Friday, December 31, 2010

The Importance Of Reading Fairy Tales In A Child's Life

The Importance of Fairy Tales in a Child's Life
Wisdom from Bruno Bettelheim's The Uses of Enchantment

I spent many delicious hours as a child reading fairy tales. Even today, many of the stories I devoured ring clear in my head, although I have not read them in perhaps forty years. Stories of dancing princesses escaping to an underground world of music and balls, the finding of a magic ring baked in a cake, the agony of a sister trying to free her brothers from a spell that has changed them into swans-these elements of fairy tales sank deep into my heart and imagination and continue with me today. Why is this?

As I pondered this question, I had a chance meeting with a woman who had run a Christian bookstore for years. She told me of the many parents who would come into the store looking for suitable reading material for their children. When offered fairy tales, they would shy away, fearing the dark and disturbing images that had the potential to frighten and traumatize their young ones. Their argument would go like this: "Fairy tales are scary and present the world dishonestly. They would make my child confused as to what is real and what is fabricated. They are full of ogres and witches and giants, so why should I allow my child to be terrified by things that aren't even real?"

Because I write full-length Christian-based fairy tales, I decided to explore these questions and address these valid concerns of many parents. I thought back to a book I had read when my first daughter was born: Bruno Bettelheim's famous book, The Uses of Enchantment. I remember the impact that book had on me, and because of its logic, chose to immerse my children in the world of fantasy and fairy tales throughout their childhood. Now that they are grown, I have asked them how these stories have shaped and affected their worldview and creativity. They have no doubt that their lives have been seriously enriched by this experience, and reading fairy tales has contributed toward their healthy and confident attitudes about the challenges and terrors of this life.

Bruno Bettelheim was a child psychologist, famous for his research on autism. The aforementioned book written in 1976 won him a National Book Award. I love what he writes in the introduction. "Wisdom does not burst forth fully developed like Athena out of Zeus's head; it is built up, small step by small step, from most irrational beginnings. Only in adulthood can an intelligent understanding of the meaning of one's existence in this world be gained from one's experiences in it. Unfortunately, too many parents want their children's minds to function as their own do-as if mature understanding of ourselves and the world, and our ideas about the meaning of life, did not have to develop as slowly as our bodies and minds. Today, as in times past, the most important and also the most difficult task in raising a child is helping him to find meaning in life."

Working in the field of autism presented Bettelheim with the challenge of restoring meaning to the lives of severely disturbed children. He found most literature for young readers to be sadly lacking in the ability to accomplish this task, but also knew that literature held the best promise to pass on cultural heritage, which he felt was crucial. And this was what he deemed necessary: "To enrich [the child's] life, it must stimulate his imagination; help him to develop his intellect and to clarify his emotions; be attuned to his anxieties and aspirations; give full recognition to his difficulties, while at the same time relate to all aspects of his personality-and this without ever belittling but, on the contrary, giving full credence to the seriousness of the child's predicaments, while simultaneously promoting confidence in himself and in his future." He goes on to say how important it is that literature provide a moral education which subtly, and through implication only, "conveys to him the advantages of moral behavior." His conclusion? "The child finds this kind of meaning through fairy tales."

The German poet Schiller wrote: "Deeper meaning resides in the fairy tales told to me in my childhood than in the truth that is taught by life." How can this be? Bettelheim says, "These tales start where the child really is in his psychological and emotional being. They speak about his severe inner pressures in a way that the child unconsciously understands and . . . offers examples of both temporary and permanent solutions to pressing difficulties."

Parents longing to protect their children from evil, scary things in the world do well to remember that this is the world to which we are preparing them to face. By hiding that world from their awareness, by trying to postpone or color the harsh realities of life, we are doing them a great disservice. We have the Bible as the master example of frankness and the revealing and candid exposing of evil in its many forms. God did not censor murder, rape, betrayal, cruelty, incest, and even sexual passion from the pages of His word. Parents may argue that a young child does not need to learn about these things, and it is true-there is a time and season for all things, and some are best to cover when a child may be more mature to understand and emotionally deal with some of these things.

Here's what Bettelheim says: "In child or adult, the unconscious is a powerful determinant of behavior. When the unconscious is repressed and its content denied entrance into awareness, then eventually the person's conscious mind will be partially overwhelmed by derivatives of these unconscious elements, or else he is forced to keep such rigid, compulsive control over them that his personality may become severely crippled . . . . The prevalent parental belief is that a child must be diverted from what troubles him most: his formless, nameless anxieties, and his chaotic, angry, and even violent fantasies. Many parents believe that only conscious reality or pleasant and wish-fulfilling images should be presented to the child-that he should be exposed only to the sunny side of things. But such one-sided fare nourishes the mind only in a one-sided way, and real life is not all sunny."

Rather than shelter children from life's evils, we can equip them with the tools needed to face them head-on with confidence. Bettelheim says that a struggle against severe difficulties in life is unavoidable, is an intrinsic part of human experience. If one does not shy away, "but steadfastly meets unexpected and often unjust hardships, one masters all obstacles and at the end emerges victorious."

The Elements of Fairy Tales

The fairy tale, according to Bettelheim, confronts the child squarely with the most scary subjects in life: death, aging, loss of a parent, being trapped or lost, and other stresses. The fairy tale simplifies all situations, allowing the child to come to grips with the problem in its most essential form. The figures are clearly drawn and the details, unless very important, are eliminated. All characters are typical rather than unique. Evil is as common as any virtue and both are usually embodied in the form of a figure or their actions. Evil is not without its attractions, "symbolized by the mighty dragon or giant, the power of the witch, the cunning queen in 'Snow White.' " In many fairy tales the usurper succeeds for a time-as with Cinderella's sisters and step-mother-but in the end, the evildoer is punished, and the moral is that crime does not pay. Because the child follows the hero through his or her journey, he can identify with the hero in all his struggles-suffering and triumphing with him. Bettelheim says that the child "makes such identifications all on his own, and the inner and outer struggles of the hero imprint morality on him."

The most important element in fairy tales, to me, is the moral choice presented to the hero. The child learns that choices have consequences, and the child can choose what kind of person she wants to be. Only by "going out into the world" does the hero learn, and acquire happiness. The fairy tale is future-oriented and guides the child, so that instead of escaping into a world of unreality, she is given tools to help her develop character and courage to face what the world presents to her. Often the hero is lost, alone, frightened. These are feelings a child identifies with. Yet, her hero is guided and given help along the way because of his determination and courage. In this way, fairy tales work their own kind of magic, for in reading them, the child feels understood and enriched, giving the child what Bettelheim says is "an enchanted quality just because he does not quite know how the stories have worked their wonder on him.

"Fairy tales, unlike any form of literature, direct the child to discover his identity and calling, and they also suggest what experiences are needed to develop his character further. Fairy tales intimate that a rewarding, good life is within one's reach despite adversity-but only if one does not shy away from the hazardous struggles without which one can never achieve true identity." This is a basic tenet of the Bible as well: that those who want to please God and obtain his favor need to endure difficulties; that these trials produce endurance, character, and hope, and that the hope does not disappoint (Romans 5:3-5).

So, do not discount fairy tales as a bad influence on your children. Rather, be selective, and choose age-appropriate stories to give to them. But do not be afraid of unleashing their imagination and letting them confront their darkest fears. By giving them heroes to identify with, you are letting those fears surface in a subtle manner, and allowing your child to find his courage and make moral choices vicariously-choices that will build his character and have influence on the rest of his life.

I look at my daughters, now grown, and see how that world of imagination and fantasy helped them to face evil and struggles, gave them confidence and courage, and stimulated their imagination which poured over into their art, writing, poetry, and music. We cannot hide our children from the evils of the world, and even explaining everything in a pat manner from God's Word does not dispel the deep fears and worries a child has. Only by bringing them to the surface in a safe and imaginative way can we as parents help them mature and become responsible adults. I think of that word, responsible, as response-able, for that is our goal: to help our children become able to respond competently to any situation life puts before them, and fairy tales will help them do just that.

Thursday, December 30, 2010

Hellfire on absinthe

Frollo drinks absinthe and sings about the green fairy. Took 5 minutes in vegas.



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mwErYNREBkI&hl=en

Wednesday, December 29, 2010

Were You Drinking Any Absinthe?!

"Was it a pixie? Did it look like a pixie?!" Note: The annoying bitch at the end was NOT with us. She was drunk and obnoxious and kept inserting herself into our videos! If you're reading this, you should be ashamed of yourself, and consider yourself lucky that Zac didn't backhand you to put your dumb ass in line.



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ov4Z6k_MZ-0&hl=en

Tuesday, December 28, 2010

How to Make a Fairy Garden - Using Fairy Garden Statues

Some people believe that having fairy garden statues around us connects the spiritual and physical enchantment that we have with these mythical beings. A feeling of them being close to us and guiding us and somehow being our connection between the earth and heaven.

The legend of fairies is of mystifying fascination and charming beauty, and it is this that you want to incorporate into your fairy garden.

When making a fairy garden you need to make sure that all of the element conducive to attracting fairies is incorporated.

Firstly you will need a place for fairies to rest. This could be an old tree stump or a rock. It is always best to start your project in a quiet corner of your garden preferably under the canopy of trees or bushes. If you have such an area, cut away some of the growth and place your log or rock in the spaces.

A place for a fairy circle which traditionally is made out of a circle of mushrooms or plants.If you have a lawn you could create your fairy circle here but remember you must never step inside the circle as you could be whisked away to another place.

Fairy garden statues also play a part in you garden as these encourage the real fairies to be playful. Position the statues in among the flower beds, or make a feature out of it as a center piece.

When using plants, wild plant seeds create the best effect as they are random and attract insects and butterflies which all adds to the overall effect. A good tip is to plant everything in circles as this is what the fairies really like.

As well as using fairy garden statues, try using other types too. A good choice is gnomes and elves, which complement them perfectly.

You have now completed your garden for fairies, but make sure you take good care of it and you will be rewarded with good luck and tranquility.

Monday, December 27, 2010

The Wild Wild Absinthe Show Clip 2

Here's another clip of The Wild Wild Westmar Show Special Event - as the gang consumes Absinthe LIVE on the air. Hot Carl also demonstrates an alternate method of mixing absinthe.



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nD0xoAHsF1o&hl=en

Sunday, December 26, 2010

Part 2 Making an Absinthe Fairy Burlseque Costume

Video of a striptease costume being made for Bustout Burlesque in New Orleans in May/June 2007. This video shows a good amount of what goes into costume design and construction and how much detail and hand work is involved.



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QVe_LVJN-28&hl=en

Saturday, December 25, 2010

Fairy Figurines - Small, Dainty And Delicate - Perfect For The Curio Cabinet

Fairy figurines come in all sizes and price ranges. The cheapest figurines of fairies and angels are those made of resin, but they still look really elegant. You can also get fairy figurines made of porcelain, crystal and pewter. It doesn't matter what your preference if when you collect fairy figurines. Each one is a work of art and when combined with figurines depicting angels, you have a truly fanciful collection. Mini figurines or larger varieties - it doesn't matter because you can combine them all and have an elegant display.

A porcelain fairy doll is the perfect gift for a little girl or a young lady. It will be something that she will treasure for a lifetime. These dolls come as fairy figurines in various sizes, such as 16 inches tall or a mini fairy figurine that is only 4 inches tall. It is easy to tell the difference between angel and fairy figurines because the angels are always white, whereas the fairies are usually in various colors.

A graceful mini fairy figurine in metal cast with real butterfly wings is one of the more elegant fairy figurines that you can buy. Each fairy figurine of this nature is cast from bronze and lead-free pewter with the wings coming from butterflies at a nature reserve. The wings are not used until the butterflies reach the end of their life cycle, so you don't have to worry that they are being harmed in order to bring you mini fairy figurines. The idea behind this is that the spirit of the butterfly lives on through the figurine that you have displayed in your home.

Wedding fairy figurines make the perfect cake topper for the wedding cake. Along with these, you can also get angel and fairy figurines to celebrate the birth of a baby and to use as a birth or christening gift. Use a Christmas angel as the focal point of your centrepiece during the holiday season or have a fairy figurine in your sign of the Zodiac. When you want to start a collection of mini fairy figurines, the choices are almost endless in the wide variety of figurines that are available.

Add an African American fairy figurine to your collection. These fairy figurines are made from polyresin and feature a fairy balanced on a musical instrument decorated with colourful flowers. You can get this type of figurine with a magnet on the back in addition to a mini fairy figurine that you can place in your curio cabinet. How about fairy figurines showing a couple kissing? This would be the perfect addition to your collection. Browse the catalog of online retailers just to see all the different figurines of fairies and angels that you can purchase. No doubt you will want to buy all of them at once.

Friday, December 24, 2010

Dragon Drawings-Tattoo Galleries-Fairy Tattoos- I Want To Go to a Party

I feel jealous of the dragon
I hold my dragon drawings
I want to breathe his power
I want to yell sometimes
I think maybe I will take me out of this box
build me back
start to find that spark.

I want to go to parties
dress up like a jester
wear a mask of feathers
butterfly tattoos
tribal tattoos
let the fire flow
let my dance fight for me.

I am tired
of being tired
I am slow to see it
too late
too bad
and the tinges of sadness
golden cages I cannot open
never or ever.

I wish I was a dragon
I wish I was that strong
I wish that I could yell my stories
make them real
fold up all the trees
as beautiful as they are
they block my view
I want to see a bigger story.

I want to go to parties
scream out songs
wear nothing at all
maybe just a ruby on my cheek.
I want to go to a tattoo gallery
count their fairy tattoos
on other people, maybe me
I want to fly free
and not care about anything at all.
I want to drink till I cannot stand
cut the ribbon in the hallway.

I keep secrets
so do you so do not act so proud
who do you think you are?

I think the train is coming
I hear it rushing toward me.
I will stand in front of it
till that last moment
then calmly step away
just like before.
I do not need your directions.

I missed out
it comes down to that
I want to go to parties.
I want a tattoo
maybe a fairy
maybe a star
maybe a tribal tattoo
I want to go to a tattoo gallery.

Of course there are good days
filled with natures gifts.
I did not and do not miss that.
Quit telling me.
I am tired of hearing explanations
I am tired of know it all people
I am tired of me being one
I want to go to a party.
I want to be wild.

I feel jealous of the dragon
and so do you.
I do not care that you won't admit it.
I don't believe you.

Just down the hallway
there you are
just as I thought
counting the days
and all your pennies.

Thursday, December 23, 2010

Grimm's Fairy Tale - Interpretation of the "Young Giant"

The "Young Giant" is one of the many strange and significant fairy tales that never became popular. It begins as many fairy tales do, with a statement that it most certainly had not happening recently. The farmer of the tale has a child who is a thumbling. It is interesting to note how many people of the past would commonly have thumblings within stories, such characters could indicate and awareness of the events occurring to them and what these meant.

From about 900 AD to 1200 AD people in Europe where about as tall as they are today, then over time their average height began to drop. It is interesting to note how important nutrition is to height, and how the presence of a thumbling does seem to indicate poverty in folktales. At the same time of course making the main character a thumbling is in part to make their feats all the more significant, and in the case of this story that feat is the growing of the thumbling into a giant. For as the thumbling is in the field with his father giant comes and tales him away. This female giant then acts as a mother to the thumbling nursing him for years and making him grow and grow. After the now young giant has grown for a while his new mother takes him into the woods and has him rip up a sapling, however this does not satisfy the giantess who decides that the young giant needs to be nursed some more to get stronger. Three times the giant tears up trees in the forest before his new mother is satisfied, when he rips up the largest oak tree in the forest and snaps in half.

After pleasing his adoptive mother with his strength he goes back to his parents, who at first are afraid of him, denying that he is their son. He however does convince them of their relationship, after which he plows everything for them without the aid of horses, and then carries the horse's home. The son asks his father for a staff, and his father then tries his best to provide one, however the young giant breaks each staff given to him by his father. Realizing that his father can no longer provide for him the young giant leaves home.

It is interesting to note that when he was a thumbling all he wanted to do was help his father, when he grew he did great work for a brief period but left his parents as they could no longer help him. Certainly in order for the Age of Exploration and the Industrial Era's to occur children did have to start leaving their parents in mass rather then staying at home to help them. As one might anticipate from such an event the young giant goes to find a smith, offering to work for the smith in return for the right to hit him. The smith being greedy agrees to these terms. The giant however cannot do much good at the forge for he is too strong, so after providing a hit he takes a rod of metal as his staff and leaves.

The Giant then offers to work for a bailiff in return for the right to hit the bailiff after a year. The Bali also being greedy agrees to this. After this the giant performs his duties well; however he hinders the other workers in secret to make himself look better. He sleeps in and in truth the work itself is not that hard for him due to his big size, this is hardly the work ethic people might associate with peasants and others of the Pre-Victorian eras. This does seem to indicate a certain amount of desire to be a lazier, and to look better then was actually possible. Further as the Young Giant ends the tale by hitting both the bailiff and his wife, sending them soaring through the air for nearly forever, there seems at all times to be some desire to hit those who are in charge especially should such people be greedy. In many ways the aspects of this story, the funny way in which the giant works, and the bosses are greedy and punished for it makes it an equivalent to a modern day office comedy. While such comedies cannot be taken completely seriously they do strike on a certain amount of truth with regards to the feelings towards the social structure of the time.

Wednesday, December 22, 2010

Corinna Fugate- Green Fairy

Corinna Fugate song, Green Fairy, from Corinna Fugate's new album Snow White! I used clips from Fugate's music vids! Enjoy!



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dEq3c5686yo&hl=en

Tuesday, December 21, 2010

Sunday, December 19, 2010

Having Your Fairy Tale Wedding

How many little girls play dress up and pretend to be a bride? Eventually, some of these little girls carry their dreams of being a fairy princess on her wedding day. She pictures herself in a Cinderella wedding dress and her Prince Charming waiting for her at the altar to give her that magic kiss that will ensure that she lives happily ever after. The church is decorated with wedding favors that would leave you breathless. There are flowers and candle light, perfect little angels walking ahead of the bride carrying their special flower baskets, strewing the petals just so. The bride walks in on her father's arm to the strains of "Here Comes the Bride" and the mother cries tears of love and happiness.

As the ceremony proceeds, the photographer captures each tender moment in a way that will tell this love story for years. The maid of honor's smile is as radiant as her bridesmaid jewelry that was given to her just before the ceremony. The groom takes the bride's hand and promises to love her forever. The bride smiles through her tears and holds his hand, gently touching the cuff links that she chose for his wedding gift, touched that he actually remembered to put them on. They seal their vows with a kiss and walk down the aisle laughing and waving at friends.

The newlyweds make their way to the reception, where the ordinary room has been transformed into a fairyland with Sand Castles and a wedding cake shaped like a carriage. The toasting flutes are tulip shaped and are filled and ready for the first toast to the bride and groom. The guests are awed at the spectacular wedding favors that grace each table. The band begins to play and the groom leads his bride onto the floor. Aware of only each other, the couple sway gently to the music, as if they were truly at the ball.

It's possible that this sounds just too much like a fairy tale. But when you find your Prince Charming and you have dreamed of this day every since you were a little girl, all you need is a little magic and a theme in mind. Choose your wedding favors to fit your theme. Also choose people to surround you and support you in this endeavor. Make sure that your wedding planner is a romantic at heart. Choose a photographer that has a passion for storytelling. Make sure that your florist understands your desires. Pick a venue that can support this type of wonderland. Set things in motion and follow your heart. Then put on that Cinderella dress, walk down that aisle, and realize that dreams do come true.

Saturday, December 18, 2010

Fairy Princess Costumes - Why Are They So Popular, Even Today?

Why do the fairer sex just love to dress up as a fairies?

Well, it's because it makes them feel special, just like a beautiful princess, both charming and elegant.

No matter what you say, fairy costumes are by far the most 'in demand' costumes not only during Halloween but throughout the year.

Not just for little girls but also for female adults too. Fairy costumes for adults however, sometimes have sexual undertones which is contrary to the true fairy tradition. Especially at Halloween. This of course is a modern-day spin to sell more costumes. Their skirts are quite sexy, long enough to cover the essentials but short enough to be interesting!

Of course, no self respecting fairy would ever think of doing such a thing because their clothes are already a perfect combination of beauty, elegance, and charm.

Guys, of course think quite differently, they are up for even more fun. The uglier the costume, the better they like it. Ghouls and demons are name of game here. But there are also fairy costumes available for men too. A typical example is the Tooth Fairy costume. I must admit, seeing the costume on a guy was a bit of a shock, but it was also very, very funny. And of course that's the whole idea, just to have fun.

On the darker side, (no I'm not talking about Star Wars) concerning witches and other scary creatures, there's nothing that the young lads love more than a really scary costume, with the most disgusting accessories. Don't believe me! Just check out the worm sandwich, that's enjoyed by ghouls everywhere! Not to mention frogs legs, crow's feet and spider pie. All part of the ingredients of a witch's cauldron.

However, some kids rise above the dark side and favour the intergalactic costumes from their favourite scifi programs. Enter Luke Skywalker, Mr Spock, Captain Kirk and the many crew of the Enterprise. But these of course are modern day heroes and not only for kids. but for a huge adult population too. For example, the age of Star Trek fans (Trekkies) ranges from 1 to 99 years, and I'm not joking, they are fanatical and really live their fantasy throughout their life.

These are the people who buy the Star Trek uniforms and accessories in great numbers and they even have a Star Trek convention every year. And of course there is an industry built around them, just like there is for Halloween, Christmas and any other event that catches the eye of the local population. There are simply hundreds of costumes to choose from, so get out there and find the one that suits you and enjoy the occasion.

There are always three ways to enjoy an event, such as Halloween or a fairy princess party:
1. Looking forward to the event, choosing your costume, shoes and accessories (by the way don't forget the wand!).
2. The actual event itself. Wearing your fairy costume and enjoying the feeling of elegance and charm that it brings. Not to mention how good it makes you feel.
3. Remembering every enjoyable moment in your mind's eye. And wearing your costume every once in while, of course. Just for fun!

Friday, December 17, 2010

Fairy Tale Romantic Holidays

If dreams could become reality, everyone would've been living in their own fairy tales; where wishes come true and happiness is forever. There is something so magical and inspiring about fairy tales that we all want to believe them and live them. Every man aspires to be a brave and handsome prince charming; every lady desires to be the fairest maiden of the world and who does not wish to be a boy who never grows up.

With its spell casting beauty of magical mountains, mystic waters and majestic castles; UK is the land that served as an inspiration for many fairy tales. Gone are the medieval times, but there are numerous Fairytale hotels which take you back in time in the whimsical world of dream and reality.

Hotels fairy shows you the magical gateway to your Fairytale romantic getaway. Hotels fairy has selected top fairytale hotels in UK for your Fairy tale romantic holidays. The price and packages range throughout the seasons, so we suggest you do your hotel price comparison yourself.

1. The Linthwaite House Hotel, Windermere

Located in the heart of Lake District which looks like a Fairy land itself, the Linthwaite house hotel is a perfect fairytale hotel for you. Surrounded by 14 acres of wooded hilltop garden, the hotel was built in 1900, just the perfect time for fairy tales happening. For the hardworking hospitable staff of this fairy tale hotel, your wish is their command.

2. Combe House, Devon

Devon one of the finest English countryside, offers a place to fulfill your fairytale fantasies in this Grand Elizabethan Manor. These 3500 acres of fairyland is roamed freely by Arabian steeds and pheasants. This is really a fairytale hotel surrounded by timeless beauty and offers a priceless romantic getaway. You can't find a better fairytale hotel for your perfect fairytale weddings.

3. Ashmount Country house, Yorkshire

Fulfill your fairytale fantasies in the fascinating countryside of Yorkshire. The Ashmount Country house is a fairytale hotel for your fairytale romantic retreat. Along with gorgeous bedrooms and fine food, this fairytale hotel offers little but special gestures that make your fairytale even more magical. Rose petal scattered on your bed, a single red rose, a hand tied bouquet or delicious dream chocolate; much more of such little things to make your special someone feel more special.

4. Ardanaiseige, Scotland

Discover a true fairytale romance in the romantic and enchanted scotch valley. The location of this fairy tale hotel is associated with many myths including the one regarding the Well of Youth. Be fascinated by the artistic interior of this fairytale hotel with a classy furniture and artwork, submerge in gold bath or just relax in your warm and cozy bedroom, everything in this fairytale hotel will take you to a fairyland world you don't want to come back from.

In the picture perfect small village of Romaldkirk lays this whimsical fairytale hotel, a perfect place for a romantic indulgence. The enchanting 18th century building overlooks the outstanding Teasdale valley with its wonderful landscapes. This fairytale hotel will take you into the world you've always imagined to be in.

Thursday, December 16, 2010

Green Fairy: Chapter 1

John is put to the test after selling his soul and finds himself in a violent purgatory. Johns lost soul is only the beginning of his problems....(Chapter Two coming soon)



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qAwVzG6hosw&hl=en

Wednesday, December 15, 2010

Solar Fairy Lights - How to Choose Good Quality Solar Lights This Christmas

Christmas is fast approaching and so is the festive season. LED Solar Fairy lights provide a perfect outdoor lighting solution to help create the perfect atmosphere for a party. No mains power is required so they can be hung anywhere outdoors.

Solar fairy lights are also perfect for other outdoor lighting requirements, in the garden, decorating restaurants and cafes, pergolas patios and verandahs, camping, weddings, birthdays, and any other special celebration.

Please find below a useful guide to selecting the best quality Solar Fairy Christmas lights:

Solar Fairy Lights Checklist

1. Check the grade of LED used to ensure your lights shine brightly at night - look for the description "ultra bright" LED's.

2. Does the unit have extra features like a timer switch or different lighting modes? These assist with flexible lighting solutions

3. Ensure your solar lights are powered with Ni-MH batteries which last up to 3 times longer than Ni-Cd (lead acid) batteries. They can also be disposed of more safely than Ni-Cd batteries. Ni-MH batteries have a "non-memory effect" which means they will continue to charge on cloudy days. The battery performance will not be diminished by partial charges as can occur with lead acid batteries.

4. Ensure the use of original solar cells & not fragmented pieces that come in cheaper models. This ensures consistency of solar cell operation & faster charging times enabling your lights to last longer.

5. Bigger is better for solar panels: look for 10+ solar strips to ensure efficient charging.

6. The solar panel should use EVA laminated encapsulation, which has strong UV-resistance and a lifetime of 10 years. Cheaper models often use an epoxy resin: average life span of 2 years.

Tuesday, December 14, 2010

Gothic Fairy Tattoos - A Celebration of History

Gothic Fairy tattoos have increased in popularity in line with the resurgence of Gothic art across Europe and the United States.

Fairies are spiritual entities, or nature beings, of the metaphysical world, with magical powers of enchantment, who were widely patronised in medieval Europe and the Middle East, and are depicted in a variety of fascinating shapes and characteristics, making them a hit with the public, including popular figures like Britney Spears, who spots a Gothic fairy tattoo, and Alyssa Milano, an actress from "Who's Your Boss", who has a beautiful fairy tattoo on her stomach.

Some fairies are angelic in conceptualization and art, while others take on a more impish character, as seen by

- pixies, which are mythical creatures whose features consist of pointed eyes and ears, and green apparel worn with pointed hats, and

- goblins, the legendary mischievous entities credited with various powers and mysterious abilities, and mostly depicted as brown or green.

Gothic Fairy tattoos often represent these figures as winged creatures, with a human-like appearance, similar to the way they were regarded in the Gothic Middle Ages starting from the 12th century and ending in the 14th.

Gothic fairy tattoos are derived from the religious artwork that flourished in that age, with several memorable pieces in the modern age produced to reflect the artistic conventions of the period.

The rise of Christianity saw Gothic art incorporated into religious imagery, with church architecture, paintings, and sculpture at the forefront of the artistic adaptation.

However, many modern renditions of Gothic Fairy tattoos hark back to non-Christian Gothic traditions, characterised by the alluring imagery of medieval Gothic art forms of early nature spirits. That said, it is important to appreciate that both these strains of Gothic tattoos are of the same unique Gothic heritage.

Modern tattoo artists tend to depict fairies as young, often winged, human-like beings of small stature. But they were represented in the Middle Ages as either tall and radiant, or as magically minimised to intelligent humanoid creatures often as tiny as insects.

Fairy tattoo designs vary in form, size and temperament. They can be small or large, colorful or grey, happy or doleful, cute or menacing.

I've always thought a lone fairy tattoo on the upper arm or ankle makes for a classy, understated design.

Gothic Fairy tattoos, an echo from the wonderfully mythical past, have an ever-growing, faithful band of adherents for whom nothing else would do.

A wide selection of Gothic Fairy tattoos, and links to thousands of stunning tattoo designs can be found on my review page at http://www.advancedsafetysystems.co.uk.

Monday, December 13, 2010

The Need for Cross-Cultural Analysis of Fairy Tales

Much of the analysis of fairy tales to this point has been conducted by therapists, or psycho-analysts who know very little about exact social meanings and perhaps even less about history. For this reason many of the claimed ideas about fairy tales have been outrageous in their scope and silly in their thinking and methodology.

There are of course many who study fairy tales who have made good points about them, from Feminist Theorists to Folklorists and Historians many people have added greatly to our understanding fairy tales and their impact on our and cultures and what they mean for our understanding of ancient peoples. Such theories in general however have seemed to focus on the fairy tales of a single region in order to determine the meaning of the fairy tales from that region. Or the ideas have jumped between locations pointing out like stories in two areas to prove some grand point about a story motif in general. While such research has its use it also has its limits, for knowing that a certain culture has an affinity for trickster characters tells us little about whether this is a common motif, or one unique to that culture. By the same token knowing that many cultures have such trickster stories tells us very little about the value system of a group as compared to another, and just as importantly how their stories compared to ours. For it is through studying the differences between us that we will understand how they differed from us and how similar they where to us. It this way we will gain a better basis for understanding exactly what they thought and what was taking place.

Such cross cultural studies are systematic, involving metrics to measure and compare two aspects of a culture, in the case of fairy tales this would be percentages of different plotlines, characters, and other elements present in the fairy tales or popular stories of each culture. In this way we would come to understand the differences within each culture, and the similarities as will. It is possible through and only through such comparisons to find patterns and ideas that move across all cultures, sort of universal or nearly universal social ideas of humanity.

Obviously there maybe no way to use such analysis as qualitatively as may be necessary to fully understand stories and the richness of human culture. However there has been and still is a lot of qualitative analysis regarding fairy tales and so such quantitative measures of the fairy tale and the cultures behind them would not be the sole method for understanding, rather it would be a tool which those attempting to understand fairy tales and culture could use to get a better grasp of the thinking of the people behind the fairy tales, how we have changed today, and how fairy tales are likely to impact us now.

Sunday, December 12, 2010

Absinthe St. Antoine

Antoine The Third! Latest batch which I've finished just hour ago. Improved recipe, improved protocols, improved louche effect. Sit and watch the green fairy dancing in the glass. Video shows louche test in action. I managed to improve louche without increasing anise in the recipe. Please visit www.goodmood.cz for more info.



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OdX57IIpCc0&hl=en

Saturday, December 11, 2010

Inspired Sips - How to Serve Absinthe

Absinthe has acquired an unearned reputation over the decades. In reality absinthe is no more harmless to the drinker than a good scotch or bourbon. It also is very simple to serve with or without the fancy fountain. Distributed by Tubemogul.



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Igrw38UyFMk&hl=en

Friday, December 10, 2010

Thursday, December 9, 2010

Planning on Wearing a Fairy Wedding Dress?

Enchant your guests with a wedding dress inspired by fairies. There are two very clear takes on this whimsical themed dress. The first is to have a ball gown with a full tulle skirt and a fitted bodice encrusted in sparkles that will reflect the light and make you a glimmering vision floating down the aisle. You might even consider having a romantic layer of tulle in a soft pink, yellow, or green.

Having a few layers of colored tulle overlaid with the traditional light will create a soft hint of color that will have your guests mesmerized. Look no further than that famed pixie, Tinkerbelle for a little inspiration. The second inspired wedding gown is a long, flowing ethereal gown of a fairy maiden. The direction you take your theme is up to you.

Having some young girls, if you have small nieces or cousins, invite them all to be flower girls and dress them in tulle creations of soft pastels and glittery fairy wings. These little fairies will the lead the way for you, and put a smile on everyone's face. If you are bold, you may don a pair of wings yourself! If not for the actual ceremony, you might have a pair for a professional picture or the reception.

Have silver or gold ribbon or flowers woven into loose natural waves or braids. If you want to wear a traditional veil, choose something long in a flowing material, like chiffon. It will trail behind you and pick up some of your movement creating the illusion that you are floating through the air.

Inviting guests to an outdoor ceremony in a wooded area with invitations on natural paper or paper with pressed flowers in it. This will set the tone of you wedding right away. Your guests will arrive and see a fairy goddess emerge from the trees.

Wednesday, December 8, 2010

Fairy Tattoos - The Meaning and Beauty

Fairy tattoos are quite a popular choice for women, although they are chosen by men as well. This creature from mythology, literature, and television can be found on arms, the lower back, the shoulder, and other areas of the body. Many people choose a fairy tattoo simply because they enjoy the look of it, but these tattoos can also have a symbolic meaning that means something to the person that chooses it. No matter why you choose a fairy tattoo, you will find that they come in many different styles, colors, and designs to allow you to find the right one for your personal preferences.

The word "fairy" comes from the Latin word "fata," which means fate. This brings to mind the underlying symbolization of destiny. This symbolism of a fairy tattoo can bring to mind passing through different stages of life or it can be a reminder of your youth. Fairies that are found in literature symbolize youthful exuberance and imagination and can mean that you want to keep the child-like qualities of imagination and wonder in your life. Whether you choose a fairy tattoo simply because of its underlying meaning or for its beauty, you will find that the most difficult process will be choosing the fairy that you like best.

Fairies like those that are seen in cartoons can be chosen or you may choose more lifelike fairies like those that are ready about in literature or mythology. You will be delighted with the many different styles of fairies that you can choose from. From flying fairies with their wings outstretched to sitting fairies and more, you can find the right fairy tattoo for your intended look on your body.

A fairy tattoo is often very detailed, which will mean that it will cost a little more than other designs and it will take somewhat longer. With the many different colors and lines that are part of making the fairy come to life on your skin, you will find that this tattoo will become a central focal point of your body to add life and beauty.

Making the decision to have a fairy tattoo applied to your body means that you are ready to take the time needed to make a significant impact upon your body and your life. The fun and whimsy of the fairy, along with the symbolism of youth and having a free spirit can come together to give you a tattoo that will express your own individuality and personality. The colors and style that are available in the selection of fairy tattoos will give your body just the right look.

Whether you choose a fairy tattoo as a reminder of innocence and child-like values or you choose it just for the beauty, you will find that a fairy tattoo can give your body great flair. From a small, intricate fairy tattoo to a larger, more detailed fairy tattoo, you will find that they can make an excellent addition to any part of your body to add a bit of personality and fun to your body.

Tuesday, December 7, 2010

How to Create a Gorgeous Homemade Fairy Halloween Costume - Tips From an Expert Costume Designer

Do you want something special for this year's Halloween party? Do you want to impress and charm everybody with a surreal look? Well, then you must become a wonderful fairy who has just landed from the magical woodland. A fairy Halloween costume is quite simple to design, and the whole secret lies in the colors you use and in the matching accessories. Here is what you will need: a corset like stretch top made of velvet, and a sheer layered skirt made of organza. The color of the top and of the skirt should be different, but both only soft colors; for example, the top could be of a soft lavender while the skirt in a jade tone.

Do not be afraid to combine colors; especially if you combine the colors blue, jade, teal, lavender, and soft lilac, you will obtain a magical ensemble. Your fairy Halloween costume will be ready very quickly, and you will be charmed with the results. Firstly, you need to add a little bit of glitter and sparkle to your costume. Take a handful of silver sequin beads, and create some nice patterns. Start with the neckline; no matter whether it is v-shaped or other shape, you will decorate it with one layer of silver sequin beads. Now, do the same at the bottom of the top, or the waistline.

Your fairy Halloween costume starts to take shape. If your corset like top has any trims on the front, like the two usual parallel trims from the chest to the waistline, you should decorate those as well. This time, take white satiny beads, and decorate those trims. Your costume is ready now. You will need to work on the accessories, so that everyone will recognize the fairy princess in you. You will design now a nice fairy head wreath. Just take a simple plastic headband. You will decorate this with petit faux flowers.

Choose some tiny roses and lavender, and glue them onto the plastic headband. Then, make a nice hairstyle, like a loose bun. Place the wreath on your head, and you will look charming. If you want to, you can also add a few thin satin ribbons to your wreath; especially if you let your hair loose these will create a wonderful effect. Procure yourself a small fairy pouch decorated with flowers, and wear a pair of silvery sandals with your new fairy Halloween costume.

Monday, December 6, 2010

la fée verte (the Green Fairy) and my 22nd Birthday!!!!!!

this is not finished this is first night of partying for my birthday, this was supposed to be on the 21st but i got sick so i had to wait a bit to put it up. there will be more movies nd photos to come, they should b up at the end of the week!!!!! PICTURES OF HOOTERS AND TOSH.0 I GOT OFF THE WEB



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TaeS7yMDweg&hl=en

Sunday, December 5, 2010

Green Fairy Costumes - How to Choose the Right Color of Costume to Match Your Personality

The green fairy costumes are the inspiration to an enlightened thinking. This color of fairy originates from a very interesting era. In the 1890's the Bohemians of Paris, invited the Fairy to show them a new way of living. She was a symbol of transformation. Yet she was more than a symbol to them; she was their guide. She took them to new heights in artistic innovation. She fueled their thirst for life and exploration into new frontiers. The Alcohol Absinthe was named after this color of fairy, because of its effects on those that drank it. Many would say they saw a green fairy when drinking Absinthe.

How does this play into buying a costume? When wearing a costume like this, you are essentially a bright spot in any life you touch. You are full of life, adventure and a love of new ideas. Disney's Tinkerbell wore this very same color. She was symbol of adventure. fun and mystery. She was a little dangerous only because she more of a thinker than a follower. She was a symbol of transformation for the characters she came in contact with. She had a temper that not only showed her strength, but also show her determination and thirst for exploration.

If you come to a decision to wear one of these, it is key to have a character that will match it. If you are a very out-going person, love to laugh and the life of the party, then this costume is for you. Yet if you are the kind that likes to go out, but not looking to be the focus of everyone's attention, then it is better to choose a different color of costume. Fairy costumes come in all kinds of colors. Green is just one of the many colors that you can buy.

The green fairy costume is tied to the idea that the woman wearing it might be a bit mischievous, magical and mystical. It does not mean that she is inappropriate. The costume only fuels the mystery of the woman wearing it. Fairies are an interesting bunch. Colors have a lot to do with the personality of the fairy and how she interacts with her environment and others. As I mentioned above they come in all kinds of styles. The Disney character from "Peter Pan" called "Tinkerbell" wears this same costume. Another fairy that is a bit more racy and sexual in nature is "The Green Muse". She also wears this same costume. She is more extreme in her nature towards others. Her personality and extreme behaviors are tied to drinking and other situations that are only discussed behind closed doors.

No matter your style and personality, there is a fairy costume that is right for you. Now that you understand how the color can add to the costume, all it takes is a simple search on the internet. Think about your personality and then find that color that will match it. To start you off on the right foot, greens are more wild in nature and blues are more subdued.

Friday, December 3, 2010

Fairy Halloween Costumes For Kids

Fairies must be the most popular, the most varied and the most colorful of all mythological creatures that have ever graced the mouths of oral traditions and the pages of written literature. And because of these properties, you can find fairy Halloween costumes for kids in just every color of the rainbow, every wing span imaginable and every hem length possible. Of course, this spells fun in choosing the right fairy costume for your pretty girl.

Color Choices

The best thing about a fairy costume is that you can either have just one color palette or a riot of colors. And with just about every color on the rainbow yours for the choosing, it can be an easy task or a difficult chore to help your child choose the best one for her.

On one hand, you can present your little girl with color choices beyond her usual favorite pink and violet. It is an easy task simply because your child can choose from such a wide variety on selections. On the other hand, it can be difficult when you child cannot choose because she wants them all. Of course, this is often not possible what with the accumulated costs of the fairy Halloween costumes for kids. You can always settle for the safest one, which means her favorite color. And then you can put your foot down and assert your authority.

Wing Span

Choosing the wing span is often a matter of safety for your child, with the cute factor as a secondary concern. Keep in mind that your little girl will be running around trick-or-treating with friends almost the whole day. As such, it is important that her fairy wings should be manageable, both for her safety and those of her playmates.

Just to illustrate the point, can you imagine your 3-year old child running from house to house with wings as big as she is? Well, of course not, for many reasons. For one thing, she will be carrying an unwieldy accessory for her age. For another thing, she will be constantly bumping her wings against her playmates, which cannot be a good thing as time wears on.

So, when choosing the imaginary wings amongst fairy Halloween costumes for kids, you have to ensure that it is sufficiently small to be carried around on your little girl's shoulder without causing harm to herself and to others.

Hem Length

Again, take into consideration the activities related to Halloween. There will be much running, walking, jumping and climbing around so it is a good idea to ensure that the hem of the costume is of sufficient length to allow these expected activities. At the very least, your child will not trip on her fairy gown, which can bruise her ego and skin her knees.

If you are worried about the cool weather, choosing from among the fairy Halloween costumes for kids with thick tights is a good idea. Or you can just buy tights separately for a more personalized touch.

When you have considered all these criteria, you should be able to select the prettiest fairy Halloween costume for your little girl while ensuring her safety during trick-or-treating where her costume is concerned.

Thursday, December 2, 2010

Jim Shore, Wildflower, and Kitchen Fairy Figurines Add Whimsy to Home Decor

Although each person has a different sense of style when it comes to home decorating, everyone wants a home that feels comfortable and inviting. To that end, an increasing number of people are collecting and displaying figurines that bring a touch of whimsy to the home and smiles to the faces of family members and visitors alike. Three of the most popular collectible figurines are those from Jim Shore, DEMDACO, and My Little Kitchen Fairy.

Jim Shore Figurines

Originally from South Carolina, Jim Shore is an award-winning artist whose figurines can best be categorized as a cross between American folk art and popular culture. Made of stone resin, Jim Shore's figurines encompass themes ranging from his Heartwood Creek collection of angels and his faith-based angels to his collectible Disney figurines. Many of his Disney figurines have patriotic Americana themes, such as "Justice for All," which depicts Mickey Mouse waving a flag in front of the Statue of Liberty, and "Protect & Serve," which depicts Mickey Mouse as a police officer. Jim Shore has also designed a variety of Christmas ornaments, ranging from "12 Days of Christmas" ornaments and reindeer ornaments to farm animal ornaments. He has also made nativity set and Santa figurines.

DEMDACO Figurines

DEMDACO offers many collections of figurines, but one of the most popular is the Wildflower Angel collection. Each figurine in this collection depicts an angel holding a wildflower. Given the meanings associated with different types of flowers, each Wildflower Angel conveys its own message. "Poppies," for example, conveys consolation, while "Forget-Me-Not" encourages someone to always remember the other. "Lilies" convey celebratory enthusiasm, while "Nasturtiums" reflects patriotism. Similarly, "Periwinkles" recalls tender memories, and "Daisies" indicate compassion and concurrence.

My Little Kitchen Fairies Figurines

G.G. Santiago, an award-winning artist, designs the My Little Kitchen Fairies series of collectible figurines for Enesco. Typically between four and five inches tall, these whimsical fairies add heart to any home. Her "Wedding Cake Fairy," for example, depicts a little girl fairy reaching for the top tier of a wedding cake. Her "Hot Chocolate" fairy depicts a little fairy sitting on the handle of a candy cane striped mug with whipped cream on top. The detail in her "Asleep in an Oven Mitt" kitchen fairy shows a mischievous little girl fairy in pigtails, sound asleep with her teddy bear in a highly detailed red, white, and blue oven mitt.

Collecting and displaying fairies has become increasingly popular as a way of adding whimsy and innocence to home decor. Whether they have a touch of Jim Shore Americana, the hidden meanings of DEMDACO Wildflower Angels, or the sweetness of G.G. Santiago My Little Kitchen Fairies, figurines can reflect and express the personalities of their collectors.

Wednesday, December 1, 2010