LapiDairy~Lapis!
By Katharine Clark Art by Robin Ator

Hello, everyone! Bo Dhu here, at the beginning of the harvest season. You know, we do more here at the dairy than raise cows and sheep. We also participate in the wheel of the year by planting and harvesting some wheat, corn and barley to supplement our usual diet. Now, with the crop ripe and ready to be gathered in, the deep blue of the autumn sky reminds me that all who live and work here had better start carrying a piece of lapis lazuli.

What's lapis? Oh, it's a wonderful stone, especially associated with the Fall. You see, in the old days, Autumn was a time when the fate of your fields was obvious. If the gods were kind, and provided fertile soil and good growing weather, your grain crop would be healthy and golden across your lands. Your worries would be over, but your hard, physical work was set to begin. For that, you needed a strong back, willing hands, and good health. No stone provides that better than lapis. With its refreshing blue color and gold flecks of vitality, it'll keep you balanced in mind, body and soul. Lapis also brings inner peace so you can focus on, and attend to, the tasks at hand.

“Hey, I'm not a farmer,” you might think, “so what does lapis have to do with me?” Plenty! September is the start of school, for many of you. That means early rising, new schedules, new teachers and fellow scholars, increased activities, and homework. In order to “reap” the benefits of your education, you must be sound in mind and body, well rested, and focused. Lapis will help you get there. Not only that, it boosts your mental powers, helps you express yourself, and aids you in becoming an “active listener.” You'll be the star of the class!

Another thing our ancestors cherished about lapis was its ability to strengthen spirituality and open the third eye--your psychic center. Samhain is coming, and lapis will “open your eyes” to any dangers surrounding you as the season approaches. It especially protects kids from any anxiety, night terrors and nightmares. Therefore, it is one of the best stones for helping you prepare for the barren times of winter.

And at Samhain, it connects you to your totem spirits, protectors and loved ones from the other side, and guides them closer to you.

Lapis can be very expensive because a high quality is used in fine jewelry. However, a simple, tumbled stone is every bit as effective, and affordable!

Blessings to you all thought the Autumn season, and Slainte till we meet again!

\