I did my first ceremonial magick ritual a few weeks ago. I created an amulet to help with a 'smooth and healthy delivery' of my child. I think I spent about 4 or five hours in preparations. Preparations being study, research, and creating the physical amulet.
I used a lot of the material from 'Modern Magick'(MM) as well as 'The Complete Magician's Tables'(CBT).
The ritual itself was modified from one in MM, the magickal symbolism came both from MM and CBT. According to my journal it took 50 min to perform.
I had a good time working on this, and it has at least helped with my own peace of mind.
My wife saw the amount of effort I was putting into working on it, and has found it worthy of actually wearing, though it isn't much to look at. In fact, to her eyes is just looks like a simple black cord with a blue square pouch of fabric sewn shut. She hasn't seen the contents of that small cloth bag, but knows that it must me important so wears it dutifully.