Capricorn Balsamic Moon - Hecate's Night

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


28th Day of the 1st Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Hecate
Lunar Tree Cycle of Beith/Birch
11th Day of the Celtic Tree
Month of Luis/Rowan
28th Day of the Cycle of Imbolgen -
Days of Reclaiming
Moon Phase: waning Balsamic Moon
Moon rises:5:49AM EST
Moon sets: 3:29PM EST
Moon in the Cardinal Earth Sign
of Capricorn
Ceridwen's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: Memories of
dear ones  dead or absent.
Sun in Aquarius
Sunrise: 7:31AM EST
Sunset: 5:36PM EST
Solar Question for the Day: "What
does the seasonal cycle of renewal
offer you?"
Samhain (Calan Gaeaf) Quarter
of the Year
January 31st, 2011

Moon Day - the Day of Remembering and Feeling.... there are minor magickal energies today to 'resolve domestic issues.'

Hecate's Night

      Today is the last day of the month, and so is sacred to the great Triple Goddess Hecate. Every month we honor Her as Queen of the Night. She is the Goddess who shows the way to the land of the dead, the Lady of the Crossroads. Although She is also Maiden and Mother in modern times, She is most often recognized in Her aspect as Crone and is the Goddess of Witches and the wisewoman.
   Hecate can serve as the mediator in contact with your shadow, so when you have personal challenges you need to deal with, ask Hecate to guide you on your inner journey. Hecate is the protector of women and a formidable advocate for the disenfranchised and marginalized.
   In ancient times, worshippers would leave a 'Hecate Supper' with specially prepared foods as offerings to Her. Sometimes this if referred to as 'Hecate's Deipnon' and takes place during the dark phase of the moon; the end of the lunar month (any time before the sliver of the new moon has been sighted). Hecate means 'bringer or giver of light' and tonight will be great time to honor Her - the bringer of the New Moon on Wednesday and the returning of the Light of the Sun.  A good way to make this offering of a Deipnon would be a donation of food or money at a local food shelf bank or to a homeless shelter.  Even a donation of food or money to an animal rescue shelter.  Traditional offerings for your 'Hecate's Supper or Deipnon would be:
  * sweepings from the home
  * garlic
  * eggs
  * leeks
  * 'things you don't want to bring
       into the next month and/or lunar cycle.
  It is Hecate who teaches us the ancient Mysteries. It is She who protects the vulnerable. May we wisely follow Her example.

Waning Balsamic Moon enters Capricorn

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

27th Day of the 1st Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Hecate
Lunar Tree Cycle of Beith/Birch
10th Day of the Celtic Tree
Month of Luis/Rowan
27th Day of the Cycle of Imbolgen -
Days of Reclaiming
Moon Phase: waning Balsamic
Moon rises: 5:03AM EST
Moon sets: 2:27PM EST
Moon in Sagittarius v/c 5:10AM EST
Moon enters the Cardinal Earth
Sign of Capricorn at 9:04AM EST
Ceridwen's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The wandering path
of the soul
Sun in Aquarius
Sunrise: 7:32AM EST
Sunset: 5:43PM EST
Solar Question for the Day: "What
are the landmarks of your spiritual
home?"
Samhain (Calan Gaeaf) Quarter
of the Year
January 30th, 2011


Moon in Capricorn - The Moon in Capricorn inspires out ambitions for good or ill, we just have to gentle on our souls if we're not there yet. Lead and manage, but do not manipulate or control. Time to: build, dig, organize, exercise discipline, work on foundations, make practical progress on a dream. Moon in Capricorn brings planning magick and takes your ideas, giving them form and hope and a great time for this transit to be happening.  We are almost onto Imbolc - the time when we make fresh starts into the blooming of spring.  We can tap into the inner wisewoman - ask how form, ritual, organization or tradition can serve. This transit concerns leadership issues, security, responsibilities, the need to be recognized, desires to create environments, time to take care of business, deal with alternative healing for your body and intensification of your powers of concentration.
   After Sagittarius expansiveness, not we feel contraction and a time to pay attention to our needs for security, duties, obligations, drives and ambitions. It's good for setting and achieving goals, 'going for it'
materially; as now we feel persistent and ambitious. Energy is slowed down (this coincides with our waning Balsamic moon energy too). Be careful to avoid insensitivity to others, and stay out of negative and pessimistic mind sets that will only drag you down. Take this moon transit to deal with your material plane, especially if you have neglected it too long. Do non-traditional healing as Capricorn is the sign of the medicine woman.
   Moon in Capricorn is the best time to work magick for organization, ambition, recognition, career and political matters. Healing rituals for the knees, bones, teeth, and skin are also done at this time. Those who have been born under a Capricorn Moon sign have a strong work ethic, competence, and leadership capacity, but may need to learn to love themselves holding still.

Sun Day - the Day of Intent, Creation and Renewal....  What do you think of when you feel the sun shine down on you? What sorts of enchantments and energies do you think would be complementary to a day named after our closest star? Sun Day brings those bright solar energies into your life and has the magickal correspondences of success, promotion, leadership, pride, light, generosity, warmth, fitness, and personal growth. Astrologically, the sun symbolizes the conscious self and rules the zodiac sign of Leo which is just peeping over the horizon for Imbolc and the coming of spring. [see yesterday's post on the constellation of Imbolc]

Astrological Influences of Imbolc -

The Reign of Aquarius and the Age of the Crone

    How appropriate that on the commemoration of Brighid, tropical astrology brings the influence of the sun's power through the constellation known as the Water Bearer. The growing light of the sun corresponds with Brighid's fire aspect, while the water bearer evokes her sacred wells.
   The eleventh zodiacal sign, Aquarius is a fixed air sign ruled by Uranus, representing the culmination of the soul's evolution. Themes of air and water are prevalent as the Aquarium age is characterized by spiritual vision, originality, individuality and immortality. In arcane astrological calculations, the sun remained in Aquarius from January 21st until February 19th. The sun in Aquarius meant the beginning of the spring rains. When Aquarius rises with the sun, winter has finally passed.
   Today in astronomy, the sun is in Capricorn on Imbolc. As Capricorn is a blended creature with marine attributes, the zodiacal association of Imbolc with water still stands. Both Capricorn and Aquarius have been interpreted as references to the coming of seasonal rains.
    Aquarius radiates tolerance, acceptance, and wisdom as suggested by its connection to the crone. In Egyptian mythology, Aquarius is represented by Hapi, God of the Nile. As water bearer, Hapi holds two overflowing vessels symbolizing the Nile of the North and the Nile of the South. In the sign of Aquarius, the soul begins the preparations for the end of its journey and ultimately for rebirth, one of the major themes associated with Imbolc.
    The mythological figure most closely associated with Aquarius is the Trojan prince, Ganymede. A youth of incomparable beauty, Ganymede attracted the affection of Zeus. Taking on form of a majestic eagle, Zeus absconded with the youth and brought him to Mount Olympus to serve as his erotic partner as well as the nectar-bearer to the gods.
    Ganymede was the son of Tros, the grandson of Dardanos, who was a son of Zeus and founder of the first settlement of Troy. To compensate the family for their grief at the loss of their son, Zeus gave Tros a gift of horses and comforted him with the knowledge that his son would enjoy eternal youth, beauty and immortality.
   In Grecian art, Ganymede is most often depicted with a look of sensual abandon and trust as he is carried away by the great eagle. He has come to represent the model of the often same-sex relationships between gods and mortals of Greek mythology.  However, the astrological sign of Aquarius does not imply any proclivity toward homosexuality as its associated myth might suggest.
[From: Judy Ann Nock's book "The Wiccan Year"]

Balsamic Moon Phase

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

26th Day of the 1st Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Hecate
Lunar Tree Cycle of Beith/Birch
9th Day of the Celtic Tree
Month of Luis/Rowan
26th Day of the Cycle of Imbolgen -
Days of Reclaiming
Moon Phase: Balsamic - 11:34PM EST
Moon rises: 4:09AM EST
Moon sets: 1:29PM EST
Moon in the Mutable Fire
Sign of Sagittarius
Ceridwen's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation:  The magick
of snow
Sun in Aquarius
Sunrise: 7:33AM EST
Sunset: 5:33PM EST
Solar Question for the Day: "Which
fear is keeping you in prision?"
Samhain (Calan Gaeaf) Quarter
of the Year
January 29th, 2011

Balsamic Moon - The Balsamic Moon (or waning crescent moon) rises before dawn and set midafternoon. She is the last sliver of Moon seen in the eastern sky in the dawn and in the very early morning. The Balsamic Moon is the COMPOST phase, when the nutrients remain in the soil, providing nourishment for the next new seed. The keywords for the Balsamic phase are: transition, release, transformation, renewal and purity. It is the phase in a cycle when you must let go of everything you have been working on that does not deal with 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. For those who were born in a Balsamic Moon phase - they will possess the potential to be wise, insightful, understanding and patient. They are prophetic and unique.

Saturn's Day - the Day of Manifestation and Structure, Assessment and Responsibility.  There are minor magickal energies today for doing rites/spells for protection.

Celestial Events of Imbolc
    The Lion and the Twins

   The night sky at this time of year displays two constellations with special significance to Imbolc: Leo and Gemini

Leo, the Bringer of Spring

    Although the constellation Leo will not culminate until April, the majestic lion of the starry night makes it first appearance above the horizon in early February. Rising in the east, the celestial lion has long been regarded as a herald of the coming spring. By 10:00PM on February 1st, calendrical Imbolc, the celestial lion will be above the eastern horizon.
    Thought to be the first constellation to be identified pictorially, this grouping of stars has been associated with a lion since the earliest historical times, by the Babylonians, Egyptains and Greeks alike. Leo's most prominent feature is the 'sickle' of Leo, the pattern of stars that extends from its brightest star, Regulus. Regulus is a bluish star and burns hotter than the sun. Regulus is Latin for 'prince' or 'little king', further cementing the celestial lion's association with royalty. Algeiba is the companion of Regulus, and delineates the lion's mane. Marking the lion's tail is Denebola, while Coxa and Zosma indicate its hips and haunches.
   In Greek mythology, the Nemean lion was an unconquerable beast that terrorized the people. The first labor of Hercules was to kill this lion, whose skin was reputed to be impenetrable by any weapon. Herculus overcame the lion by strangling it to death, and he wore its pelt thereafter as a symbol of his accomplishment. The star name Zosma means 'girdle' or 'loin-cloth'. While it is extremely difficult to imagine a lion wearing such a costume, this may be a reference to the hide worn by Herculus invoking wildness and strength.
    The lion is also a symbol of kingship. It is possible that the human head and lion's body of the Sphinx linked the power of the Egyptian kings to the symbol of Leo. The lion also appears in many versions of the tarot on the card representing Strength. In the Rider-Waite deck, as well as its numerous derivatives, "Strength" is depicted as a serene-looking woman cradling the head of a lion. It hardly seems coincidental that one of the meanings of Brighid is also 'strength.'

The Twin Stars of Gemini

    High overhead on February eve, the Gemini twins appear slightly to the southeast of the zenith point. Distinguished by the two bright stars Castor and Pollux, constellation Gemini is a highlight of the February sky. Pollux is the brighter of the two stars, while Castor lies nearest to Polaris, the pole star.
In Greek and Roman mythology, Castor and Pollux are regarded as gods, spending half of their time on earth and the other half in heaven. They are the sons of Leda and the brothers of Helen of Troy. Their association with protection pertains mainly to ships at sea, connecting them to the water element, the veneration of which is prevalent at Imbolc. Water is also often used as an allegory for the emotions, which can be tumultuous as a stormy sea. You can use the stars above as inspiration for invoking divine protection when delving into sensitive matters of the heart.
[This constellation information comes Judy Ann Nock's book "The Wiccan Year"]

Waning Half Moon moves into Sagittarius

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

25th Day of the 1st Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Medusa
Lunar Tree Cycle of Beith/Birch
8th Day of the Celtic Tree
Month of Luis/Rowan
25th Day of the Cycle of Imbolgen -
Days of Reclaiming
Moon Phase: waning Last Quarter
Moon rises: 3:09AM EST
Moon sets: 12:36PM EST
Moon in Scorpio v/c 1:29AM EST
Moon enters the Mutable Fire Sign
of Sagittarius at 1:55AM EST
Ceridwen's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The life made
available by decay
Sun in Aquarius
Sunrise: 7:34AM EST
Sunset: 5:32PM EST
Solar Question for the Day: ""What
threshold of attainment waits for
you to cross over?"
Samhain (Calan Gaeaf) Quarter
for the Year
January 28th, 2011

Moon in Sagittarius - The Moon in Sagittarius gets us moving; it brings cheerful impatience and refreshing honesty. We need wide open minds, souls, and attitudes, but can't sit still. Time to: get honest, forgive, dance, hike, explore and connect to the natural world. Sagittarius brings out our inner-Artemis; we need to roam in body and in soul. Our curiosity intensifies. The restless, enthusiastic Sagittarius loves adventure, change, and motion. The moon in this sign is a time for philosophy, metaphysics, travelling, studying and freedom from responsibility.
   Sagittarius brings the need to feel free of restrictions, and to be spontaneous. The warm and friendly vibes of Sagittarius make it a good time for seeing new places, encountering different people and relating to a changing environment. For those born under a Sagittarius  moon sign they can be funny, restless, freedom-loving and direct; they are a natural globe citizen but also need to look for answers at home. They accept the wild in all sentient being.

Freya's Day - Venus Day - the Day of Sharing and Relationship - Relation Day.  There are minor magickal energies today for initiating endings to relationships - tis the waning moon time.

"Part our ways in peace and love.

I would not use a magick shove

unless you make me.

Then I will get rid of you

with tormentil."

[From "Seasons of the Witch Datebook"]

Imbolc - First Light in the Dark of Winter

    The first stirrings of new life are felt as the great wheel turns from winter to spring. Water begins to move beneath the life. We notice lengthening of days. Our dreams conceived on the winter solstice begin to take root Although the weather is still wintry, there is no turning back on the journey in the sun's return. Winter's darkness begins to loosen its grip, and new beginnings are seen all around as spring approaches. This is the time for rebirth and healing, sacred to Brighid, goddess of poetry and arcane learning.

  The Festival of Imbolc commences on February eve, or January 31, and usually concludes on February 2nd. Imbolc has three major associations: the veneration of fire and water, the quickening of new life in the womb, and the lactation of ewes. The association of Imbolc with fire comes from its place as the midpoint between winter solstice and the vernal equinox. Celtic in origin, the sabbat hallows the midpoint of the changing season, rather than the day of change. Referred to as 'the first light', the observance of Imbolc was marked by the traditional lighting of candles, signifying purification, inspiration and growing light. Fire is also representative of the goddess Brighid in her aspect of patroness of smithcraft. In the fires of the forge, physical transformations occur. These changes are metaphoric, to symbolize the strengthening of the soul.

   Another symbol of Brighid is the well. On Imbolc, processions were made to her sacred wells, which were typically adorned with greenery at this time, signifying the imminent return of spring. Devotees would circle the well deosil, or sunwise, before drinking the waters in order to bring about good fortune. The procession was never made widdershins, or counterclockwise, as this was believed to bring ill luck. Water has long been associated with the power to heal, so it is no coincidence that Brighid in her aspect as healer, would be associated with wells.

   Another translation of Imbolc is 'in the belly', referring to intrauterine fetal movement, also known as quickening. Imbolc is characterized by the preparation for birth. Brighid is a goddess also associated with cattle, and the quickening of Imbolc often refers to the livestock that will be born in the spring. With its theme of preparation for birth, it is appropriate that Imbolc has evolved into an auspicious day for rituals of rebirth as well.

   The festival of Imbolc is alternately known as Oimelg, or 'ewe's milk'. The presence of lactating ewes was of great importance at this time of year; it often meant the difference between life and death to the early Celts. Ewes only lactate when there are lambs to nurse, and in the intensity of February's cold, lactating ewes meant the presence of milk, chees, and butter. While Imbolc is hailed as the beginning of spring, the weather bears a far greater resemblance to the grip of winter. If the stockpiled provisions of the Samhain harvest were not sufficient to last through the entire winter, ewe's milk (and its accompanying dairy derivatives) was the most immediate souce of fresh food and a vital element to sustaining human life. In Ireland, the Imbolc feast was often celebrated with lamb's meat.

   On February 2nd, the secular world acknowledges Groundhog Day, when the arrival of spring is determined by the presence or lack of the groundhog's shadow. Weather divination was common to Imbolc, and the weather of early February was long held to be a harbinger of spring. On Imbolc, the crone Cailleach's grip of winter begins to loosen. She goes forth in search of kindling so that she may keep her fires burning and extend the winter a little longer. If Imbolc is rainy and cloudy, she will find nothing but twigs unsuitable for burning and will be unable to prolong the winter. If the day is dry and kindling is abundant, she will have plenty of fuel to feed her fire and prolong the cold of winter. Spring will be very far away. This is the probable origin of the fabled groundhog's shadow and its effect on the coming of spring - a modern weather divination that echoes Celtic folk beliefs of the past.

[From Judy Ann Nock's "The Wiccan Year"]



Thor's Day - Waning Half Moon in Scorpio

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

24th Day of the 1st Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Medusa
Lunar Tree Cycle of Beith/Birch
7th Day of the Celtic Tree
Month of Luis/Rowan
24th Day of the Cycle of Imbolgen -
Days of Reclaiming
Moon Phase: Waning Half Moon
Moon rises: 2:02AM EST
Moon sets: 11:50AM EST
Moon in the Fixed Water
Sign of Scorpio
Ceridwen's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: Journey's end
Sun in Aquarius
Sunrise: 7:34AM EST
Sunset: 5:31PM EST
Solar Question for the Day: "What
new idea is seeding itself within you
this Winter?"
Samhain (Calan Gaeaf) Quarter
of the Year
January 27th, 2011

Thor's Day - Jupiter Day - the Day of Vision, Spiritual Insight and Expansion...  Thor's Day/Thursday has the planetary association of Jupiter, and this day of the week is associated with prosperity, abundance, leadership and good health.  Try wearing some honeysuckle-scented perfume to encourage prosperity. Bewitch someone by wearing deep royal blue or brighten up a dreary day by wearing lucky, prosperity-drawing green. Brew up a pot of mint tea to help increase your cash flow. Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon to an unscented candle to encourage some fast cash. Just by believing in yourself and working hard toward creating abundance, health and prosperity, you have already begun to transform your outlook on life.
[Tips from Ellen Dugan's "Book of Witchery"]

Last Quarter Moon phase in Scorpio

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

23rd Day of the 1st Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Medusa
Lunar Tree Cycle of Beith/Birch
6th Day of the Celtic Tree
Month of Luis/Rowan
23rd Day of the Cycle of Imbolgen -
Days of Reclaiming
Moon Phase: Last Quarter - 7:57AM EST
Moon rises: 12:52AM EST
Moon sets: 11:09AM EST
Moon in the Fixed Water
Sign of Scorpio
Ceridwen's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The dormant
life of a seed
Sun in Aquarius
Sunrise: 7:35AM EST
Sunset: 5:30PM EST
Solar Question for the Day: ""What
would give your loved ones the
most pleasaure?"
Samhain (Calan Gaeaf) Quarter
of the Year
January 26th, 2011

Moon in Scorpio - The Moon in Scorpio gives us attitude, and brings out our primal side; it sharpens our curiosity and our edges, our focus to the point of obsession. Fluff doesn't cut it; get real or let it go; honor privacy, don't crowd. Time to: dig deep, weed investigate, do surgery, keep secrets and love each other up. A Scorpio moon transit weaves the visible and invisible worlds together. We see through and into the roots. Direct this energy away from obsession and towards creation. The moon's transit through Scorpio is a time of death and rebirth (not necessarily physical death ), intensity, extremes and heightened sensitivity. It is good for focusing, being sexual and doing psychic work because of the deep emotions and desires Scorpio brings.
   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 of emotional debris from the previous month/cycle. There is great energy complete things and focus on certain areas that you have found yourself too scattered to deal with in the previous cycle. Moon in Scorpio is the best time to work magick involving sexual matters, power, psychic growth, secrets, and fundamental transformations. Healing rituals for ailments of the reproductive organs are also done during this period of time.
   Those who were born under a Scorpio Moon are intense, fiercely curious, and need to create solitude with healthy boundaries rather than isolation.

Last Quarter Moon - The last quarter moon (or waning half moon) rises around midnight and sets around noon. Astrologically, the Moon is square to the Sun (as it was at the First Quarter). She is visible from the time she rises until she sets.  The Last Quarter Moon is the HARVEST phase - the plant gives her life so that others may continue theirs. Those who are born in a Last Quarter moon phase have a powerful internal life of reflection, and transformation. They can assume different roles while balancing their internal and external worlds.  Keywords for the Last Quarter phase are: realignment, revision, integration and cleansing. It is the time in a cycle to take closing action, to follow-up and complete the activities begun at the New phase. During this phase you become aware of what is and is not working with respect to the achievement of your goal for the cycle. MANIFEST YOUR GOAL. Be responsible.

Woden's Day - Mercury Day - the Day of Communication and Connection... there are minor magickal energies to honor your ancestors and to achieve clarity. Woden's Day carries all of the planetary and magickal energies and associations of the witty and nimble god Mercury himself. Some of these mercurial traits include good communication skills, cleverness, intelligence, creativity, business sense, writing, artistic talent, trickness and thievery. And don't forget all of those wise and enigmatic qualities associated with the Norse god Odin/Wodin, not to mention the goddess Athene's contributions of music, the arts, handmade crafts, and writing. Wednesdays afford excellent opportunities for seeking wisdom, changing your circumstances, and improving your skills, be they in trade and commerce, music and art, or in communication and writing.
[From Ellen Dugan's "Book of Witchery"]

Disseminating Moon enters Scorpio tonight

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

22nd Day of the 1st Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Hestia
Lunar Tree Cycle of Beith/Birch
5th Day of the Celtic Tree
Month of Luis/Rowan
22nd Day of the Cycle of Imbolgen -
Days of Reclaiming
Moon Phase: Disseminating
Moon rises: 12:20AM EST
Moon sets: 10:34AM EST
Moon in Libra v/c 5:03PM EST
Moon enters the Fixed Water
Sign of Scorpio at 9:15PM EST
Rhiannon's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The joy of simplicity
Sun in Aquarius
Sunrise: 7:36AM EST
Sunset: 5:28PM EST
Solar Question for the Day: ""To
whom do you need to show more
sensitivity?"
Samhain (Calan Gaeaf) Quarter
of the Year
January 25th, 2011

    The moon enters the Fixed Water Sign of Scorpio tonight at 9:15PM EST - I will talk about a Scorpio moon transit tomorrow.   Also the moon enters the Last Quarter phase tomorrow morning
at 7:57AM EST. So you can use the Libra Moon transit energies up until later this afternoon.

Tiu's Day - Mars Day - the Day of Activity and Physicality, Passion and Desire - Impression Day. Tiu's Day is the day to work any magick that falls in the category of increasing strength, courage, bravery, and passion. All of these intense emotions are linked to this day's energies and spells designed around these themes will have extra punch when performed on this magickal day.
   So, let's add a little passion and conviction into your life!  Break out the daring red pieces of your wardrobe, and put a little pizzazz into your day. Work with Lilith, and see what she has to teach you about  personal power and sexuality.
    Become a magickal warrior and move forward in your life with strength, courage, and compassion. Embrace the side of yourself that loves a good challenge and that is passionate and daring!  Banish fear, and face your future with strength and conviction. Believe in yourself and in your dreams, work hard, and you will win every time.
[From Ellen Dugan's "Book of Witchery"]

Moon Day - Disseminating Moon in Libra

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

21st Day of the 1st Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Hestia
Lunar Tree Cycle of Beith/Birch
4th Day of the Celtic Tree
Month of Luis/Rowan
21st Day of the Cycle of Imbolgen -
Days of Reclaiming
Moon Phase: Disseminating
Moon sets: 10:02AM EST
Moon rises: 11:40PM EST
Moon in the Cardinal Air
Sign of Sagittarius
Rhiannon's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The spirit
of the land in Winter
Sun in Aquarius
Sunrise: 7:37AM EST
Sunset: 5:27PM EST
Solar Question for the Day: "Which
of your family do you most appreciate?"
Samhain (Calan Gaeaf) Quarter
of the Year
January 24th, 2011

Moon Day - the Day of Remembering and Feeling - Impression Day... there are minor magickal energies for releasing unwanted emotions.  Monday is named after the moon. The Latin term for Monday is Dies Lunae ("moon's day"), in the old English language, this day was Mpmamdaeg; in Greek, it was Hermera Selenes.  All of these different names and languages transfer to the same thing: the 'day of the moon.'

   Working with the different phases of the moon is an important skill that takes a bit of time for Witches to learn. So why not cut to the chase and experiment with the day of the week that is dedicated to the moon in all its magickal energies and aspects?  Magickally,  Monday encourages the lunar energies of inspiration, illusion, prophetic dreams, emotions, psychic abilities, travel, women's mysteries and fertility.
    The Deities for the Moon are: Mani, Meness, Thorth and Selene; the corresponding flowers and plants are: bluebell, jasmine, gardenia, white rose, white poppy and moonflowers.  Silver is the correspondant metal for the moon and it's colors are white, silver and pale blue.  Crystals and stones relating to the moon are: moonstones, pearls, quartz crystals and sapphires.  Essential Oil for the Moon are: Gardenia, jasmine, lemon, lemon balm, lily, myrrh, sandalwood, and Stephanotis.  Foods, Herbs, and Spices for the Moon are: melons, chamomile, and wintergreen. The tarot cards relating to the Moon are; The Moon and the High Priestess. 
    Believe it or not of the Deities listed above, only one of them is a goddess.  Meness is a Latvian fertility moon god; Mani is the Norse god of the Moon and Thoth (pronounced Tote) is the ibis-headed god from Egypt who wore on his head both a crescent and a lunar disk.  Selene, the goddess of the group, is a Greek goddess of the full moon. She is often shown within the face of the full moon as a beautiful winged woman wearing a golden crown.
[From: Ellen Dugan's "Book of Witchery"]

Disseminating Moon moves into Libra

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

20th Day of the 1st Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Demeter
Lunar Tree Cycle of Beith/Birch
3rd Day of the Celtic Tree
Month of Luis/Rowan
20th Day of the Cycle of Imbolgen -
Days of Reclaiming
Moon Phase: Disseminating Moon
Moon sets: 9:23AM EST
Moon rises: 10:28PM EST
Moon in Virgo v/c 5:36PM EST
Moon enters the Cardinal Air
Sign of Libra at 6:59PM EST
Rhiannon's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The constellation
your soul-friends make.
Sun in Aquarius
Sunrise: 7:37AN EST
Sunset: 5:26PM EST
Solar Question for the Day: "What
is the source of your deepest
refreshment?"
Samhain (Calan Gaeaf) Quarter
of the Year
January 23rd, 2011


Moon in Libra - The Moon in Libra opens our sociability, brings a friendly, egalitarian vibe and encourages us to connect. Bread and roses: we need beauty like we need air. Time to seek justice, romance, meet, approach, create, beautify, find our core balance and balance our needs with others. Libra highlights the magic of the dance of inter-relatedness - friendly, romantic and searching for a way to connect. Libra asks us to treat those around us as equals and make sure our politics and art, our lovemaking and our networks integrate. This transit arriving this evening will concern cooperation, harmony, focus on relationships, and fine artistic pursuits. Perhaps you might like to enjoy attending an art gallery opening, the opera or taking your partner to dinner. All partnership activity will be heightened during this moon transit during the next day or so. The moon will leave this transit in the late afternoon on Tuesday.  Those who were born under a Libra Moon sign are the peacemakers, but have to remember to keep themselves in the equation. They see the beauty and seek fairness, help us understand one another.  Moon in Libra is the best time to work magick involving artistic work, justice, court cases, partnerships and unions, mental stimulation and karmic, spiritual or emotional balance. Healing rituals for ailments of the reproductive organs are also done during this period of time.

Sun Day - this is the Day of Intent, Creation and Renewal....  There are minor magickal energies for rites to relieve stress.  The Latin term for Sunday, our first day of the week, is Dies Solis ('sun's day'). In ancient Greek, it was called Hemera Heliou. In the Old English language, it was known as Sunnandaeg; in Middle English, Soneday. All of these titles mean the same thing: the day of the sun.
   The charms and spells that would complement this magickal day of the sun are ones for personal achievements of any kind - such as if you are seeking frame and wealth, working for that much-deserved promotion at work, or being acknowledged for a job well done. Health issues, increasing personal power or simply sticking to your diet and being proud of what you have accomplished all fall under the sun's golden influence.
[From: Ellen Dugan's "Book of Witchery"]

Disseminating Moon Phase in Virgo

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


19th Day of the 1st Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Demeter
Lunar Tree Cycle of Beith/Birth
2nd Day of the Celtic Tree
Month of Luis/Rowan
19th Day of the Cycle of Imolgen -
Days of Reclaiming
Moon Phase: Disseminating - 11:00PM
Moon sets: 9:02AM EST
Moon rises: 9:14PM EST
Moon in the Mutable Earth
Sign of Virgo
Rhiannon's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The truth of
the imagination.
Sun in Aquarius
Sunrise: 7:38AM EST
Sunset: 5:25PM EST
Solar Question for the Day: "What
do you need to learn in order to
be more confident?"
Samhain (Calan Gaeaf) Quarter
of the Year
January 22nd, 2011



Disseminating Moon - The Disseminating Moon is the waning full moon getting visibly smaller. She rises midevening and sets midmorning. She is visible from the time she rises almost until she sets.
  As we go into the darkening phase of the Disseminating Moon, we get the FRUIT of the plant's life cycle - the fruits of wisdom and experience. Keywords for the Disseminating phase are: demonstration, distribution, sharing and introspection. It is the time in a cycle to further process your advancement toward your goal by looking at the results of your adjusting action at the Full 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. Those who are born during a Disseminating Moon phase find that their life must have meaning, purpose. They enjoy sharing their ideas with others.

Saturn Day - the Day of Manifestation and Structure, Assessment and Responsibility - Foundation Day.
   Saturdays are traditionally days to work on protection, remove obstacles, bind troublesome or dangerous individuals and banish negativity. Saturdays are like a magickal 'let's clean house' day. Any magickal messes left lying around that need to be addressed or any problems that need to be cleared up,
are best dealt with on the day devoted to Saturn. Being that the moon is in it's Virgo transit there will moon energies flowing that are aligned with cleaning up messes.

Black Tourmaline Boundary Spell

   If you are the sort of person who really wants or needs a fast crystal protection spell that is no muss, no fuss, then try this out this Saturday witchery while working with your black tourmaline. Hold the black tourmaline jewelry piece or the raw chunks of stone in your hands. Visualize what it is that you want them to do. Then repeat the following spell verse three times:

 

"Lovely tourmaline crystal so chunky and black

Reflect all negativity right out and back ]

While I am inside of this magickal boundary

I am protected from any psychic vampirey

By the element of earth, keep me free from the mire

May this crystal spell grant the outcome I desire."

  Now go ahead and work with the black tourmaline. I bet you will notice a big difference.

[From Ellen Dugan's "The Book of Witchery"]



Waning Gibbous Moon into Virgo

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

18th Day of the 1st Lunar Cycle
Ruled Demeter
Lunar Tree Cycle of Beith/Birch
1st Day of the Celtic Tree
Month of Luis/Rowan
18th Day of the Cycle of Imbolgen -
Days of Reclaiming
Moon Phase: Waning Gibbous
Moon sets: 8:31AM EST
Moon rises: 8:00PM EST
Moon in Leo v/c 1:57PM EST
Moon enters the Mutable Earth
Sign of Virgo at 6:10PM EST
Rhiannon's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The satisfaction
of conclusion
Sun in Aquarius
Sunrise: 7:39AM EST
Sunset: 5:24PM EST
Solar Question for the Day: "What
do you most appreciate about
being human?"
Samhain (Calan Gaeaf) Quarter
of the Year
January 21st, 2011

Moon in Virgo - The Moon in Virgo sends us back to work after Leo's party time and gives us a to-do list. We become impatiently aware of what needs to be improved, fixed or healed. Our compassion is strong, but we can get irritated at less industrious folk. It's time to clean up our act and turn our attention to the matter of our health and hygiene.  During this transit, important issues are practicality, organization, cleaning up your diet or your house, healing your body or offering healing to others and attending to loose ends. It is a time of taking responsibility and cleaning up the messes we've been leaving.  Virgo brings painstaking attention to details; housecleaning is a good way to work through a Virgo transit. Be gentle with others.  Those who were born under a Virgo Moon sign are curious, responsible, caring, but need to cultivate gentle acceptance of self and others. Moon in Virgo is the best time to work magick involving employment, intellectual matters, health, and dietary concerns. Healing rituals for ailments of the intestines or nervous system are also done during this period of time.

Freya's Day - Venus Day - the Day of Sharing and Relationships....

Luis/Rowan Celtic Tree Month

    In the Celtic tree calendar this is the first day of the Rowan month... The Rowan, Mountain Ash or Witchwood is a tree of protection and vision and is sacred to the Crone aspect of the Goddess. Take with you a small offering, such as a little wine or a small biscuit, and seek out a Rowan. You may need to take a guide with you to help you to identify it. When you find the tree, first make your offering to its spirit, saying, "Graceful Rowan, if it pleases you, let me find some of your wood, that I might protect my home and all who lives within it. I give this offering freely as I give my love to the land. Blessed Be."  Search carefully around the tree for fallen wood, and take one piece for each of the doors which lead into your home. If you find a piece straight and long enough for a wand, you may also take this. A wand's length is the distance from your elbow to the center of your palm of your strong hand. Thank the tree and take your wood home with you.
    If you have been lucky enough to find a wand, it usually needs at least 6 weeks of gentle drying before it is ready to be worked.
    Take other pieces of fallen wood and tie a small length of red thread around each. Hang them over the doors which enter your home to protect against people bringing negative thoughts and feelings into the house.
[From Kate West's "The Real Witches' Year"]

Waning Full Moon in Leo - Sun enters Aquarius

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


17th Day of the 1st Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Gaia
Lunar Tree Cycle of Beith/Birch
27th Day of the Celtic Tree
Month of Beith/Birch
17th Day of the Cycle of Imbolgen -
Days of Reclaiming
Moon Phase: waning Full Moon
Moon sets: 7:57Am EST
Moon rises: 5:30PM EST
Moon in the Fixed Fire Sign
of Leo
Rhiannon's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The message
of the wind.
Sun in Aquarius - 5:19AM EST
Sunrise: 7:39AM EST
Sunset: 5:23PM EST
Solar Question for the Day: "What
is the source of your spiritual guidance?"
Samhain (Calan Gaeaf) Quarter
of the Year
January 20th, 2011

Moon in Leo - The Moon in Leo illuminates our extroverted sides; we brim with generosity but can get stuck in our own perspective. Time to: shine, express,  dramatize, celebrate, create, appreciate, stage, reach out and be generous with our attention; watch assumptions and do not push the stubborn.  With the Moon in Leo we have to guts to be visible and bring culture to life. Dramatic happenings, especially concerning emotions, being the center of attention, exuberance, vitality, and working with patriarchal issues are all hallmarks of a Leo Moon transit. It's the best time set appointments within the patriarchal system as this is when we can successfully deal with this issues and people who are in positions of authority and power. You will want to spend money during Moon in Leo. It's hard to recognize limits '
in Leo Moon and it's also a time for power issues to erupt. Ambition and independent leadership are important issues. As the moon moves towards Virgo (tomorrow at 6:10PM)the ambitious energy of Leo becomes unassuming.  Those of us who are born under a Leo Moon sign can fill a room with personality and make the most of any situation, but may need to learn to honor the quiet, the mundane, or another's reality.  Moon in Leo is the best time to work magick involving authority, power over others, courage, fertility or childbirth. Healing rituals for ailments of the upper back, spine or heart are also done during this period of time.

Thor's Day - Jupiter Day - the Day of Vision, Spiritual Insight and Expansion....

Sun in Aquarius -

    Aquarius is one of the Air signs indicating thought, intellect and communication.  It is also one of the Fixed signs bring strong reactions to stimulus but also stability, reliability, and a certain amount of stubbornness.
   Those born under this Sun sign are generally intense, self-expressive, progressive, spontaneous, communicative and energetic. The typical Aquarian has strong feelings and embraces humanitarian causes. They will put a lot of energy into a cause but may allow their opinions to blind them to the truth. They are generally intelligent, intuitive and full of ideas. They work well with technology and things science based. While usually faithful their detached manner and independent nature can lead to misunderstandings. On the negative side, they can also be eccentric, contrary, tactless and erratic.
    For Aquarians this period is one where both their strengths and weaknesses will be heightened, so they need to be careful to focus on putting their positive aspects to the fore.  For them this is not the best of times to be working too closely with new people. They also need to be aware of the need to nurture their relationships and not to appear too distant or self-sufficient. Non-Aquarians will find this is a good period for matters of the mind; thought, study and learning new things, and also for communication. It is a good time for projects which involve helping others.
[From: Kate West's "The Real Witches' Year"]

Full Moon in Cancer

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


16th Day of the 1st Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Gaia
Lunar Tree Cycle of Beith/Birch
27th Day of the Celtic Tree
Month of Beith/Birch
16th Day of the Cycle of Imbolgen -
Days of Reclaiming
Moon Phase: Full - 4:21PM EST
Moon sets: 7:16AM EST
Moon rises: 5:30PM EST
Moon in Cancer v/c 4:25PM EST
Moon enters the Fixed Fire Sign
of Leo at 5:15PM EST
Rhiannon's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditaton: The truth of
the imagination.
Sun in Capricorn
Sunrise: 7:40AM EST
Sunset: 5:21PM EST
Solar Question for the Day: "What
prejudices are you holding on to?"
Samhain (Calan Gaeaf) Quarter
of the Year
January 19th, 2011


Full Moon - The Full Moon rises at sunset and sets at sunrise.  Astrologically, the Sun nd Moon are in opposition (i.e., opposite each other in the sky and in opposite signs of the zodiac).  She is visible all night long from moonrise to moonset.  She opens and blossoms during the Full Moon into the FLOWER, with the desire to share her beauty with others. Keywords for the this phase are: fulfillment, illumination, realization, and experience. It is the time in a 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 phase. Go to a public place. Do something with a friend. LISTEN. Receive awareness. Understand others.

Full Moon in Cancer -

         This Full Moon is at home in her own sign of Cancer. It's in the 29th degree, the anaretic degree, when the concerns of that sign are brought to resolution. This doubles the sense of culmination that comes at the Full Moon. 
     The waves of feeling are strong, at the water sign Full Moon. Thoughts  of family, Mother, and home- are big. It's the longing for a nest, support system, cozy refuge - the need to feel safe and protected.   Cancer is a cardinal sign, known for initiating, pushing the envelope, provoking, forging ahead. Cancer is an water sign that moves through emotional waves and the imagination.


It's a Good Time to:


•Be with the muse, and receive impressions from the imagination.
•Acknowledge your vulnerabilities.
•Nurture and allow yourself to be nurtured.
•Protect the frail, young or helpless.
•Give shelter to an animal or neighbor from the storm.
•Tune in to your ancestors.
•Make something artful from your memories.
•Indulge your sentimental side.
•Reach out to an old friend.
•Be near the ocean.

This Full Moon can bring on emotional tides that wash over with a great force. If you're prone to extreme moods, or already feel overwhelmed, you might want to cozy up at home.
http://astrology.about.com/od/themoon/qt/FullMoonCancer.htm


Woden's Day - Mercury Day - the Day of Communication and Connection.... With all the emotional energy flowing today you may find yourself making very emotional communications. 

Waxing Gibbous Moon on Tiu's Day - spell for courage

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


15th Day of the 1st Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Gaia
Lunar Tree Cycle of Beith/Birch
26th, Day of the Celtic Tree
Month of Beith/Birch
15th Day of the Cycle of Imbolgen -
Days of Reclaiming
Moon Phase: waxing Gibbous
Moon sets: 6:33AM EST
Moon rises: 4:15PM EST
Moon in the Cardinal Water
Sign of Cancer
Rhiannon's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The treasures
of Winter
Sun in Capricorn
Sunrise: 7:40AM EST
Sunset: 5:20PM EST
Solar Question for the Day: "What
obstructions need to be cleared from
your life?"
Samhain (Calan Gaeaf) Quarter
of the Year
January 18th, 2011


Tiu's Day - Mars Day - the Day of Activity and Physicality, Passion and Desire... there are minor magickal energies for rites and spells for courage. 

Bloodstone

     Bloodstone is one of Tiu's Day correspondences.  The bloodstone is a beautiful deep green stone called chalcedony that is flecked with deep red. The next time you are at a shop that sells inexpensive tumbled stones, sort through the bloodstones and find one that speaks to you. Hold the stone in your receptive hand (opposite from the one you write with) and then see if you notice anything. When you find one that gives you a little zap, makes your palm tingle, or makes you feel warmer, you will know you've found a keeper.
   Bloodstones are associated with the elements of fire and earth. They may be used in healing and also to boost your courage, physical health, and endurance. It was also a talisman used to promote a healthy and safe pregnancy. This is a well-liked stone for athletes and for those of us who are on a fitness regime. A bloodstone can help you stay injury free, and it can also remind you not to overdo it, which is of course the fastest way to getting a sports or workout-related injury in the first place. When you wear or carry a bloodstone, you will be more courageous, calmer, and even-tempered.
   Chalcedony is a catch all term that includes many well known varieties of cryptocrystalline quartz gemstones. They are found in all 50 States, in many colors and color combinations, and in sedimentary, igneous, and metamorphic rocks. Chalcedony includes carnelian, sard, plasma, prase, bloodstone, onyx, sardonyx, chrysoprase, thundereggs, agate, flint, chert, jasper, petrified wood, and petrified dinosaur bone just to name a few of the better known varieties.
     Because of its abundance, durability, and beauty, chalcedony was, except for sticks, animal skins, bones, plain rocks, and possibly obsidian, the earliest raw material used by humankind. The earliest recorded use of chalcedony was for projectile points, knives, tools, and containers such as cups and bowls. Early man made weapons and tools from many varieties of chalcedony including agate, agatized coral, flint, jasper, and petrified wood.
   The move from using certain items as weapons and tools, to using the same items for ceremonial and personal adornment is very easily made. It was only natural for early man to use his finest looking knife for special occasions or to attach a special lance point or arrowhead to his tunic. In fact, agate and petrified wood may have simply been elevated to gems from common and functional weapons or tools.
    All 50 States produce some variety of chalcedony, but the material from some States is better known than that from others.

A Bloodstone Protection and Courage Spell

    The bloodstone, when worn or carried, brings courage and eliminates fear and anger. The bloodstone was often used as a talisman for athletes and warriors. When you need a little extra courage and bravery to face challenges and stressful, scary situations, give this practical Witch's spell a whirl.
   For this particular crystal spell, you will need a few supplies: a red spicy scented votive candle, a votive candle cup, three bloodstones (inexpensive, tumbled stones are perfect), a photo of yourself or a small snip of your own hair, a small cast-iron cauldron, and matches or a lighter. Set up on a safe, flat surface.
   Place the photo or snip of hair in the bottom of the cauldron. Now place the candle inside of the cup. Set this in the center of the small cauldron, on top of the photo or the hair. (If you are worried about damaging the photo, then set the photo beneath the cauldron.) Next, arrange the three bloodstones around the candle cup. Ground and center yourself. Then, when you are ready, light the candle and repeat the following spell three times:

"On this Mars day, there is fiery energy to spare

I call for courage and passion to know, to will, to dare

Three green bloodstones and a burning candle of red

I call for bravery and banish fear and dread."

  Focus on the flame for a few minutes.  Believe in your ability to handle the situation, whatever it may be.

   Close the spell by saying:

"For the good of all, with harm to none

By Mar's energy, this spell is done."

    Let the candle burn until it is consumed. If this is an ongoing problem or conflict, then repeat the spell every day for one week (in other words from Tuesday until the following Tuesday). Clean out the votive cup and light a new red votive candle for each day of the spell. When you are finished working this, clean up your setup and put away all of the spell components. If you like, you can carry those tumbled bloodstones with you to help reinforce your convictions.

[From: Ellen Dugan's "Book of Witchery"]



Waxing Gibbous Moon enters Cancer

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


14th Day of the 1st Lunar Cycle
Ruled Gaia
Lunar Tree Cycle of Beith/Birch
25th Day of the Celtic Tree
Month of Beith/Birch
14th Day of the Cycle of Imbolgen -
Days of Reclaiming
Moon Phase: waxing Gibbous
Moon sets: 5:42AM EST
Moon rises: 3:08PM EST
Moon in Gemini v/c 12:57PM EST
Moon enters the Cardinal
Water Sign of Cancer at  2:29PM EST
Rhiannon's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The unconquerable
nature of the soul.
Sun in Capricorn
Sunrise: 7:41AM EST
Sunset: 5:19PM EST
Solar Question for the Day: "Are
you fulfilling your spiritual vocation?" 
Samhain (Calan Gaeaf) Quarter
of the Year
January 17th, 2011

Moon in Cancer - The Moon in Cancer deepens our feelings, our moods are stormy and vast, our hunger and desire to feed others sharpen. We protect our own, nest in our cave, need to know we're safe. Hunger grows, but for more than food. Time to: water, plant, feed, nest, comfort, secure, dive deep into feelings. Cancer encourages the wisdom rising out of our oceanic unconscious through moods and feelings. Moon in Cancer brings heightened sensitivity, the desire to nurture, and the need to create a home. Because of the home-orientation, coming from a deep-seated need for security, there is a greater interest in food and its preparation.  This can easily lead to self-indulgence, so health-conscious women should be aware of the tendency to feed binge.  Cancer is the home of the moon, sensitive planet of emotions, so feelings are easily hurt, especially by personal criticism. Handle with care. Nostalgia reigns supreme.  For those born under a Cancer Moon can be wonderfully nurturing to our culture, body and soul. Early mother/home issues can be composted into empathic understanding. Moon in Cancer is the best time to work magick for home and domestic life. Healing rituals for ailments of the chest or stomach are also done during this period of time.

Moon Day - the Day of Remembering and Feeling....there are Major magickal energies today for spells/rites regarding Dream Homes, Fertility, and Planting; there are minor magickal energies for spells/rites for creating household harmony and patience. 

Gibbous Moon Phase in Gemini

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

13th Day of the 1st Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Gaia
Lunar Tree Cycle of Beith/Birch
24th Day of the Celtic Tree
Month of Beith/Birch
13th Day of the Cycle of Imbolgen -
Days of Reclaiming
Moon Phase: Gibbous - 4:27AM EST
Moon sets: 4:44AM EST
Moon rises: 2:07PM EST
Moon in the Mutable Air
Sign of Gemini
Rhiannon's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: Your kinship with
the stars
Sun in Capricorn
Sunrise: 7:41AM EST
Sunset: 5:18PM EST
Solar Question for the Day: "What
is seeking to reveal itself in your dreams?"
Samhain (Calan Gaeaf) Quarter
of the Year
January 16th, 2011

Gibbous Moon - The Gibbous Moon rises midafternoon and sets before dawn.  She is the bulging Moon getting ready to be full, visible soon after she rises until she sets.  The Gibbous Moon is the BUD of the moon plant, the pulse of life tightly wrapped, wanting to expand.  Keywords for the Gibbous phase are: analyze, prepare, and trust. It is the time in a cycle to process the results of the actions taken during the First Quarter. During this phase you are gathering information. Give up making judgments, it will only lead to worry. Your knowledge is incomplete. Laugh. Analyze and filter. LOOK WITHIN.
Those who were born during a Gibbous phase will find their talents lie in the ability to refine, organize and purify. They are seekers, utilizing spiritual tools as guides on their path.

Sun Day - This is the Day of Intent, Creation and Renewal.  This might be a good day to create a Full Moon ritual to use on Wednesday/Woden's Day. 

Waxing Half Moon enters Gemini

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

12th Day of the 1st Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Hera
Lunar Tree Cycle of Beith/Birch
23rd Day of the Celtic Tree
Month of Beith/Birch
12th Day of the Cycle of Imbolgen -
Days of Reclaiming
Moon Phase: Waxing Half
Moon sets: 3:43AM EST
Moon rises: 1:16PM EST
Moon in Taurus v/c 7:46AM EST
Moon enters the Mutable Air
Sign of Gemini at 8:23AM EST
Rhiannon's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The ancestral
memories of your body.
Sun in Capricorn
Sunrise: 7:41AM EST
Sunset: 5:17PM EST
Solar Question for the Day: "Where
are you most vulnerable?"
Samhain (Calan Gaeaf) Quarter
of the Year
January 15th, 2011

Moon in Gemini - The Moon in Gemini wakes us up; we lose our concentration but quicken our communication. The conversation sparkles, our thinking broadens but doesn't deepen. Time to: network, investigate, translate, brainstorm, mediate, prune, edit, explain and broadcast. Build a web of understanding and absorb new information. This is a time of communication and other means of expression, freedom, adaptability, short journeys, reading or writing, a desire for variety and having more than one thing going at once. You will probably feel talkative and/or want to work with your hands during the moon's transit in Gemini. Those born under a Gemini Moon can talk to anyone, think fast, multi-task, shift moods with grace, but need to choose depth and focus. Moon in Gemini is the best time to work magick for good communication, change of residence, writing, public relations, and travel. Healing rituals for ailments of the shoulders, arms, hands, or lungs are also done during this period of time.

Saturn's Day - the Day of Manifestation and Structure, Assessment and Responsibility - Foundation Day.  

Freya's Day

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

11th Day of 1st Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Hera
Lunar Tree Cycle of Beith/Birch
22nd Day of the Celtic Tree
Month of Beith/Birch
11th Day of the Cycle of Imbolgen -
Days of Reclaiming
Moon Phase: waxing Half Moon
Moon sets: 2:41AM EST
Moon rises: 12:33PM EST
Moon in the Fixed Earth
Sign of Taurus
Rhiannon's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The unfolding
vision of your life.
Sun in Capricorn
Sunrise: 7:42AM EST
Sunset: 5:16PM EST
Solar Question for the Day: "How
are you respecting or abusing
friendship?"
Samhain (Calan Gaeaf) Quarter
of the Year
January 14th, 2011

Freya's Day - Venus Day - the Day of Sharing and Relationship...  This Freya's Day is a quiet regarding the flow of magickal energies.  While this is a day of relationships - and the moon is in the sign of Taurus, it could be a sensual day.  So scent yourself with Apple essential oil or Lilac or Rose geranium or Vanilla and see what it draws your way or create the Attraction Potpourri from the recipe below and carry it on you in a small sachet bag.  Eat an apple, set out a Rose quartz or a piece of Amber and place a rose bud in a small vase.  Fridays classically are days for love, fertility, romance, and beauty magick, as well as working for happiness, harmony in the home, and friendship.

Rose Quartz

    This gorgeous pink stone is a type of quartz, and so it carries the classic correspondences of the sun and the moon and the elemental associations of Fire and Water.  Rose quartz is considered to be receptive in its energies, which means that it helps to 'draw in' and to attract. Rose quartz may be semitransparent or opaque, and it comes in many shades of pink. It is also used to open up the heart center, and it promotes joy, harmony and a comfortable a romantic relationship. The rose quartz crystal encourages a feeling that is best described as the warm fuzzies. The rose quartz is a perfect gift between two friends, and it also encourages the love of self, which is a wonderful thing, as it's hard to have someone love you if you don't even like yourself. So change your outlook! The rose quartz will boost your aura and make you feel more lovable and attractive.
[From Ellen Dugan's "Book of Witchery"]

Attraction Potpourri

     A good witchy craft for Freya's Day is a sachet bag with an attraction potpourri stuffed in it. By creating this recipe and by carrying this mixture, you are sending out a message to the universe that says, "Hey, I'm a fabulous and enchanting individual -- don't you want to get to know me?"  With the idea being that those folks who are intrigued by your sparkle may then be drawn to you of their own will, all you are doing is bumping up the package, so to speak.

* 1 organza favor bag in pink or red
* Fresh red rose petals
* Violet blossoms or leaves
* A crumbled head of dried yarrow flowers (yarrow is an all-purpose herb)
* 1-small rose quartz stone for attraction and warmth
* 1 drop of rose geranium oil
* 1 cotton ball
* A clean dropper

   Stuff the little bag full of rose petals. Put one drop of the oil on top of the cotton ball and tuck it down inside of the herb mixture. Put the rest of the herbal components on top. Add the Rose Quartz stone to the mixture, then tie the bag closed, knot it three times, and say the following verse while tying the knots:             

"By the magick power of three times three

I enchant this sachet for love and beauty."

Hold the sachet in the palms of your hands. Lean close and take a whiff of the fragrance. Visualize a bright pink energy radiating from the sachet bag. Now repeat the spell verse:

"Fresh red rose petals for love and to boost attraction

Rose geranium oil to encourage affection

Witch's herbs bind the magick and keep it true

A rosy quartz will bring warmth and kindness too

The strongest magick does indeed come from the heart

This spell is sealed by a rhyme and a Witch's art."

   Give the sachet bag a little shake and you are good to go. Keep it with you, in your pocket or purse, for one month. You may then either refresh the charm or return the herbal ingredients to nature and dispose of the cotton ball. When finished with this spell, wash the organza sachet bag out by hand and allow it to air-dry. This way, you may reuse the organza bag another time.

[From: "The Book of Witchery" by Ellen Dugan] 

Waxing Half Moon in Taurus - Prosperity Spell

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


10th Day of the 1st Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Hera
Lunar Tree Cycle of Beith/Birch
21st Day of the Celtic Tree
Month of Beith/Birch
10th Day of the Cycle of Imbolgen -
Days of Reclaiming
Moon Phase: waxing Half Moon
Moon sets: 1:39AM EST
Moon rises: 11:58AM EST
Moon in the Fixed Earth Sign
of Taurus
Rhiannon's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The blessing of age
Sun in Capricorn
Sunrise: 7:42AM EST
Sunset: 5:15PM EST
Solar Question for the Day: "What is
the source of your inspiration?"
Samhain (Calan Gaeaf) Quarter
of the Year
January 13th, 2011

Moon in Taurus - The Moon in Taurus grounds us; it slows us down and wakes our sensual nature and stubbornness, helps us dig deeper roots. During this transit the Taurus Moon asks to discover what nurtures us and how to grow deeper roots. We can almost feel the mud oozing between our toes, awakening our senses and sensuality and growing stubbornness. It is a time to cultivate our material resources, our homes and our body. This lunar transit concerns 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 forceful forward movement of Aries becomes solid and calm and patient during Taurus. There is a desire to protect material goods and a strong need for financial security. Those who were born under a Taurus moon roots deeply, and changes slowly; they collect, touch, support, and see the sacred in the world of matter. Steady, they can loan their strength to others, but may need to learn the beauty in change. Moon in Taurus is the best time to work magick for love, real estate, material acquisitions and money. Healing rituals for ailments of the throat, neck and ears are also done during this period of time.

Thor's Day - Jupiter Day - the Day of Vision, Spiritual Insight and Expansion...  There are Major magickal energies today for rites/spells about Money Matters and Business Success.

Earthy Prosperity Tarot Spell
[From Ellen Dugan's "Book of Witchery"]

   If possible, work this prosperity spell outdoors. You will be calling on the element of Earth and all of its fertile and abundant energies. If weather prohibits you from being outside, then set this up so your work area faces north, because the northern direction is associated with the element of earth.
* A green votive candle
* 1/2 cup garden soil (you can use potting soil)
* A saucer or small plate to hold the soil
* The following tarot cards: Ace of Pentacles, Nine of Pentacles and Ten of Pentacles
  (please note: the suits of Coins and Pentacles are the same thing.)
* A lighter or matches
* A safe, flat surface on which to set up the spell

  Place the green votive candle inside the cup. Snuggle the votive cup securely down into the soil. Arrange the cards next to the dish that holds the soil and candle. Take a few moments to center yourself. When you feel ready, light the candle, and speak the following spell three times:

"Element of earth, I call, ground and strengthen me tonight!

May the gods now bless this green spell candle that burns so bright

The suit of Pentacles and Coins calls for prosperity

They will help to bring health, and abundance quickly to me

Now together may all of these elements combine

And create opportunity for wealth at this time."

Close the spell by saying:

"For the good of all, bringing harm to none

By the element of earth, this spell is done!"

Allow the candle to burn until it goes out on its own. If necessary, move the candle to a safe location so it can finish burning, such as a shower stall, inside an unlit fireplace, or in the empty kitchen sink. Never leave a burning candle unattended, especially outdoors.

      

First Quarter Moon

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


9th Day of the 1st Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Kore
Lunar Tree Cycle of Beith/Birch
20th Day of the Celtic Tree
Month of Beith/Birch
9th Day of the Cycle of Imbolgen -
Days of Reclaiming
Moon Phase: First Quarter - 6:31AM EST
Moon sets: 12:39AM EST
Moon rises: 11:28AM EST
Moon in Aries v/c 9:46PM EST
Moon enters the Fixed Earth
Sign of Taurus at 10:37PM EST
Rhiannon's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The work of
your hands.
Sun in Capricorn
Sunrise: 7:42AM EST
Sunset: 5:14PM EST
Solar Question for the Day: "Where
is the wool being pulled over your
eyes?"
Samhain (Calan Gaeaf) Quarter
of the Year
January 12th, 2011

First Quarter Moon - The First Quarter Moon (or waxing half moon) rises around noon and sets around midnight. Astrologically, the Moon is square to the Sun. She is visible from the time she rises until she sets. The First Quarter Moon is the GROWTH phase. Roots go deeper, stems shoot up and leaves form as she creates a new strong body. Keywords for the First Quarter phase are: action, expression, growth, breaking away. It is the time in a cycle to take the initial action necessary to achieve your goal by expressing your needs and desires. FEEL & MOVE. Make phone calls. Write letters. Dance. Act now. Those who born in the First Quarter phase of the moon live a full active life - old structures are cleared away providing room for new development.

Woden's Day - Mercury Day - the Day of Communication and Connection.... there are minor magickal energies today for doing divination and using elemental magick. 

Brief Introduction to the Four Elements:

    In the West, Earth's power is traditionally broken down into four components known as the elements: Air, Earth, Fire and Water. (Okay, in China they count five elements, including metal, but let's not worry about that yet.)  Air and Fire are usually considered masculine energies while earth and water are most typically perceived as feminine. Life springs from earth and water, but air and fire are necessary to spark the process and to provide health and vitality. From a magickal standpoint, the power of each element is unique, specific and alive.
   Each element, separately or in combination, can serve as a vehicle for spiritual and physical healing. Power comes in the interplay of the elements. Power is enhanced when the elements intermingle and form a threshold: Air and Fire, Fire and Water, Earth and Water.  Thus steam, emerging from the marriage of fire and water, is a particularly potent vehicle of healing energy.
   Briefly speaking, magick works when you can harness, balance and focus the elements including the fifth element of Spirit as well as Air, Fire, Water and Earth, both within yourself and from outside. This is a complex ability, which comes more easily with practice, so we usually start by using a number of visual links and cues to help bring all these elements together. The elements exist inside us and outside of us and they have many symbolic representations, visual and mental links, which may be used and which are often termed correspondences.
    Understanding of the five elements is one of the most important concepts of the Craft, and the foundation of working magick. Together with visualization is what makes Magick work. All the candles, incenses, cords, images and other tools are just that: tools that you use to implement and enhance your understanding of the elements and your ability to visualize.  
[This little explanation of the Elements comes from the books "Prue Magic" by Judika Illes and "The Real Witches' Book of Spells and Rituals" ]