing away with a woman we could not quite make out who she is. Tic Tock, let us rock. Mysteries to resolve and who better than we? 

**Across the ferry-way, news finally seeped back up about the Mad Marquis and his dark-headed captive. Once in a blue moon or more resembling Hallow's eve?  When they finally emerge from his cave will they be sporting two heads as one? What scientific wonders do they plunder to surprise mankind with. Another Frankenstein?  What could be stirring behind the walls of that dank Manor? We'll recruit someone to spy on these two!

**Who left the charred nub of what was once a clump of mistletoe over the king's man chair? Is this a prelude to barbeque wench?

WANTED

Captain "Blood Bath" Black ... Dead or alive.

Crimes: High treason against England and Spain, Murder, Plundering and pillaging innocents, Thievery, Arson, Kidnapping, and Rape.  500 Gold for any who brings this scoundrel to justice.