Pagan Forest Magazine July/August 2014 | Page 68

Amanda Pitto

I'm Amanda Pitto, aka Stregamanda. For many years i have been interested in alpine culture & folklore, along with Italian witchcraft. In 2004 I saw my first book published 'Autobiography of an

Italian Witch'. I am also a bellydance instructor. A number of years ago I took part in the basic seminar of the FSS (Foundation for Shamanic Studies) and began studying aspects of Shamanic dance as a healing ritual for the body and soul, also studying all things in common between medioriental dance and the witch's sabbath. My style is orientated toward Gothic bellydance.

I have participated in a number of Italian national tv talk shows regarding Paganism and Witchcraft. I have also given speeches and held seminars at a number of national Wiccan conventions. I am interested in experiencing all neo-pagan cultures, Wicca, Druidism, Shamanism, or whatever I feel can be a positive experience.

More recently I have worked on two editorial projects, that both took shape in 2012: 'The Tales of Magicwoods' a book published by Pagan Pride Italy, and my latest project, 'The Oracle of the Traditional Witch' book with deck of illustrated cards published by Venexia editors in Italy.

In 2013 I decided to move to Ireland for a new adventure, the purchase of a B&B in the beautiful county of Clare. I decided to call my B&B 'Elements Guesthouse', with a clear reference to the magical elements that you just can't miss here on the Emerald isle! This new venture absorbs a lot of my time, but i am dedicating my free time to a new book that i hope to finish soon!

Morrighan Wolf

I am Heather, pen name Morrighan Wolf, as Morrighan is my main deity, and the wolf is my totem animal. I was raised in a strict Irish, Catholic household, and

attended 11 years of parochial schooling, in the great City of Chicago, the entire time questioning, and not receiving answers that suited me, or I deemed adequate. Looking back, I believe I started my journey around the age of 16 years, and was overwhelmed with the amount of information, and paths, types of divination, and differing beliefs. I ultimately was drawn to the Celtic path, as it resonated most with me. I have tried majority of forms of divination, some I still wish to learn more about, and pursue. My personal favorite items are my pendulum, carry it everywhere I go; my Runes (yes, I realize they are Norse); and my numerous Tarot decks. I am an empath, a medium, clairaudient, and a huge fan of philosophy, and learning more of other’s chosen paths. I am honored to be a part of this great undertaking, and look forward to continued learning on this most glorious path.

Love and light.

Morrighan Wolf

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