Waning Gibbous Moon moves into Scorpio

"I'm one with the Goddess
and open to Her Wisdom."


17th Day of the 4th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Gaia
Lunar Tree Cycle ~ Fearn/Alder
14th Day of the Celtic Tree Month ~Fearn/Alder
Moon Phase: waning Gibbous
Moon sets: 7:30AM EDST
Moon rises: 10:08PM EDST
Moon in Libra v/c 8:13AM EDST
Moon enters the Fixed Water Sign
of Scorpio at 8:41AM EDST
Rhiannon's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The release of
forgiveness
Sun in Aries
Sunrise: 7:06AM EDST
Sunset: 7:42PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "What
needs to restored and appreciated?"
Imbolc (Gwyl Mair) Quarter of the Year
March 31st, 2010

   Witch Names

    Many people like to take a magickal or Witch name when they enter the Craft. This is thought to originate from the time when Witches were persecuted, and it would have been safer if people could not give real names to the authorities.  But there is doubt about this being true.  People would have known each other anyway.  The belief that knowing someone's true name will give you more power over them is far more widespread  and vastly predates the Witch Hunts. Many Witches feel that the giving or taking of a Craft name reflects the feeling that they are starting afresh, almost as a new person. In some traditions the Witch name is given as part of the second degree Initiation Ritual; in others it is a separate Rite. In some traditions a person may select their own name, and in others the name is chosen for them. Many Solitary Witches also take a name of their choice, not to be confused in these days of the internet with a pen or e-mail name.

   While there are no rules on the selection of a Witch name there are some fairly guidelines. Read up on your chosen name, as some deities, heroes, or heroines demonstrate attributes you may not wish to invite into your life. For the sake of everyone's sanity, choose something spell-able and prononouceable. Try not to select one of the may over-used names. And lastly, it is considered self-aggrandisement to take the name of one of the 'major' Goddesses or Gods, such as Isis or Herne.
[From: "The Witches' Real Year" by Kate West]

After the Full Moon

I'm one with the Goddess
and open to Her Wisdom."

16th Day of the 4th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Gaia
Lunar Tree Cycle ~ Fearn/Alder
13th Day of the Celtic Tree Month ~ Fearn/Alder
Moon Phase: Full starting to wane
Moon sets: 6:57AM EDST
Moon rises: 8:53PM EDST
Moon in the Cardinal Air Sign
of Libra
Rhinannon's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The gift of grace.
Sun in Aries
Sunrise: 7:07AM EDST
Sunset: 7:41PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "Are
you allowing spontaneity into your life?"
Imbolc (Gwyl Mair) Quarter of the Year
March 30th, 2010


    I always think of these days after a full moon as being when the song "The Party's Over" drifts through my mind.  So what does happen if you happen to miss honoring or observing the Full Moon last night?  Actually you can tap into the Full Moon's energy for three days - the day before, the actual day and the day after.  But of course the power of that energy will be different for each day.  Actually connecting with the Moon as it becomes full at its peak time is the best to really gain powerful energy.
For this Full Moon that was last night at 10:27PM (give or take a minute or two either way).  I was moaning about not being able to see the Full Moon at its peak the other day because of expected cloudy, rainy weather, but like a miracle in itself the cloud cleared pretty much and the moon shone beautifully at the right moment.  It was lovely to see and I could feel the vibrations come from it.  This morning while walking my dog early (aroun 5:15AM) the moon was truly bright and it made it seem like almost
daylight.  The air was rather balmy considering the time of the year and I did a small drawing down the moon rite then.  Then I came inside, lit another white candle and some incense and placed them in an upstairs window where the moon was shining in. 

    So here it is Tiu's Day - after this connecting with the Full Moon I feel like I can appreciate a day of Activity and Physicality, Passion and Desire.  The sky is still clear and the sunrise has been beautiful. The birds are making their conversations outside and air coming in my open window isn't too cold.  While many if my rites are conducted in silence with my thoughts doing the communicating, I do feel I should be paying more attention to speaking words outloud.  This could be a goal for me to work on during the waning days of this lunar cycle. 

Full Moon tomorrow

"I'm one with the Goddess
and open to Her Wisdom."

14th Day of the 4th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Gaia
Lunar Tree Cycle ~ Fearn/Alder
11th Day of the Celtic Tree Month ~ Fearn/Alder
Moon Phase: Gibbous
Moon sets: 5:59AM EDST
Moon rises: 6:23PM EDST
Moon in the Mutable Earth
Sign of Virgo
Rhiannon's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The inhertiance
of your blood.
Sun in Aries
Sunrise: 7:11AM EDST
Sunset: 7:39PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "Where is
the Spring in your life?"
Imbolc (Gwyl Mair) Quarter of the Year
March 28th, 2010

    There are Major magickal energies today for Health and Healing spells and rites.  The moon being in the sign of Virgo can a little boost to your workings on these issues.  Also today - Sun Day - is a day of Intent, Creation and Renewal, so use these daily energies to add to your rites.  For instance, how about a spell or rite for a Renewal of Health/Healing...

Making Magickal Candle Holders

   Making your own candle holders is relatively inexpensive and this technique can be used to create magickally enhanced one specific to your spell. You will need to buy some modelling clay which dries in the air or the oven, rather than the kind requires a kiln. This is usually available from art shope and even some toy stores. You will also need a flat surface or baking tray if your clay is oven bake, covered with some aluminium foil. For each candle break a lump about the size of an egg and roll it into a ball between your palms. Place it onto the foil firmly, so that it flattens on the base. Push your candle into the center of the top to create a hole which is exactly the right size for your candle, removing the candle immediately.

    At this point you can decorate the holder with symbols to represent the person you are working for, perhaps their Sun Sign, initials or even a sketch of them; symbols representing the nature of the spell; leaves and flowers for fertility; a book to represent successful study, and so on. Cocktail sticks are use for making fine lines in the still moist clay. If the clay is air drying you could also press into it gemstones, feathers, leaves, or seeds with the appropriate attributions to enhance a spell.  Once the clay has been dried, following the instructio9ns on the packet, you can paint your holder and perhaps even glue further additions on to it.

"Never say you can't, if you haven't tried."

[From: "The Real Witches' Year" by Kate West]

Tomorrow's Full Moon which happens at 10:25PM EDST, is the First Wishing Moon of this year.  A Wishing Moon is on a Full Moon closest to the sabbats. They are occasions for planning the goals of the comming quarter and assessing the results of the quarter past. ["Seasons of the Witch Primer"].. This Full Moon is in the Cardinal Air Sign of Libra.  With the weather system moving through my area I more than likely won't be able to see the Full Moon in the sky so I will be using visualization techniques to see the moon in my mind and I will probably add a visual image of the moon to my observances of the Full Moon.

Gibbous moon moves into the Mutable Earth sign of Virgo

"I'm one with the Goddess
and open to Her Wisdom."

13th Day of the 4th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Gaia
Lunar Tree Cycle ~ Fearn/Alder
10th Day of the Celtic Tree Month ~ Fearn/Alder
Moon Phase: Gibbous
Moon sets: 5:30AM EDST
Moon rises: 5:08PM EDST
Moon in Leo v/c 4:35AM EDST
Moon enters the Mutable Earth Sign
of Virgo at 6:57AM EDST
Rhiannon's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The invitation sent by
your dreams.
Sun in Aries
Sunrise: 7:12AM EDST
Sunset: 7:38PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "What new
influences are trying to come into your life?
Imbolc (Gwyl Mair) Quarter of the Year
March 27th, 2008

     There are Major magickal energies for dealing with spells and rites of Protection. Being that this is Saturn's Day, a day of Manifestation and Structure, Assessment and Responsibility - keep this aspects in mind when creating Protection for yourself or others.

    The Moon has moved into the Mutable Earth Sign of Virgo - the key word for which is "I analyze". This fits into the energies of the Gibbous Moon phase... which has a keyword of 'analyze.' After strutting our stuff in being drama queens during the Leo moon transit, we now are feeling the need for practicality, organization, cleaning up our diet and/or house, healing our body and maybe even offering healing to others and generally attending to loose ends.  Saturn's day is a good day for that. This is a time for taking responsibility and cleaning up the messes we've been leaving. Housecleaning is a good way to work our way through a Virgo transit - ah, yes, Spring cleaning.  During a Virgo Moon, women are mentally active but there is a tendency to excessive criticism both of oneself and others.  Emotionally it is an inward time, when we can reflect on personal relationships.  Don't be too harsh with yourself during this transit. 

Cobwebs

    Now here is a good subject for this housecleaning moon transit -

  Picture a traditional Witch's cottage and the chances are that you will imagine cobwebs. Now, this could be because the folklore image of the Witch is as a poor old woman, possibly no longer able to clean her home.  But I like to think it may have something to do with the uses of cobwebs, for not only are they brilliant works of art and nature's highly efficient fly traps, they have been used in healing and in healing magick.

  Even when I was a child it was common to be told to place a clean (i.e. not dusty) cobweb over a cut or bleeding wound to help stop the bleeding, and if the wound is not too deep it will work. It use to be said that, for every cobweb you see on waking, you will receive a kiss that day. But if you find one across your door it indicates that your love is with another. Cobwebs in the kitchen are said to indicate a house without kisses. If you can collect a cobweb with dew on it, with breaking it, place in on a dish of water to attract love into your life. Cobwebs are frequently used in spells to promote communication, perhaps after a disagreement. Name two objects after the 'warring' parties and wrap them in a cobweb. Place in the light of the Sun for 7 days.

  Note that it is unlucky to kill a spider or to disrube it on its web, but it is permitted to removed old, or unoccupied webs.

"Remember,

the housework will always keep."

[From: "The Witches' Real Year" by Kate West]

Gibbous Moon Phase

"I'm one with the Goddess
and open to Her Wisdom."

12th Day of the 4th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Hera
Lunar Tree Cycle ~ Fearn/Alder
9th Day of the Celtic Tree Month ~ Fearn/Alder
Moon Phase: Gibbous - 4:26PM EDST
Moon sets: 4:58AM EDST
Moon rises: 3:52PM EDST
Moon in the Fixed Fire Sign
of Leo
Rhiannon's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The compassion
of memory
Sun in Aries
Sunrise: 7:14AM EDST
Sunset: 7:37PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "How does your present
way of life need to change?"
Imbolc (Gwyl Mair) Quarter of the Year
March 26th, 2010


Gibbous Moon Phase

Keywords for the Gibbous phase are: analyze, prepare, trust. It is the time in a lunar cycle to process the results of the actions taken during the First Quarter. During this phase you are gathering information. Give up making judgments, it will only lead to worry. Your knowledge is incomplete. Laugh. Analyze and filter. LOOK WITHIN

Today there Major magtickal energies for Romance - ah, Freya's Day - how appropriate.  There are minor magickal energies to resolve quarrels with friends/lovers.  So on Freya's Day - Venus Day - remember it is a day of Sharing and Relationships.  The Gibbous Moon is in the Fixed Fire Sign of Leo so there will be feelings of the dramatic, especially concerning emotions.  This might influence any resolving you might have in mind with friends or lover.  Leo's firey energies brings us the feeling of wanting to the center of attention and also feelings of exuberance and vitality.  Spring is blossoming outside and this can also increase our reactions to Leo's energy.

Cleansing Objects

   All the things we use in our Craft and magick shyould be cleansed before use, because unless we only gather them from nature, they will have been in contact with others. Other people leave traces of their thoughts and feelings on the things they touch and this unwanted psychic energy may interfere with the magick or spells we intend to use them for. The only exception to this is when you have been given something by a Witch in whom you have absoute confidence and trust. There are several ways of cleansing objects, and a little thought will tell you which method is best for which item.
    Probably the most useful way way of cleansing something is to place it overnight in the light of the Full Moon. (Full Moon coming up on the 29th, next Monday - Moon Day)  While the direct light of the Moon is preferable, you do need to ensure that your obejct will not be taken, moved by animals, or fall off an external windowsill. Using moonlight has the advantage of empowering the objects it touches too.
    Waterproof objects can be cleaned by holding them under running water for 5 to 10 minutes. If you have access, a stream is best, otherwise under a tap is fine. In either case you need to be sure that small items cannot be washed away and lost.
    Where running water is not suitable and you really cannot wait for the Full Moon, then draw a Pentagram with salt in one fluid line (you may need to practice). Place the item in the center overnight. In the morning dispose of the salt which will have absorbed all extraneous energies.
[From: "The Real Witches' Year" by Kate West]

This is a Magick Wednesday

"I'm one with the Goddess
and open to Her Wisdom."

10th Day of the 4th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Hera
Lunar Tree Cycle ~ Fearn/Alder
7th Day of the Celtic Tree Month ~ Fearn/Alder
Moon Phase; Waxing Half
Moon sets: 3:41AM EDST
Moon rises: 1:22PM EDST
Moon in the Cardinal Water
Sign of Cancer
Rhiannon's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The vista through
the window of imagination.
Sun in Aries
Sunrise: 7:17AM EDST
Sunset: 7:35PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "What mutual burdens
can you lift from other's backs?"
Imbolc (Gwyl Mair) Quarter of the Year
March 24th, 2010

     There are Major magickal energies for Magick today!!  These also include minor magical energies for Divination and Elementa Magick.

 "Magick Wednesday. do not fear

for my schedule I will clear.

I'll draw a Circle round times three

and raise the Force inside of me.

[From Seasons of the Witch date book]

The Magician's Rules

    Here are the four precepts to magickal working:

1. To Know: This does not just mean knowing the methods, correspondances, ways of raising power and directing intent. It also means to know yourself, what you intend and what you might, subconsciously intend. For not truly understanding your inner feelings and motivations, may affect your magick.

2. To Dare: You must not only be prepared to do this thing, but you must know that it will happen. You must also be prepared to take this step confidently. Everything you do has the possibility of going wrong or misfiring. So do you dare? Any doubts, don't do it!

3. To Will: "Will" is again not just hoping, or wishing, it is using your will-power, your personal energy, to actually force it into being. Imagine the person you most love about to come to harm - the 'will' you put into your magick should be as strong as the 'no' you would scream.

4. To Keep Silent: Probably the hardest of all, this means exactly what it says: keep silent. Consider this: when you are upset, your talk to your friends, and your upset begins to subside. In magic the same is true - as your feelings fade the more you talk about it, so does the energy put in. Moreover, the more people you tell, the more likely you are find someone who has doubts about your spell, which will dilute your energy flow.

"Witchcraft is not about gaining power,

it's about knowing when and how to use it."

[From: Kate West's "The Real Witches' Year"]

Moon enters the First Quarter phase

"I'm one with the Goddess
and open to Her Wisdom."

9th Day of the 4th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Kore
Lunar Tree Cycle ~ Fearn/Alder
6th Day of the Celtic Tree Month ~ Fearn/Alder
Moon Phase: First Quarter - 7:00AM EDST
Moon sets: 2:52AM EDST
Moon rises: 12:12PM EDST
Moon enters the Cardinal Water Sign
of Cancer 2:16AM EDST
Rhiannon's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The blessing of fire.
Sun in Aries
Sunrise: 7:19AM EDST
Sunset: 7:34PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "What memories
do you most appreciate?"
Imbolc (Gwyl Mair) Quarter of the Year
March 23rd., 2010

   First Quarter

Keywords for the First Quarter phase are: action, expression, growth, breaking away.  It is the time in a lunar cycle to take initial action necessary to achieve your goal by expressing your needs and desires. FEEL & MOVE. Make phone calls. Write letters. Dance. Act now.

Working With First Quarter Energies

   It's perfectly okay to work ritual on this part of the moon's cycle, but often it's better to use the special power of the first quarter to review work already in progress, or to gain insights into the way spells are unfolding.  If you are lighting a spell candle daily, pause in the process of igniting the wick and tune in to know how the spell is forming. Does the energy feel right? Do any new factors occur to you that might improve the end result: for example, you may gain a sudden feeling about the way the goal should manifest, or some details may become clearer and would profit from added visualization. Another beneficial use for the first quarter is to quietly go within in contemplation or meditation and see what needs to be done when the full moon arrives, what magick might be appropriate then, or which areas of your life could benefit from focus and attention.
   The moon's quarters are not widely used in magick and ritual, and yet they are valuable stations in the cycle when loose ends can be tied up and impetus gathered before entering the next stage.
[excerpts from: "Praise to the Moon" by Elen Hawke]

Today there are minor magickal energies for working rites and spells for warrior energy and courage.
During the waxing moon time in a lunar cycle the lunar power is constantly increasing and so this is an ideal time cast a spell requiring the fulfillment of a request. The waxing moon is for constructive magick, such as love, wealth, success, courage, friendship, luck or health.

Moon Day -Waxing Crescent goes Void of Course

"I'm one with the Goddess
and open to Her Wisdom."

8th Day of the 4th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Kore
Lunar Tree Cycle ~ Fearn/Alder
5th Day of the Celtic Tree Month ~ Fearn/Alder
Moon Phase: waxing Crescent
Moon sets: 1:56AM EDST
Moon rises: 11:08AM EDST
Moon in Gemini v/c 9:48PM EDST
Blodeuwedd's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The welcome of like-souled friends.
Sun in Aries
Sunrise: 7:20AM EDST
Sunrise: 7:33PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "In what areas do you need
to rest and recover?"
Imbolc (Gwyl Mair) Quarter of the Year
March 22nd., 2010

    There are some Major magickal energies for rites and spells for travel and intuition... and there are minor magickal energies for rites regarding domestic power.

   Lakes, Ponds, Streams and Rivers

   Water is one of the five Elements, which are so important to the Craft. Wells, ponds, lakes, springs, streams and rivers were extremely important to o9ur forebears, being seen as gateways to the other-world; places of energy and power; sources of help and assistance and homes of the Goddess.

    As in the story of Excalibur, they would be places where mortals met with those of the other realms. There are several water motifs through the mythology of the Craft. It was thought that a Witch could never cross  running water, although it's never stopped any Witch that I knew!  Also, an 'evil spirit' could not follow over running water, and there are good reasons why anything that tracks using scent or prints will lose its prey if they pass through a stream. In the Craft we often use running water to cleanse objects prior to use, and we know that 'natural waters' are definitely more magickal than the stuff we get through our taps.

   On the domestic side, if you have a pond this is the time to generally make all clean and tidy for the new season of growth. If you haven't done so already, it could be time to think about having the Element of Water in your home or garden. Even if you live in the tiniest apartment you can still have a 'water' garden. Fill an opaque vessel with clean stones and rainwater. Add cuttings of easy-to-grow plants, and a few shells or gemstones.

   "Listen to the sounds of the Elements

for this is the music of the land."

[From: Kate West's "The Real Witches' Year"]

Alder Celtic Tree Month

   The alder tree corresponds to the Ogham letter fearn (fair-n) and whispers to us of our inner teacher or oracle and supports the bridge to our subconscious. Used to make shields and associated with Celtic hero and oracle Bran the Blessed, the alder tree can provide shelter from emotional influences, allowing you to see clearly things that you may have overlooked. You may ask the alder tree for inner spiritual guidance to a question. Fill a glass with water before you go to sleep, holding the glass of water before you, ask yourself the question. Keep a pen and paper handy to record your dream - when you awake, the answer to your question should be revealed.  With your finger, trace the alder/fearn symbol over the glass, and drink the water after you hold it high. Repeat the following verse three times.

"Alder tree, guide of might,

grant me intuition on this night.

Blessed Bran, alders trees kin,

Show to me the sage within."

by Mickie Mueller

[From: "Llewellyn's Witches' Datebook 2010"]

Sun Day - a Day on Intent, Creation and Renewal

"I'm one with the Goddess
and open to Her Wisdom."


7th Day of the 4th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Kore
Lunar Tree Cycle ~ Fearn/Alder
4th Day of the Celtic Tree Month ~ Fearn/Alder
Moon Phase: waxing Crescent
Moon sets: 12:54AM EDST
Moon rises: 10:13AM EDST
Moon in Mutable Air Sign of Gemini
Blodeuwedd's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: A story of your choice
that moves you.
Sun in Aries
Sunrise: 7:22AM EDST
Sunset: 7:32PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "What needs
clarification and what  motivations underlie it?"
Imbolc (Gwyl Mair) Quarter of the Year
March 21st, 2010

    Amulets, Charms, Talismans, Incantations and Spells

If you consult an everyday dictionary these will all apear to have very similar definitions however, in the Craft they are distinctly, if subtly different.
      A Talisman is usually a paper-based spell. It may becarried on the person, in the pocket or wallet, or placed in a special place. It will include pictures or symbols to signify its purpose.
    An Amulet is an object which is worn or carried. It may, may not, have been empowered to promote its natural or inherent properties. Piece of jewellery are frequently used as amulet.
    A Charm is usually more than one object, put together to create a 'carry-able ' spell. Usually these are contained in a cloth bag, pouch, or the like. Again it is worn or carried. People sometimes use the word Charm when they mean Incantation, which a number of words, frequently rhyming, used as a spell to focus and concentrate the energy put in by the practitioner.
    A Chant is a verse, or verses, which are repeated regularly and rhythmatically raise energy which is to be used in magical working.
    A Spell is a specific piece of magickal working to solve a particular problem. While it may involve the creation of one of the above, it might only involve the lighting of a candle or even just the direction of the energy of thought.
[From: "The Real Witches' Year" by Kate West]

Creating a Talisnab for Household Security

   You will need to create a talisman for each of the entrances to your home. Make a circle of stiff golden-colored paper a couple of inches across. In the center, draw a picture of your home and around this draw images of all the people and animals living there with you. Your images don't have to be works of art, but should be recognizable to you. Take this into the Circle and empower it by passing it through the Elements. This gives it energy for its purpose.  Once you have done this, draw a circle in red ink around all the images, close to the outer edge of the paper. Turn the paper over and draw a pentagram on the reverse side, invoking the protection of the Goddess and the God as you do so. Once your Ritual is complete place the talismans over the entrances to your home. It used to be recommended that you bury them under the outside of the doorway, but these days there are few homes where this would be practical.
[From: "The Real Witches' Craft" by Kate West]

Ostara - Sun enter the Sign of Aries

"I'm one with the Goddess
and open to Her Wisdom."

6th Day of the 4th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Artemis
Lunar Tree Cycle ~ Fearn/Alder
3rd Day of the Celtic Tree Month ~ Fearn/Alder
Moon Phase: waxing crescent
Moon sets: 12:15AM EDST
Moon rises: 9:27AM EDST
Moon in Taurus v/c 3:41PM EDST
Moon enters the Mutable Air Sign
of Gemini at 8:28PM EDST
Blodeuwedd's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: Meditate upon truth
Sun enters Aries at 1:32PM EDST
Sunrise: 7:24AM EDST
Sunset: 7:31PM EDST
Spring Equinox/Ostara - 1:32PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "Is your criticism undermining
someone or something?"
Imbolc (Gwyl Mair) Quarter of the Year
March 20th, 2010

The Sun in Aries

    Aries is the first sign of the zodiac and a Fire sign, indicating passion, energy, and creativity. It is also a Cardinal sign, bringing eagerness, the urge to reach out and to take action, but also impatience.
Those born when the Sun is in Aries are usually energetic, assertive, expressive and spontaneous. Typically they give off an air of activity and urgency, and often sexuality. It is hard to miss an Arian when they are in the room! They are impulsive and restless, often seeking quick results. Enterprising and courageous with an adventurous spirit, they can appear aggressive and self-centered. While being quick thinking they rarely pay attention to detail. so the projects they conceive often run aground. Working well where initiative and enterprise are needed, they are great at exploring new avenues, so long as they are partnered with someone with a practical side. They are passionate in love, but may seem tactless and insensitive, especially as they are not good at listening. On the negative side they can be selfish, impatient, tactless, and rude.
    For Arians this is a time to play to your strengths but be aware of your weaknesses; conceive new plans but put off execution until the Sun enters a new house. Be particularly aware of the need to let partners eel that they are listened to and that their ideas and feelings are appreciated. For others this is the time to use the ambient energy to seek new solutions to stagnant problems. If you know an Arian, ask them for advice, but give it serious thought before taking action.
[From: "The Real Witches' Year" by Kate West]

Spring Equinox Rite

   The Spring Equinox, when day and night are equal in length, is a time of balance.  Also known as Oestara, it is a festival of Eostre or Ostara, the Anglo-Saxon Goddess of Spring. This is an excellent time for some personal 'spring cleaning', a time to be rid of the bad and encourage the good into your life.

   Prepare by making two lists of 9 items each. The first should be things which you would like to be rid of. The first 3 are personal, perhaps bad habits; the next 3 affect your interaction with others, eg old resentments or guilt; and the final three affect the land, eg the loss of young life to cars on the road. Make a second list of 9, again in three parts, of things you would like to bring, maybe a new job for yourself, more patience in your dealing with others, and the plentiful growth of crops.

   Light a black candle and read the first list aloud three times. Burn the paper, and ask the Goddess and the God to take these things from you. Visualize these negatives burning in the flames and being carried away in the smoke. When the paper has completely burnt, put the candle out. Now light a white candle and read aloud, three times, the list of things you would like to bring to your life. Burn this paper and ask the Goddess and the God to bring these things to you. Visualize your wishes being carried to the Gods in the smoke. Let this candle burn all the way down.
[From: "The Real Witches' Year" by Kate West]

Moon in the Crescent phase

"I'm one with the Goddess
and open to Her Wisdom."

5th Day of the 4th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Artemis
Lunar Tree Cycle ~ Fearn/Alder
2nd day of the Celtic Tree Month ~ Fearn/Alder
Moon Phase: Crescent - 2:59PM EDST
Moon rises: 8:50AM EDST
Moon sets: 11:49PM EDST
Moon in the Fixed Earth Sign of Taurus
Blodeuwedd's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: Your kinship with
humanity.
Sun in Pisces
Sunrise: 7:25AM EDST
Sunset: 7:30PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "What new concepts are
coming into your understanding? How do they affect
your present understanding?"
Imbolc (Gwyl Mair) Quarter of the Year
March 19th, 2010

Crescent Phase

    Keywords for the Crescent phase are: expansion, growth, struggle, opportunity. It is the time in a lunar cycle that you gather wisdom learned in the New phase and communicate your intention to move forward. LIght a candle. Write or read an affirmation. LISTEN & ABSORB. Commit to your goal(s) for this cycle.

  Affirmations

    Affirmations are statements of faith and belief that you repeat to yourself with emotional intensity for the purpose of attaining goals. They are useful and easy-to-use tools for creating a more joyful and abundant life without having to work harder.  To successfully do affirmations and achieve the results you want, you need to eliminate the negativity around you and sincerely believe you can manifest your destiny. You can do this by reprogramming those thought patterns that are not serving you as well as they might be into positive, powerful affirmations. In this way, you can tap into the healing and creative power of the divine feminine.

   Affirmations use positive thinking and dreams to align spirit, mind, and body with your true self, a step that will benefit every aspect of your life. The magic of affirmation is in the positive intentions and faith you put into them.

   Positive affirmations can take many forms and can relate to everything from waking up joyful in the morning, wanting good health, to bringing love, prosperity and spiritual rapport into your life. There are no limitations as to how you can use affirmations to enrich your being.

"I choose to take responsibility

For my decisions in life.

Goddess, bless and help me in this task

So that I might make the best choices for me

Please help me be happy and satisfied with my decisions

Goddess, bless and guide me, today and every day.

Blessed be!"

[From: "Goddess Bless" by Sirona Knight]

Goddesses of the Spring Equinox

   Celebrations of the vernal equinox are linked to many goddesses of fertility, predominatly the Saxon goddess Eostre and her Germanic counterpart, Ostara, who give her name to the Wiccan sabbat. Eostre is associated with the dawn, rebirth, and the spring. She seems to possess a symbolic affinity with rabbits, as they factor into several of her myths. Some accounts claim that rabbits were considered sacred to Eostre, and that she herself was known to take on the form of a rabbit. Others call her Eostar and claim that rabbits were killed in sacrifice to her.

      One popular telling of the myth of Eostre is that she possessed as a companion and familiar spirit a great bird whose wings were frozen. The frozen wings morphed into the ears of a rabbit, and the goddess's sacred totem is said to retain the characteristics of both animals. The rabbit is a fitting symbol of the springtime as it is a creature well known for its quick reproductive capabilities. The average gestational period for rabbits is one month, making them a natural emblem for fertility. Since there are no known Saxon deities depicted with a rabbit's head, as Eostre is often described, it is possible that the rabbit-like appearance attributed to Eostre comes from the illusion produced by craters on the moon. Goddesses have long been associated with the moon, and many agree that the lunar-surface does indeed contain what appears to be that distinct form of a rabbit as seen from Earth.

Here is an interesting little story I cam across:

The Easter Bunny is not actually a ‘bunny’ or rabbit at all, but is actually a hare. The hare was the sacred animal of Eostre (or Oestra or Ostera), the ancient Teutonic Goddess of the Spring Moon. At the time of the vernal equinox (March or April) the hares are famed for going ‘mad’ and it was at this time of the year that out of character for its species, one of Eostre’s hares laid an egg. Not just any old egg, but the Egg of New Life - the Easter Egg. But surely Easter is a Christian festival marking Jesus Christ’s resurrection after dying on the cross, and not ceremonial to a Pagan hare-headed goddess? Well, actually it’s both. Following debate at the Synod of Whitby in the 5th Century, the ‘Christian Easter’ is destined to fall roughly around the same time as the ‘Pagan Easter’ due to its association to the Judaic Passover which is also fixed by the lunar cycle. Both festivals could also be said to reflect new life, either Christ’s return from the dead or the blossom and birth of Spring. So it was not much of a stretch for the ascending Christian Church to merge both festivals. This is known as ‘assimilation’ and was a habit frequently employed in those times and these isles to ease and encourage rather than force the conversion of heathens. Perhaps it is a little surprising, however, that the pagan name was retained.

    Ostara shares many similarities to Eostre, and not just in name. Ostara, too, is a goddess of spring. She is also called Ostara, goddess of the dawn. Her celebrations often occurred at sunrise on hilltops and centered on growth and the renewal of life. Prayers were made to assure the abundance of crops, and eggs were ritually eaten and exchanged as talismans in her honor. Eggs were also left on the graves of the beloved deceased, perhaps as a testament to the beliefs in reincarnation. Offering an egg to the dead was a way of calling for their rebirth and return.
[Excerpts from "The Wiccan Year" by Judy Ann Nock]

Waxing New Moon enters the Fixed Earth Sign of Taurus

"I'm one with the Goddess
and open to Her Wisdom."


4th Day of the 4th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Artemis
Lunar Tree Cycle ~ Fearn/Alder
1st Day of the Celtic Tree Month of Alder/Fearn
Moon Phase: waxing New
Moon rises: 8:18AM EDST
Moon sets: 10:43PM EDST
Moon in Aries v/c 7:22AM EDST
Moon enters the Fixed Earth Sign of
Taurus at 12:29PM EDST
Blodeuwedd's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The gifts of Spring
Sun in Pisces
Sunrise: 7:27AM EDST
Sunset: 7:28AM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "What do you
need to let go of and how is it impeding you?"
Imbolc (Gwyl Mair) Quarter of the Year
March 18th, 2010

It is Thor's Day - Jupiter's Day, a Day of Vision, Spiritual Insight, and Expansion.  There are Major magickal energies for rites and spells regarding Money Matters and Business Success and there are minor magickal energies regarding 'networking.'  With the moon moving into the Fixed Earth Sign of Taurus which is about concerns of money, work, and property we will receive lunar energy to help boost our spells concerning money matters and business success. 
   This lunar transit also concerns home and family, the body, sensuality, building slowly and cautiously, growth, sensitivity, planting and emotional patterns based on security.  After the forceful forward movement of Aries, the energy flow is even, solid, calm and patient.  There is a desire to protect material goods and a strong need for financial security. Emoationally there is stubbornness but yet also great sensitivity to others.  With the awakening of the earth in spring season you might get the urge to work in the garden.

Alder Tree Month - starts today

   The Alder is the shield tree, both on the physical and spiritual levels. Called 'the protection of the heart', it was highly prized. The wood is easy to work, yet very tough and when first cut the sap is red, giving the tree apperance of bleeding. No doubt all these were reasons for its used in shield making. Nearly all parts of the tree can be used in dye making; the bark giving black, red, or yellow, depending on the mordant used. Green comes from the catkins, the wood yields pink, early shoots yellow and later ones cinnamon. The bark is boiled and the resulting liquid is used to alleviate swellings, inflammation and rheumatism.
    The Alder is also a tree of balance, bearing male and female catkins, the male being larger with purple scales and yellow flowers, the female being smaller, somewhat cone shaped, purple and later developing into cones. Also, because the Alder often grows in moist places it is one of the trees that unite all four of the Elements.
     Because of its defensive properties Alder is often carried as protection, and a piece of Alder worn from the neck is said to be a good protection on spiritual journeys, such as meditation and astral travel.
An Alder shield, made on the psychic plane through visualization, is a good addition to your Astral Temple. Male catkins and female cones can be placed on the Altar to represent the God and the Goddess, during workings for balance, or added to a charm bag to bring balance into daily life.
[From: "The Real Witches' Year" by Kate West]

Ostara - Spring's Arrival

   The Sun crosses the celestial equator heading  north, bringing about a magical state of balance as equal day and equal night are manifested in the perfect twelve-hour divisions.  (take note in my heading above that today's sunrise and sunset are about as close to a twelve hour division as we are going to get. Keep track of these times the next few days and you will see what I mean.)  As the sun slowly journeys north along the eliptic, it remains in the sky a little longer each night, setting exactly due west near the time of the vernal equino, which is usually on or around March 20th.
    Ushering in the official first day of spring, the astronomical view of the equinox occurs when the sun is at the exact intersection of the celestial equator and the ecliptic. The vernal equinox marks the beginning of the tropical year. Originally established by Caesar and Sosigenes, the tropical year is 365.242 days long and is determined by the precise interval between two vernal equinoxes. The tropical differs slightly from the sidereal year, which measures the revolution of the earth around the sun and lasts 365.250 days.
     This is second of the solar festivals in the Wiccan year, the arrival of spring is celebrated as the maiden goddess awakens from her long sleep of dreams. The newness of spring is observed in the tender green of the bough and the eminent potentiality of life's reawakening.  The sky, no longer empty, resounds with the joyful song of birds. The equilibrium between polarities brings us awareness of the duality of nature; light balances the dark as life balances death. The snows of winter have melted, leaving the earth supple and moist. The branches of trees that stood stark and bare for so long are now covered with tight buds, soon to erupt in an explosion of color and scent. The world awakens; newness, possibility and purity are in the air.
     There are few things more exciting than something that is on the verge of becoming. At this time, potential is everywhere. We bask in the miracle of the dawning springtime. In regions close to the Mediterranean, the summer crops have already begun sprouting up through the earth. In the north, the time for seeding is at hand. Newborn foals and calves struggle to their feet and begin to romp on shaky legs. The greening of the earth begins.
[Excerpts from "The Wiccan Year" by Judy Ann Nock]

And I just came this article about the equinox and cooking...

http://www.owlsdaughter.com/2010/03/fire-up-your-wealth-in-the-kitchen/

New Moon in Aries

I'm one with the Goddess
and open to Her Wisdom.

2nd Day of the 4th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Persephone
Lunar Tree Cycle ~ Fearn/Alder
27th Day of the Celtic Tree Cycle ~ Nion/Ash
Moon Phase: waxing New
Moon rises: 7:27AM EDST
Moon sets: 8:36PM EDST
Moon enters the Cardinal Fire Sign
of Aries at 2:32AM EDST
Blodeuwedd's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The things that
inspire you.
Sun in Pisces
Sunrise: 7:30AM EDST
Sunset: 7:26PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "What experience
of life do you most crave?"
Imbolc (Gwyl Mair) Quarter of the Year
March 16th, 2010

Today there are Major magickal energies for rituals of competition and personal advocacy and minor magickal energies for job hunting.  Sounds like you can put together a rite for job hunting with major energy influence of being competitive and advocating your own personal skills.  This is Tiu's Day, a day of Activity and Physicality, Passion and Desire.... add to this cosmic mix that it is the New Moon phase and that waxing new moon is in the sign of Aries - a Cardinal Fire Sign - you could have some very potent magickal energies swirling around.  Don't forget tho that you must be very careful with lunar Aries energy - it can get out of hand if you allow impulsive actions to take over. 

This lunar cycle has events like the Spring Equinox/Ostara happening this coming Saturday and also the Full Moon for this lunar cycle will determine the date of the christian celebration of Easter. At the equinox this Saturday the Sun will move into the sign of Aries. 

On the Witches' Lunar Year calendar this is the cycle of Raven - Days of Air... today is the second day of the cycle. This information I got from Seasons of the Witch datebook.  I also get my information of the magickal energies for each day from this book too.  http://www.7th-house.com/  

Prophetic Dream Pillow

  To encourage dreams of the future make yourself a dream pillow. This is a sachet which can be placed under the pillow on nights when you seek answers in your sleep. 

    Take a rectangle of purple fabric about 5 by 10 inches. If you can find with silver threads in so much the better. Fold in half with the good side inside. Using silver-grey thread, stitch the edges by hand to make a small bag, leaving a small gap to insert your herbs. Turn the bag right side out through this gap and insert 2 tablespoons of Lavender flowers, 4 Bay leaves and a teaspoonful each of at least three of the following: Ash leaves, Broom tops, Cinquefoil, Holly, Huckleberry, Jasmine flowers, Marigolds, Mimosa, Mugwort, Peppermint, or Rose petals. Then sew up the opening carefully.

  It is best to use this on a night when you can be reasonably sure of being able to wake up naturally in the morning without an alarm. Before retiring you should also place pen and paper nearby so that you can note your dreams immediately on waking. Do not use a dream pillow more than 3 times a month or you will become too accustomed to the herbs.

  Your dream pillow will be more effective if you use fresh leaves and flowers, however it may not keep for long, so might like to use dried material instead. In this case it can be 'activated' by sprinkling it with a little water and warming it in a plastic bag before use. When not in use your dream pillow should be wrapped in white cloth to protect it.
[From: "The Real Witches' Year' by Kate West]

This image comes from ladybugherbs.com

New Moon - First day of Alder Lunar Cycle

"I'm one with the Goddess
and open to Her Wisdom."

1st Day of the 4th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Persephone
Lunar Tree Cycle ~ Fearn/Alder
26th Day of the Celtic Tree Cycle ~ Nion/Ash
Moon Phase: New - 5:01PM EDST
Moon rises: 7:04AM EDST
Moon sets: 7:35PM EST
Moon in Pisces v/c 9:09PM EDST
Blodeuwedd's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: A plant or flower
of your choice.
Sun in Pisces
Sunrise: 7:32AM EDST
Sunset: 7:25PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "Who are
you trying to control?"
Imbolc (Gwyl Mair) Quarter of the Year
March 15th, 2010

New Moon

    The beginning of a new cycle. Keywords for the New phase are: beginning, birth, emergence, projection, clairty. It is the time in a cycle that you are stimulated to take a new action. During this phase the new cycle is being seeded by your vision, inner and outer. Engage in physical activity. Spend time alone. VISUALIZE  your goals for the 29.6-day cycle ahead.

    Today there are Major magickal energies for doing spells and rites to tune into your intuition before the moon goes void of course at 9:09PM EDST.  There are minor magickal energies for doing spells and/or rites regarding domestic issues. 

  Tonight do something to honor this beginning of a new lunar cycle - light a white candle and sit for a few moments and consider what goals you might want to achieve this cycle. 

* Take a seed for each goal, hold them one by one in cupped hands till you have thoroughly visualized each intention, then plant the seed(s) individually in a bowl of earth.

* Take a pure white candle, stroke it from base to center and tip to center with oil such as olive or almnod. Be careful to avoid the wick or the candle will splatter when it is lit. As you dress the candle in this way, concentrate on a fresh new project that you wish to work on, then light the candle. Burn it every night at the same time till the moon is full.

* Think of a goal, then tie three knots in a silver cord or ribbon, voicing your magickal intention with each knot. Put it on your shrine or tie it in the branches of a tree in your yard or garden till just before the next new moon, then untie the knots and cleanse the cord through the elements so that it can used again for future spells.

Magick for the new moon should be concerned with fresh wishes and goals, or new stages in projects already underway. Work toward putting energy into starting each project, but ask for some staying to prevent things from petering out again. 

Over the next few days, as the moon's crescent grows fuller, the general pace will settle to a steadier cadence. The airy, mental tempo of the very new moon will stablize, but at the same time emotions will come more to the fore. Eventually a point is reached when the energies seem to pause briefly, whuile still holding a sense of excitement and optimism. When this happens the end of the new moon phase has been reached and the waxing phase is well underway.  Tomorrow the moon moves into the Cardinal Fire Sign of Aries which is a time of feelings of intense activity, reaching out in emotional surges and impulsiveness.  You may find these feelings being further activated by the Moon's newness.

Over at http://apagantapestry.blogspot.com/2010/03/march-new-moon-ritual.html   she has posted a great New Moon rite that is also centered on making out a goals list and then checking it out at the Full Moon phase.... love this idea.

Last Day of this Lunar Cycle

"I'm one with the Goddess
and open to Her Wisdom."

30th Day of the 3rd Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Hecate
Lunar Tree Cycle ~ Nion/Ash
25th Day of the Celtic Tree Cycle ~ Nion/Ash
Moon Phase: Dark
Moon rises: 6:42AM EDST
Moon sets: 6:35PM EDST
Moon in the Mutable Water Sign of Pisces
Ceridwen's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The invitation
sent by your dreams.
Sun in Pisces
Sunrise: 7:34AM EDST
Sunset: 7:24PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "What enslaves you
and how can you be free?"
Imbolc (Gwyl Mair) Quarter of the Year
March 14th, 2010

"Dark rising, lingering day

Spring arrives with no bouquet.

Dark moon time for introspection,

Pre Moon Syndrome (PMS),

Witch reflection."

From "Seasons of the Witch"

So with the change to Daylight Savings Time we are back to the dark in the morning but whenever this latest storm system passes through (here in the northeast) there will be light longer in the evenings...

Changed the picture on my heading here - finally removed the picture of snow and thought this picture of a witch's broom and such will bring us to thoughts of spring (you know - spring cleaning).  While the snow is finally all gone, it is still rather drab outside around here. 

Cords

   Lengths of cord have several uses in the Craft. The material used should be natural, and the ends should be secured by sitching, not by tape or knots.  It is usual for all Witches to have their own set of at least 3 cords.

   Where a Witch wears robes, they are normally cinched at the waist by a cord 4'6" in length. This cord can then be used, with the Athame, to draw the traditional circle 9 feet in diameter. Many Covens allocate different colors to different degrees of Initiation. It is not uncommon for Witches to have a holder on this cord to carry their Athame.

   Three cords are used to bind a person for Initiation. One, 9 feet in length, is used to tie the hands behind the back, and the ends are then taken over the shoulder and knotted at the front in such a way as to restrain but not endanger. The other two are 4'6" and one is tied around the right ankle, the other above the left knee.

   Cords are sometimes used to raise power by binding, as restricting, the flow of blood can cause an altered state of consciousness. But many witches (Kate West, Christopher Penczak among others) do not recommend this as accidents can happen and the resulting headlines can be embarressing!  Cords are also used in Circle to raise power in dancing. Opposite pairs each take an end and then the whole Circle revolves, faster and faster, around the High Priestess who holds the center point up, until she feels sufficient energy has been created.

    Cords are sometimes used in knot magick, although string, thread or ribbons are also used.

"Only focused energy

will result in change."

[From: "The Real Witches' Year" by Kate West]

Knot Magick

    Knot spells are one of the oldest forms of magick. It has long been a tradition for sailors to buy the ritual from a Witch. She would give them a cord with three knots in it, and they would undo one for a breeze, two for a wind, and three for a strong wind, usually to bring them home. A girl would knot her right garter nine times around her stocking and attach it to the bed to dream of her future husband. A groom would go to his wedding with one shoelace undone so that he might 'untie' his wife's virginity on the wedding night. A pregnant woman's image would have a knotted cord around her neck in order that the pregnancy might go full term. This would be cut at the onset of labor to ensure an easy delivery. Knotted silk was tied around an affected part to ease the pain of rheumatism. And it used to be common to place a red thread with nine knots in it around a teething baby's neck.  

    A popular modern knot spell involves  tying 9 knots in a length of appropriately colored thread or cord while saying:

"By the knot of one,

the spell's begun.

By knot of two,

it cometh true.

By knot of three,

so mote it be.

By knot of four,

the open door.

By the knot of five,

the spell's alive.

By the knot of six,

the spell is fixed.

By the knot of seven,

the stars of heaven.

By the knot of eight,

the stroke of fate.

By the knot of nine,

the thing is mine!"

[From: "The Real Witches' Year" by Kate West]

The Spell of Nine - another version:

   The "Spell of Nine" is old and often used. Most often tied with knot magick, it can also be performed with a pouch of witches' stones, coins from the purse or pocket, kernels of corn, beans or grain, or the beads of a necklace or bracelet.  Some witches will do knot magick with the cord that they might wear loosely around their wrist.  They only knot this cord when they are 'spelling'.  Here is a verse to use:

"With the first one the spell's begun.

With two, from my heart true.

With three, so mote it be.

With four, it will soar.

With five, to arrive

With six and seven

To sparkle written in the stars of heaven.

With eight, it now is fate.

At nine, is mine.

Repeat this verse to banish:

This with nine, I decline.

It will abate with eight.

With seven and six, I will transfix.

No longer does the power thrive with five.

And nevermore with four.

'With three my heart is free.

Adieu on two.

With one, my spell is done."

[From: "Tarot of a Moon Garden" by Karen Marie Sweikhardt, page 120]

Magick Performed with the Witches' Cords or Girdle

   Many types of magick are performed with the "Witches' Cords or Girdle". They are used to snare (attract), bind and loosen (release). 

    The Witches' Cords are braided from three cords, traditionally red, black and gold. Use any colors you with which you resonate. You may wish to use several combinations as they apply to sabbats or specific rituals in the application of color symbol and magick. They should be equal to your height or nine feet in length (three times three; waxing, full and waning; maiden, mother, crone). The cord should have an open loop at one end and a tasseled knot on the other. 

    An object link is required for some of these types of magick, linking by symbol or thought the traces of a person's energy in a possession, photograph or signature. Coins, for example, would be a symbol to snare or attract prosperity. To magickally ensnare,  cords are wound and fastend to form a circle on the altar, this surrounds the object with your energy and intent. To draw with cord magick as by any other means, the rites should be performed on a waxing moon. In binding, magick may be used to strengthen an existing tie. It should not be used to force another's will. The full moon is the time to bind. To bind, the symbol is placed against the bare skin of the solar plexus and it is bound there through the other rites. These may be crafted for this intent, such as in hand-fasting or weddings, or the binding may simply be a 'by-product' of a moon circle or sabbat rites. Binding is also used in combination with knot magick to inweave the magick of the dancers in the sacred circle.  "The Rope Dance" and "The Star Dance" are two examples. The cords are all knotted together, binding the energies of all present in the circle. Through this the dance becomes a synergy of rhythm and motion. The cords are used to cast the geometry of the sacred circle, with a solitary cord for personal rites or knotted together for larger gatherings.

   To loosen, begin the ritual with an object symbol bound against your solar plexus, while turning or twirling counter-clock wise, loosen the cords and allow the object to fall free. The circle can help by sweeping the object counter-clockwise until it is removed from the sacred radius. The besom, or witch's broom, is another magickal tool of the space. This is done by sweeping away all that is 'unclean' or of negative or malicious content.

[From: "Tarot of a Moon Garden" by Karen Marie Sweikhardt]

Here are a couple of links to websites regardnig cord and knot magick.

http://www.shadowsofoz.net/magick/cord_magick.html

For cord supplies and suggestons:

http://store.stormsong.org/cart/section.php/3701/1/knot-magick

To attrack someone to you:

http://www.flamesfirepit.org/MedMagick/knot_magick.html
Coven call

Saturn's Day - waning Balsamic Moon

"I'm one with the Goddess
and open to Her Wisdom."


29th Day of the 3rd Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Hecate
Lunar Tree Cycle ~ NIon/Ash
24th Day of the Celtic Tree Cycle ~ Nion/Ash
Moon Phase - Balsamic
Moon rises:  5:19AMN EST
Moon sets: 4:36PM EST
Moon in Aquarius v/c 7:56AM EST
Moon enters the Mutable Water Sign
of Pisces at 1:44PM EST
Ceridwen's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The compassionate surrender
of night.
Sun in Pisces
Sunrise: 6:35AM
Sunset: 6:23PM EST
Solar Question for the Day: "What signifies patterns emerging from the last
year of your life?"
Imbolc (Gwyl Mair) Quarter of the Year
March 13th, 2010

Crystal Divination

   For this you will need 9 colored crystals or stones of roughly the same shape and size and a soft cloth bag large enough to get your hand into. If you cannot find or afford crystals, use colored pebbles, or paint pebbles in the appropriate colors.
    When you have a question, shake the bag and draw out a stone, and see if this provides your answer. If things are still unclear you may draw up to 2 more stones to help you clarify things. If you still do not have an answer, consider rephrasing your questions. Sometimes you still will not have an answer, in which case take the stones you have pulled from the bag and sleep with then under your pillow, together with a slip of paper with the question written on it. Here are some suggested stones and their interpretations:
Red: Red Jasper, Carnelian - Anger, conflict, aggression, passion, lust, energy
Pink: Rose Quartz, pink Tourmaline - Love, romance, friendship, relationships, self-respect
Orange: Amber, Citrine - Power, growth, success, joy, the God
Yellow: Tiger's eye, yellow Calcite - Thought, intellect, communication, creativity, self-control
Green: Aventurine, Malachite - Growth, fertility, work, money, messages, news
Blue: Sodalite, Lapis lazuli - Truth, wisdom, excess emotion, travel, the sea
Purple: Amethyst, Sugilite - Healing, peace, tranquillity, rest
Black: Obsidian, black Onyx - Concealment, silence, lies, the unknown
White: Moonstone, white Chalcedony - Spirituality, psychism, dreams, the Goddess

"Remember there is often more than

one solution to a problem."

[From: Kate West's "The Real Witches' Year"]

Freya's Day ~ Balsamic Moon in Aquarius

"I'm one with the Goddess
and open to Her Wisdom."

28th Day of the 3rd Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Hecate
Lunar Tree Cycle ~ Nion/Ash
23rd Day of the Celtic Tree Cycle ~ Nion/Ash
Moon Phase: Balsamic
Moon rises: 4:54AM EST
Moon sets: 3:36PM EST
Moon in the Fixed Air Sign of Aquarius
Ceridwen's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: A tree of your choice
Sun in Pisces
Sunrise: 6:37AM EST
Sunset: 6:23PM EST
Solar Question for the Day: "What do you most need
and what help is at hand?"
Imbolc (Gwyl Mair) Quarter of the Year
March 12th, 2010

   I came across a banishing ritual in my "Tarot of a Moon Garden" book this morning and the timing for this one is fitting nicely with moon phase now.  The banishing part of the ritual is best done on a Saturday, a Saturn-influenced day on a waning moon and it calls upon Hecate, the goddess at this time in the lunar cycle who rules.  "Invoke the blessings of Hecate. Welcome Her in darkness and she will return you to the light. Create a personal rite of transformation. Banish limitations and emotional encumbrances by the light of a black candle at midnight on the waning moon. Then empower the new with the flame of a red candle on the New or Full Moon. Mix a fragrant blend of incense or oil from woody, earthy resins or essences such as cypress, dittany of crete, frankincense, patchouli, and sandlewood. Burn the incense with your black candle. Anoint the red candle with the oil. Whether you are weeding or seeding, use with incense or oil in any manner to remind yourself of the 'gardening' in progress."   So tomorrow is Saturn's Day, with the Balsamic/Waning Moon - you can do the banishing rite then and on Moon Day (Monday) in the evening is the New Moon and then you can do the empowerment rite with the red candle....   Thought I would post today to give you a day or so to get some supplies together.

Balsamic Moon phase

"I'm one with the Goddess
and open to Her Wisdom."

27th Day of the 3rd Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Hecate
Lunar Tree Cycle ~ Nion/Ash
22nd Day of the Celtic Tree Cycle ~ Nion/Ash
Moon Phase: Balsamic - 1:02PM EST
Moon rises: 4:26AM EST
Moon sets: 2:36PM EST
Moon enters the Fixed Air Sign
of Aquarius at 12:42AM EST
Ceridwen's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The silent testimony
of innocence in the face of tyranny.
Sun in Pisces
Sunrise: 6:38AM EST
Sunset: 6:24PM EST
Solar Question for the Day: "Is complacency clogging
up your life?"
Imbolc (Gwyl Mair) Quarter of the Year
March 11th, 2010

Balsamic Moon phase: This is the signal of the ending of one cycle and the beginning of another is looming in the very near future.  The Keywords for the Balsamic phase are: transition, release, transformation, renewal, purity. It is the phase in a cycle when you must let go of everything you have been working on that does not deal with the current cycle issues. During this phase you reflect on the passing cycle and prepare for the new. Trust in renewal. It is important to separate from others now so that you can clear the intellect of negativity. LET GO. Become still and meditate.  

   I just when to look out the window that faces east here and saw the beautiful waning crescent moon in the clear skies I am blessed with again this morning.  It was about 6:15AM EST when I look for the moon.  So beautiful, looking like the one in the picture above in my heading, except it was more yellow colored haning there in the various shades of dark blue to lightening blue as the sun is starting to peek over the eastern horizon.  I can hear some early birds stirring about. All is calm and peaceful before all the hustle and bustle of the day. 

Helping Nature

   Any gardening guide will tell you that this is the time to start work outside if you haven't done so already.  On the practical side you need to be pruning. Roses, hedges and shrubs, removing weeds, turning over soil and digging in compost. It's also the time to sow seeds, plant summer flowering bulbs and give the grass a light trim. House plants too should be looked over at this time; trimmed, cleand, given their first feed and, if necessary, potted on.

   Having said that, this is also the time to do some magical work to help the garden. Collect about a pint of rain water, place 3 green stones into it and stand it for 3 nights in the light of the Moon. It doesn't matter at which phase, so long as it is not the 3 nights just before the New Moon (which is where we are at right now), as your magick is for both growth and defense. Take it into the garden together with your Asperger and one new plant or seed. With you hands on either side of the water vessel, hold it in front of you, close your eyes and visualize the Goddess as Maiden. When you can see her, say, "Gracious Maiden, I call upon you to bless this water. May it bring fertility to all in this space. May it protect against disease and all that might harm the growth here. Blessed Be."  Take your Asperger and lightly sprinkle the whole of the garden. Now plant your seed or plant and say, "Gracious Goddess I plant this in honor of you and in payment for the fertility of the land. Blessed Be." 

"A weed is just a plant in another place."

[From: "The Real Witches' Year" by Kate West]

I don't think my area is quite ready for some of the above suggestions to be doing now, but pruning and trimming would be a good thing and possible getting rid of weeds from last fall.  Also we haven't had rainfall yet - more like snow - but I will keep this suggested ritual in mind and do something ike it in the next month or so.  While often some of the material I post here may not be something I or maybe you could use in just the way it is suggested, it does give us ideas and perhaps a loose format to create some of our own based on the same concept.  That is usually what I do.  So be creative! The time for being turned inward is over - we are now turning outward.

For the next few days as the moon is slowly waning towards the next New Moon, take the time consider if you want to do a special observtion of this time in a lunar cycle with a rite.  Here is a link to a website that gives some ideas of what you could do....

http://www.paganlibrary.com/rituals_spells/dark_new_moon.php 

And it says this about the ritual:

"This ritual is meant to be done on the crux between the Dark and New Moons (see any farmers or witches almanac to find out when. I suggest the "Witches Calendar"). Many people would never think to put the two together. They have been combined here because we can both rid ourselves of negatives (the dark moon) and bring in the new (the new moon) all at one time. Some people like to keep them separate, but you may find time where this is very useful.Please remember that this is only a sample ritual, and that each one really needs to be personalized in order to develop your spirituality and further yourself down your own chosen path! It is also a solitary ritual and would have to be altered for coven use."

  Remember these darkening moon days are the days of Hecate, think of Her and honor Her.  Here is another website link that you might of use to read over about this time in a lunar cycle:

http://www.hecate.awebspider.com/darkmoonmagic.htm