Monday Make A - Magical Scented Pine Cones

* Magical Scented Pine Cones *
From Yvonne Loveday
Create these talismans in a magical circle for use during the Mabon, Samhain, and Yule seasons. Frankincense and myrrh are particularly spiritual herbs which have been used in religious ceremonies for ages. When burned, frankincense releases powerful vibrations as well as banishes negativity and evil. It protects, consecrates, purifies, and exorcises. It
is attributed to the Sun. Myrrh purifies, lifts vibrations, and creates peace. It is used to intensify the power of any incense to which it is added. Myrrh is attributed to the Moon. The fact that these two herbs are associated to the Sun and Moon is highly appropriate as we enter the Mabon season, a time of balance. And as we enter the dark half of the year, these herbs work together to push back our fears and anxieties. These pine cones are burned in the fireplace or cauldron.

Materials:

• 2x2-inch pine cones (about 24)
• Frankincense powder (1/4 cup, approximately 2 ounces)
• Myrrh powder (1/2 cup, approximately 4 ounces)
• Gold Glitter (1.4 cup)
• White Crafts Glue
• Cellophane bags (available from florist or crafts supply store)
• Shallow container, such as a shoe box lid
• Gold filigree ribbon
• Newspapers

Directions:

Rinse pine cones with water. Lay cones on an old cookie sheet and place in 300 degrees oven for one hour. Spread cones out on layers of newspapers and set aside to complete drying. Blend frankincense, myrrh, and glitter in a shallow container. Dab glue on tips of pine cone petals and on the bottom of the cone. Roll cone in mixture of powder and glitter. Set cones aside to dry. Package in a handful of dried cones in cellophane bags to give as gifts. Tie bag shut with gold filigree ribbon. Attach a label with a holiday greeting and instructions for using the pine cones:

Enjoy the aromatic incense the cones release when burned. Toss a cone or two onto hot embers, and inhale the earthy fragrance. Or, set the cones in a dish for a
more subtly fragrant decoration.

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