The witches’ brooms of this post are actually deformities in trees, often caused by a fungus. I rather like them, both their appearance and their name, probably because of interests like this. However, none are to be found on the gnarly, wizened hazel trees by the loch.
We have to venture deeper into the wood, and gaze up at the high branches of the birches, for that.
Witches’ Brooms
There they are!
They are often mistaken for nests.
Witches’ Knickers
No witches’ knickers today. And that’s good, as those are just plastic bags caught in trees or on fences, and not photogenic at all.
Historical Novel Society Review
SISTERS has been reviewed for the Historical Novel Society here.
“The setting is ethereal and spellbinding as our main characters walk a fine line between what has been and what is to come. A beautiful tale of ancient wonders and kindred souls.”
Most highlighted bit of the book:
A Witchy Book
Isobell needs to escape. She has to. Her life depends on it.
Taking place mainly in a fictional castle, THE MERMAID AND THE BEAR blends an often overlooked period of history, the Scottish witchcraft accusations, in particular the 1597 Aberdeen witchcraft panic, with a love story.
See the publisher’s press release here
“A delight from end to end…” Undiscovered Scotland
From the Press and Journal: New book by Fraserburgh author highlights horrific extent of witch trials in Scotland
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The Performance: sometimes going home for Christmas is just one huge performance…
When Ariel returns home from dance college, her mother expects her to perform the Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy in a pink, sequined tutu in front of many, many party guests. Ariel adjusts the costume and choreography to expose dark truths about her life, but, as it turns out, this is not the biggest performance of the night…
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Fascinating! I love seeing bare trees highlighted against a setting sun!
I love that sight too.
I didn’t know about witches’ brooms in trees, but speaking of magic and trees, when I see an old, gnarly tree, I sometimes think “that looks like an old wizard”.
Yes, they can appear like an elderly, and magical, human 🙂
I was not familiar with either term and love both of them.
Good names.
Very interesting, Ailish, and the pictures are great. Glad there were no witches’ knickers to spoil your view. Have a good weekend. 🙂
No nasty knickers 🙂
Oooh, those are interesting. I will look for them if ever I stroll through a Scottish forest.
🙂
Witches knickers! Love it!
It is a good term!
We get witches brooms here in New Bern, North Carolina. I thought they were actually mistletoe. Thanks for adding to my folklore knowlege.
Interesting to know that they’re widespread.
I chuckled at witches’ knickers! We definitely have those in the city.
A good term for an unfortunate thing 🙂
Amazing❤
Cool