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How to Choose the Right Straw Bales

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How to Choose the Right Straw Bales

by Andrew Morrison

The first decision when designing and building a straw bale house is what size of bales to use. There are at least three options:

1. two-string bales measuring 14″ tall x 18″ wide x 36″ long;
2. two-string bales measuring 16″ tall x 18″ wide x 45″ long;
3. three-string bales measuring 14″ – 17″ tall x 24″ wide x 48″ long.

The actual measurements of all these bales may vary depending on the baling machines employed in the fields. You will need to know the exact size of the bales you will use when you are designing the structure. It is good practice to design to the size of the bale.
Moisture content is another important factor in deciding which bales to purchase. Moisture content of up to 20% is considered safe although the less moisture the better. I use bales that have a moisture content of 8-10%. Moisture content will vary with ambient moisture, so areas with high humidity may have bales with more moisture. Be sure to keep the levels below 20% at all times.
There is a way to calculate moisture content in bales mathematically; however, hand held moisture meters are the easiest way to check moisture content.
Density is important. A tightly strung bale will create a solid wall and strong backing for the plaster. A general rule of thumb is that when you lift the bale by one string, there should be very little shape deformation. Also, bales should not greatly deform when dropped from a pickup truck bed.
Finally, visually inspect the bales. If they look like they have gotten wet, be sure to thoroughly test the bales for moisture readings. Bales that have a golden color are the best option. The lighter the straw in color, the more likely they have never seen water!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Andrew Morrison is the founder and owner of A. C. Morrison Construction, LLC, a company specializing in straw bale construction. Andrew has a passion for straw bale construction that is matched only by his desire to teach his knowledge to others. Andrew is the creator and builder of the Straw Bale Village, a community of 15 straw bale homes in the National Historic Landmark City of Jacksonville, Oregon. He is a skilled, licensed General Contractor (CCB License #161204) with experience in designing and building both conventional and straw bale homes. Andrew has owned A. C. Morrison Construction, LLC, since 1996. Andrew received a BA degree from Hampshire College in 1995 for Glacial Geology. He also has a degree in construction technology. Please visit his professional web site at: www.StrawBaleConstruction.net
NOTE: Remember, You’re welcome to “reprint” this article online as long as it remains complete and unaltered (including the “about the author” info at the end), and you send a copy of your reprint or the url to Info@strawbale.com

Imbolc

Druidry Lesson 13 ~ Animals in Society and Religion

Some questions for you to think about:Are there any particular animals to which you feel an especial kinship ~ maybe ones that often crop up in dreams, or that keep appearing either in real life and/or artistic representations?

I am very attached to my dog who literally saved myself and my children several years ago. Other then that, I love them immensly, would lvoe to work with animals. but I have not really had any connections such as totems or in dream, etc.
What do you feel about the way animals are treated in the 21st century ~ as pets, on farms, in circuses, zoos, the wild etc?

Animals are treated terirbly in general in this century. there are many groups promoting anti-animal abuse but things are not good for many. There is a lot of horrible treatment on commercial farms. Zoos and circuses abuse there animals though there re always that are suppose to prevent it. Wild animals are probably the luckiest if they manage to stay out of the way of game hunters and such. I view animals as I view human. We are all here for a purpose. Much in the way of Native Americans, I believe that some animals give themselves for food and such. Game hunting is wrong. They animal that gives itself needs to be used completely. There is much neglect in pets, and abuse. There are breeding nightmares whree animals are mistreated and abused, you hear about it ever day.

Have you attempted to work with animals in a magical/ritualistic context? This could be a pet or familiar in ritual, it could be divination by watching bird flight, invocation of an animal spirit etc.

Other then trying to connect with my own dog, I have not. I have also not been able to speak with my own dog thourgh meditaiton. Not sure why, just not there yet I guess. We know what each other is thinking, this is not needed between us, but tried it at any rate to see if I could get into her mind. I have not tried to invoke any animal spirits, still working on my ancestors.


Practical exercise:

Research a native animal that you are NOT familiar with. Find enough information to spend 10 minutes telling a friend or relative about its life cycle, diet, breeding habits etc, plus any native myths or legends about it..

Druidry Lesson 12 ~ Funeral Rites and the Afterlife

Some questions for you to think about:
What would you like to leave behind when you shuffle off this mortal coil and become an ex-Druid? Reflect on your hoped-for legacy, both in terms of the achievements and impact on other people, and also of the material goods ~ what do you wish to happen to any Pagan goodies in your possession (swords, books, wands, crystal balls etc)?

My things will be left to my children. I do not want anything other then my protection stones, at least at this point, being burried or burned with me. I also hope to take something from each of my children with me into the next life, and grandchildren... even greats if I have them. I

I can see my son taking my Druid artifacts after I die as he is more interested in this kind of thing then I am. I will give each special items of course, the rest will be up to them. If there are items that they do not want, I will make sure that they have appropriate instructions on what and where to donate items for various reasons.

What do you feel the Afterlife is like, if you believe in one at all? Do you think all people go to the same place, or are there different afterlives for different people (according to religion, or how they lived their life etc)?

Personally, I do belief in an afterlife and reincarnation. I really do not know what this looks like but I do think that there is a time of reflection before you are sent or choose your next life. I think that our next lives are lived based on knowledge and skills of the previous lives and that the way you lived your previous lives can also determine what are who you come back as.

I feel that those in "limbo" or reflection, between lives, are still here just on a diferent... level-dimension-etc. With so many spirits and ghosts here with us, I do not see any other viable explanation.

Speaking of which, how does ones life influence ones Afterlife? Does a paedophile find the same Otherworld waiting for them as a surgeon who has saved thousands of lives? Is there any sense of reward or punishment in the world beyond?

As I believe in reincarnation based on how you live your previous lives, I think that everyone lives in the same reflection. However, a paedophile's next life is probably going to be spent making up for what he has done in his previous life. I feel that this person will be reborn as someone whose life is going to be very difficult for the times. they are going to have to work hard to get back to where they had once been. We are to harm none-- and I believe this goes for anyone who follows a "witches" path whether it e druid or wiccan... These people will have a lot ot make up for for harm they have brought on others.

Practical exercise:

A codicil can be added to your will, describing the type of funeral you want. So long as your wishes are within the law, the codicil then becomes legally enforceable by whoever you have appointed to organise the event. Plan your own funeral, if you have not already done so. Think about the following issues ~

• Burial, cremation, exposure etc. What would you prefer?
I plan to be cremated. This is a new decision as before finding my own spirituality, fire scared me to no end. Even after death, I could not imagine or even think about being burned. Now, I see this as a way of being given back to the earth, as you will see in the rest of my plan for my physical body.
• Do you want a fancy coffin, a plain box, a cardboard coffin, a wicket basket, just a winding sheet?
I would like my kids to pick out a box or vase to keep me in until I am scattered... or buried as the case may be.
• What should your corpse be dressed in... a suit/nice frock, Druid robes, a pink tutu, biker leathers etc?
I will have robes to be dressed in.
• Are there any grave goods you want placed in your coffin, or added to your funeral pyre?
I will have my protections stones buried with me after I am cremanted. Other items will be set later on such as the items I plan to take with me to my next life. The items, my children and grandchild will send with me.
• What music would you like played at the ceremony?
Something happy.
• Have you a favourite piece of poetry that you would like to be read out (and who do you want to read it)?
I just want my kids to speak of me, nothing specific. I will have a specific spell or chant to be read by both of my children when the time comes. I will put it here when it is written.
• Wreaths, flowers, donations to a charity, or something else?
I love flowers!!! Lots of flowers!
• How should the mourners dress... all in black, in fancy dress, in rainbow hues etc?
Comfortable but respectful. I would be disheartened to see people showing pu in shorts and t-shirts. This happened at a military furneral for my nephew (not family) and I was appaled as was the rest of the family. I couldn't believe the lack of respect.
• Do you want a Wake of some description? Open to all and sundry, or just a chosen few?
I want a wake with as many people as want to come. Only positive happy people (not includng being sad over my death). Drinks, food, music, dancing, games, fun, happy people. I will be back and will watch over those I love always!

Druidry Lesson 11 ~ Creating Healthy Communities

Some questions for you to think about:

Which people in your life have a duty towards you? This might be family members, people whose work requires them to do certain things for you, friends, or anyone at all. Can you think of examples of what sort of duties are owed towards you?

The only people I can think of who would have a duty towards me would be my children. I raised and cared for them growing up and even now and if needed, I would expect them to feel compeled to take care of me. I do the same for my parents, my mom really who lives with me. I would also do anything for my brothers and sisters if needed and I do.

I feel that when I age, if I need care, it would be upon my children to provide that care and honestly, if needed, I do not worry about it. My kids would take good care of me if it comes to that.

To whom do you have a duty? As above, it could be all sorts of people, or pets, places, precious objects you have a care for etc.

I care for my mom. She lives with me and I try to make sure she has what she needs, make sure that if there are things she wants, that she gets them, and I try to keep her happy with things to do. I will always care for my children, not because they are my responsibility, but because as a mother, it's what you do. I love them and want them to be the best they can be and to live a good life.

What steps could Society take towards changing the behaviour of those who fail to meet their duties?

Our society here in the US is so selfish. It amazes me the number of people who put their elderly into homes, children who do not take care of their parents. Even parents who do not take care of their young children. People think that they are only responsible for themselves. Our society needs to go back to family, back to taking responsibility for their own, and stand up and take care of what they are suppose to.

Making laws about what people are suppose to do to be responsible would be a good thing but I think it would be so hard to enforce. I am not sure how that would work. I do know, however, that something needs to be done as so many are suffering needlessly.

Practical Exercise:

If you do not already do so, spend some time helping out a frail or unwell relative, friend or (if that is not an option) stranger via a charity. What you do is up to you ~ anything from just spending time with them, to doing their shopping or gardening or more personal care. The amount of time you spend is, again, down to you. It could be just the odd hour, or you might decide to make this an ongoing commitment.

If you are too frail/unwell yourself to help another, then spend the time trying to deepen the relationship with whoever provides you with care ~ get to know more about them, their opinions, life experiences, hopes, fears etc.

Druidry Lesson 10 ~ Marriage and the Roles of Men and Women

Some questions for you to think about:
How do you view gender in the modern world ~ what do you consider proper masculine or feminine behaviour?

Gender difference sin the modern world are confused and mixed. I feel that if there is something, like a specific job, that a person wants to do, then they should do it, at least try. It doesn't matter what gender the person is. I do think, however, that we are built for certain types of tasks and jobs. I do think that we respect each other differently and that each sex needs to remember that. Respect must be shown for each... as we must all command it if we are going to receive it. Many of the ways the sexes are viewed is based on the culture of what you live. Most cultures take care of their woman because without them, there would be no babies, we could not procreate. The woman staying home and taking care of the children is not always the case any more though that is the way it usually works out. Men tend to still earn more money though that is also not always the case any longer.

I do think that where behavior is concerned, there are apropriate ways to act but most apply to both across the board. Those that do not apply across the board are more of a societal thing.. Such as men opening doors for woman ~ this is so nice and makes us feel appreciated but it is definitely a society action that was set many years ago. People should treat people with respect (even those who do not deserve it). People should be allowed to speak when needed and to be treated with kindness and caring. Also, violence is something that needs to only happen in the most extreme cases and never between couples. Violence is kept for the battle field.

Are there any insights into modern relationships that we could gain from studying the marriage and divorce laws of the Brehons?

I think that each partner having specific responsibilities in the relationship is a good thing. So many marriages break up because of things that should have been discussed before the marriage happened. When there is stress, things like who makes more money, who does the dishes, going to the bar after work every night, can break things apart quickly. There must be boundaries like in the contracts of previous cultures that give clear distinct behaviors that are accepted. Also, while marriage should not just be about having children, having laws that govern actions of the two parties would, I would think, make people think twice about how the treat the spouse. I might say this because I have been divorces twice now and both were emotionally and became physically abusive, so maybe I am looking for a way for that to stop.


I also think that having specific reasons for divorce might make people think twice before getting married and also make them work harder once they are. Marriage is suppose to be a life long thing.. even if it's just to raise kids... People today get married with the idea that if it doesn't work out, they can just get divorced. There are so many single parent families out there struggling to make it work and this cause such a difficult life for so many.

What are some of the advantages of single-sex communities?  Have you ever participated in a single-sex ritual?

For me it would depend on the purpose of the community. I do understand where a single sex community could be advantagous for specific purposes, or just because it might make parts of life easier, and I am talking outside of same sex relationships... I have beent thinking about this and as I have never been part of a single sex ritual or relationship, I really do not know what else to say about it. I know that I would not want to live in one permanently especially as over the years, most of my friends have been men.

If so, how do you feel it differed from a ritual with both men and women present?

I have never participated in such a ritual but can see where it would be different. Woman have different power then men, it flows differently and feels differently. I can see where a same sex ritual would be a completely different feel then a mixed one.

Practical exercise:

Organise an activity with a group of friends the same gender as yourself ~ it doesn’t have to be anything particularly Druidic, it could be a night on the town, walk in the woods, a sporting event, etc.
Use the opportunity to watch how a group of men (or women) interact with each other ~ is it significantly different from when they interact in a mixed setting? Reflect on how you feel when with your own gender. Is gender a stronger indicator of behaviour than social class, religion, sexuality, etc? Keep a log of your observations and reactions, for future reflection.

Druidry Lesson 9~ Family and Education

Some questions for you to think about:
Do you think the old ideas about child rearing would work with modern children? Are those ideas better or worse than the way people treat their children these days?

Since I have been teaching, my ideas on child rearing have changed drastically land my outlook on how others raise their children has been damaged. It seems that in this day and age, so many have chosen to NOT raise their children. So many are just allowed to grow with no parents teaching them right from wrong, how to care for themselves, or even the basics they need to know to survive. Many say that people are to busy, people have to work, etc. But I did also. I am not saying that I was the perfect parent, far from it. But I have raised good kids. They are kind and considerate. They have goals in life and have good hearts. They know right from wrong and how to treat others, even those they do not particularly like. So many are missing just basics that we can not expect more from them.

With that said, I think that the way children were raised in the past could have a very profound effect on our children. A village raising the child in the days of two working parents families seems like a good idea, a way to solve so many problems. I think that this idea, this concept would not only make sure our kids were cared for, it would also help instill a modicum of respect in our kids. People have it in their minds that everyone is one for all. Take care of yourself and forget the rest... Our kids are being raised this way giving them a lost sense of caring. They do not care about others, they do not understand the struggle and strife that can befall people, and because of this, empathy and sympathy are a lost art.


This is a very strong subject for me. I know that when it came to raising my children, living in the type of environment where everyone worked together in the village, would have made my job so much easier. I also feel that my kids would have more confidence, they would be more open to the ideas of othes, and I also feel that they feeling of selfishnesses in children would be something of the past, as it needs to be. There would be less frustrationg which could help with the amount of abused and neglected children we have in our world today.


While parents were responsible for their children in the past, they seem to forget that they are in this here and now. Even though the parent was responsible, when the eyes of the entire village is watching, children, it would seem, would be less likely to get into trouble for the parents to be responsible for. Also, while parents would be responsibly, because they would be part of a community, the responsibility might not be so overwhemling.

How do see the role of a teacher? How should a good teacher treat their pupils (does it make any difference if they are teaching children or adults)?

It doesn't matter if you are teaching children or adults, students should be treated with respect and authority. I am a teacher and while teaching is a noble job and cause, it is quickly becoming a lost art. There is no power or support for teachers. They are expected to teach children everything from manners, respect, academics, and grooming. They are expected to take abuse from both students and parents and say nothing. They are expected to do all with very little pay or compensation for the many hours they put in and the abuse that they take. With that being said, lets move on...


Teachers are meant to impart knowledge. A good teacher is in this position because they have knowledge to impart and a desire or passion to do so. Good teachers treat their students, children or adults, with respect. They listen to what their students have to say but also demand respect. Teachers give their students confidence in what they know and teach them what they do not. They get to know the student, understand the students, and help to shape them into the person that they are meant to be.

How might a modern day Druid apply the idea of fosterage?

I would guess the foserage of a modern day Druid would be similar to sending a child to seminary school, though probably with a single person, such as an exchange student. I think that this would have to be a contract or a plan between the child, the parents/guardians, and the teacher. If a teacher was to take on a fosterage student, they would then be responsible for that student though with the help of the parents. I would say it would have to be a case by case basis. some parents would be able to support the teacher and students throughout his learning while others may not. when the deal for the education is made, it would be worked out between the involved parties and would vary, I would say, from case to case, the desire of the student and the parents, and the willingness of the teacher.
Practical exercise:

Plan a puberty ritual for an imaginary teen. Firstly, decide at which age this should be done ~ would it be on a specific birthday, or whenever puberty naturally occurs, or when some task has been accomplished etc. Secondly, decide who would be present ~ only people of the same gender, the whole family, etc. Thirdly, consider what elements you would include (maybe read around the practices of other cultures for inspiration), for example....

Special tasks ~ the Jewish bar mitzvah ceremony requires the boy to memorise a passage of the Torah and recite it for all those present.
Seclusion ~ in Ghana young women go into a period of contemplation away from the rest of the tribe at their first menstruation.
Change of name ~ as mentioned previously.
Gifts ~ the Apache womanhood ceremony involves a presentation of gifts to the new woman.
Decoration ~ the Congolese Pygmies paint special patterns on their skin during the ceremonies. Some other cultures have used permanent tattoos or scarification.

Some cultures have engaged in activities that would be too dangerous or even illegal in modern times, so there have to be limits! Fourthly, consider what you would educate the newly made adult about ~ what is the essence of manhood or womanhood? Finally, think about which deities you might call upon to guide the transition successfully.

Brrrrr... It's so COLD here...

Well, got here... 5 hour drive. Long, boring, but I got here last night. It's freezing, but not snowing. The kids are amazing. Moving the rest of Mikey's stuff out of the trailer today into the apartment where  he is moving. Laundry, a little shopping, then making split pea soup for dinner. yummmm  I know this is not druid stuff or Hobbit house stuff so going away from life that I love but is boring to everyone else, lol...

Headed to Idaho``

Going to Idaho tomorrow to see my kids. So excited. Can't wait to see them. Haven't since July and then it was for a funeral for my Nephew...  Not exactly an ideal visit... Hoping for a lack of snow so I can get back on monday... but I suppose an extra day wouldn't be horrible either, lol... If you don't see me for a few days, you know why. Yay!!!

Ask about the Hobbit houses if you want info.. Email me at hobbithouse@mysticscooby.com... Druiry... ask whatever you want. Also find me at mysical journey on facebook... Love and light
Journey!!!

Sharaya, Mikey, and me!!!  November 2010

Druidry Lesson 8~ The Four Major Gaelic Festivals

Some questions for you to think about:

Have you attended a Celtic festival in the past? If so, what did you think of it?
I have never attended  Celtic Festival of any kind.

Choose a festival and think about what it means to you, and the ways in which you might try and celebrate it.
Think about whether you prefer to celebrate festivals by yourself or with other people. Do the changing seasons affect your moods ~ perhaps you feel more sociable at some times of the year than others, or more inclined to certain activities than others etc.
Through out the years, my favorite time has always been that first sunny warm day of the year. I guess this would mean my favorite festival as it’s my favorite solstice will be Spring Solstice or Ostara. I love the spring with everything new and green. The early flowers coming out and the buds on the trees. Who wouldn’t love it.
Ostara in the Christian home is celebrated as Easter… and this is typoically how it looks in most homes. Easter eggs, hunts, pretty pastel dresses, baskets of goodies. Bunnies. It’s a spring thing. Other traditions inspired but the Ostara celebration of new is spring cleaning, picnics in the park, planting of seeds and the blooming of the early spring bulbs, warmer weather activities in general.
I have never had an Ostara altar, I was not this far along last year. I plan to have pastels, fresh flowers, and remembrances of things like baby animals, and our earth so green and fresh. I will ask for blessings for a prosperous summer and year at this time as I have a lot of plans for this summer to help us and others, bringing us all closer to nature. We are building Hobbit Houses.
Our food will consist of deviled eggs, spinach salad with pecans and blue cheese, eggnog, baked salmon, and asparagus. Early spring foods.
We will have happy music, and enjoy the out doors as much as the weather allows (it can still be somewhat cold here and there is always the chance of rain at which point most of our same festivities will just move in doors).  

Practical exercise:

Create a new seasonal festival to celebrate by yourself or with friends. Consider what is important to you or the place where you live. If you live by the coast, you could create a festival to mark an important event in the fishing world. If you have a favourite animal, you could mark some event in their life cycle (such as the breeding season, the time when their young are born, etc). If you are an avid gardener or brewer, you could mark an event connected to your favourite flower, the grape vines or so forth.

In creating your festival, think about what this seasonal event means to you, where best to hold the event (somewhere directly connected to the event being marked), any associated deities, what sort of things you could do during the ritual to express how important this event is etc.

Keep notes as to what you did and why (and the outcome), so that you can refer back to it in future.
Ostara in the Christian home is celebrated as Easter… and this is typoically how it looks in most homes. Easter eggs, hunts, pretty pastel dresses, baskets of goodies. Bunnies. It’s a spring thing. Other traditions inspired but the Ostara celebration of new is spring cleaning, picnics in the park, planting of seeds and the blooming of the early spring bulbs, warmer weather activities in general.


I have never had an Ostara altar, I was not this far along last year. I plan to have pastels, fresh flowers, and remembrances of things like baby animals, and our earth so green and fresh. I will ask for blessings for a prosperous summer and year at this time as I have a lot of plans for this summer to help us and others, bringing us all closer to nature. We are building Hobbit Houses.


Our food will consist of deviled eggs, spinach salad with pecans and blue cheese, eggnog, baked salmon, and asparagus. Early spring foods.


We will have happy music, and enjoy the out doors as much as the weather allows (it can still be somewhat cold here and there is always the chance of rain at which point most of our same festivities will just move in doors).  

Practical exercise:

Create a new seasonal festival to celebrate by yourself or with friends. Consider what is important to you or the place where you live. If you live by the coast, you could create a festival to mark an important event in the fishing world. If you have a favourite animal, you could mark some event in their life cycle (such as the breeding season, the time when their young are born, etc). If you are an avid gardener or brewer, you could mark an event connected to your favourite flower, the grape vines or so forth.

In creating your festival, think about what this seasonal event means to you, where best to hold the event (somewhere directly connected to the event being marked), any associated deities, what sort of things you could do during the ritual to express how important this event is etc.

Keep notes as to what you did and why (and the outcome), so that you can refer back to it in future.


The event that I am going to have and have thought about numerous times over the years is the first warm day celebration. I am not talking Indian summer 55 degree warm and then everyone ends  up sick. I am talking about that first day of warmth in the spring when you walk out into the sun and feel it warm on your skin. That first day when you walk away from the buildings without shivering. 75 degree warm when you know that summer is truly on it’s way.



This will most likely be a personal celebration though of there was someone to celebrate with, that would be great also. It would start, after that first few moments in the sun, with a graceful and excited thank you to the goddess for helping me make it through another cold winter. It will include a picnic outside, near a river or lake if possible. Foods like fruit, breads, salads. Cold meats if you’re a meat eater. Bringing bread pieces to feed the birds. I would find a tree, a tall beautiful old tree and sit beneath it to connect again to the outside world, nature, the beautiful spring life. Planting little flowers below the tree that I chose to sit beneath to bring it even more beautiful then it already is. Giving to the earth to bring even more life to it.



The day would end with green and brown candles being lit, lavender or rose  incense, and flowers and grassed picked that day on the altar. I would thank the lady and lord for my beautiful day, for the beauty of winter and the total beautifulness of spring, and ask for a happy and abundant spring and summer. Later I would give all part of my ritual back to the earth… the candles, and eventually the flowers when it was time to lay them to rest giving them back to her.

Druidry Lesson 7~ Values, Morals and Ideals

Some questions for you to think about:

Are there any actions which you consider to be always bad or immoral? Are there any actions which are always good or desirable?

To me lying and cheating for gain would be something that should always be considered bad or immoral. I also feel that people that do things to others to make them look bad, or make themselves look good should be considered bad and immoral. Doing good for others without harming anyone should always be considered good and desirable along with being honest, helpful. Taking care of business and being trustworthy.

Can you think of ways in which the issue of making compensation might effect your own life... either where you were the victim, or the offender?

To me, the offender making compensation to the victim seems like a wonderful way to handle justice in all except maybe the most severe cases like murder or other cases that could put others in danger. Making someone have to do something for the viftim to compensate would not only teach the offender a lesson, it would be an example for others to not make the same mistake. if thought out, the offenders sentence could also make way in reforming the offender as they learn how and why what they did was bad and maybe learn a better way to handle a particular sitatuion next time.

To what extent do modern people have a responsibility for making justice happen? Is justice now entirely the preserve of the State?

Justice is an interesting thing in our society. The people do have a resposibilty to report things that happen if they are bad enough for the law to cover. There are many instances where this doesn't happen whether it be because the person was afraid, thinks that nothing will be done anyway, or is just embarrased. When we deal with our childrne, in many cases, we as parents are responsilble for dealing out justice. Yes, I do think that for the most part, justice is pretty close to entirely on the state or the government. This keeps vigilanty justice from running rampant. Do I think this is good? Yes, I do. With so many people, allowing individuals to handle justice could create nothing but chaos. I do think, however, that a new way of dealing justice is needed as what we do does not work. People steal over and over again, murders happen constantly. Burgleries, Drunk Driving. So many things that are simply rediculous happen over and over again for whatever reason. People these days do not take responsibility for their own actions. I did it because I'm disabled. She was bad to me first. I didn't mean too, I was drunk. Where justice comes into play, things right now are seriously messed up and out of whack.
Practical exercise:

Think of a situation in which you have deliberately or accidentally wounded another person by depriving them of something ~ health, material possessions, self-confidence, a relationship etc. Try to find a way to compensate them for this loss. If you cannot think of any such situation, then consider the impact you have on the environment and make a gift back to the Land for whatever it is that you have most recently taken from it.

Rather then what the questions asks, as I can not think of any time when I have hurt someone, and taking care of the earth is what I just do as much as I can, I am going to change this project a little listing immoral actions and possible recompensations...

Theft: the theif would of course pay the victim back and also do some kind of work for the victim such as chores for a period of time depending on the seriousness and value of what was stolen.

Adultry: The spouse who cheated should have to appologize to both parties publicly, attend counceling to see who this kind of behavior effects the partner who is the victim, and should have to announce to to community what was done. they will then take nothing with them if the spouse decides to leave.  

Breaking and Entering: The recompensation for this should be similar to what is done for theft accept.

Violence of any kind without death: The victim should be made to work in some kind of victim rehab facility to show him/her what he did and how his/her actions affected those he/she hurt.

Lying about and/or spreading rumors about another person: The liar should have to publically appologize and state why they did what they did, said what they said. Then they should have to work for the person, or someone else, as repayment for what they did. I also think they should have to work in a facility where they help other people who are victims of any kind.

Basically, I feel that people truly do not and need to udnerstand how their actions affect those around them. Even if it's not the person they hurt directly, they need to know.

Hobbit House

Hey everybody! Thank you so much for all of your interest in our project!!! Please, if you are interested, either private message me on facebook (mysical journey) or email me at hobbithouse@mysticscooby.com with your name, phone #, city and state, and number in your house adults/kids. This info is private and will be used only as an interest list as we look for funding for the project, then hopefully, we will be able to contact you to help you build your own hobbit house too. Thanks again for your interest!!!
Journey
 

Hobbit Holes

Wow, I put this on facebook for a day and we have had so much interest. Please really want to live in these. This is so exciting. Found the buiding codes online today and planning to find out where I need to go in Olympia to talk to people, political people, about getting so backing for the project. Some help from someone who knows what they are doing would be amazing as long as I found someone who didn't want to take the idea away from me. Let's see here. Anyone have any advice? Let me know...

Some changes we will have to make I think:

• Here I beleive we have to be hooked up to some kind of electric, even with the solar panels... The great thing about this is this.... Whatever power we do not use, extra from the solar panels, I believe they will have to buy that back from you.... Money in the pocket... The house pays you... Cool!!! Anyway, working on more info about this...
• Septic... These use a compost toilet... That doesn't sound to appealing and not sure it's legal here... Septic is something we are definitely looking into...
• In our area here, a raised floor, just a little. A hole dug underneath, filled with sand and gravel on top with some kind of drainage system (pipes) do drain rain water... We get a lot of rain at times and flooding is a no no.. lol...

I found the original artical I read about these houses and wanted you all to see it here so here's the link. Pretty cool...    http://gaia-health.com/gaia-blog/2011-12-21/man-builds-fairy-tale-home-for-his-family-for-only-3000/

Hobbit Holes

Hobbit Holes

Have you heard about these? There is a guy in Wales built one for his family... You can get plans for them and there is a movement there to build more as they are green... they are self sufficient... solar electricity, wood heat, really quite amazing.

I am just getting started but I am looking for support to build one myself. I plan to put together a paper and apply for a non-profit grant to build 2. It will be myself and my sister. We will build ours as examples and then plan to help others build them as well as low usage green houses for low income people and families. The power companies will not like them but that is part of the glory. They are low cost, the ones in Wales costing about $4000 to build in US dollars. So the cost of the property and then the cost of the materials, most of which are naturally cut and used from the property if possible. Check out the site and support the cause. Would love to see a lot of interst as this could help us get this project off the ground.

Love and light to you all..

Journey

Some key points of the design and construction:

• Dug into hillside for low visual impact and shelter
• Stone and mud from diggings used for retaining walls, foundations etc.
• Frame of oak thinnings (spare wood) from surrounding woodland
• Reciprocal roof rafters are structurally and aesthaetically fantastic and very easy to do
• Straw bales in floor, walls and roof for super-insulation and easy building
• Plastic sheet and mud/turf roof for low impact and ease
• Lime plaster on walls is breathable and low energy to manufacture (compared to cement)
• Reclaimed (scrap) wood for floors and fittings
• Anything you could possibly want is in a rubbish pile somewhere (windows, burner, plumbing, wiring...)
• Woodburner for heating - renewable and locally plentiful
• Flue goes through big stone/plaster lump to retain and slowly release heat
• Fridge is cooled by air coming underground through foundations
• Skylight in roof lets in natural feeling light
• Solar panels for lighting, music and computing
• Water by gravity from nearby spring
• Compost toilet
• Roof water collects in pond for garden etc.

Want To See More?
Plans of the house

How they did it

Why they did it

The family's perspective

The NEW HOUSE we're working on now!

Druidry Lesson 6~ The Structure of Early Gaelic Society

Some questions for you to think about:What do you imagine it would be like living as part of a strongly regulated Clan ~ happy or too restrictive?

I think that there are good points and bad. Right now with US and world economy like it is, I think that they type of life, in many mays, could be preferable. I am educated and love to learn, would probably fit into a higher caste, though would never want to be "royalty". sometime, as I continue to look for work, trying to suuport myself and my family, having some of the basic decisions and or needs taken care of could be good. Also, generally among the regulated clans, the villages worked together for the good of all, for the most part, though in many, this did not include the upper class. Every knew what they did, what was expected of them. They did their part to keep the village going, and thogh the work was hard and there were problems, some of the problems we have today did not exhist. For me, in my life, the idea of restrictive might not be so bad. I have fought for everything I have ever had and ever done. The only thing that I have to show for it is my two wonderful children, and that is a lot. However, right now, because of the job market, because of the bad economy, I have lost everything... again... I have a masters degree and can't find a job, some of it because I have a masters degree. I worked very hard for that, owe a lot of money for that, but still can not find a job or a good way to support my family. A little distburbing.
Is it right to judge people according to their social class? Should everyone have an equal say in society, or should power be the privilege of a few? If power were to be restricted, should the deciding factor be wealth, birth, education, spiritual attainment or some other factor?

I do not feel that socially it is right to judge people based on their social class. I think that there are good people and there are bad people out there and it has nothing to do with social class. People should be judged based on how they treat others. I do believe that everyone should have an equal say in most things and everyones opinions and ideas should be taken seriously. However, I also feel that heirarchy should be based on education, charity, and spiritual attainment. Wealth should never be a factor but I also believe that wealth should be distributed to a point... Educated people with charitable interests hopefully would have enough sense to be able to lead a group, clan, or village in a way that would be good for all involved. Maybe this is a pipe dream, something that fairy tails are made of, but after having to deal directly with our government agencies, watching our politcal battles and elections over the many years in my adult life, I feel that going back to the basics is the only way we will ever pull out of the mess that we are currently in... greed, suffering, and people who take advantage.

Are there any aspects of ancient Celtic society that would benefit the modern world? What aspects do you think we are better off without?

As noted above, I feel that the heirarchy, if handled in the right way, could be good. I also like the idea of each clan or village having it's own leaders and hierarchy. I think that keeping things small like this will better ensure that everyone is cared for. Now, this of course would depend on how the caste worked for each specific clan or tribe... If run right, it could be great and we would not be having many of the problems we are having now with greed, corporations, and the wealthy ruling all.

Practical exercise
If you have access to a camera, get someone to take a photograph of you. Failing that, study yourself in a full-length mirror. Try to objectively assess what you are conveying about yourself. Do your clothes give out some particular message ~ that you do a certain job, like a certain style of music, belong to some subculture etc? Does your choice of clothing, jewellery etc convey any particular message about your financial status? How about your hair style?

I find this to be an intersting question as everyone has always said that I look like a teacher, even years before I became a teacher. My hair style is simple, I wear a lot of long skirts, babydolll style tunic tops, many sandals... Intersting concept. Some call me a hippy though that is really not me... I am clean, hee hee. I call myself educated country... with a witchy side to me that can be seen in my many gem stone jewelry pieces, the pendulum that is always with me. Most see me as spiritual... they all guess that I am a teacher, though I am not "teaching" at the moment as I can't find a job, and kids will always pick me out of a crowd, especially those who have been abused and/or neglected.

People figure I listen to country music... rarely... ugh! My financial status... Well, yes, kind of... teacher... very little money, though when teaching, i feel rich. The clothers are not "in style", they are me. My car is a 99 Honda which I love... The only thing I really have that shows "wealth" is my technology and I am a total nerd... and not just at heart. Lol... I have my laptop... xbox 360, flat screen TV, all before I lost my last job... What can I say.


Do you have any tattoos visible to the casual observer? No, I do not. Not a big fan of pain. If so, what do these say about you?

What messages does your actual body convey, such as in terms of your diet, exercise regime, use of sun-beds or exotic holidays etc? 
I am heavy, it's been a long hard life. I am, however, loosing weight. While my body language shows confidence when I am talking about my store or my spirituality... However, the weight says that I over eat when depressed, when over the years has been a lot... Low self esteem.. Kids ~ Mom... Takes care of everyone... That is what people see in me.

If you have a friend that you are studying this course with, compere notes. What do you read into each others appearance? What do you interpret by each others walk, mannerisms, accent, speech patterns etc? 
I am solitary

Though we no longer live in the type of tribes that existed 2000 years ago, our whole appearance and manner conveys endless subtle cues about our self-confidence, education, career, marital status, nationality, religion etc. Some of these cues are things we conscious try to impress upon other people, whilst other cues we probably have no idea we are giving off. What is your appearance telling other people about your place in the modern “tribe”?

I think i covered this but will post more after asking a few people this very question!!!