Disseminating Moon Phase begins

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

19th Day of the 6th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Demeter
Lunar Tree Cycle ~ Hauthe/Hawthorn
18th Day of the Celtic Tree Month ~ Hauthe/Hawthorn
Moon Phase: Disseminating - 3:41PM EDST
Moon sets: 9:03AM EDST
Moon rises: 11:54PM EDST
Moon in Capricorn v/c 11:41PM EDST
Rhiannon's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The company of
solitude
Sun in Gemini
Sunrise: 5:52AM EDST
Sunset: 8:42PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "Which of your
neglected friends would most enjoy hearing from you?"
Beltaine (Calan Mai) Quarter of the Year
May 31st, 2010


Disseminating Moon - Keywords for the Disseminating phase are: demonstration, distribution, sharing and introspection.  This is the time in a lunar cycle to further process your advancement toward your goal by looking at the results of your adjusting action taken at the Full Moon phase. During this phase you gain clarity by sharing what you've learned through awareness. Demonstrate your power of abundance by giving back to your community. Visit friends. Distribute your knowledge. SHARE. Reach out and touch someone.  [this advice goes along with our Solar Question for today.] 
     Consider the Disseminating Moon, which appears three to four days after the Full Moon. Says lunation expert Dane Rudhyar of this phase, "Form, revealed in a moment of lucid perception at the 'Full Moon'..... gradually releases its meaning (or significance) as the Moon decreases in light. The waning period of the lunation is thus a period of growth for the active power of consciousness. Consciousness, once it is formulated, can be shared with others, and thus can actively affect and transform others."
    In the Disseminating phase we work our magick with consciousness, with the power of meaning. After receiving our Full Moon revelation, we absorb its significance and send it out at this phase, affecting the world, transforming ourselves.  In the weeks of the waxing Moon, going from New Moon to Full Moon, are like an excited climb up a roller coaster. Anticip0atory, sky-facing, we feel we're heading towards something big. Reaching the Full Moon brings us to that exquisite phase on highest peak. We see the whole park as we've never seen it before. The people wandering below are tiny, oblivious; it's like we know something they don't. Then our car tips downward, sending our heart in our throat. We're momentarily breathless, our vision blurs. We scream! And the whole park is transformed with our Disseminating call.
     Of course the ride we get at the Waning Moon depends on our climb during the waxing weeks. We built the track then. Suppose our solar consciousness was strong, that we knew what we wanted and our efforts were successful. Then we're charged with enthusiasm at the Disseminating phase. We're ready to take our message to a waiting world, like a preacher infused with the power of her religion.
     But what if we didn't use the waxing weeks well? Magick appears nonetheless. We discover the eye of the newt and tongue of toad our unconscious was quietly assembling in the back room. This brew is more lunar, reflective of our habits and hidden choices. And it's potent. Its thrust into consciousness can be quite energizing, revolutionizing, even driving our waning weeks into greater productivity than an industrious waxing climb.
     Because this type of Full Moon insight arrives unexpectedly, there's always a danger that we will miss or want to turn away from it. Pay attention the next few days - view the Disseminating Moon in the early morning hours when it is still visible.  Turn inward enough to seek this Full Moon insight that might be trying to 'talk' to the conscious mind.
[Excerpts from Dana Gerhardt's Moon Watching]

Capricorn's Waning Moon

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


18th Day of the 6th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Demeter
Lunar Tree Cycle ~ Hauthe/Hawthorn
17th Day of the Celtic Tree Month ~ Hauthe/Hawthorn
Moon Phase: Waning Gibbous Moon
Moon sets: 8:01AM EDST
Moon rises: 11:20PM EDST
Moon in the Cardinal Earth Sign
of Capricorn
Rhiannon's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation:  The message of birdsong
Sun in Gemini
Sunrise: 5:53AM EDST
Sunset: 8:41PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "How can you
bring simplicity and shape to your muddle?"
Beltaine (Calan Mai) Quarter of the Year
May 30th, 2010

Waning Gibbous Moon - catching up

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

17th Day of the 6th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Gaia
Lunar Tree Cycle ~ Hauthe/Hawthorn
16th Day of the Celtic Tree Month ~ Hauthe/Hawthorn
Moon Phase: waning Gibbous moon
Moon sets: 7:01AM EDST
Moon rises: 10:39PM EDST
Moon in Sagittarius v/c 12:39PM EDST
Moon enters the Cardinal Earth Sign of
Capricorn at 2:44PM EDST
Rhiannon's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: Partnerships in
your life.
Sun in Gemini
Sunrise: 5:53AM EDST
Sunset: 8:40PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "Which special gifts
and abilities are you neglecting?"
Beltaine (Calan Mai) Quarter of the Year
May 29th, 2010


Moon in Capricorn - we are entering a moon transit where we feel concerned with security, responsibilities, a desire to create environments and to take time to take care of business.  After Sagittarius expansiveness, now we feel contraction and a time to pay attention to our needs to do our duties and obligations. This can be a good time to set goals and to 'go for it materially'.  Be careful to avoid insensitivity to others, and stay out of pessimistic mind sets that will only drag you down.

Gibbous Moon in Scorpio

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

14th Day of the 6th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Gaia
Lunar Tree Cycle ~ Hauthe/Hawthorn
13th Day of the Celtic Tree Cycle ~ Hauthe/Hawthorn
Moon Phase: waxing Gibbous
Moon sets: 4:34AM EDST
Moon rises: 7:48PM EDST
Moon in the Fixed Water Sign
of Scorpio
Rhiannon's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The secret
country of dreams
Sun in Gemini
Sunrise: 5:55AM EDST
Sunset: 8:38PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: ""Are you properly
prepared for emergency action?"
Beltaine (Calan Mai) Quarter of the Year
May 26th, 2010

Moon in Scorpio - Yesterday morning the moon entered the Fixed Water Sign of Scorpio - this is a moon transit time of intensity and heightened sensitivity. It is good for focusing and doing psychic work because of the deep emotions and desires Scorpio brings. The emotionally intense Scorpio gives us the desire to keep our strongest feelings to ourselves. This secretive aspect of Scorpio is a way of holding power, but also assists in the internal processes of change. Although Scorpio is a fixed sign, it is really about metamorphosis - the most profound kind of change. Nothing can stop Scorpionic transformation once started. Emotional resentments from the past can surface and block your heightened creative energy, so fight urges to be suspicious, secretive and moody. This is a time regeneration and cleaning out the emotional debris from the previous cycle. There is a great deal of energy to complete things and focus on certain areas that you have found yourself too scattered to deal with in the previous cycle.

There are Major magickal energies for performing Solitary Mat\gick today.  There is indeed a time for everything including focused power of solitary magicks. Some of us find that our most potent and memorable results were generated by spells cast in the solemnity of solitude. Above all, take steps to be certain you are disturbed when working.   Blessed be a solitary witch. Solitary witches are often self-initiated if at all. Their practice is often eclectic 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 sorcerers in pursuit of genuine magick. It is the reclusive witch 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.
[Excerpts from "Seasons of the Witch Primer" by Victoria D. Danann]

Gibbous Moon in Libra

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


12th Day of the 6th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Hera
Lunar Tree Cycle ~ Hauthe/Hawthorn
11th Day of the Celtic Tree Month ~ Hauthe/Hawthorn
Moon Phase: Gibbous - 5:48AM EDST
Moon sets: 3:26AM EDST
Moon rises: 5:26PM EDST
Moon in the Cardinal Air Sign
of Libra
Rhiannon's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: Happiness
Sun in Gemini
Sunrise: 5:56AM EDST
Sunset: 8:36PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "In which areas of
your life are you self-important?"
Beltaine (Calan Mai) Quarter of the Year
May 24th, 2010

Gibbous Moon - "Gibbous" is an astronomical term describing a planetary body that's almost fully lit up. And indeed on Gibbous nights, looking at the Moon, you'll find a Moon that's almost full. "Almost" suggests a transitional time; we're close not quite there. The next phase is the Full Moon, bringing culmination, the revelation of what we've been building to in the waxing cycle. But passing through 3 or 4 days of the Gibbous first can test our patience. Keywords for a Gibbous moon phase are: analyze, prepare and trust. It is a tie in a lunar cycle to process results of the actions you took during the First Quarter phase.  What is happening in achieving your goals laid out at the New Moon phase. During this phase you can gather information but don't try making judgments because it will probably lead only to worry. Your knowledge, like the moon, is incomplete. Laugh. Analyze and filer. LOOK WITHIN.

This is Moon Day - the Day of Remembering and Feeling and with all the Airy energies from the Sun and Moon transits, we can certainly find ourselves wafting around in feelings. And now the Gibbous Moon can also give us those feelings.  There are Major magickal energies for spells/rites regarding Attraction and Travel - going to be traveling this coming weekend?  Need to look or feel attractive in the first days of swimsuit days?  Also there are minor magickal energies for household harmony and patience.  Perhaps there are issues that need to sorted out.  Ask for a little advice and help from the Goddess. 

Waxing Half Moon in Libra

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


11th Day of the 6th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Hera
Lunar Tree Cycle ~ Hauthe/Hawthorn 
10th Day of the Celtic Tree Month ~ Hauthe/Hawthorn
Moon Phase: waxing Half
Moon sets: 2:58AM EDST
Moon rises: 4:15PM EDST
Moon in the Cardinal Air Sign
of Libra
Rhiannon's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The gift of eros
Sun in Gemini
Sunrise: 7:57AM EDST
Sunset: 8:35PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "Where
is the warmth in your life?"
Beltaine (Calan Mai) Quarter of the Year
May 23rd., 2010

Moon in Libra - Ah, it is Sun Day - the Day of Intent, Creation, and Renewal - and the Moon is in a strong (Cardinal) Air sign along with the Sun being in a Mutable Air Sign of Gemini.... there can be a lot of positive vibes floating around today...  Also there are minor magickal energies for spells/rites for motivation, and personal finances in AM today... get busy and set yourself up for a good week ahead. 

Waxing Half Moon in Virgo

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

9th Day of the 6th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Kore
Lunar Tree Cycle ~ Hauthe/Hawthorn
8th Day of the Celtic Tree Month ~ Hauthe/Hawthorn
Moon Phase: waxing Half
Moon sets: 2:02AM EDST
Moon rises: 3:05PM EDST
Moon in the Mutable Earth Sign
of Virgo
Blodeuwedd's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The Wisdom of
Nature
Sun in Gemini
Sunrise: 5:58AM EDST
Sunset: 8:34PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: ""What is
the source of your courage?"
Beltaine (Calan Mai) Quarter of the Year
May 21st, 2010

Freya's Day - Venus Day, the Day of Sharing and Relationship... appropriate day to be having Major magickal energies for spells and rites for Romance and minor magickal energies for friendship. 

Over in Hecate's blog http://hecatedemetersdatter.blogspot.com/  this morning she has an entry talking about us modern witches and the different means of communicating we have.  She mentioned on her the different songs she has that reflects her religion - the Goddess spirituality... The first one she mentions is the song by the Pretenders called Hymn to Her http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x1n1xq_pretenders-hymn-to-her_music   - this is link to the music video I like best of this song.  I was so thrilled when I first heard this song - to me it is inspiring.  The link to this song in Hecate's blog http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XcMzLRWlg68   is different than the one I usually visit, but you may find this to be a link to refer to. My link in Daily Motion seems to be having problems.

   A link she gives on her IPhone... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-D5ez8Et08o   is the Charge of the Goddess being spoken by Kate West.  I loved hear Ms West's voice - I have several of her books and I frequently post excerpts here from these books.  Listening her voice reciting this beautiful Goddess invocation is something we all need to listen to frequently during our lives.  And of course when linking to You Tube videos, you see a listing on the right hand side of screen of other related videos and here is one I like a lot about practicing Witchcraft on daily basis - a recurring theme I post about a lot.  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gPslo1DpE0E&feature=related   

Sun Enters Gemini - First Quarter Moon enters Virgo

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

8th Day of the 6th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Kore
Lunar Tree Cycle ~ Hauthe/Hawthorn
7th Day of the Celtic Tree Month ~ Hauthe/Hawthorn
Moon Phase: First Quarter - 7:42PM EDST
Moon sets: 1:33AM EDST
Moon rises: 12:42PM EDST
Moon in Leo v/c 7:42PM EDST
Moon enters the Mutable Earth Sign
of Virgo at 7:58PM EDST
Blodeuwedd's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The skills that
you possess.
Sun enters the Mutable Air Sign
of Gemini
Sunrise: 5:59AM EDST
Sunset: 8:33PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "Are you respecting
or abusing trust?"
Beltaine (Calan Mai) Quarter of the Year
May 20th, 2010

   Busy astrological evening today - the moon enters the First Quarter, the Sun enters the Mutable Air
Sign of Gemini and the moon leaves dramatic Leo and moves into the Mutable Earth Sign of Virgo.
There can be all sorts of swirling energies happening.  The First Quarter Moon phase urges us to take initial action necessary to achieve your goals by expressing your needs and desires. Keywords for this phase are action, expression, growth and breaking away.  FEEL & MOVE.  Make phone calls. Write letters. Dance. Act now. Moon in Virgo is the time in a lunar cycle to cleaning up things we've neglected while partying around with Leo's dramatic energies.  This is the time we may feel the pressure of setting things in order, of being responsible and cleaning up messes we've been leaving . Virgo is an analytical grounded sign - time to analyze our goals and begin making progress on achieving them.  Be aware that there can be excessive criticism of ourselves and/or others. Emotionally this can be an inward time when may reflect on personal relationships. Thor's Day - Jupiter's Day - making this a Day of Vision, Spiritual Insight and Expansion. 

   There are Major magickal energies for performing spells/rites on Financial Gain after the moon goes void of course and enters the sign of Virgo - and there are minor magickal energies for good luck spells.
How will you use the energies available?  What correspondences will enhance your workings?

"They say that love's

not brought with treasure,

but gold can buy a lot of pleasure

and knowing I can pay the bills

is one of this plane's better thrills."

[From "Seasons of the Witch" Datebook]

Sun in Gemini

    The Sun enters the sign of Gemini, an Air sign. As such it indicates the world of thought, ideas, and
communications. It is also a Mutable sign adding flexibility and problem solving.  Those born when the Sun is in this sign are generally adaptable, versatile and good at communication. The typical Geminian is mentally alert, inquisitive and constantly on the go.They are talkative, sociable, dexterous, mentally agile, interested in new experiences, good at adjusting to circumstances, and they make excellent communicators in all fields.  While they have a lot of nervous energy they tend to squander this by over-committing to too many people or project at one time. Geminians are better at superficial relationships than they with their near and dear to whom they may appear cool and unaffectionate. They are, however, very alert and aware and good at picking up hidden signs and signals from others and from their environment.  On the negative side they can be devious, inconsistent, and variable, moving rapidly from one idea to another.
   For Geminians this period is good for work within an intellectual bias as long as they prioritize, apply themselves, and do not let themselves be distracted by new and more exciting things that come along. In relationships they need to be aware that others may need more open signs of affection than they do themselves. Non-Geminians should use the energy of this time to pursue intellectual pursuits and to work on all aspects of communication.
[From: Kate West's "The Real Witches' Year"]

Woden's Day -

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


7th Day of the 6th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Kore
Lunar Tree Cycle ~ Hauthe/Hawthorn
6th Day of the Celtic Tree Month ~ Hauthe/Hawthorn
Moon Phase: waxing Crescent
Moon sets: 12:59AM EDST
Moon rises: 11:30AM EDST
Moon in the Fixed Fire Sign of Leo
Blodeuwedd's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The complementarity
of women and men.
Sun in Taurus
Sunrise: 6:00AM EDST
Sunset: 8:32PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "What sacrifices must
you make to fulfill your plans?"
Beltaine (Calan Mai) Quarter of the Year
May 19th, 2010


Woden's Day - Mercury's Day - the Day of Communication and Connection - and in this Leo Moon transit we may find that some people are communication in a dramatic way or even ourselves sprouting
exaggerated statements. The drama feelings of Leo's Fixed Fire energy can affect our communications.

Chili Peppers

   For this time we are spending in a fiery Moon transit let's discuss a fiery plant and it's fruits.  Chillies have long been used to stimulate the digestion, especially where it is sluggish. A small pinch of Chili in a pint of water is used as a gargle for sore throats. Chili powder used to be added to ointment in the case of aching joints. but is worth testing first to see if you are sensitive.
    Added to food it helps to relieve chills and is thought to reduce a fiery temperament.
    Magically Chili is used to break hexes, being placed in sachets to carry, or scattered around the outside of the house. To ensure fidelity, take two dried Chilis, tie them together with pink ribbon and place this under your partner's pillow. Chili is also used to enhance spells related to the Sun and to Mars; those for prosperity, defence, courage, strength and energy.
    Unless you are very fond of hot and spicy foods you will only need a few Chili peppers, so why not grow your own?  As the plants are relatively small they are easy to grow indoors and this is the time of year to plant a few seeds. Place 3 or 4 into some moist seed compost and cover with their own depth of soil. Cover the pots with plastic bags to keep warmth and moisture in until the seedlings have a few leaves and then remove the bags and place them in good, indirect light and keep them relatively warm. When young, pinch out the tops to encourage bushy growth. If you don't want to use them as soon as they ripen, they can dried, pickled in vinegar or frozen.
[From Kate West's "The Real Witches' Year"]

Waxing Crescent Moon moves into Fiery Sign of Leo

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

6th Day of the 6th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Artemis
Lunar Tree Cycle ~ Hauthe/Hawthorn
5th Day of the Celtic Tree Month ~ Hauthe/Hawthorn
Moon Phase: waxing Crescent Moon
Moon sets: 12:20AM EDST
Moon rises: 10:16AM EDST
Moon in Cancer v/c 4:35PM EDST
Moon enters the Fixed Fire Sign
of Leo at 5:06PM EDST
Blodeuwedd's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: Peace and concord
among earth's nations.
Sun in Taurus
Sunrise: 6:01AM EDST
Sunset: 8:31PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "What
challenges are on the horizon?"
Beltaine (Calan Mai) Quarter
of the Year
May 17th, 2010


Moon in Leo - While the Moon will spend most of the day in Cancer's Cardinal Water sign- it will swing into Leo's fiery, strong-willed sign this evening - a fitting way to end Tui's Day - the Day of Activity and Physicality, Passion and Desire - Action Day.  Leo's attitude of "I Will" brings us exuberance, vitality and being center of attention will be enchanced by Tiu's passionate energies.
Many Dianic witches look upon a Leo Moon transit as being the time to challenge patriarchal issues and to deal with people in positions of authority.  It's hard to recognize limits in a Leo Moon and it's also a time when power issues can erupt. Ambition and leadership become important to us.

Crescent Moon

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

5th Day of the 6th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Artemis
Lunar Tree Cycle ~ Hauthe/Hawthorn
4th Day of the Celtic Tree Month ~ Hauthe/Hawthorn
Moon Phase: Crescent - 9:37AM EDST
Moon rises: 9:04AM EDST
Moon sets: 11:56PM EDST
Moon in the Cardinal Water Sign
of Cancer
Blodeuwedd's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: Abundance in
your life.
Sun in Taurus
Sunrise: 6:02AM EDST
Sunset: 8:30PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "What
challenges are on the horizon?"
Beltaine (Calan Mai) Quarter of the Year
May 17th, 2010

Crescent Moon phase - The Crescent Mon appears approximately three and a half days after the New Moon, when the Moon goes forty-five degrees ahead of the Sun. Visible in the western sky after sunset, this slender, shimmering Crescent has an exquisite luminescence, as though linked with the radiance angel wings. Its image can inspire optimism and hope. Even the word 'Crescent' seems to draw us forward deriving from the Latin 'crescere,' meaning to increase or grow. Keywords for this phase are:
expansion, growth, struggle and opportunity.  Now is the time in a lunar cycle when you gather the wisdom learned in the New Moon phase and communicate your intentions to move forward on your goals. Light a candle. Write or read an affirmation. LISTEN & ABSORB. Commit to your goal(s).
    But even the most eager New Moon devotee often falls away from the lunation cycle here. What we need is a good witch Glenda to throw snow on the poppy field and pinch our cheeks awake. After all, fertility is promised; we need only discover what to cultivate.  Setting the right goal for the cycle can keep us moving along the path. If we've fixed our objective prematurely at the New Moon, we may have propped up an old goal with little power to carry us forward. At the Crescent it's not only right to focus ourselves, it's important.  Glenda offers some advice: "Remember, not all dreams are energetically supported at all times."  She wants us to stay awake to the world, to retain some of that New Moon openness. This means our goal should respect the messages in our environment as well as the desires in our heart. We need to both direct effort and listen. This is especially true when the world is telling us something we don't expect to hear, something that make us yawn or drives us nuts.

     As a collaboration between Sun and Moon, the lunation cycle require we also partner our (solar) will with our (lunar) receptivity. With too much will and not enough reflection, we'll reject the messages from our environment as stupid or irrelevant. The opposite will make us slack. Too much receptivity and we'll forget what the time is for, its creative potential slipping through our fingers. At best, the Crescent phase should bring a gradual focusing, a steady sharpening of our intention.

This is Moon Day - the Day of Remembering and Feeling - Impression Day - Our lunar receptivity could be pushing away our solar will - consider this when you feel like those goals you are considering seem like just too much to accomplish.  There are Major magickal energies for Fertility and dreaming on our Dream Homes.  There are minor magickal energies for rites/spells for domestic power this evening. 

Waxing Moon enters the Sign of Cancer

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

4th Day of the 6th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Artemis
Lunar Tree Cycle ~ Hauthe/Hawthorn
3rd Day of the Celtic Tree Month ~ Hauthe/Hawthorn
Moon Phase: waxing new moon
Moon rises: 7:57AM EDST
Moon sets: 11:34PM EDST
Moon in Gemini v/c 4:12PM
Moon enters the Cardinal Water
Sign of Cancer at 5:29PM EDST
Blodeuwedd's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: Peace and concord
among the earth's nations
Sun in Taurus
Sunrise: 6:03AM EDST
Sunset: 8:29PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "What
makes you most angry? Why?"
Beltaine (Calan Mai) Quarter of the Year
May 16th, 2010

Moon enter Cancer - This is a moon transit that brings emotional concerns - a keyword phrase for it is "I feel".  There can be feelings about desiring a home, about emotional security and in fact all security issues. There are feelings of nostalgia and the desire to nurture washing over you. Cooking and entertaining friends are frequently actions displayed during this moon transit. Women are emotionally and psychically sensitive at this time, and because of these strong emotions it is called a 'crybaby' moon often.  Moon in Cancer brings heightened sensitivity because Cancer is the home of the moon, that sensitive planet of emotions and therefore feelings are easily hurt, especially in situations of criticism. Handle your loved ones and friends with care. 

Today Sun Day - the Day of Intent, Creation and Renewal..... and there are minor magickal energies flowing that helpful in doing spells/rites of self-improvement.  So if one of your goals for this lunar cycle is self-improvement - now might be a good time to start moving toward that goal. 

Understanding Correspondences: The Language of Ritual

   In planning a ritual or spell, you must understand clearly that much of ritual magick involves the manipulation of symbols or symbolic objects, because sometimes these communicate more powerfully and vividly with your Younger Self - the subconscious mind, than do mere words. For most practical purposes, the Younger Self is nonverbal; but like a pre-verbal child, it responds to colors, shapes, rhythms, smells , movement and other sensory stimuli. Speech (invocations, poetry, song lyrics, chants and words of power) because they can evoke feelings and images that your Younger Self responds to, and because words are an important path of participation for your conscious mind (Talking/Middle Self) to communicate with your subconscious mind (Younger Self). 

     An enjoyable and creative part in ritual design involves choosing the symbols that can be used. This where you translate the aim of the ritual from an abstract idea or words into music, colors, scents, images, objects, dance movements and so on. Choosing and arranging the symbolic elements of a ritual is as much of an art form as choreography or sculpture.

   These symbolic relationships are called 'correspondences' because in magick one thing corresponds to another, and both belong to an open-ended set of interconnected elements. For instance Fire corresponds to the color red, to the spice/herb and smell of cinnamon, the quality of courage, the direction of South, and the goddess Vesta. All these symbols, smells, objects correspond to one another for invoking the energies of the element Fire along with salamanders, red peppers, fire opals, and lions.

   In a coven or other magickal group there should be an agreement on the basic correspondences, so that during a group rite they all 'speak the same language'.  When you work by yourself, you have more flexibility because you can draw on your own personal experiences. Perhaps for you seagulls correspond to Fire's qualities because as a child you always saw them in bright sunlight while walking on hot sand; or maybe popcorn is a Fire symbol for you, because on holidays your family popped corn with an old fashioned popper in a blazing fireplace.  Every culture has a magickal tradition that has it own set of recognized correspondences.  There are good sites online that have Correspondence Tables to help you with creating your own rituals.  Also there are several good Craft books that have Correspondence Table and Appendixes.   So get creative and come up with a ritual or two to help you achieve your goals for this lunar cycle.
[some of the information comes from Amber K's newly revised "True Magick" - a great book for beginners and for more informed Witches]

BOS work suggestion:  If you don't have you Correspondence charts in your BOS, this can be important addition to it and something to start working on.  While your BOS is concerned with what you do in the way of spells and rites from one lunar cycle to another - it can also contain an information section that can help you out in creating the spells and rites you do in each lunar cycle.

Saturn's Day - Waxing new moon in Gemini

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


3rd Day of the 6th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Blodeuwedd
Lunar Tree Cycle ~ Hauthe/Hawthorn
2nd Day of the Celtic Tree Month ~ Hauthe/Willow
Moon Phase: waxing new moon
Moon rises: 6:57AM EDST
Moon sets: 10:40PM EDST
Moon in the Mutable Air Sign
of Gemini
Blodeuwedd's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: Lovers you have
lost and found
Sun in Taurus
Sunrise: 6:04AM EDST
Sunset: 8:28PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "What is
preying on your mind?"
Beltaine (Calan Mai) Quarter of the Year
May 15th, 2010

Waxing New Moon enters Gemini

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


2nd of the 6th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Blodeuwedd
Lunar Tree Cycle ~ Hauthe/Hawthorn
1st Day of the Celtic Tree Month ~ Hauthe/Hawthorn
Moon Phase: waxing New Moon
Moon rises: 6:06AM EDST
Moon sets: 9:38PM EDST
Moon in Taurus v/c 8:28AM EDST
Moon enters the Mutable Air Sign
of Gemini at 9:18AM EDST
Blodeuwedd's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The messages of
your body.
Sun in Taurus
Sunrise: 6:05AM EDST
Sunset: 8:20PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "How are you limiting yourself
at present?"
Beltaine (Calan Mai) Quarter of the Year
May 14th, 2010

Moon in Gemini - as the waxing New Moon entered the Mutable Air Sign of Gemini this morning all communication become easier - all intellectual matters become easier during a Gemini Moon. This is a transit when you will experience adaptability and the desire for variety - of having more than one thing at a time going on - feeling talkative will happen.  Since people become so much more changeable and adaptable during this moon transit be aware that those who have proven fickle in the past can very well do so during this time. You may find it hard to make decision but you will find that you can use wit and cleverness in your conversations.  This is a moon transit when issues of the practical world are set aside. 

   There are minor magickal energies today for rites/spells concerning love, romance and creativity.. It's Freya's Day - a Day of sharing and relationships - get out and enjoy the opening days of Summer.

New Moon - Hawthorn Lunar Cycle

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


1st Day of the 6th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Blodeuwedd
Lunar Tree Cycle ~ Huathe/Hawthorn
29th Day of the Celtic Tree Month ~ Saille/Willow
Moon Phase: Dark/New Moon ~ 9:04PM EDST
Moon rises: 5:25AM EDST
Moon sets: 8:32PM EDST
Moon in the Fixed Earth Sign
of Taurus
Blodeuwedd's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The support of friendship
Sun in Taurus
Sunrise: 6:06AM EDST
Sunset: 8:26PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: ""What
ambitions wait to be fulfilled in your life?"
Beltaine (Calan Mai) Quarter of the Year
May 13th, 2010


New Moon - The beginning of a new lunar cycle. Keywords for this phase are: beginning, birth, emergence, projection, and clarity.  Now is the time in a lunar cycle that you are stimulated to take a new action. During this phase the new lunar cycle is seeded by your visions, inner and outer. Engage in physical activity. Spend time alone. VISUALIZE your goals for the 29.6-day cycle ahead. It is Thor's Day - a Day of Vision, Spiritual Insight and Expansion - these New Moon energies will align perfectly with Thor's Day energies.  There are minor magickal energies for 'networking.'  Mercury Retrograde is totally over - so communicate!

Hawthorn Month/Lunar Cycle

   The Hawthorn is a tree of defense and protection, it sharp spear-like thorns make an impenetrable fence. It is one of the three trees most sacred to Witches along with Oak and Ash.  It is said that where this tree appears on an earthen mound it has been planted by the fairies as a warning to stay away, lest disaster be visited upon the disturber.  The Hawthorn has many folk names. Whitethorn relates to it being a tree of the White Goddess, distinguishing  it from the Blackthorn or Sloe which flowers earlier and is sacred to the Dark Goddess. It is also called the May, which indicates its month of flowering and it is the tree, not the month, which is referred to in the saying, 'Ne'er cast a clout till May is out.' Another name, Hagthorn, shows its links to Witches and the Craft.

   Hawthorn berries were used as a cardiac tonic, to ease sore throats, asthma and aching joints. They also make a very fine liqueur which lightens the spirits. At one time it was thought Witches could transform themselves into the tree and few Witches would have had a garden without at least one Hawthorn tree. Hawthorn blossom is used to decorate Maypoles and in the celebrations around this time. It protects the house from lightning and evil spirits, and was placed in the cradle to keep the child safe from spells or being taken by the fairies. Magically, Hawthorn is used in spells for fertility and, conversely, chastity, to increase a fishing catch and to promote happiness and remove depression.
[From: Kate West's "The Real Witches' Year"]

Basic New Moon Ritual suggestions -

** Place white, cream or pastel colored budded flowers on your altar.
** Burn white or pastel candles on the altar
** Use damiana, lemongrass, lavender, or any other light, airy incense.
** Energy should be raised in a manner that is brisk or lighthearted; beating a bodhram
or other drum with a quick rhythm would be perfect, or shaking a gourd rattle or rainstick.
** Magick for 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 power to prevent things from petering out again.

Balsamic Moon moves into Taurus

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


29th Day of the 5th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Hecate
Lunar Tree Cycle ~ Saille/Willow
28th Day of the Celtic Tree Month ~ Saille/Willow
Moon Phase: Balsamic - Dark
Moon rises: 4:51AM EDST
Moon sets: 7:24PM EDST
Moon in Aries v/c 12:11AM EDST
Moon enters the Fixed Earth Sign
of Taurus at 2:48AM EDST
Ceridwen's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The times when
 things seemed hopeless but came right.
Sun in Taurus
Sunrise: 6:07AM EDST
Sunset: 8:25PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "What do
you appreciate most about your life?"
Beltaine (Calan Mai) Quarter of the Year
May 12th, 2010

The Moon moved into the Fixed Earth sign of Taurus early this morning in preparation for its New Moon phase tomorrow....the beginning of a new lunar cycle.  With the Sun in Taurus and the Moon also, we should be feeling really grounded today.  The energy flow during a Taurus transit is even and a time for us to experience the sensual.  After the mishaps and confusion of Mercury Retrograde now gone from our lives, we can appreciate an even energy flow - gives us a chance to catch our breath before this lunar cycle begins.  In the Seasons of the Witch datebook there is the notation that there are minor magickal energies for working in your Book of Shadows and to defend against psychic attacks.  There are grey cloudy skies outside here again this morning so this can be a good day to catch up in my BOS the workings and such I've done in the passing lunar cycle - to turn the page for tomorrow's New Moon and a new cycle.

Book of Shadows

A Book of Shadows is the individual Witch's record of the Rituals they perform and the Spells they work.  It may also include notes on divinations, meditations, dreams and even recipes. Books of Shadows are not to confused with what has become known as The Book of Shadows. This is actually the record of Gerald Gardner's Coven, and in reality is no more valid than the record of any other group.

  Many Covens require the keeping of a Book of Shadows to demonstrate commitment on the part of each person, and because it is a useful record of which workings have been done. Indeed, many Witches find that, however, arduous it may have been to complete in the early days, it soon becomes an invaluable reference. It is helpful if the record includes details of when and where workings took place, including day, time and phase of the Moon. It should also include information on how the individual felt and the results of the workings. What it should not include are details of other members of the group which would enable them to be identified should it fall into the hands of a non-member. Many Covens also insist that Books of Shadows should be kept in the almost forgotten art of handwriting. This is partly because bitter experience has taught some of us that the computer is not a reliable way of storing information. Even if you don't have the bad luck to experience problems caused by viruses or a crash, as software is upgraded you can easily find that your hard work becomes inaccessible.
[From Kate West's "The Real Witches' Year"]

    Myself I find that I like to keep a physical form of a Book of Shadows - I like doing little art work forms in it along with printed words.... yes, I type out the notes for BOS on the computer, print them out and then paste them into my BOS.  I guess you can view as being a combination of old and new methods.  Keeping an order to a BOS can be difficult if you are seeking a particular item and don't have an Index of where things are.  One of the ways I have learned to keep a bit of an order is to keep information in lunar cycle 'chapters'.  Lunar cycles follow each other in a steady order, and I keep what I have done during each one in a particular 'Cycle Chapter' and in the start of each chapter I go back at the end of the cycle and list by a title of some sort what occurred during that cycle.  Some chapters can seem a bit thin but I find this works best for me.  I also store informative essays that I learn from in each cycle chapter. For instance if I learn about a new Full Moon ritual I will enter that into the cycle chapter where I first read of it.  I may try not use it that particular cycle but it will be ready for me to refer to later and perhaps write up a description of its use in a later chapter. 

    Tho loose leaf binders are probably the best format in which to keep an ongoing BOS, you could arrange a bound book format to be used in perhaps a date year sequence. So that one bound book is date a certain year or years and then when it is full, move into another bound book and use that one until it is full.  Remember this is your own individual creation.  You can use as you feel comfortable with.  There are no grades on this project... LOL... 

Mercury Retrograde ends this evening

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

28th Day of the 5th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Hecate
Lunar Tree Cycle ~ Saille/Willow
27th Day of the Celtic Tree Month ~ Saille/Willow
Moon Phase: Balsamic Moon
Moon rises: 4:22AM EDST
Moon sets: 8:24PM EDST
Moon in the Cardinal Fire Sign
of Aries
Ceridwen's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The song of night.
Sun in Taurus
Sunrise: 6:08AM EDST
Sunset: 8:24PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "Who do you
need to forgive most?"
Beltaine (Calan Mai) Quarter of the Year
May 11th, 2010

Mercury goes direct this evening at 6:27PM EDST.  I am glad this retrograde period is about over. While I don't totally fear a Mercury Retrograde transit, I do have respect for it and I do think twice about some of my activities and actions. 

There are minor magickal energies today for spells and rites regarding reversals, and banishing enemies.  So here is a little advice:  "MAGICK, cast as innocent, Manifested twisted, bent, Widdershins the pot now stir, Is as if YOU never were."     Have you left misguided spells lying around that need to be undone?  Now is the time.

Balsamic Moon phase

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


27th Day of the 5th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Hecate
Lunar Tree Cycle ~ Saille/Willow
26th Day of the Celtic Tree Month ~ Saille/Willow
Moon Phase: Balsamic - 2:15AM EDST
Moon rises: 3:58AM EDST
Moon sets: 5:14PM EDST
Moon in the Cardinal Fire
Sign of Aries
Ceridwen's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: Your special place of
peace and refreshment.
Sun in Taurus
Sunrise: 6:09AM EDST
Sunset: 8:16PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "Where do you hurt
and why? Where does healing lie?"
Beltaine (Calan Mai) Quarter of the Year
May 10th, 2010


    Balsamic Moon - This is ending of one lunar cycle and the beginning of another. Keywords for this moon phase are: transition, release, transformation, renewal and purity. This is the time in a lunar cycle when you must let go of everything you've been working on that does not deal with current cycle issues. During this phase you reflect on the passing cycle and prepare for the new one coming up. 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.  

The moon returns to darkness once again. Perhaps you can see the slightest sliver of light remaining. Sigh. We’re tired. Something inside is calling for rest, retreat, and rejuvenation. The balsamic phase is the time when we need to honor that feeling, and honor ourselves for all the work and effort we have expended during the previous cycles. This phase of the moon beckons us to turn our attention inward, to the deepest parts of ourselves. It is the time to connect with spirit and the divine energy that lies within. And, if we are not in touch with those aspects of ourselves then perhaps this is the time to search for it.

The Balsamic Phase of the Moon is when our system is crying for psychic detoxification. It’s the perfect time to pause and reflect on all events and activities of the recent past. A ‘letting go’ time, when we acknowledge ourselves for doing the best we could. Or, if we weren’t able to do our best, we acknowledge ourselves for trying and then let it go. And, what does it mean to let go of something? One hears this expression a lot these days. On one level I think it means to not worry or be concerned with outcome. Replace the energy spent on mental/emotional anguish and instead practice cultivating the energy of faith, trust and stillness.

So, perhaps the most important thing to really understand is that if you do not honor this time, if you continue your daily life and your routine without including “downtime’, then you will not feel energized and refreshed when the next cycle begins. At first the effects of this may not be apparent. However, over time, if you continue to ignore your inner world and focus only on the external the stresses will accumulate and can create obstacles, dis-ease, and crisis in your life.


Without adequate time for pause and reflection, the body/mind/spirit will rebel and hopefully send you some clear signals that things are out of balance. When that happens our lives begin to spin seemingly out of control. We find ourselves in dysfunction, dis-ease, and disarray. And as a result something may happen by which we are then forced (by some external factor?) to give up our routine. Either we land in a hospital, or we are down-sized, laid-off or fired. Either way, we are now forced to use our time to reflect because now we have no other choice. Fate or Free Will……..make your choice.

It’s so much easier to voluntarily step back from our routines then to have them forcibly removed from us. This is the gift of the Balsamic Phase of the Moon. Two days out of every 28 day cycle can go really far in preventing & healing accumulated stress.
This good information and advice comes from the website: http://yogini.wordpress.com/the-lunar-balsamic-phase/    


Here is a good article on the Balsamic Moon:  http://www.carolbarbeau.com/html/balsamic_moon.html


There are minor magickal energies today for resolving domestic issues.  This is Moon Day - the Day of Remembering and Feeling.

Waning Moon enters Aries

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


26th Day of the 5th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Hecate
Lunar Tree Cycle ~ Saille/Willow
25th Day of the Celtic Tree Month ~ Saille/Willow
Moon Phase: waning half
Moon rises: 3:33AM EDST
Moon sets: 4:13PM EDST
Moon in Pisces v/c 4:12PM EDST
Moon enters the Cardinal Fire Sign
of Aries at 5:29PM EDST
Ceridwen's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The richness
of your inner treasury.
Sun in Taurus
Sunrise: 6:10AM EDST
Sunset: 8:22PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "What old story
are you telling against yourself? What new
story waits to be told?"
Beltaine (Calan Mai) Quarter of the Year
May 9th, 2010

Moon enters Aries later today.  This moon transit is about new beginnings, intense activity, reaching out in emotional surges and impulsiveness.  With waning moon energy permeating the vibes of our inner selves I am wondering how many of these Aries feelings will be manifesting in the next couple of days.

Will there be impulsive endings being initiated when instead we should be waiting until after the New Moon and re-look at the issue or relationship?  Will there be emotional surges that are triggered by the waning moon feeling that we need to let go of something?  And there is still that pesky Mercury Retrograde lurking in the background.  As for new beginnings, well, there can be some planning going on regarding what we will be thinking of starting with the New Moon which will happen on the 13th day of this month and, AND, Mercury Retrograde will be a thing of the past then... I have a feeling this New Moon will bring a great sigh of relief.  We will still be under the restraints of a Sun and Moon in Taurus but the second day of this upcoming lunar cycle will be in Gemini - an Air sign and maybe it will bring us fresh breezes of thought, communication (no more Mercury Retrograde to snarl things up) and having the desire and ability to have more than one thing at a time going on.  I am hoping by then that this weather system of wind and heavy, chilly rains and intense clouds will have moved on and summer weather can begin again.  

OK, and it is Mother's Day here in the US and I am sure Hallmark's cash registers have been going ku-ching all week.  My mother has passed over many years ago and so has my husband's so there is no one for us to honor today.... my children have and will be in touch today to say hi which is all I expect from them.  I hate seeing them spend money on a time when they are guilt-ridden to spend money that could be to better use somewhere else... but here is some historical information on this special day for mothers:
Historical antecedents


Lamberts thought[who?] this day emerged from a custom of mother worship in ancient Greece, which kept a festival to Cybele, a great mother of Greek gods.{Encyclopædia Britannica
(1959)Vol.15,p. 849} This festival was held around the Vernal Equinox around Asia Minor and eventually in Rome itself from the Ides of March (15 March) to 18 March.

The ancient Romans also had another holiday, Matronalia, that was dedicated to Juno, though mothers were usually given gifts on this day.

In Europe there were several long standing traditions where a specific Sunday was set aside to honor motherhood and mothers such as Mothering Sunday. Mothering Sunday celebrations are part of the liturgical calendar in several Christian denominations, including Anglicans, and in the Catholic calendar is marked as Laetare Sunday, the fourth Sunday in Lent to honour the Virgin Mary and your "mother" church (the main church of the area). Historians think that children who served in houses were given a day off on that date so they could visit their families. The children would pick wild flowers along the way to place them on the church or to give them to their mothers as gifts.[1]

International Women's Day was celebrated for the first time in 28 February 1909, in the US,[2] by which time Anna Jarvis had already begun her national campaign in the US. It is now celebrated in many countries on March 8.

The "Mother's Day Proclamation" by Julia Ward Howe was one of the early calls to celebrate Mother's Day in the United States. Written in 1870, Howe's Mother's Day Proclamation was a pacifist reaction to the carnage of the American Civil War and the Franco-Prussian War. The Proclamation was tied to Howe's feminist belief that women had a responsibility to shape their societies at the political level.

These historical facts come from: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mother's_Day 
 
Julie Howe's pacifist proclamation still holds true today - there is continued killing going on and many mothers are losing children while power struggles continue. 

Saturn's Day - Waning Pisces Moon

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


25th Day of the 5th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Medusa
Lunar Tree Cycle ~ Saille/Willow
24th Day of the Celtic Tree Month ~ Saille/Willow
Moon Phase: waning half
Moon rises: 3:10AM EDST
Moon sets: 3:13PM EDST
Moon in the Mutable Water Sign
of Pisces
Ceridwen's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The strength and
beauty of the little things.
Sun in Taurus
Sunrise: 6:11AM EDST
Sunset: 8:21PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: ""What
broken or fragmentary parts of your life need mending?"
Beltaine (Calan Mai) Quarter of the Year
May 8th, 2010

There are Major magickal energies for spells/rites for unwanted chaos protection; and minor magickal energies for protection in the general sense.  I find this a bit confusing but thought I would pass the information along.  For some it might make sense.  This is Saturn's Day - the Day of Manifestation and Structure, Assessment and Responsibility. 

What is a Witch without a Coven?  Simple, she is a Witch.  It makes no difference whether one is flanked by twelve robed women or has been officially pronounced of this or that grade or level; if you know you are and you act your knowledge, then you are.
    Many witches prefer to be solitary, and there is much wisdom in this choice. As in all social groups, petty issues can arise that completely distract from the original point of the group - and there is nothing worse than a pack of bickering witches. "Bitchcraft" is neither fun nor helpful, and the solitary practitioner avoids its pitfalls.
     However, if you can find a like mind or two - preferably chosen from amongst friends - the results can be triply spectacular. A single mind can work modest wonders, but two or more can create entire universes of possibility.  The best covens are those that spring up spontaneously out of a group of like-minded friends. They do not recruit - no true occultist ever does.

    The worst enemy of the witch is her quest knowledge. It is also her best friend, the thing that drives her out of the norm. Actually when it comes to learning, books are best.  There are a lot of good teachers out there because Wicca and Paganism has spread so widely over recent decades.  The best teachers are often the least obvious ones. They live quietly and yet they have a vibe that you know is right. If no such person is apparent, take advantage of the wealth of excellent books now available on the subject. Many Witches have produced works of outstanding value. Read what appeals to your intuition and have an open mind to others' opinions. Books often come to those who need them. The next time you plan a trip to the bookstore, whether it be the bricks and mortar one, or the cyber space one, send out a request to the astral plane to be led to what you need. It can make that trip a whole lot more interesting!
(some tips from Kala Trobe in "The Witch's Guide to Life" and a bit of my own experience)

Waning Half Moon enters Pisces

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

24th Day of the 5th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Medusa
Lunar Tree Cycle ~ Saille/Willow
23rd Day of the Celtic Tree Month ~ Saille/Willow
Moon Phase: waning Half
Moon rises: 2:47AM EDST
Moon sets: 2:14PM EDST
Moon in Aquarius v/c 2:36AM EDST
Moon enters the Mutable Water Sign
of Pisces at 5:34AM EDST
Ceridwen's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The beauty of
the enduring stars.
Sun in Taurus
Sunrise: 6:12AM EDST
Sunset: 8:20PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "What is the source
of the vital power within you?"
Beltaine (Calan Mai) Quarter of the Year
May 7th, 2010

Moon in Pisces -    Life feels more introverted during a Pisces Moon transit and intuition is at its height with psychic energy being quite powerful. While you seem to be getting in touch with your deepest self, this is also a time of vagueness, unclarity, and uncertainty.  A Pisces transit is about endings as a result of internal processing.  People around you during this transit may seem moody but you will also find yourself able to more fully appreciate art and beauty.  Pisces is the most watery of all the signs, and Moon in Pisces often causes us to have a good cry.  During this transit the outer world 'busyness' become fuzzy and vague. Issues are clouded and cold, hard facts slide through your fingers like slippery fish. Things are not what they seem, so don't be confused by this transit.

Today there are minor magickal energies for initiating endings.  Because of the waning moon phase and also this moon being in Pisces we may find that ending some things in our lives can bring relief, but also remember this Pisces Moon may cloud our ability to correctly assess what should be ended.

Basic Principles of Magick from Scott Cunningham's "Magical Herbalism."  I have been rediscovering the writing of Scott Cunningham lately and this book "Magical Herbalism" was his very first published book.. As I read through it I find that his words are as true today as they were over twenty five years ago.
1. Magic is a natural science with known avenues, by-ways, and borders, as well as principles and laws.
2. Harm none. It is an old Witch tradition that whatever one does will be returned to them three-fold, "three times ill or three times good". Thus, harmful magic extracts a very high price.
3. Magic requires effort. You will get out of it precisely what you put into it - in terms of time, energy, and attention to ritual. If a spell requires you to travel to three different streams, climb a hill or make a green candle, do it.  These are rituals and there are sound magical and psychological reasons for ritual. Ritual strengthen, defines and directs magical power. Leave the ritual out and the magic will falter. Some budding Witches turn away with a sigh on discovering that magic is hard work. There are no two ways about it - anything worth doing at all is worth doing well. Short-cuts rarely produce satisfactory results - and can even be dangerous.
4. Magic is not instantaneous. Some rituals produce quick results but most work over period of time.
5. Magic should never be performed for pay. However it is just to ask them to purchase the ingredients necessary for the spell.
6. Magic should never be used to play up one's vanity or pride. When magic becomes an ego-trip it will soon lose its effectiveness.
7. Magic can be worked for your own gain, but only if you are certain that this will not harm others.
8. Magic deserves a sound investment. This may mean purchasing tools, herbs, candles - whatever you will need in your art. Most items can be made, if you are handy at forging, gardening, candle-making and so on.
9. Magic is a divine art, and so your tools should be clean and pure and this includes yourself. Keep your thoughts pure and true to your purpose at all times in magic. A wandering mind nullifies the effects of magic, while a disciplined, concentrating one will boost it.
10. Magic is not always serious or solemn. It is a joyous celebration and merging with the life-force. Laughter and singing, poetry and ecstatic dance can be incorporated into your rituals - whatever is within your particular talents. There are no hard and fast rules for the exact procedure and nature of rituals, so spontaneity should be encouraged and welcomed.
11. Magic is Intent. Witches are taught that the most important factor in magic-making is the intent. You must firmly visualize in your mind's eye the thing you wish to have happen. See it as if it has already taken place, or been brought into manifestation. This adds to the power of your magic.

Last Quarter Moon phase

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


23rd Day of the 5th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Medusa
Lunar Tree Cycle ~ Saille/Willow
22nd Day of the Celtic Tree Month ~ Saille/Willow
Moon Phase: Last Quarter - 12:14AM EDST
Moon rises: 2:23AM EDST
Moon sets: 1:15PM EDST
Moon in the Fixed Air Sign of Aquarius
Ceridwen's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The scent of flowers
Sun in Taurus
Sunrise: 6:13AM EDST
Sunset: 8:19PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: ""What
pattern is emerging from your spiritual path to date?"
Beltaine (Calan Mai) Quarter of the Year
May 6th, 2010

Last Quarter Moon phase - Keywords: realignment, revision, integration, cleansing.  This is the time in a lunar cycle to take closing action, to follow-up and complete the activities begun at the New phase. During this phase you should become aware of what is and is not working with respect to the achievement of your goal(s) for this cycle. The movement is toward integration. Open to your success. MANIFEST YOUR GOAL.  Be responsible.

Woden's Day -

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


22nd Day of the 5th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Hestia
Lunar Tree Cycle ~ Saille/Willow
21st Day of the Celtic Tree Month ~ Saille/Willow
Moon Phase: Disseminating Moon
Moon rises: 1:55AM EDST
Moon sets: 12:16PM EDST
Moon in the Fixed Air Sign of
Aquarius
Rhiannon's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The role of ecstasy in
your life.
Sun in Taurus
Sunrise: 6:14AM EDST
Sunset: 8:18PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "Where
are your energies overextended?"
Beltaine (Calan Mai) Quarter of the Year
May 5th, 2010

While I was outside early this morning a little after 5:00AM - the sky was crystal clear and the moon brightly shining - it sure looked like it has reached the Last Quarter phase but according my Zodiacarts Moon Calendar it does not reach the Last Quarter phase until 12:14AM tomorrow morning... but on my
Sunrise/Sunset calendar for this area the moon enters the Last Quarter phase at 11:15PM tonight. Either way I still say it looked like a Last Quarter moon this morning.

   So here it is Woden's Day - Mercury's Day - the day of Communication and Connection - and we're still in Mercury Retrograde, sigh.   But that is expected to ended next week on the 11th - yeah. 

   Browsing through my Kala Trobe book - "The Witch's Guide to Life" this morning - I noticed the sub-chapter titled 'Does Being a Witch Make Life Easy?'   Hmmm, I think a lot of us when first discovering the Craft think that if we are truly a Witch things have to be easier because we will have achieved control over a lot things in our lives.  But as we study the Craft we discover this is not necessarily true - for one thing, witchcraft increases one's perceptions. The witch is sensitive psychically and psychologically - she trains herself to be.  Therefore we are easily affected by atmospheres emanating from the living, the dead, the past and often the future too.  (You know, those times when you get those 'feelings' that something is stirring in universe...  'is it me or is there something going here?) This is where being able to ground oneself, to 'earth', is valuable - and should be practiced regularly.
It should be one of the first tools developed in magickal training.   Something we must always keep in mind that an effective witch knows and acknowledges her weaknesses as well as her strengths. You need to be aware of your own neuroses. You have to be, otherwise  your neuroses can destroy the magickal organism that is your mind, body, and soul working together to produce a positive, proactive
and spiritually aware incarnation.  So as is written Amber K's early book - "True Magick" one of the important things for a Witch to know - is to Know Herself.  Do you feel you know yourself?