Beltaine Eve

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


17th Day of the 5th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Gaia
Lunar Tree Cycle ~ Saille/Willow
16th Day of the Celtic Tree Month ~ Saille/Willow
Moon Phase: waning Gibbous
Moon sets: 7:22AM EDST
Moon rises: 11:09PM EDST
Moon in the Mutable Fire Sign of
Sagittarius
Rhiannon's Cycle of the Moon ]
Lunar Meditation: The release of
forgiveness
Sun in Taurus
Sunrise: 6:19AM EDST
Sunset: 8:15PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: ""Are you
allowing spontaneity into your life?"
Imbolc (Gwyl Mair) Quarter of the Year
April 30th, 2010

 Beltaine Eve - Here it is - the season of Summer begins tomorrow - the flowers of the Hawthorn tree are in bloom; the mantle of spring's culmination and summer's advent is beautifying the Earth. Winter's chains are broken for good as the Wheel of the Year turns from winter to summer. Love is in the air as bees carry pollen from blossom to aromatic blossom and honey begins dripping from the comb. Sacred unions are observed and sexuality is celebrated as we regard our bodies as mirrors of the divine plan.
The blazing flames from the bonfires mirror the passion within our hearts. The tenderness of the new spring season transforms before our eyes into the lush fullness of new life taking hold and thriving. 

    The Great Fires are ignited, and the door to the Otherworld opens once again.  Beltaine is the major fertility festival in the Wheel of the Year, and there are many tradition associated with this. 

     The Goddess now changes her robes of Maiden for those of the Mother and the God stands by her side as partner and Consort.  We celebrate the marriage of the Goddess and the God for the fertility of all. Many Witches also celebrate their own weddings, called Handfastings, at Beltaine. The change of the Goddess from Maiden to Mother is echoed in many places by the selection of a May Queen. Beltaine is also the festival of the solar God Bel and in times past the people would drive cattle between two fires to purify and protect them, and to induce fertility for the coming season. The people would jump the fires for fertility in their own lives.

    Just one of the ways of celebrating Beltaine is to organize a Fire Ritual. Take two fireproof bowls or vessels with nightlights inside and place them close enough to make it interesting but far enough apart to be safe.  Loose or flowing clothes should be hitched up well out of the way. Organize a dance which takes each person around each 'fire' in turn. As they circle the first fire they should say something positive about themselves, and as they circle the second they should say something about the season or the festival. Once everyone has circled both 'fires' several times they should then jump through the gap between them, making a wish for the coming season. If the fire remains lit their wish will come true, but should their jump extinguish the flames it will not.
[Excerpts from: "The Real Witches Year" by Kate West & "The Wiccan Year" by Judy Ann Nock]

The waning Full Moon - Beltaine approaches

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


16th Day of the 5th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Gaia
Lunar Tree Cycle ~ Sallie/Willow
15th Day of the Celtic Tree Month ~ Saille/Willow
Moon Phase: waning Full Moon
Moon sets: 6:37AM EDST
Moon rises: 10:06PM EDST
Moon in Scorpio v/c 8:39PM DST
Moon enters the Mutable Fire Sign
of Sagittarius at 10:36PM EDST
Rhiannon's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The gift of grace.
Sun in Taurus
Sunrise: 6:21AM EDST
Sunset: 8:14PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "Which
of your abilities are you neglecting?"
Imbolc (Gwyl Mair) Quarter of the Year
April 29th, 2010

 Beltaine - A Season of Faeries - The tides of this sabbat are har4nessed by the witch for energy, new ideas, and empowered sexuality. Like Samhain, its opposite on the Wheel of Life, Beltaine is full of mischief-making influences, both elemental and through those just beyond our vision behind the Veil. This is night when the Gates to Faery swing open, and mankind is able to cross over. It is full of the pulsing energy of the natural world yearning towards its fulfillment in summer, and full of the vigor of the wild hunt. Beltaine is primarily a fire and fertility festival. The lighting of the Beltaine fires, usually atop hills, served the purpose of purifying and fructifying - cattle, crops, and communities.  This is a major cross-quarter day that lasts from sunset on April 30th to sunset on May 2nd. 

And speaking of Faeries .......

   It is only in recent times that faeries have been visualized as cute, winsome figures. Prior to the 19th century they were consider to be complex and frequently mischievous creatures. They were thought to steal good children and replace them with naughty ones, and abduct unwary travelers who fell asleep in the wrong place. If slighted they would sour milk and prevent butter from being churned. They could cause food to spoil and prevent bread from rising. Of course if they were kindly disposed to you and treated with respect they would bring good luck and fortune.

   Faeries are believed to be encouraged to look kindly on people who grow certain plants: Ash, Bluebells, Red Carnations, Clover, Cowslips, Elder, Hawthorn, Hollyhocks, Lilac, Lobelia, Oak, Pansies, Blue and Red Primroses, Roses and Shamrock.  They are said to live in Foxgloves and straw. Faeries are thought to gather at midsummer wherever Oak, Ash and Hawthorn grow together. At dawn or dusk sit quietly amongst these plants while wearing Thyme and you should be able to see Faeries. Alternatively, place 7 grains of Wheat onto a four-leafed Clover as an offering, and Faeries will come. Faeries are also thought to dance in Fairy rings, circles of mushrooms which are found in some fields.

  If, however, you feel you need to defend your home from the attentions of Faeries then plant Dill, Morning Glory, Gore, and Rosemary. To protect children from being stolen by the Faeries tie Peonies around their neck. Otherwise, carve beads from Peony root and string these together as a necklace which will guard against all kinds of spirits.
[Excerpts from "The Witch's Guide to LIfe" by Kala Trobe, "The Real Witches' Year" by Kate West and "Natural Magick" by Cassandra Eason]

Full Moon in Scorpio

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


15th Day of the 5th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Gaia
Lunar Tree Cycle ~ Saille/Willow
14th Day of the Celtic Tree Month ~ Saille/Willow
Moon Phase: Full - 8:21AM EDST
Moon sets: 5:56AM EDST
Moon rises: 8:57PM EDST
Moon in the Fixed Water Sign of Scorpio
Rhiannon's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The integrity of your vocation.
Sun in Taurus
Sunrise: 6:22AM EDST
Sunset: 8:13PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "Where is the Spring
in your life?"
Imbolc (Gwyl Mair) Quarter of the Year
April 28th, 2010

Full Moon - Keywords for the Full Moon phase are: fulfillment, illumination, realization, experience. It is the time in a lunar cycle that you are given a clear view so that you can make adjustments to put you back on track to manifesting the goals you set at the new moon phase.  LISTEN Receive awareness. Understand others.   -- This is a Scorpio Full Moon - a Metamorphosis Moon - this moon transis in Scorpio can be a time of regeneration and cleaning out emotional debris from the previous moon cycle. Also remember Mercury Retrograde is the time when instead of forging ahead on new project, you are better off to 'go back' and reset, renew what you left in dust behind you.  There can be great energy to complete things and focus on certain areas that you have found yourself too scattered to deal with previously.
    Also there Major energy to do Solitary Magick..  A group rite may not be in your best interests.

"Blessed Be a Solitary Witch.

Her song need not be perfect pitch.

Nor must she wear Aradia's robes

or answer to another's probes."

[From "Seasons of the Witch" 2010 Datebook]

   Yes, blessed be the Solitary Witch.  Solitary witches are often self-initiated if at all. Their practice is often electic in that they use what works for them regardless of the source. This is surely the oldest of all paths. It is the path of wizards and sorcerors in pursuit of genuine magick. It is the reclusive withc that figures prominently in literature from biblical to fairy tales. Solitaries are thoughtful, comfortable alone, and answer to no one but themselves. This is not to say that they aren't competent socially. They are often fun, witty and entertaining in social situations.

[From: "Seasons of the Witch Primer" by Victoria David Danann]

Gibbous Moon enters Scorpio

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

14th Day of the 5th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Gaia
Lunar Tree Cycle ~ Saille/Willow
13th Day of the Celtic Tree Month ~ Saille/Willow
Moon Phase: waxing Gibbous
Moon sets: 5:25AM EDST
Moon rises: 7:45PM EDST
Moon in Libra v/c 4:19PM EDST
Moon enters the Fixed Water
Sign of Scorpio at 6:28PM EDST
Rhiannon's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The inheritance of your blood.
Sun in Taurus
Sunrise: 6:23AM EDST
Sunset: 8:12PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "What new
influences are trying to come into your life?"
Imbolc (Gwyl Mair) Quarter of the Year
April 27th, 2010

Moon in Scorpio - When the Moon enters Scorpio we experience a heightened sensitivity.  This transit brings us the desire to keep our strongest feelings to ourselves. The secretive aspect of Scorpio is a way of holding power, but also assists in the internal processes of change. Althought Scorpio is a fixed sign, it is really about metamorphosis - the most profound kind of change. Nothing can stop a Scorpionic transformation once started. This will be a good time for focusing and doing psychic work because of the deep emotions and desires that Scorpio brings.  The Scorpio Full Moon rituals are high energy and very psychic.  The veil will be thin between the worlds during Scorpio and the Goddess can join the Circle very easily.

On Tiu's Day today - the Day of Activity and Physicality, Passion and Desire - there are Major magickal energies for Fire Energy, Passion and Sexuality rites/spells after the moon moves into the Sign of Scorpio. There are some minor magickal energies for spells or rites regarding courage.


Casting the Circle

Casting a Circle is one the most simple and effective means of creating a potent magickal space. The Circle is our Sacred Space and can be created wherever and whenever we need it. It helps focus our concentration, contain our energies until we are ready to release them, and protect us from outside negative influences.

    It is a good idea to take a purification bath and to meditate a little prior to casting your Circle, but if the mood is upon you, act on it. Spontaneouly cast Circles can be quite powerful.


    The Circle is created by invoking the Elements from within and without and the first thing required by a witch in casting a Cicle is knowledge of which cardinal point is where. This can be easy if you are in a field and have the sun and moon as guides, but working in a built-up area, a compass will be handy. Many Witches place signs and symbols of the elements in each quarter to help enhance the effect of their visualizaiton. You can use pictures, sigils, candles or Quarter Light like Tea Light candles and/or use incense (in the east), fire (in the south), water (in the west), and earth or salt (in the north). After casting the circle and you have returned to East again, turn slowly around the Circle twice more, affirming the presence of the elements in each quarter.

   Then you can do this action but it is optional - once you have thrice-affirmed your Circle you can do as Kala Trobe does - standing in the middle of the Circle, point directly above yourself, and ask the Lords of Spirit to be with you. Her visualization is the purple Akaskic egg, but use whatever symbolizes Spirit to you. Then point to the ground and say (something along the lines of), "Spirit above me, Spirit below me, Spirit behind me, Spirit before me."  This idea can bring higher influences into play. Often, what goes on in the modern witche's Circle is simple lower psychism. Envoking the Lords of Spirit should turn the proceedings into a valid spiritual experience.

    Now you are standing in the middle of a vibrant, protective sphere, encased by the Elements and the Lords of Spirit.  Magick can now commencence.  When you have finished your working, it is important to close the Circle.

    Closing the Circle involves the same process, but thanking the Lords instead of calling them up. Kala Trobe says that she never banishes them. Just as she would not invite somebody into her house and then throw them out as soon as I'd had enough. Banishing is rude and arrogant. There can be no harm in having the Lords around, so she always thank them and invites them to leave whenever they wish. She says that usually she sees them vanishing into the distance once this is said.

    You can close your Circle with the words 'Circle Open, Never Broken." This is as good as an 'Amen' to a prayer or a 'So Mote It Be' to a spell. It confirms that the work is over and that life can now continue as usual.  There are many ways of casting a Circle (and Traditional Witches do not even bother with this, as they view all spaces as sacred), but there is a lovely sensation of working in a timeless sphere under the auspices and guidance of those much older and wiser.  Inside her Circle, the life of the witch is magickal indeed.
{excerpts from "The Real Witches' Year" by Kate West, and "The Witch's Guide to Life" by Kala Trob}

Waxing Gibbous Moon in Libra

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

13th Day of the 5th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Gaia
Lunar Tree Cycle ~ Saille/Willow
12th Day of the Celtic Tree Month ~ Saille/Willow
Moon Phase: waxing Gibbous
Moon sets: 4:56AM EDST
Moon rises: 6:31PM EDST
Moon in the Cardinal Air Sign of Libra
Rhiannon's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The invitation sent
by your dreams.
Sun in Taurus
Sunrise: 6:25AM EDST
Sunset: 8:11PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "How does your
present way of life need to change?"
Imbolc (Gwyl Mair) Quarter
of the Year
April 26th, 2010

  There are Major magickal energies for spells/rites about Attraction and Travel... there are minor magickal energies for household harmony and patience. 

Sun Day - waxing Gibbous Moon

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

12th Day of the 5th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Gaia
Lunar Tree Cycle ~ Saille/Willow
11th Day of the Celtic Tree Month ~ Saille/Willow
Moon Phase: waxing Gibbous Moon
Moon sets: 4:27AM EDST
Moon rises: 5:17PM EDST
Moon in Virgo v/c 2:20PM EDST
Moon enters the Cardinal Air Sign of Libra
at 4:16PM EDST
Rhiannon's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The compassion of memory.
Sun in Taurus
Sunrise: 6:26PM EDST
Sunset: 8:10PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "What are your dreams
telling you?"
Imbolc (Gwyl Mair) Quarter of the Year
April 25th, 2010


Moon in Libra -  This lunar transit is about cooperation, harmony, fine artistic pursuits and focusing on relationships.  And today is Sun Day - a Day of Intent, Creation and Renewal...  perhaps you may find yourself this evening feeling like creating some artistic project or enjoying music.

Music and Magic

Music nd music-making are some of the earliest forms of magic.  The use of drummingto raise energies, either those of the spirit world or those of the participants to power the magic, is evident in almost all societies around the world. Likewise the use of vocal sounds to harmonize with the Elements and the divine is a very ancient tradition. This is not surprising when you think of the emotions and feelings that music can engender.

   In today's Craft we use singing, dancing, and chanting to raise energy for our spells and it has become traditional to 'draw up the Sun' at both the Summer and Solstices. However, make sure your drums are tuned or you may discourage the Sun from working its magickal energies.  Many Witches also like to have music as part of their Rituals and workings, although if you are not personally musical this can be a problem as most CD and tape players seem to malfunction if placed within a cast Circle.

   Another way you can use music is to find pieces which, to you, embody the essence of the Elements. Many people find the instrumental pieces are the most useful for this. Use your selected pieces to meditate on the Elements. If you are talented you can even create your own,.Also tapes of wildlife, birds, for example, and natural sounds, like the wind in the trees, or the sea, are an  excellent aid to meditation, and you can always record these yourself.

"Try listening with your closed,

and you will hear more,"

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

Music Links:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7bt5c0o1s38

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PmGu1wOqFGk&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qJcDv2Nw1HQ&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y_S93xMn_uo&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y_zhZeRNfSg&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VW6y0O2Q44A&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T6ELVt48GR4&feature=related

Gibbous Moon Phase

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


11th Day of the 5th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Hera
Lunar Tree Cycles ~ Saille/Willow
10th Day of the Celtic Tree Month ~ Saille/Willow
Moon Phase: Gibbous - 11:24PM EDST
Moon sets: 4:00AM EDST
Moon rises: 4>04PM EDST
Moon in the Mutable Earth
Sign of Virgo
Rhiannon's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The itinerary of
your spiritual quest.
Sun in Taurus
Sunrise: 6:28AM EDST
Sunset: 8:09PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "What
mutual burdens can you lift from other's backs?"
Imbolc (Gwyl Mair) Quarter of the Year
April 24th, 2010


Gibbous Moon - Late tonight the moon on the East Coast of the US reaches its Gibbous phase - and the keywords are: analyze, prepare and trust. It is the time in the lunar cycle to process the results of the actions taken during the first QAuarter. 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.  Remember that the moon sign of Virgo is also a time of analyzing.... There are Major magickal energies for working spells or doing rites of Protection.  Saturn's Day is a day of Manifestation and Structure, Assessment and Responsibility.   Do you need protection from something?

Witch Bottles

   The term Witch Bottle is often used to describe a counterspell which is intended to hit back at the perpetrator of a harmful spell.  The 'victim' would place some of their hair, nail clippings and urine into a sphericalo glass bottle together with some pins or nails. The bottle would be sealed with a cork and wax and hidden in the house. This would result in the originator being plagued with sharp pains (hence the pins) and thus being persuaded to remove their spell. Sometimes the bottle was heated and it was said that this would induce the Witch to appear at the door. Many Witch Bottles have been found secreted in the rafters or under the floorboards of houses, as well as outbuildings. A similar bottle with the additions of iron filings placed under the doorstep was thought to prevent a Witch from entering the house. Later, people used Bellermine stone jars for the same purposes. Imported from Germany these are distinguishable by the beaded face, usually found on the neck.

    However, the use of hidden bottles is not confined to counter-magick. Written spells are sometimes placed within a sealed bottle to preserve them, especially those for protection of family or livestock. A more recent spell to create harmony in the house is to take powdered dragon's blood, mixed with sugar, salt and sweet wine, seal it in a Witch Bottle and place it where it cannot be found. Another version designed to keep the family together uses hair and nail clippings from all family members in sweet wine.
[From: "The Real Witches' Year" by Kate West]

Witch Bottle Links:

http://www.kaaos.org/faerie/witchbottles.html



http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/31107319

http://dianic-wicca.com/witch-bottle-spells.html

http://www.apotropaios.co.uk/witch_bottles.htm

http://paganwiccan.about.com/od/samhaincrafts/ss/WitchBottle.htm

http://www.examiner.com/x-29932-San-Diego-Paganism-Examiner~y2009m11d15-The-Witch-Bottle

http://www.unicorngarden.com/grimoire04.htm

Waxing Half Moon enters Virgo

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


10th Day of the 5th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Hera
Lunar Tree Cycle ~ Saille/Willow
9th Day of the Celtic Tree Month ~ Saille/Willow
Moon Phase: waxing Half Moon
Moon sets: 3:31AM EDST
Moon rises: 2:51PM EDST
Moon in Leo v/c 11:34AM EDST
Moon enters the Mutable Earth
Sign of Virgo at 2:24PM EDST
Rhiannon's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The vista through
the window of imagination.
Sun in Taurus
Sunrise: 6:29AM EDST
Sunset: 8:08PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "What memories do
you most appreciate?"
Imbolc (Gwyl Mair) Quarter of the Year
April 23rd., 2010


Moon in Virgo - so we will be leaving the dramatic Fire Sign of Leo today and be grounded again in Virgo's analytical energies.  With the Sun being in a Fixed Earth Sign and the Moon in a Mutable Earth Sign we will experience Major energies of practicality and organization - urges of cleaning up messes and taking care of loose ends.  But in the midst of all this 'groundedness' there are Major energies today for Romance and friendship lurking.  Can you combine these energies?  Virgo is an inwardly time so we can reflect on personal relationnships during our Mercury Retrograde time span. 

Old Beltane

    Here is an appropriate little essay from Kate West's book "The Real Witches' Year" - Beltaine is right around the corner. How prepared are you? 
   Beltane was traditionally celebrated when the Hawthorn, also called the May, blossomed. This is a major fertility festival that used to be traditional for the unattached to dress in green to signify that they were available and seeking a partner. These young people would then spend the night in the woods. Any child born of such a union was considered especially blessed and to bring good fortune to the village. As a result both mother and child would be cared for by everyone.  It is thought that one of the reasons why it is considered unlucky to bring May blossom into the house is because this would have indicated an unsuccessful night! It is just as likely that the flowers would have given away the fact that the people of the house followed the Old Gods.
    When the Hawthorn is in blossom go and seek a bush and, if you can, lie down under it and meditate on the festival and its meaning. Visualize the Goddess as Mother and the Horned God as her Consort, for this is the time of their marriage. Gather enough flowers to weave into a circlet. Most florists  of craft supply stores sell preformed wicker rings which are ideal for this. While you thread the flowers into the ring, focus on the meaning of the festival. If you were not able to meditate under the Hawthorn you can meditate while wearing the circlet, otherwise use the circlet to decorate your home for the festival - hang it upon the outside entrance of your house. If you have an image of the Goddess in your home it is nice to also create a smaller circlet for this.

"Give thanks for the gifts of the Goddess,

lest She decides to take them back."

Thor's Day - Earth Day

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


9th Day of the 5th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Kore
Lunar Tree Cycle ~ Saille/Willow
8th Day of the Celtic Tree Month ~ Saille/Willow
Moon Phase: waxing First Quarter
Moon sets: 3:00AM EDST
Moon rises: 1:37PM EDST
Moon in the Fixed Fire
Sign of Leo
Blodeuwedd's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The blessing
of fire.
Sun in Taurus
Sunrise: 6:31AM EDST
Sunset: 8:07PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "In
what areas do you need to rest and recover?"
Imbolc (Gwyl Mair) Quarter of the Year
April 22nd., 2010


    Thor's Day - Jupiter's Day - the Day of Vision, Spiritual Insight, and Expansion.... there are Major magickal energies for rites/spells regarding recognition and to collect debts and/or favors.  How about a rite for the recognition of what the Earth does for us everyday or a spell to collect the debts and favors for the Earth in what we owe Her/Gaia?  Cast a spell in which we do a favor for the Earth by helping to reverse environmental damage.  No matter where you live, there is environmental damges going on.  As a Witch you should be very aware of your need to be 'earth aware.' 

Earth Meditation:

  This meditation is to be done barefoot - hopefully your part of the world will be warm enough for you to do this.  If it still just too cold to walk around outside barefoot or if its raining - bring some earth indoors in bowls or on trays.  Let it dry some if it is wet.  Sit in such a way that you are comfortable, with the soles of your feet and the palms of your hands touching the earth. Close your eyes and breathe deeply to relax. Feel the earth by being aware of touching the earth with your hands and feet. Feel how the texture of the earth feels against your skin. Take the forefinger of your strong hand (your power hand) and draw a circle over your third eye, then replace your hand on the soil.  Continue breathing deeply and evenly until you become aware of the smell of the earth. Now visualize the energy of Earth, the pulse of the Land. Allow your breathing to slow to this rhythm. Visualize the of the Land as a deep green pulsing light, rising up through your feet and hands, regenerating and revitalizing you. See it pushing out all weariness and stress. When you feel truly in tune with the land, allow your breathing to resume its normal pace, open your eyes and rub your arms and legs to ground yourself.
[Excerpts from a meditation in "The Real Witches' Year" by Kate West]

First Quarter Moon enters Leo

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


8th Day of the 5th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Kore
Lunar Tree Cycle ~ Saille/Willow
7th Day of the Celtic Tree Month ~ Saille/Willow
Moon Phase: First Quarter - 2:19PM EDST
Moon sets: 2:24AM EDST
Moon rises: 12:23PM EDST
Moon in Taurus v/c 10:06AM EDST
Moon enters the Fixed Fire Sign
of Leo at 11:42AM EDST
Blodeuwedd's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The welcome of like-souled
friends.
Sun in Taurus
Sunrise: 6:32AM EDST
Sunset: 8:05PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "What needs
clarification and what motivations underlie it?"
Imbolc (Gwyl Mair) Quarter of the Year
April 21st, 2010


Moon in the First Quarter - the keywords for this phase (from zodiacarts.com) are: action, expression, growth, breaking away.  Now 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.   This is Woden's Day, Mercury Day, the day of Communication and Connection.  Of course, as you know we are in Mercury Retrograde - perhaps this is a day look back and see who you owe a phone call to or owe a leter or e-mail to... that would be actions of going back over communications that you haven't done. 

The Sun enters Taurus - The Moon is in Cancer

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


7th Day of the 5th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Kore
Lunar Tree Cycle ~ Saille/Willow
6th Day of the Celtic Tree Month ~ Saille/Willow
Moon Phase: waxing Crescent
Moon sets: 1:41AM EDST
Moon rises: 11: 11AM EDST
Moon in the Cardinal Water Sign
of Cancer
Blodeuwedd's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: A story of your choice
that moves you.
Sun in Taurus - 12:30AM EDST
Sunrise: 6:34AM EDST
Sunset: 8:04PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "Is your criticism undermining
someone or something?"
Imbolc (Gwyl Mair) Quarter of the Year
April 20th, 2010

The Sun in Taurus

    The Sun has entered Taurus. As an Earth sign this indicates a down-to-earth attitude, praticality, resourcefulness and common sense. It is also a Fixed sign, bringing qualities of persistence, reliability, stability, strong reactions and stubborness. 
    Those born under this Sun sign are generally self-restrained, intense, practical and steadfast. The typical Taurean is quiet, reflective, patient, forbearing, but very determined. They really need stability, security, and reassurance. They are methodical but can be set in  their ways and opinions. They are very affectionate and home loving with an appreciation of the good things in life. Once a Taurean has made up their mind it is almost impossible to change it. Being methodical they are ideally suited to work where patience and perseverance are needed. On the negative side they can be possessive, overpowering, and self-centered. Their desire to avoid conflict can result in problems escalting rather than being resolved.
    Taureans will find this period good for reflection and self-care. It is also a good time for any form of building or construction, especially DIY. However, in relationships they need to be careful not to be too cloying or clingy, and to give their partners enough room to breathe. They should ensure that they take extra care of their throats at this time. Others will find this a good time for all matters involving the physical realm: the home, the garden, and the body. It is also a good time for tackling difficulties which require a methodical approach.
[From: "The Real Witches' Year" by Kate West]

Waxing Crescent Moon enters the Sign of Cancer

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


6th Day of the 5th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Artemis
Lunar Tree Cycle ~ Saille/Willow
5th Day of the Celtic Tree Month ~ Saille/Willow
Moon Phase: waxing Crescent
Moon sets: 12:51AM EDST
Moon rises: 10:02AM EDST
Moon in Gemini v/c 6:20AM EDST
Moon enters the Cardinal Water Sign
of Cancer at 7:39AM EDST
Blodeuwedd's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: Meditate upon truth
Sun in Aries
Sunrise: 6:35AM EDST
Sunset: 8:03PM 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
April 19th, 2010

Moon in Cancer - Here is a lunar transit which is about feelings, emotional security, desires about a home, security issues, nostalgia and the desire nurture.  Add this into the Mercury Retrograde energies
we are starting to go through and there can quite a bit of confusion in communication going on.  This Moon Day (Monday) - the Day of Remembering and Feeling - can be quite an emotional day. There are Major magickal energies floating around regarding Dream Homes and Fertility and some minor magickal energies for spells and rites about domestic power. 

   Perhaps with all these emotional and confusing feelings swirling around you might want to turn to your tarot cards for some guidelines and suggestions.....  The first Tarot decks were produced in medieval times as gaming cards and sold by the monks who painted them.  Now that is a bit of information about the early tarot cards that I haven't heard before!  It's no wonder that the church called them the devil'sn picture book..!  Now a days Tarot cards come in many different shapes and sizes, and there are over 200 decks available, (in fact I think there are even more than that), ranging in price from reasonable to ridiculous. A Tarot deck has 5 'suits', four of which make up the Minor Arcana: Wands or Staves, Swords, Cups and Coins or Pentacles.  These are similar to the suits in ordinary playing cards, except the Jack or Knave  becomes the Prince and there is an extra 'royal' card, the Princess or Maiden.
- Hmmm, I don't think most tarot decks have 'princesses or maidens' in them but I have seen some. -
     These suits correspond to the Elements of Air, Fire, Water, and Earth. The fifth suit is the Major Arcana and has 22 numbered and/or names cards, corresponding to the Element of Spirit.  A full deck totals 78 cards. The two main kinds of decks are fully pictorial where every card has an illustration, and semi-pictorial where only the Major Arcana has illustrations; the other suits only having a literal designs, e.g. the 3 of Wands will show only 3 wands.
     Tarot cards are most often used for general divination readings and to answer questions, but they can also be used in meditation exercises and in spell work. There are several myths attached to the Tarot. It is sometimes said that is unlucky to buy your own cards, although this may have something to do with people protecting their own interests as readers. It is also said to be unlucky to read using another person's deck, probably for the same reason.   I've heard of the saying that you should have your tarot deck presented to you as a gift, but if I had waited for that I would probably never have one - but this other one about using someone else's deck, well, that could have some truth to it.  Becoming attuned to the vibes of your tarot deck(s) is something all tarot people seem to agree on.

This is a favorite image on a tarot card in Poppy Palin's tarot deck

titled 'Stories of the Wild Spirit'.  It is titled The Fortune Teller.

In the handbook that comes with this deck it says this about what

this card's figure is saying to you:  'I dare to know what I do not

know, to feel that which is not mine to feel. I sit here, bold as brass

it seems, offering you my services as a seer. Inside I always have the

fear that I will not be up to the task at hand, but outwardly I project

a vision of calm confidence to inspire your trust. I am trustworthy, I

am genuine, but all the time I fret that this responsibility is too great,

that I cannot hold all these secrets or translate them as they were

meant to be spoken to the world.

I play the role you expect of me: the vivacious and colorful wanderer

passing through your town to earn a crust by peddling my psychic sight.

Inside I am trembling, although my display is attractive, my words

inspiring. The power that passes through me is awesome, and I never,

ever underestimate it or overestimate my ability.

I am the Clairnoyant, the Medium who risks her reputation, and

your ridicule, time and time again in order to help you with your

relationships and your inner turmoil. You have much you hold deep

within you, and around you. I see glimmers of the past, present and future.

I am the receiver of messages that each created. Bring transits. I am the

decoder of truths, which hang like smoke in the air all around me.

Do I really See?  Oh yes, my friend. I have the nebulous gift, the profound

intuition of the visionary. Sometimes it is a burden so great that all I can do

is weep, for the worries and pain of the world are revealed to me whether I

like it or not. I see storms in your tea cup and divine the future through the patterns

of the ripples in a pond. That is what I was born to do. While some may try to

shut down their ability to perceive truth and witness the Ways of Spirit, I know

that it is worse to work against one's nature Way of Being.

Crescent Moon phase - Mercury Retrograde

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

5th Day of the 5th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Artemis
Lunar Tree Cycle ~ Saille/Willow
4th Day of the Celtic Tree Month ~ Saille/Willow
Moon Phase: Crescent 1:40AM EDST
Moon sets: 12:15AM EDST
Moon rises: 9:01AM EDST
Moon in the Mutable Air Sign of Gemini
Blodeuwedd's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: Your kinship with
humanity.
Sun in Aries
Sunrise: 6:37AM EDST
Sunset: 8:02PM 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
April 18th, 2010


Crescent Moon - Keywords for this phase from http://www.zodiacarts.com/Calendar.shtml are - expansion, growth, struggle, and opportunity. This is the time in a lunar cycle when you gather wisdom learned in the New Moon phase and communicate your intention to move forward. Light a candle. Write or read an affirmation. LISTEN & ABSORB. Commit to your goal.  

Today there are minor magickal energies for working with animals. It is Sun Day (Sunday) and a Day of Intent, Creation and Renewal. 

Mercury Retrograde - began today - sigh, I always feel rather constricted in what decisions I make during this time.  Most of this retrograde period will occur while the Sun is in Taurus (Tuesday, the Sun moves into Taurus) and Taurus being solid and stable and disliking changes could make this retgrade experience a bit more uncomfortable.  Mercury retrograde largely affects communication, decision making and sometimes travel.  This retrograde period will last through May 11th.  This site
http://blog.beliefnet.com/astrologicalmusings/2010/04/mercury-retrograde-until-may-1.html   has a pretty good article on this Mercury Retrograde period now.  And also this site gives a solid discussion on Mercury Retrogrades:  http://www.astrologycom.com/retro.html 

  And is another good site too:  http://www.nydailynews.com/lifestyle/horoscopes/2010/04/05/2010-04-05_mercury_retrograde__april_18__may_12.html 

Moon enters the Air Sign of Gemini

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

4th Day of the 5th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Artemis
Lunar Tree Cycle ~ Saille/Willow
3rd Day of the Celtic Tree Month ~ Saille/Willow
Moon Phase: waxing New Moon
Moon rises: 8:08AM EDST
Moon sets: 11:53PM EDST
Moon in Taurus v/c 12:57AM EDST
Moon enters the Mutable Air Sign
of Gemini at 2:08AM EDST
Blodeuwedd's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The gifts of Spring.
Sun in Aries
Sunrise: 6:38AM EDST
Sunset: 8:01PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "What
message is your body trying to tell you?"
Imbolc (Gwyl Mair) Quarter of the Year
April 17th, 2010


Moon in Gemini - This lunar transit in Gemini is a time of communication and other means of expression, having feelings of needing freedom, being very adaptable, making short journeys, reading and/or writing, having desires of variety and having more than one thing going at once or as we say nowadays - multi-tasking.  As everyone is being adaptable and changeable, take all statements and promises with a grain of salt, especially if the person has proven fickle in the past. You will find this to be a hard time to make any decisions but you can use wit and cleverness in conversations.  Enjoy Gemini's freedom today because tomorrow Mercury Retrograde begins and communication can become a snarled mess.

Primroses - I've noticed that some of my primroses have survived the upheavel they experienced last fall when a new sewer system was put in our yard.  They are bravely flowering lovely blossoms in spite of the fickle spring weather we are having.  Blue and red primroses growing in the garden protect it from all adversities, and they also attract fairies says Scott Cunningham in his Encyclopedia of Magickal Herbs.... This is feminine gender plant and sometimes is called by other names which are Butter Rose, English Cowslip, and Password.  Their element is Earth and their deity is Freya. 
   The Primrose is another spring flower which is was felt unlucky to bring indoors in a quantity of less than thirteen, for fear that less would limit the number of eggs or chicks from poultry. However, in larger bunches they were welcome.  Have you ever noticed that primrose plants seem to blossom with large quantities of flowers on each individual plant? 

   Primroses have long been associated with children, it being said that placing the dried flowers in a child's pillow would ensure their respect. Keeping the plant in flower on the window sill is also said to encourage their sleep and to guarantee pleasant dreams. The plant does have sedative properties and an infusion of the flowers can be used to calm the nerves. The roots are infused as a headache cure, although they can also be used as an emetic so it is wise to make the solution a weak one. Primroses used to be used in cooking as well as medicine, the petals being added to rice, floated on soup or crystallized as cake decorations.
   The Primrose is used in spells to attract love, and for the protection of a loved one. Place a pressed Primrose flower in the front of the card of someone you care for to ensure safe journeys.

Freya's Day in Moon sign of Taurus

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

3rd of the 5th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Persephone
Lunar Tree Cycle ~ Saille/Willow
2nd Day of the Celtic Tree Month ~ Saille/Willow
Moon Phase: waxing new moon
Moon rises: 7:25AM EDST
Moon sets: 10:49PM EDST
Moon in the Fixed Earth Sign
of Taurus
Blodeuwedd's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: Memory of
childhood games.
Sun in Aries
Sunrise: 6:40AM EDST
Sunset: 8:00PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "What
experience of life you most crave?"
Imbolc (Gwyl Mair) Quarter of the Year
April 16th, 2010

   So Freya's Day is here - TGIF - and there are minor magickal energies for doing spells and/or rites for love, romance and creativity.  Taurus is a sensual earth sign, so this could give you some added help in your workings.  Freya's Day - Venus Day - is a Day of Sharing and Relationships.  So enjoy these energies for the day and partake of their blessings.

  

Waxing New Moon in Taurus

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

2nd of the 5th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Persephone
Lunar Tree Cycle ~ Saille/Willow
1st Day of the Celtic Tree Month ~ Saille/Willow
Moon Phase: waxing new moon
Moon rises: 6:50AM EDST
Moon sets: 9:42PM EDST
Moon in the Fixed Earth Sign of
Taurus
Blodeuwedd's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The things that inspire you.
Sun in Aries
Sunrise: 6:41AM EDST
Sunset: 7:59PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "Who are
you trying to control?"
Imbolc (Gwyl Mair) Quarter of the Year
April 15th, 2010

Waxing Moon in Taurus -  The forceful forward movement of Aries becomes solid, calm and patient during our lunar transit through Taurus.  This is a time about issues concerning money, work, property, the body, home and family, sensuality, building cautiously and slowly, being conscientious, growth, sensitivity, planting and emotional patterns based on security. The energy flow is even.  The time in Taurus gives attention to order and detail. Emotionally, there is stubborness, but great sensitivity to others. This will be a good time to work in your garden and plant the seeds for this lunar cycle's plans.

  There are Major magickal energies for rites/spells about money matters and business success and minor magickal energies for networking.  Thor's Day/Jupiter's Day is a day of vision, spiritual insight and expansion.  So take advantage of the waxing lunar energies.

Celtic Tree Month of Willow begins today. 

   The willow tree corresponds to the Ogham letter saille (shail-uh). The willow tree's roots run deep with emotion and the powers of divination. The willow is heavily associated with the Moon and Goddess energy. You may ask a willow tree to charge and bless your divination tools, tarot deck, crystal ball, runes, ogham set, etc., during this month of the willow tree. 
   Place your favorite divination tools in a small willow basket, available in most craft stores. You can do this on any Monday (Moon Day) evening. Take the basket outside and sit with it under a willow tree. Visualize the willow tree's energy pouring down over your divination tools, filling them with its Goddess power. When you feel it's done, thank the tree, leave a gift (e. g. a crystal, coin, fertilizer stick). Try this charm while enchanting your tools:

"Willow tree, lend your vibrations,

Bless these tools of divination.

And guide my heart that I may see,

All they have to show me."

by Mickie Mueller

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

  

New Moon in Aries

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

1st Day of the 5th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Persephone
Lunar Tree Cycle ~ Saille/Willow
28th Day of the Celtic Tree Month ~ Fearn/Aler
Moon Phase: New - 8:28AM EDST
Moon rises: 6:20AM EDST
Moon sets: 8:35PM EDST
Moon in Aries v/c 3:22PM EDST
Moon enters the Fixed Earth Sign
of Taurus at 6:55PM EDST
Blodeuwedd's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: A plant or flower
of your choice.
Sun in Aries
Sunrise: 6:43AM EDST
Sunset: 7:58PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "What enslaves
you and how can you be free?"
Imbolc (Gwyl Mair) Quarter of the Year
April 14th, 2010

New Moon - The beginning of a new cycle.  Keywords for the New Phase are: beginnings, birth, emergence, porjection, clairty. http.//zodiacarts.com  This is the time in a lunar cycle when you will feel stimulated to take a new action. During the New Moon phase you plants seeds of vision, inner and outer.  Engage in physical activity. Spend time alone. VISUALIZE your goals for the next 29.6 day cycle ahead.

Saille/Willow Lunar Cycle

    Willow has always had many uses, from today's baskets, chairs and fences to the watle walls of the past. Willow's long, straight and pliable branches have been pollarded to provide the material to literally furnish our homes and lives. The bark of the tree contains salicin, from which aspirin is made. The leaves can be boiled and solution used as a shampoo to reduce dandruff, as a gargle for sore throats and on the skin to reduce blemishes. It used to be thought that bathing the external genitals with this would improve sexual performance.

   Willow prefers moist ground and is often found along riverbanks, close to the boundary of the otherworld and has strong links to the earth-water Goddesses. The pale color of the wood is said to be similar to that of a person who has left this life and is commercing a new life beyond the veil. The Willow is often been associated with loss and grief; hence the name weeping Willow, although in the Craft this refers to the ability to let go of material things in order to free yourself to take on more spiritual attributes. In this the Willow can act as a guide. Visualize yourself weaving a small boat from branches of Willow. Work carefully, and set forth upon the waters in it. Let the wind and tides take you where they will. The sights you see, the places you visit and the people you meet will guide you on your spiritual path.

   The Willow is used to make incenses for divination and otherworld journeys and the traditional Witch's besom is tied with willow.
[From: "The Real Witches' Year" by Kate West]

Balsamic Moon moves into the Sign of Aries

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

29th Day of the 4th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Hecate
Lunar Tree Cycle ~ Fearn/Alder
26th Day of the Celtic Tree Month ~ Fearn/Alder
Moon Phase: Balsamic
Moon rises: 5:31AM EDST
Moon sets: 6:27PM EDST
Moon in Pisces v/c 8:51AM EDST
Moon enters the Cardinal Fire Sign
of Aries at 9:31AM EDST
Ceridwen's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The compassionate n
surrender of night.
Sun in Aries
Sunrise: 6:46AM EDST
Sunset: 7:56AM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "What do you need
and what help is at hand?"
Imbolc (Gwyl Mair) Quarter of the Year
April 12th, 2010

    The moon is drawing close to it's new phase coming up on Wednesday. Today it passes into the astrological sign for this New Moon and it is rising later each morning and setting later each later
afternoon.  This is Moon Day (Monday) and there are minor magickal energies for resolving domestic issues.  Moon Day is the Day of Remembering and Feeling. 

    The moon becomes dark at about 28 days after the new moon.  In our current cycle, which is a 30-day cycle this time, the moon becomes the dark moon on the 29th-30th days which will be today and tomorrow, with Wednesday being the day the New Moon occurs at 8:28AM EDST.  Now is the time to use the dark moon for inner reflections, the dark deities, and personal journeying.  The day before the New Moon, which is actually be tomorrow, is another day when magick is very potent. So this can make today the waning to dark, tomorrow the dark moon and then Wednesday is the New Moon day.  It is said that when you can no longer see the moon in the sky, which at this point in the lunar cycle would be in the early morning hours of 5:00AM til after 6:00AM, then moon is in its dark phase. 
  

Balsamic Moon in Pisces

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


28th Day of the 4th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Hecate
Lunar Tree Cycle ~ Fearn/Alder
25th Day of the Celtic Tree Month ~ Fearn/Alder
Moon Phase: waning Balsamic moon
Moon rises: 5:08AM EDST
Moon sets: 5:25PM EDST
Moon in the Mutable Water Sign
of Pisces
Ceridwen's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: A tree of your choice
Sun in Aries
Sunrise: 6:48AM EDST
Sunset: 7:55PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "Is complaceney
clogging up your life?"
Imbolc (Gwyl Mair) Quarter of the Year
April 11th, 2010

Balsamic Moon phase - Yesterday the moon entered its Balsamic phase for this lunar cycle at 8:59AM EDST. Keywords for the Balsamic phase are: transition, release, transformation, renewal, purity. This is the point in a lunar cycle where you must let go of everything you've been working on that doesn't deal with 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.

   Some people believe that the dark moon time should be a time for rest, and when no magick should be performed. But actually this can be a time when there is a balance point of inner sight and explorations. This natural balance can be disrupted if you allow it to slip through your fingers.  All things in witchcraft, the universe and on earth, including people, seek to find their equal opposite point in order to create balance. If you consider the universe, there is balance between light and dark, day and night, sun and moon, yin and yang, east and west, north and south, above and below and inward and outward.
So too does our shadow self and our conscious self seek to find balance within each other and thereby can help us to feel whole.

   Witches seek to balance the elements in their circles and spells and are fond of saying 'out with the old, and in with the new' or 'as within, so it is throughout.'  These are statements of balance and acceptance. They acknowledge that one thing must be done in order to achieve the other, and also that all these things are connected.  By exploring and understanding what no longer serves you, you can release it (action) and bring in new fulfilling energies (reaction). In this way you are rebalancing yourself on your mental, energetic, and spiritual levels.  So with the Dark Moon you perform releasing actions and at the New Moon time you react by bringing in new fulfilling energy. 

   Until recently the Dark Moon phase was a phase that was ignored and allowed to pass without being honored or acknowledged.  It was viewed as a time of rest and reflection (which it can be to some extent); a time void of magick and steeped in mystery; and time for inner sight and divination.  While some witches and pagans practice at the dark moon and others don't there are more and more witches who are trying understand what it means and where it fits in daily practice.  They felt the dark moon had to be good for than just hanging around, waiting for the next full moon. It can be so magnetic and full of magick like a full moon.  Remember, look at it as the balancing point to the full moon. 

   The goddess of this moon phase and right up through the Dark Moon itself is Hecate - she is a goddess of death and the forces of regeneration and rebirth.  In Greek religion she was portrayed as triple headed, showing her rulership over birth, death and growth. She has links with dogs, the serpent, horses, pigs, frogs and the lion, and is accompanied by hounds. Hecate is considered as being a chthonic goddess and chthonic is commonly defined as being dark, primitive and mysterious - as being of the earth or under the earth.  This can be appropriate for being associated with the Dark Moon phase.  The willow trees are sacred to her, as well as cypress and yew. The yew is a tree of regeneration that grows afresh from its own dying trunk and also cypress and yew both grow in graveyards.  You can place offerings of dark honey, dried figs, grain, and pomegranates on your altar that you create to honor Hecate.  Perhaps using a wand from willow wood is appropriate for a Hecate rite.

Freya's Day - moon enters Pisces

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


26th Day of the 4th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Hecate
Lunar Tree Cycle ~ Fearn/Alder
23rd Day of the Celtic Tree Month ~ Fearn/Alder
Moon Phase: waning Crescent
Moon rises: 4:23AM EDST
Moon sets: 3:26PM EDST
Moon in Aquarius v/c 5:43PM EDST
Moon enters the Mutable Water
Sign of Pisces at 9:48PM EDST
Ceridwen's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The song of
Spring's new life.
Sun in Aries
Sunrise: 6:51AM EDST
Sunset: 7:53PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "What have you been struggling
with and how does it challenge you?"
Imbolc (Gwyl Mair) Quarter of the Year
April 9th, 2010

Freya's Day (Friday) - Venus Day, Day of Sharing and Relationships.  There are some minor magickal energies today for rites and spells to initiate endings and the waning moon energies will help out.  We are entering Hecate's time in the lunar cycle.  Now is when we become introsective, begin clearing away the things that are unfinished and prepare to begin anew when the new lunar cycle comes in about four more days.  What can you be doing to honor Hecate and her time? In many Wiccan traditions Hecate is a patron Goddess of magick. She is a crone Goddess of wisdom, death, change/rebirth, and the Underworld/Otherworld.  Turn your thoughts to her in the next few days as you explore your own inner self. 

Waning Crescent Moon in Aquarius

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

25th Day of the 4th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Medusa
Lunar Tree Cycle ~ Fearn/Alder
22nd of the Celtic Tree Month ~ Fearn/Alder
Moon Phase: waning Crescent
Moon rises: 3:58AM EDST
Moon sets: 2:26PM EDST
Moon in the Fixed Air Sign
of Aquarius
Ceridwen's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The gift of love.
Sun in Aries
Sunrise: 6:52AM EDST
Sunset: 7:52PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "What
boundaries do you need to pass through?"
Imbolc (Gwyl Mair) Quarter of the Year
April 8th, 2010


    It is Thor's Day (Thursday), also Jupiter's Day, a Day of Vision, Spiritual Insight, and Expansion.
This a day in the lunar cycle that is ruled by Medusa.  Medusa - a crone Goddess, the embodiment of old wounds and fears which must be released in order for us to move on to other planes of learning, and an archetypal link between the earth world of existence and the water world of death; archetypally a link between the divine and human worlds. [From Edain McCoy's Anatolian Goddess who Rules the Days list in her book "Lady of the Night"]

  

Waning Last Quarter moves into Aquarius

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

24th Day of the 4th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Medusa
Lunar Tree Cycle ~ Fearn/Alder
21st. Day of the Celtic Tree Month ~ Fearn/Alder
Moon Phase: waning Last Quarter
Moon rises: 3:29AM EDST
Moon sets: 1:25PM EDST
Moon in Capricorn v/c 4:18AM EDST
Moon enters the Fixed Air Sign of
Aquarius at 8:51AM EDST
Ceridwen's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The perseverance and
power of heart's desire.
Sun in Aries
Sunrise: 6:54AM EDST
Sunset: 7:50PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "Where is love
manifesting in your life?"
Imbolc (Gwyl Mair) Quarter of the Year
April 7th, 2010

Moon in Aquarius - The moon transit in Aquarius is a transit of dealing with facts, organizing, political issues, desires to save the world through social action, connecting with others in social situations, scientific, pursuits, detachment and the need to come and go without restriction. Here we can experience a drastic mood change from Capricorn's groundedness and its value of tradition and caution.
Aquarius brings us the desire to try anything new, innovative, different or unconventional. There can extremes of behavior during this moon transit moving between optimism and pessimism.  And what an appropriate day of the week for us to enter this moon sign - Woden's Day (Wednesday) - the Day of Communication and Connection.  This is Mercury's Day so your communication paths will be wide open and message can be moving swiftly to and fro.  

    There are minor magickal energies today for rites to honor ancestors.  So you have day imbued with the energy of communication and connection, an Air Moon transit that favors communication and connections - so perhaps a way to honor these ancestors is to send them messages on the smoke of your lit incense. 

  

Moon enters the Last Quarter

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


23rd Day of the 4th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Medusa
Lunar Tree Cycle ~ Fearn/Alder
20th Day of the Celtic Tree Month ~ Fearn/Alder
Moon Phase: Last Quarter - 5:36AM EDST
Moon rises: 2:55AM EDST
Moon sets: 12:24PM EDST
Moon in the Cardinal Earth Sign of Capricorn
Ceridwen's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: Your spiritual quest so far.
Sun in Aries
Sunrise: 6:56AM EDST
Sunset: 7:49PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "What
are others trying to tell you?"
Imbolc (Gwyl Mair) Quarter of the Year
April 6th, 2010

Last Quarter Moon Phase - at http://www.zodiacarts.com/Calendar.shtml , wonderful website for looking up a lunar calendar, they give the keywords for the Last Quarter as being - realignment, revision, integration, and cleansing.  This is the time in a lunar cycle to take closing action, to follow-up and complete the activities begun at the New Moon phase.  Remember those goals you set?  Check and see what is happening in that area of your life.  During this phase you becomke aware of what is and what not working regarding the achievement(s) of your goal(s) for this cycle.  The movement is toward integration - integrating into your life the goals you set.  Open to your successes. MANIFEST YOUR GOAL(S).  Be responsible.  Hmmm, this last bit of advice is sounds like Capricorn's influence today.
The moon is still in Capricorn. 

   This is Tiu's Day - Tuesday - the day of Activity and Physicality, Passion and Desire.  How does this mesh with Tiu''s energies?  Well, one of the aspects of Capricorn's influences is that this is a good time
for setting and achieving goals, 'going for it' materially because now under Capricorn's influencial energies we feel persistent and ambitious.  So this an excellent time for reviewing those goals you set at the New Moon.

    I read something of interest this morning in "Seasons of the Witch Primer: A Companion Guide3" by Victoria D. Danann - it is about the 'fact that certain kinds of spells lend themselves to certain kinds of weather.'  I am having a rainy morning here today after a short thunderstorm moved through around 4:30AM and according to the Primer here: 'Rainy days are wonderful days for water magick.'  Makes sense doesn't it. She also says that windy days are great for air magick and that cold days are good for fire magick.  Ms. Danann also points out that if you find yourself dreading an aspect of a spell or work with a particular matick, don't bother.  You're not going to get anywhere using the thing that seems daunting or like a chore.  Sage advice there I think.  Follow your intuition as always.

Waning Moon in Capricorn

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

22nd Day of the 4th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Hestia
Lunar Tree Cycle ~ Fearn/Alder
19th Day of the Celtic Tree Month ~ Fearn/Alder
Moon Phase: Disseminating
Moon rises: 2:13AM EDST
Moon sets: 11:24AM EDST
Moon in the Cardinal Earth Sign
of Capricorn
Ceridwen's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The service of parenthood.
Sun in Aries
Sunrise: 6:57AM EDST
Sunset: 7:48PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "Is your envy of others
obstructing your own achievement?"
Imbolc (Gwyl Mair) Quarter of the Year
April 5th, 2010

Waning Moon in Capricorn - After the enthusiatically restless energies that Sagittarius brings us, we are solidly grounded (and on a Monday too), again in the Earth Sign of Capricorn.  The moon entered this earthy sign last night at 9:07PM EDST, a time when frequently the weekend fun is about wound down and we begin to face another work week.  A moon transit in Capricorn brings us energy regarding leadership issues, security, responsibilities, the need to be recognized and a desire to create environments.  So here is a time to care of business and deal with perhaps alternative healing for your body and to intensify your powers of concentration by focusing on Capricorn's grounded aspects.  Avoid being insentivite to others and stay out of negative and pessimistic mind sets that will only drag you down and not allow you any abilities to achieve Capricorn related concerns. Take this transit to deal with your material plane, especially if you have neglected it too long. Capricorn is the moon sign of the medicine woman, so non-traditional healing is the way to go.

   It is Moon Day - a Day of Remembering and Feeling so don't let negative feelings overwhelm you, think of positive rememberances.  There is some minor magickal energies to release unwanted emotions, and with a waning moon, there can be sucess in doing this in a rite.