Happy New Year!

Meet Gothic Belly Dancer Laura "Tempest" Schmidt & #Win a Belly Dance Hip Scarf

Last month, I revealed that my young adult novel, "Phantom" was accepted by Pagan Writers Press.  Since then, I have been hard at work with the publisher and my amazing editor, Rosa Sophia, getting this book polished up for publication in 2012. One of my favorite scenes in Phantom includes a belly dance routine. I can't say any more than  that because I don't want to give away information about a pivotal scene in the story. But I can tell you a little about the amazing woman who inspired the scene. Her name is Laura "Tempest" Schimdt, and she is a world renown Gothic Belly Dancer.

I consider myself truly blessed to have not only met Tempest, but to have shared Sacred Space with her on a few occasions. About three years ago,  I was introduced to Tempest through my best friend and coven sister, Donna. She was taking her belly dance class at a local gym, and convinced me to come along.  Now, I am just about the most uncoordinated person in the world, and learning even the simplest steps was a challenge for me. But Tempest had the patience of an angel, and always took a few extra moments to try to help me get it right. I was only able to go to few classes before I got pregnant with my daughter and was on bed rest. By the time she was born, Tempest had moved, but those few classes were an experience I will never forget.




In addition to taking her class, I also attended a few professional  performances that Tempest arranged in our area. The class was fun, but was nothing compared to watching Tempest perform live. When she begins to move, its like she is magically transformed into the Goddess herself. Her movements are fluid and graceful. Her costumes (which she often designs herself) are enchanting. She has created her own version of Gothic Belly Dance that is elegant and breathtaking. It literally brought tears to my eyes. Even as a writer, I find it hard to express just how amazing it is to watch her perform.  Tempest is one of the most beautiful woman I have had the privilege to meet. It is a beauty that emanates from her soul and is transferred to the fluid movements of her body. All the wisdom of the ages is expressed in the poetic motions of her dance. She is a true artist.

If you would like to learn more about Tempest, you can visit her website, Darkly Dramatic. There you can find dozens of beautiful photos in her gallery. Both the costumes and the poses are stunning!  If you want to learn how to belly dance, she has several DVDs available for purchase. You can also check out Med Devi to purchase her own unique accessory and costume designs.

If you ever wanted to give belly dancing a try, here is your chance. I am going to give one lucky winner a tan belly dancing hip scarf similar to the one shown in the photo. This giveaway will end on 1/20/12 and is open to the US & Canada only. You will be able to enter this giveaway at both the New Age Mama and Author Laura DeLuca blogs. You only need to enter ONCE. Please do not enter on both blogs. Winner will be notified via email and will have 48 hours to reply before another winner is chosen.

Winter Solstice Giveaway

Today is Yule, The Winter Solstice,  and many people from many cultures are celebrating the return of the sun.  Even Christmas is celebrated in December to correspond with this important celestial event. I came across this yahoo video yesterday, thanks to NJ Pagans, and thought it would be interesting to share. It gives a quick summary of the solstice and how it ties into many modern day celebrations.




In celebration of the winter solstice, I thought I would offer a little giveaway. I am currently waiting on more copies of Destiny to come in, so instead of a book, I will be giving away an adorable pentacle belly button ring and a box of incense.

To enter this giveaway, just fill in the rafflecopter form below. Giveaway will end on 1/12/12 and is open to the US & Canada only. You will be able to enter this giveaway at both the New Age Mama and Author Laura DeLuca blogs. You only need to enter ONCE. Please do not enter on both blogs Winner will be notified via email and will have 48 hours to reply before another winner is chosen.

Lady Lynne Boutique Winner

 
 

 
The winner of the Lady Lynne;s Boutique Giveaway is #338
# Name: mframe


# Email: mframe00@gmail.com Send Email

# Option: Subscribe to New Age Mama

Happy Yule!

Gaiam Winner!

 
The winner of the Gaiam Giveaway is #10
 
* Name: Diane Melendez


* Email: kui900@
* Option: Follow New Age Mama on friend connect

* Extra Info: I follow as kui900

All I Want for Yule is a Big Rock

I have never been very materialistic. My engagement ring is so tiny you need a magnifying glass to find the diamond. I never cared that much about diamonds, but I do love big rocks. So this year, I told my husband I wanted a nice big rock for Yule.  A rock in the form of a crystal, of course. These are a few of the crystal points I was looking at:

Then I starting thinking, maybe I should get a whole cluster of crystals instead of one big point. These were a few that I just loved.

Then I thought  maybe something a little smaller would be better, something different than plain quartz--maybe green phantom quartz or SPHALARITE, TETRAHEDRITE, and QUARTZ CRYSTALS all blended together.

I also came across these two unique carved crystals that would be perfect for next year's Samhain celebration.

And of course I had to find a little something special to share with my circle sisters. We already exchanged Yule gifts, but these two sets of colored stone points seemed a good fit for the Ice Moon and Imbolc, and there were just enough for each of us to have one.

I have had these all in my watch list on eBay for the last few weeks. When I logged in today, they were all missing. I couldn't believe it. I thought hours of searching for just the right crystals, the ones that really called to me,  was wasted. Then I noticed they were in my bought items! What? Did my kids get their hands on my compute?  Nope. It was my husband! He bought me every single one of the crystals! I said it was too much. I told him one was enough, and he didn't have to buy them all. He told me, "Hey, at least it didn't cost three months salary". LOL I have such an awesome husband! Not only for buying me these amazing gifts, but for being so loving and expecting of me and all my witchy ways. He is the best gift of all!

Yule Sale at the Whimsical Pixie!

The Whimsical Pixie is one of my favorite Etsy shops for all things witchy.  Paula, the artist who runs the shop, never ceases to amaze me with her beautiful pagan themed items. For Yule, she has come up with unique tree ornaments, hard to find Yule cards, and lots of fun gift ideas that can be customized.    Now through Yule (12/21), you can save 15% by using the coupon code CELEBRATE15.  Find a great gift or  something for your own altar. If you need a little magic this holiday season, check out the Whimsical Pixie today!

Paper Yule Tree Ornaments - Guest Post by Pagan Author Stacy Evans

I saw the neatest thing the other day. My daughter has been getting into “kitties and puppies” lately, so we watched 101 Dalmatians. In it, there is a scene at the end where Anita is decorating a Christmas Tree. Now, I've seen 101 Dalmatians before,  but never really saw the Christmas tree they were decorating at the end.  If you look, you can see they are hanging little paper cards from it.  See?

So I set out to make one.  Here is what you need:

Some old Christmas/Yule/etc. cards, some scrap-booking glue/tape (white glue is too wet, but you can use stick glue if need be), scissors, card stock, and some embroidery thread.

Cut out any pieces you like from the cards.  You can cut out subjects or pieces from the background, whatever appeals to you.  Be sure that they will fit somehow within the scale of the card stock.  I ended up lumping mine together in different piles based on what images I had in my head.

After arranging the images, I glue taped them down, and made pretty designs in the white spaces.

Then stick a thumbtack (or need, or other sharp, pokey instrument) into the top of the card stock and string with embroidery thread.  Then, hang on your tree and enjoy!

These are incredibly easy and fun for kids to do - even young kids, if you have the images cut out before hand.  You'll never get tired of looking at a handmade ornament on your tree!

Stacy Evans is a Pagan Author, Blogger, and Priestess.  She lives in Alberta, Canada with her husband and daughter.  You can find her on Facebook, Google+ or at her blog.

Sara B Illustrations Winner!

The winner of the Sara B Illustrations Giveaway is #165

Name: Sarah PD

Email: sarahdjerfi@

Option: Heart Sara B Ilustrations

Mystic Sea Angel Meditation Candles Review & Giveaway

Its not easy being a writer when you're the mother of four rambunctious children. As much as I love them, there are times when I just need a few minutes to myself. Yesterday, I decided to work on a poem for an analogy that my publisher is working on.  I wanted it to be something deep and meaningful, and its hard to get in that frame of mind with the kids in the house. My husband agreed to take them out for awhile and give me a little space, but even then my head was still in a whirl. To get in a better state of mind, I spent some time meditating. I have found that certain tools and scents will help me to focus. Yesterday, I used one of the Creativity Candles from Mystic Sea Angel with amazing results.

The Mystic Sea Angel combines the two powerful forces of aromatherapy and crystals when creating their soy based candles. Each candle is made from pure essential oils that not only provide an intoxicating scent, they are also designed to help you stimulate your mind to achieve your desired goal. The creativity candle I tried is made from an earthy bergamot and basil mixed with sweet lemon and grapefruit that blend into a pleasant and refreshing citrus scent. Together, they work to promote the mental clarity you need to help open your mind, allowing your creativity to flow.

In addition to the natural oils, Mystic Sea Angel Candles also harvests the power of the earth by adding crystals to every soy candle. The Creativity Candle uses carnelian to help unleash your creative spirit, hematite to remove limitations, citrine to enhance motivation, and amazonite to encourage self expression. Long after your candle has burned out, you can continue to carry your magical crystals and draw strength from their endless energies. The store even provides a little tie bag to store the crystals when the candle is gone.

The aromatherapy, the crystals, and even the elemental flame of the candle, all combine to create the perfect tool for meditation. As soon as my spirit returned from my journey, I felt invigorated and the words I had searched for flowed freely. I was so filled with inspiration that I was able to write an almost perfect poem in just a few hours. It was a very fulfilling experience.

In addition to the creativity candles, Mystic Sea Angel also offers candles to promote chakra balancing, romance, joy, relaxation, and more. You can even request custom candles to meet your personal needs.  So no matter what area of your life you are looking to enhance or improve, you can use these candles to help you reach the goal. All of this comes in one natural and homeopathic package. Each candle runs between $12-$14, or get a three pack of assorted candles for only $30.

One lucky winner is going to receive the meditaton candle of their choice. To enter, just complete the Rafflecopter form below. You will be able to enter this giveaway at both the New Age Mama and Author Laura DeLuca blogs. You only need to enter ONCE. Please do not enter on both blogs. Entries will be merged and one winner will be chosen. Winners will be notified via email and will have 48 hours to reply. Thanks again to Mystic Sea Angel for offering this great prize.

Lady Lynn's Gift Boutique Review & $30 GC Giveaway

I love designer jewelry, but I don't like designer price tags. With four kids and a tough economy, I have to set a limit on my jewelry purchases. Its not easy to find nice sterling jewelry that is within my budget, but still fits my personal style. Luckily I found Lady Lynn's Gift Boutique. They offer hundreds of unique designer inspired jewelry at a fraction of the cost. Whether you like chunky bangles or delicate earrings, you can find it all and more at Lady Lynn's Gift Boutique.

For my review, I was able to pick out one item, and it was not an easy decision. There are so many beautiful pieces! I have always been a fan of natural stones, so I decided on the Genuine Brown Drusy & Garnet Pendant in Sterling Silver. The necklace comes with a black cord, but can easily be worn on a silver chain as well. On the top is the tiny red Drusy stone and hanging dramatically below it is the brown garnet. It is a beautiful slice of stone with a sparkling crystal center. It is not only a lovely pendant that can be coordinated into almost any wardrobe choice, its also a remarkable piece of nature that vibrates with the power of Mother Earth. At only $28.95, its a great deal and the perfect choice for those who love the boho style.

The garnet pendant is only one example of the beautiful jewelry you can find at Lady Lynn's Gift Boutique. She also offers inspirational jewelry, casual chic jewelry, and fashion jewelry to name just a few categories. Choose from pins and brooches, bracelets, pearls, and even bejeweled key chains. This beautiful designer inspired jewelery is available at remarkable wholesale prices. And right now you can get even more savings because many of their pieces are on sale. And if that isn't reason enough to start shopping, every month Lady Lynn donates 10% of their profits to various charities. You have to love a company that gives back! With the holidays only a few weeks away, this is a great place to start shopping for all the ladies in your life.

One lucky winner is going to receive a $30 Gift Certificate to Lady Lynn's Gift Boutique. To enter, just complete the Rafflecopter form below. You will be able to enter this giveaway at both the New Age Mama and Author Laura DeLuca blogs. You only need to enter ONCE. Please do not enter on both blogs. Entries will be merged and one winner will be chosen. Winners will be notified via email and will have 48 hours to reply. Thanks again to Lady Lynn's Gift Boutique for offering this great prize.






***Please note that I received no form of monetary compensation for this post. I did receive a sample of the product to try in order to write a fair and honest review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own and were not influenced in any way.  Please note that I  am not responsible for the delivery of this prize and can not be held accountable if, for any reason, is it not received. Furthermore, I am in no way liable for any injuries that may result from the use or misuse of this product. **

Gaiam Massage Therapy Kit Review & Giveaway

After months of being on bed rest and then adjusting to a new baby, I am finally getting back into a normal routine. For me, that includes daily yoga exercises. Having four children can take a toll on your body. I not only need to get back into a size seven jeans. I also need to get sore back and leg muscles strained from a difficult pregnancy back in good working order.  Gaiam has always been one of my favorite stores for all my yoga supplies, and the first place I look when I want to add something new to my collection. Recently, I tried out their Massage Therapy Kit, and I couldn't be happier with the results.

 The Restore Massage Therapy Kit includes everything you need to ease stress and experience an enhanced yoga workout.  There are three massage balls, one large and two small, which you roll underneath the problem areas as you work out. The gentle motion of your yoga poses will allow the balls to knead troubled areas, which stimulates muscle tension and circulation, and eases stress and stiffness. The set also comes with a 25 minute yoga stretch routine with is perfect for beginners, someone a little out of practice (like me), or even an expert who just wants to take it easy for the night and give their muscles a little TLC.  If you are looking for a holiday gift for a yoga enthusiast, the Restore Massage Therapy Kit would be the perfect choice.

The massage kit is only one example of hundreds of yoga themed products you can find at Gaiam, all of which would make excellent gifts or a well earned indulgence. If you thinking about making a purchase, this would be the perfect time. Now through 11/30/11, you can receive free shipping and 20% off all orders of $75 or more by entering the code HOLSAVE752P.  If you're reading this too late for that sale, no worries!  You can still get free shipping and 15% off your order until 12/31/11 by signing up for their newsletter.  Whether you are new to yoga or have been practicing for years, you should definitely visit Gaiam for a great selection of fun and unique products and everyday low prices on clothing, DVD routines, and accessories.

One lucky winner is going to receive the same Massage Therapy Kit that I received to review. To enter, just complete the Rafflecopter form below. You will be able to enter this giveaway at both the New Age Mama and Author Laura DeLuca blogs. You only need to enter ONCE. Please do not enter on both blogs. Entries will be merged and one winner will be chosen.  Winners will be notified via email and will have 48 hours to reply. Thanks again to Gaiam for offering this great prize.












***Please note that I received no form of monetary compensation for this post. I did receive a sample of the product to try in order to write a fair and honest review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own and were not influenced in any way.  Please note that I  am not responsible for the delivery of this prize and can not be held accountable if, for any reason, is it not received. Furthermore, I am in no way liable for any injuries that may result from the use or misuse of this product. **

Sara B Illustrations Review & Giveaway

 As a writer of fantasy, I often find inspiration in the beautiful artwork of others. I have a little corner in my room that is my workspace. Its where I hand write the first draft of all my books. In that corner, I have all my favorite statues, carvings, crystals, and art prints of all things mystical including Goddesses, Gods, elves, and of course whimsical fairies. I am very happy to have a new addition to my collection--a beautiful art print by Sara B Illustrations. This is the type of art work that will make anyone's imagination soar.

For my review, I received an art print entitled, "Celtic Fairy in Forest". Of course this would appeal to me as a Celtic Wiccan, but its only one of dozens of beautiful prints that will make you feel like you just parted the mists and entered the world of fairy. When I look at this print, I feel as though I could step right through those mists and join the maiden fairy in her domain. The fairy is so incredibly detailed, from her ivy covered gown to her crown of antlers. The butterflies fluttering around her, the little birds on her wrist and shoulder, and mushrooms around her feet, are all pleasant reminders that spring and rebirth it brings are never too far away.

The Celtic fairy is only one example so many lovely art prints available from Sarah B Illustrations. She  also creates magical mermaids, warrior angels, and even grumpy old trolls. In addition to the art prints, you can purchase bookmarks, postcards, and ornaments that can be used all year long but which would certainly add a touch of magic to your holiday tree. If you want to add some of this beautiful artwork to your collections, you can visit the Sara B Illustrations Etsy shop.

One lucky winner is going to receive a Grumpy Troll card deck. This game is similar to Old Maid but created using Sara's amazing artwork. To enter, just complete the Rafflecopter form below. You will be able to enter this giveaway at both the New Age Mama and Author Laura DeLuca blogs. You only need to enter ONCE. Please do not enter on both blogs. Entries will be merged and one winner will be chosen.  Winners will be notified via email and will have 48 hours to reply. Thanks again to Sarah B Illustrations for offering this great prize.








***Please note that I received no form of monetary compensation for this post. I did receive a sample of the product to try in order to write a fair and honest review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own and were not influenced in any way.  Please note that I  am not responsible for the delivery of this prize and can not be held accountable if, for any reason, is it not received. Furthermore, I am in no way liable for any injuries that may result from the use or misuse of this product. ** 

Planet Earth Essentials Winners!

The two winners of the Planet Earth Essentials Giveaway are #258
* Name: Lily Kwan


* Email: mslilyk@hotmail.com Send Email

* Option: Follow @authorldeluca on Twitter

* Extra Info: likwan


and #188

# Name: Niecey Docherty


# Email: nieceyd@
# Option: "Like" Author-Laura-Deluca on Facebook

Destiny Unveiled - First Draft for the Cover

The publisher and I have decided on a title for the Destiny sequel! It will be "Destiny Unveiled".  The picture above, drawn by my wonderful husband, Timmie, is a rough draft of what the cover will look like.  I am very excited about this upcoming release, and if things go well, I may even write two or three more books in the Destiny series!

Destiny Kindle Edition is Now Available!

It has taken awhile, but I am excited to announce that the Kindle E-book version of Destiny is now available! I personally prefer the feel of a real book is my hands, but for all you techies out there, you can order the e-book on Amazon for only $3.99!  The hard cover is listed on Amazon as well as the publisher's website and Barnes and Noble for $14.95. Check out Destiny today and let a little magick into your life!

The Destiny Sequel is Coming in June!

Earlier this week, I was talking with the owner of Free Focus Publishing, the house that released Destiny last year. I am excited to announce  that they have agreed to publish the sequel to Destiny! We are looking at a  June release date to correspond with the setting of the book.  You can read a short excerpt from the novel here.  The working title of the sequel is "The Search for Destiny" but we are working on some alternatives. We are pretty sure the cover will feature a raven holding the signature necklace in its mouth. I am very excited about it! I am working on writing a short summary for the back of the book and will post that as soon as its ready. I hope everyone who read the first Destiny is as excited about the sequel as I am!