Book Launch at Tintagel – March 2024

The twelfth of March was an auspicious day when the second part of my life journey was released. It takes a huge amount of time and effort from an author as well as their publishing company to produce a book. When the day of completion eventually arrives it feels rather surreal!

I was delighted that Blake and Wycke Malliway from Crossed Crow Books were in the area from Chicago and arranged to join me for this event.

Their excitable energy and infectious smiles lift the spirits of those around them. It is a pleasure to be in their company.

Lorna who owns the Healing Star in Penzance has been a constant support, providing books and some of her stock at the events.

A delightful group arrived at the Wooton Inn on yet another wet and windy day.

One in particular, was the person who invited me to a new development circle twenty-eight years ago when I attended my first psychic workshop.

It was the first time I attended a spiritualist church. I mention her in my first book and was delighted when she moved to Cornwall. It was wonderful to have her there with me.

Others who attended have become good friends over the years and I appreciate their genuine support.

Speaking about my journey and the books I have published flows easily, as I do not see it as a formal talk, it feels more like an informal ‘chat’, encouraging the group to ask questions and make comments whenever they wish.

Cassandra sat nearby and said that I did splendidly and that she is proud of me. I am grateful for her constant support throughout the last fifteen years.

After a wonderful afternoon, Blake and Wycke wined and dined Cassandra and I at the Tintagel Brewery Bistro. An evening full of fun and intriguing conversation.

So there you have it, both books are now published. What an exciting journey it has been!

Both book are available from Crossed Crow Books, the Healing Star and Amazon.

March 18, 2024 0

Tenth Anniversary as Village Wisewoman

Spring Equinox 2020 marks the tenth anniversary since Cassandra Latham Jones handed over her business of Village Wisewoman to me.

I previously worked as a qualified holistic therapist and was accustomed to dealing with clients. When providing alternative therapies however, clients are dealt with in a different way.

Consultations providing guidance can be similar to counselling (in which I now have a Diploma) as clients contact us about life’s dilemmas. We discuss appropriate methods and provide guidance that could assist them with their problems.

Cassandra has a unique way of working and has built a good reputation, a tough act to follow for anyone who takes on her work. I was a resident of Cornwall for only ten months before I embarked on these pursuits. Although the community did not know me well, I had adequate experience to provide the services required. As time passed, I settled into the village community and frequented our local Inn, attended some church services and village events. I am also a musician and ‘Oss Teazer at local folk festivals.

In a short period of time I developed and organised a correspondence system for dealing with clients creating a selection of email folders for: inquiries, readings, distant readings, spells, charms, rites of passage, feedback, property cleansings, and wart charming as well as Wisewomen walks and workshops. Explaining to a client the list of items required for services we provide has become routine now and I converse with the confidence that comes with experience.

Cassandra taught me the best way to handle business accounts and it’s not a difficult task with a small business. I admire her for managing her own accounts throughout the years as she has ‘dyscalculia’. It was less of a problem for me as I am good with numbers and now modern technology lessens the burden of mathematics.

I understand why a ‘code of ethics’ is necessary as it is not good practice to cast spells for clients who desire to influence others against their will. These spells can have huge repercussions and I have witnessed the consequences some individuals have suffered after casting spells for selfish reasons or sending curses.

Learning the process of creating charms has been an enjoyable aspect of my work and is reminiscent of past interests with cross-stitch embroidery and crochet skills during my childhood and adolescence. I am also skilled in intricate needlework and the corresponding ingredients for each charm continues to fascinate me as each charm is unique for each client. For example, when I construct two fertility charms neither is identical in appearance or contents.

Another aspect where needlework skills come to the fore is the creation of clothes for hearth dolls. This inspired me to create more clothing for other dolls that have uncanny likenesses to the images they represent. Cassandra has said that my work with dolls is one of my outstanding talents.

I have witnessed many Tarot readings and know Cassandra’s Tarot cards well. I am able to provide readings with an identical deck if she were unable to do so. The psychic impressions and messages I receive during a consultation before the tarot spread is laid out, are then confirmed by her readings. Our distant readings for clients are extremely accurate and this has enabled us to provide guidance for clients globally.

The Handfastings we provide are wonderful occasions. We have been Celebrants at wondrous sacred sites and unusual venues. My past ceremonial training comes to the fore when setting up a sacred space although the words that I use have changed, providing a deeper connection to the ancient land around us.

We prefer that a couple to have had a relationship for at least a year before taking this important step. Some were legally married a considerable length of time and wished to renew their vows. Others have a spiritual ceremony with us and also visit a registry office before or after the ceremony if they require a legal contract.

I would love to experience more of these occasions on beaches or by the sea which in my opinion, adds to the romance.

Our property cleansings are quite an adventure, from modern houses to period properties, cottages, hotels and public houses. The history and varied lives people once led can leave residual energies that penetrate the foundations of buildings. These can affect properties in startling ways. The spirits of deceased owners can form an attachment with their former properties and find it difficult to leave them to others. Some spirits are harmless and the present occupiers are comfortable with their presence, however there are those that cause problems and clients need help in moving them on.

I have experienced on many occasions the remarkable difference of energy and atmosphere within a property after cleansing when re-visiting them.

Image – John Isaac

Spell casting is an exciting aspect of our work, particularly when a specific time is set for a client to work along with the practitioner. There have been occasions when the required result has occurred within 24 hours and for others, a period of time has passed before reaching a successful outcome. Throughout this past year I have worked with one particular client casting many spells for an ongoing legal case and each spell produced a successful outcome for each stage of the process.

Our workshops have been successful. Attendees are intrigued by the work we do and enjoy spending time with us to experience this.

We have met some wonderful individuals and had many fascinating discussions. It is heartening to hear feedback on how these experiences have changed their lives in a positive way.

I have learnt more information on our ‘Walks with Wisewomen’ as Cassandra repeats the folklore and stories of various sites on each occasion. She is delighted with the way our work has become ‘second nature’ to me. It is not an easy path and I have been severely tested throughout the years. Cassandra is also pleased with the way I advertise and network to reach more people who need assistance and the business has grown considerably compared to when she worked alone.

So there you have it…..ten years of organisation and work within the business of Village Wisewoman. It is so important to have an occupation one enjoys that does not lose its fascination!

I thank Cassandra for her patience and tuition over the last eleven years. Her methods are often unorthodox and there were times I did not understand them, or how it would benefit me, until I put this tuition into action. This scene from the movie Karate Kid is a good example of what I am referring to:

I look forward to the next ten years, becoming older and wiser as I continue our work of assisting the community!

Image – John Isaac

March 20, 2020 2

Folk Craft Workshop at MWM, Boscastle 2019

Cassandra and I hosted a Folk Magic workshop at the Museum of Witchcraft and Magic as Simon Costin had suggested it. Cassandra’s book Village Witch is stocked within the Museum retail outlet, therefore a workshop provided readers with more information on the subject. They could interact and ask Cassandra any questions in person.

It was a glorious warm sunny day when we arrived. Simon had other commitments that day but Fergus was around if we needed assistance. It was good to catch up with Judith Noble who was overseeing the Artists Residency event that day.

We had 18 attendees, each were either on their own individual spiritual path or not actively practicing but curious about the Folk/Cunning Craft.

Cassandra has years of experience in her Craft and good rapport with her audience. She works from an outline of subjects so the talk is more spontaneous and interesting for her listeners.

Cassandra is ‘down to earth’ with humorous moments that keep the audience entertained. It also helps to lift the atmosphere when discussing more serious aspects of the Craft.

After two hours of discussion, we had a lunch break, enjoying the warm sunshine and sea air.

The group returned to the Museum after lunch and Cassandra guided them on a hedgerow walk near Minster Woodland to harvest wild greenery for their witch bottles. I remained in the library updating our business accounts and searching for the video Cassandra planned to show the group in the afternoon session.

On their return, the subject of spell casting and energy raising was discussed. The following video is an example of how working women used chants, while engaging in repetitive work. This helped with accurate timing of movements and also creates a bond between all workers. One member of our group made an interesting comment about the singing, as it would become apparent if a worker grew weary, meaning that they could either take a break or slow down.

The group then moved their chairs to form a large circle and we placed all ingredients for witch bottles into the centre of the space. They could help themselves to the ingredients that they required. I suggested that they began by holding their jar or bottle for a few minutes while connecting with the spirits and ancestors for assistance.

There were many conversations and also sharing of greenery as they all filled their receptacles. We explained that they would need to take them home to add a personal bodily fluid of their choice. When that is done they seal the jar or bottle by placing a real wax candle on the lid so the wax drips down over the seal. It can also be done by binding with twine before sealing with wax, or a modern method of adhesive tape (although we do not recommend the use of plastic.)

A few members of the group visited the Museum retail outlet and purchased Cassandra’s book Village Witch. They asked her to sign them.

When the workshop was complete and everything was returned to its place, I took another opportunity to sit upon the fabulous Gothic chair in the library. It once belonged to ‘Old Horny’ the goat God who now stands tall within the Museum.

We would like to thank the Museum of Witchcraft and Magic for inviting us to host this workshop and all who attended it for being such a wonderful supportive group. I’m sure we will be seeing you again.

Feedback:

“Had an absolute fantastic time at Cassandra and Laetitia Latham Jones’ Workshop at the Museum of Witchcraft and Magic today. Learned so much, had a lot of laughs and discussions – it was total ‘amazeballs’! They truly are amazing and inspirational. Thank you both for such an awesome day of magick! Blessed be. xx” E.G.

“It was a fun, interesting and informative day. Cassandra is as entertaining as she is knowledgeable. Thank you both” C.M.

Wonderfully informative with humour and what a fabulous turn out! Cant wait to attend another one” M.E.

“We attended this first workshop and it was amazing, great people and great vibes, thank you everyone see you again!” M.H.

“Wonderful inspiring day with you all. Thank you Cassandra and Laetitia.” K.H.

“What a Wonderful day with beautiful people. Can’t wait to go back to Boscastle to go walking in minster woods. Thank you Cass and Laetitia for a day of knowledge and learning. Xx” P.O.

“We had a wonderful day lovely people and a great feel here yesterday x”

“I really loved it and look forward to the next one. Xxx💜xxX” G.W.

“I loved every moment of and loved the walk to collect wild flowers.” S.H.

“Can’t wait for the next one! Thank you Cassandra and Laetitia. Many new things heard and learnt. It felt very special. I’m only beginning to feel my way around ” spirit” but excited for the journey. Hope to see you all again soon.” C.D.

September 8, 2019 0

Ten Years in Cornwall

The 12th June 2018 marked the 10th anniversary of my move to Cornwall. The life I visualised here is completely different to the one I now have.

Living near the sea, you discover the elements of rain, wind and storms intensify. Cornwall may not be as cold as other parts of the UK (although our last winter was a harsh one) and frosts occur less here. The cost of living is rising everywhere, but in tourist areas, prices also rise during the holiday seasons and tourists pay the higher prices for the short time they are here, however residents are required to pay these high prices throughout the season. Work opportunities increase during the summer, but lessen in the winter when the cold weather means an increase in utility bills.

Taking a vacation in Cornwall is easier than living here. During a vacation you have free time to visit beaches and places of interest, but when one is trying to earn a living and survive, pleasure visits to beaches or sites rarely occur.

On a positive note I have enjoyed my work as Wisewoman throughout the last 9 years and learnt so much from Cassandra Latham Jones throughout this fascinating and testing journey. Working with the land and sea with their powerful unpredictable energies has been challenging as tests from the ‘powers that be’ are severe with obstacles constantly placed in one’s path. It takes strength of character and determination to overcome these and continue………the spirits test you as if to say ……..”how much do you want this???” Cassandra admits she has been tough with me throughout this time and admires my tenacity. She also revealed that others in the past who desired to learn from her were unable to withstand the tough tests and tasks it entailed.

My experience and training in ceremonial magic while in Kent has been useful for conducting Rites of Passage. Cassandra is happy to leave what she refers to as ‘arm waving’ to me when setting up a sacred space for ceremonies.

The consultations we provide together work well, the moment just before a reading while Cassandra connects with a client’s energies, I ‘tune in’ to spirit presences around them. While Cassandra shuffles the Tarot cards I provide the client with a description of a presence and any messages they may wish to pass on. Cassandra then lays out the Tarot spread and on many occasions the same message has also appeared within the cards giving the client double confirmation. I have witnessed many readings over the years and know her cards well. I now own an identical Tarot deck and am able to provide readings.

Property cleansing needs a huge amount of work, particularly when they have been inhabited by a variety of residents over time,(more-so with period properties). The energies from traumatic events are absorbed within the foundation and walls of these buildings and can have a profound effect on future residents. In hotels and drinking establishments often referred to as Inns the energies intensify and can affect the smooth running of businesses. We have had many successful outcomes from this work.

Curse breaking is another intense area of our work. Many clients consult us about this and Cassandra has a unique and powerful method for dealing with it that she has passed on to me.

Wart charming is a service that at first I was rather sceptical of, it was difficult to understand how it could possibly work. Even now I cannot explain it but have witnessed the success of this process with clients.

I have constructed many charms over the years and had a high success rate with fertility charms in particular. It delights me to think I have assisted in creating new lives and brought happiness to prospective parents.

I continue to provide Holistic Services and have taught Reiki courses a system that is of great benefit to students. The original practice of Reiki is more about spiritual and emotional development of the person rather than a complementary healing therapy. I have assisted a wide range of clients with Reiki including the terminally ill and it has helped owners of pets and those who work with stressed animals.

My Crisis and Trauma counselling services have also come to the fore as often clients are affected by religious cults and childhood abuse. They do not realize how past trauma can affect their everyday lives as adults, even though it happened long ago. Tis counselling service also helps those with bereavements, divorce, family issues and mental/physical health problems.

Walks with Wisewomen was also an enjoyable aspect of our work as it enables us to visit and enjoy the sites with our clients. I have, over time learnt the folklore associated with them by listening to Cassandra repeating the information on each visit. We also find out more about our clients as we converse with them while walking to and from the sites. (We no longer provide this service).

Our: ‘Old Ways’ workshops have been successful during the last few years. I suggested hosting them and Cassandra was at first a little reticent, but as we had many inquiries about them, she agreed to try. The workshops have gone from strength to strength covering five subjects. We have met some fabulous people who experienced some extraordinary occurrences while they were with us. The preparation and workshops themselves are hard work but also energizing and satisfying on a deeper level.

I have learnt a great deal while living here and the main lesson is that life is indeed unpredictable. One can plan for the future to a certain extent but unforeseen circumstances can create sudden changes that can have incredible impact with positive or negative outcomes.

I have also learnt that being successful in work and within a community brings rivalries, competitiveness and jealousy from some, who will then project dissatisfaction with themselves onto another. When a person experiences this level of pettiness it is vital to remember that these people, by their treatment of you, are validating how exceptionally good you are. If you were not successful or talented, negative people would not bother with you. When a person moves into a new community, they are on ‘foreign territory’ and therefore vulnerable to predators and bullies. I have also met, genuine good-hearted people within the community who will do what they can to assist and support you, especially if they were once in this position.

Cassandra Latham Jones falls into this category and has helped me in so many ways.

I have integrated socially by attending festivals and utilising my talents as musician and dancer. The residents of St Buryan village have been particularly welcoming and now treat me as part of their community.

My time here has been a catalyst for new ideas as Cassandra and I, along with my son, formed our: Guise team Boekka featuring Penkevyll the Lands End ‘Oss. Our team has performed since 2010 and we have added Morvargh my Dark Sea ‘Oss. To top it all, my idea of Cassandra, myself and Penkevyll the ‘Oss, meeting Phil and Vivien Larcher with their Welsh Mari Lwyd in Boscastle on Samhain 2014, has grown into a fantastic event entitled: The Dark Gathering!

Now that I have lived in Cornwall since 2008, I am no longer a ‘newbie’. The local community has witnessed how difficult it has been and the obstacles that I have overcome. I am sure certain individuals would not have withstood or endured a fraction of what they have directed my way, but that is par for the course. The positives I have experienced far outweigh the negatives and I am still here…….

June 14, 2018 4

Swiss Sea Enchantment and Divination Workshop

Our 2017 spring and summer Old Ways Workshops began with one for twelve Swiss Pagans. We were unable to invite them all in Cassandra’s tiny cottage, so we hired the St Buryan village hall.

Wicca, a lovely woman who runs the: Swiss Museum of Witchcraft, arranged for her group to meet with us and translated the relevant information. Cassandra gave a talk on her life and work as a Wisewoman and I spoke about sea spirits, mermaid legends, elemental work and uses for seaweed, sand and other materials found on beaches. I also explained magical properties of various sea shells, sea beans and mermaids purses.

Cassandra was asked to construct a few protection charms for the group to purchase at their workshop.

After allowing time for questions after the talks, we provided materials for them to construct personal charms. The unique designs they created and type of material they chose told us something about their individual personalities.

After blessing the charms we visited Boscawen-un Stone Circle to activate them with meditation and raising energy by dancing to the beat of a drum.

We visited Sennen Beach and watched the deep red sun in the sky as it descended over the sea. The group members live inland and rarely get an opportunity to experience wonderful energies from the sea in Switzerland.

Cassandra built a fire and we sat around it while discussing local folklore.

We sang chants by the shore to invoke the sea spirits and raise energy for casting spells with sea shells. We then returned to the fire for Cornish blackberry mead and saffron cake.

It was a wonderful workshop with a group of fabulous people. Despite the difference in language, our love of the Old Craft deeply connected us all.

April 19, 2017 3

Memories of Past Workshops 2014 – 2023

Cassandra and I have decided to move on from providing yearly ‘in person’ workshops as we have done them for the past nine years. Here are some memorable photographs of them….

2014