Balsamic Moon phase - Hecate's Night

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

27th Day of the 2nd Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Hecate
Lunar Tree Cycle of Luis/Rowan
11th Day of the Celtic Tree
Month of Nion/Ash
27th Day of the Cycle of Keolwulf -
Days of the Old Ones
Moon Phase: Balsamic - 2:09PM EST
Moon rises: 4:28AM EST
Moon sets: 2:24PM EST
Moon in Capricorn v/c 11:03PM EST
Ceridwen's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The silent testimony
of innocence in the face of tyranny.
Sun in Pisces
Sunrise: 6:56SAM EST
Sunset: 6:09PM EST
Solar Question for the Day: "Where
is the Spring in your life?"
Imbolc (Gwyl Mair) Quarter
of the Year
February 28th, 2011

Balsamic Moon - The Balsamic Moon (or waning crescent moon) rises before dawn and sets 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 of the moon plant, when the nutrients remain in the soil, providing nourishment for the next new seed. This is ending time of one cycle and the beginning of another. Keywords for the Balsamic phase are: transition, release, transformation, renewal and purity. It is the phase in a moon cycle when you must let go of everything you have been working on that does not deal with the current cycle issues. During this phase you reflect on the passing cycle and prepare for the new. Trust in renewal. The cycle of activity formulated in your Lunation Plan should now be drawing to conclusion. Unfinished business always remains, and the coming cycle will offer opportunities both to expand ongoing lines of activity and to redeem the shortcomings of the current cycle. Nevertheless, the Balsamic Moon phase is a time to tie-up loose ends and to essentialize and consolidate one's experiences and resources in preparation for the new cycle which lies ahead.

    It is important to separate from other now so that you can clear the intellect of negativity. LET GO. Become still and meditate. We all need time to be alone and connect with ourselves. Long walks or drives, frequent naps, listening to music, connecting with nature, journaling, painting, dancing, practicing yoga, tai chi, chi gong, reading, or just sitting staring out a window are all befitting activities for these days. Those who are born in a Balsamic phase possess the potential to be wise; insightful, understanding and patient. They are prophetic and unique. Don't expect all ongoing activity to cease for the Balsamic Moon phase. It can be an active time of completion and preparation. Additionally, you will probably discover that concluding activity regarding your Lunation Plan will continue into the first few days of the next Lunation Cycle. Most importantly, the Balsamic Moon is the time to integrate the experiential content of the closing cycle, and to envision the outline of your next Lunation Plan.


    The Balsamic phase of the Moon cycle is the three days before New Moon when the waning crescent can be seen an hour or so before Sunrise. The Balsamic Moon is called the Wishing Moon because this Is a good time for putting wishes on the air.

   A wish made at the Balsamic Moon is more likely to come true because Needs are felt more deeply now. The more deeply a need is felt, the More invocative energy goes into the Moon cycle and the more likely This need will be met. Fulfillment comes at Full Moon in response to What is seeded at the New. Seed intentions may be more consciously Sown when the Crescent Moon appears beginning. People are more likely to be aware of psychic phantasms, fears, Self-doubts and disturbing emotional tides at the close of the Moon cycle.
   It might seem strange but the worse one feels at Balsamic Moon the Better for invoking healing and need fulfillment. . More often this Process is unconscious and rightly so as seeds grow best When planted in darkness. The darkest time of any cycle is at the end when all its shadowy Elements come to the fore. “It’s always darkest just before dawn” Whether this refers to the beginning of a day, a new Moon, or new Zodiacal year. During those 2 days before the new moon, the world can seem a tangled web of problems impossible to resolve.

But it is in the nature of the Balsamic Moon phase that problems are Revealed but are not solved. Seeing the problem is easy at this time, Solution comes later. A too quick fix will be superficial and can Inhibit the flow of growing understanding. This is a good time though For bringing to awareness, highlighting, and releasing old patterns Of belief and behavior that are holding us back from easily meeting The challenges of the time. AND wait for that next Cycle to complete the energy of what you began during this phase.

  The Balsamic Moon is the perfect time to stir out uncertainty and Confusion because it is the time for psychic clearing. Wishes are More readily fulfilled as the way is cleared to feeling core need. 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 hot mineral bath can be healing at the dark of the Moon, a time When emotional, psychic, and physical toxins are ready to be Released. Epsom (magnesium sulfate) salt and baking soda added To the bath helps eliminate these toxins, clear perceptions, And open awareness.
   Candles, incense (esp. myrrh), and flowers are part of the ritual Bath prescribed for the day before the New Moon in Hindu tradition. A candle at the foot of the bath can be an aid for clearing the mind And focusing intentions.
http://www.carolbarbeau.com/html/balsamic_moon.html


Balsamic Moon Personality:
by Molly Hall
•On the Lunar Calendar: 10 ½ days after the Full Moon, up to the New Moon


•Degree: 315-360 degrees ahead of the Sun

•Inner Directive: completion, preparation for new

    If this is your Moon phase, you see in the dark. You're at home when enveloped in mysteries, especially the ultimate mystery - death. Your life purpose is to tie up loose ends, and create a nutrient-rich environment for the new to germinate.
    You may feel unreal, and in the shadows, since much of what's taken as culture is old hat to you. As a youngster, you might feel like you're going through the motions, that nothing satisfies. You don't sink into current culture, because your role is to distill it into the new.
      Your nature is to mix it all in the cauldron, and with the heat, busting open seeds for the new. You live with one eye on the future, and are often detached from current events and culture. Your role is to vision the future, out of what's fermented from the past.

Initiation: 
   Just as a shaman straddles two worlds, so do you. You may be drawn to the healing arts, and be especially intuitive. As an artist, you create original works that give a first glimpse of the emerging future. Your Moon phase is about ending, but it's there in the womblike dark, that the new is birthed.
   Your Moon phase is an initiation into new ways of being. The old and new overlap, as you resolve past karma, and wrap up relationships. You may have a lot of brief ties with specific work to do, before moving on. As the old is completed, you catch sight of the new. You may be a visionary seer that is a guide for others across that bridge.
http://astrology.about.com/od/themoon/qt/BalsamicMoon.htm

Sun Day - in Capricorn

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

26th Day of the 2nd Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Hecate
Lunar Tree Cycle of Luis/Rowan
10th Day of the Celtic Tree
Month of Nion/Ash
26th Day of the Cycle of Keolwulf -
Days of the Old Ones
Moon Phase: waning half moon
Moon rises: 3:47AM EST
Moon sets: 2:24PM EST
Moon in the Cardinal Earth
Sign of Capricorn
Ceridwen's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The song of
Spring's new life.
Sun in Pisces
Sunrise: 6:56AM EST
Sunset: 6:08PM EST
Solar Question for the Day: "What
new influences are trying to come
into your life?"
Imbolc (Gwyl Mair) Quarter
of the Year
February 27th, 2011

Sun Day - The Day of Intent, Creation and Renewal....

Waning Half Moon enters Capricorn

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

25th Day of the 2nd Lunar Cycle
Ruled Medusa
Lunar Tree Cycle of Luis/Rowan
9th Day of the Celtic Tree
Month of Nion/Ash
25th Day of the Cycle of Keolwulf -
Days of the Old Ones
Moon Phase: waning Half Moon
Moon rises: 2:59AM EST
Moon sets: 12:22PM EST
Moon in Sagittarius v/c 1:08PM EST
Moon enters the Cardinal Earth Sign
of Capricorn at 2:32PM EST
Ceridwen's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The perseverance
and power of heart's desire.
Sun in Pisces
Sunrise: 6:59AM EST
Sunset: 6:07PM EST
Solar Question for the Day: "How
does your present way of life
need to change?"
Imbolc (Gwyl Mair) Quarter
of the Year
February 26th, 2011

Moon in Capricorn - The Moon in Capricorn inspires our ambitions for good or ill, we just have to be gentle on our souls if we're not there yet. Lead and manage but do not manipulate or control. This can be a 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. We can tap into the inner wisewoman - ask how form, ritual, organization or tradition can serve. This transit concerns leadership issues, security, responsibilities, a time to take care of business, deal with alternative healing for your body and intensification of your powers of concentration.
   After Sagittarius expansiveness, now we feel contraction and a time to pay attention to our needs for security, duties, obligations, drives and ambitions. It's a good time for setting and achieving goals, 'going for it' materially as now we feel persistent and ambitious. Capricorn brings a desire to create environments and energy is slowed down. 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 born under a Capricorn Moon have a strong work ethic, competence and leadership capacity, but may need to learn to love themselves holding still.

Saturn's Day - the Day of Manifestation and Structure, Assessment and Responsibility...  there are minor magickal energies today for doing rites for protection. Use Saturdays for spells to do with property, security, and long term financial mattes, for closing doors on the past, for psychic protection, and for locating lost objects (as well as animals and people).

"Cast a web of light protection

unknown to good souls' detection.

Like Earth Dragons,

guard your caves,

keep them safe from random knaves."

Fom Seasons of the Witch Datebook



A waning Sagittarius Half Moon

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

24th Day of the 2nd Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Medusa
Lunar Tree Cycle of Luis/Rowan
8th Day of the Celtic Tree
Month of Nion/Ash
24th Day of the Cycle of Keolwulf -
Days of the Old Ones
Moon Phase: waning Half Moon
Moon rises: 2:03AM EST
Moon sets: 11:25AM EST
Moon in the Mutable Fire
Sign of Sagittarius
Ceridwen's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The gift of love
Sun in Pisces
Sunrise: 7:01AM EST
Sunset: 6:06PM EST
Solar Question for the Day: "What
are your dreams telling you?"
Imbolc (Gwyl Mair) Quarter
of the Year
February 25th, 2011

Freya's Day - Venus Day - Day of Sharing and Relationships....there are minor magickal energies today for initiating endings to relationships. 

A  Rite for the Waning Moon

    This rite is from Teresa Moorey's great book "Power of the Moon."  For this rite you will need a purple or dark blue cloth for your altar; a white bone such as a chicken wishbone; a small square of black velvet; three candles in dark holders; a flat dark stone; incense or joss stick containing myrrh; a crystal or semi-precious stone that you particularly like; a black veil or scarf; and some red wine, stout, or dark-colored juice.
    If you wish to do this rite when the Moon is visible it will be after midnight. And please remember that it may be depressing! One of the purposes of the ritual is to honor all the processes of nature, including decay, and to value the inward time that is at hand. It can also be helpful if there are things we need to leave behind in life. Be warned that if you feeling low, you could feel worse after this rite unless you have some friends who will support you through it. But if you feel you peace and rest, this can help you to let go of what is bothering you. Think it over carefully!
    Cast your circle after lighting the three candles. Go around your circle with the incense or joss stick so that the rather bitter and solemn scent fills the space. Face the Moon or the candles and say:

"Ancient Wise One,

Wayfarer of the night,

Take all that has to end, all the must disappear and die

With you into the darkness.

I welcome your peace, I welcome the stillness,

As you disappear into the dawn so I choose to go within.

Blessed Be."

   Put out two of the candles and place the black scarf over your head. Take the white bone and wrap it in the black cloth says, "All things must pass, all things must enter the caverns of night and be no longer seen in the world of humans."  Place the stone on top of the cloth-wrapped bone, and pass the incense over it several times while you say, "Let there be peace."

   Now sit quietly meditating, holding your special stone or crystal. Ask the Great Mother for guidance, wisdom and serenity. Stay in this position for as long as you like. When you are ready, toast the Crone with the wine or juice to cheer her on her way while you "Merry Meet, merry part and merry meet again."  Close your circle when you are ready.



Last Quarter Moon phase enters Sagittarius

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

23rd Day of the 2nd Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Medusa
Lunar Tree Cycle of Luis/Rowan
7th Day of the Celtic Tree
Month of Nion/Ash
23rd Day of the Cycle of Keolwulf -
Days of the Old Ones
Moon Phase: Last Quarter - 6:26PM EST
Moon rises: 12:59AM EST
Moon sets: 10:34AM EST
Moon in Scorpio v/c 6:14AM EST
Moon enters the Mutable Fire
Sign of Sagittarius at 7:46AM EST
Ceridwen's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: Your spiritual
quest so far.
Sun in Pisces
Sunrise: 7:02AM EST
Sunset:  6:04PM EST
Solar Question for the Day: "What
manual burdens can you life from
other's backs?"
Imbolc (Gwyl Mair) Quarter
of the Year
February 24th, 2011

Last Quarter Moon - The Last Quarter Moon (or waning Half) rises around midnight and sets around noon. Astrologically, the Moon is square to the Sun. She is visible from the time she rises until she sets.
The Last Quarter Moon is the HARVEST phase of the moon plant - the plant gives her life so that others may continue theirs. Keywords for the Last Quarter phase are: realignment, revision, integration, 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. The movement is toward integration. Open to your success. MANIFEST YOUR GOAL. Be responsible.

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. It is the time: get honest, forgive, dance, hike, explore, and connect to the natural world. Moon in Sagittarius brings out our inner-Artemis; we need to roam, to explore in body and in soul. Our curiosity intensifies. Check out untraveled territory and connect with the organic world. You may want to work the soil but hold off on planting. 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.  During this transit there is a pro civility towards open, honest exchanges. Moon in Sagittarius is the best time to work magick for publications, legal matters, travel and truth. Healing rituals for ailments of the liver, thighs or hips are also done at this time.  Those born with a Sagittarius Moon sign came here to explore. They need to learn how to hold still and work through a challenge. They offer us radical acceptance.

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

What Your Moon Sign Conveys -

     Your Moon sign describes the automatic, instinctual part of you.  It reflects the way you react when you aren't thinking, your knee-jerk responses, your habits, what makes you feel at home, your 'comfort zone.'  It is also related to the body, in the sense that the body reacts to our emotions and our sense of security or safety.  So the Moon is connected to health, or the kinds of things we need to stay healthy, the therapies to which we respond, the food we like, and so on. The subconscious mind is linked to the Moon, our dreams and most important our intuitions. Your Moon sign determines what sort of intuitions you have and how you are likely to register them and respond to them.
    The Moon sign is powerful in small children who are still at the very instinctual stage, and this especially in evidence before they can talk clearly. For instance, a baby with Moon in Sagittarius may be fretful if it cannot stretch and kick, whereas one with Moon in Virgo may get quickly distressed if it is wet or dirty.  Little Moon in Taurus may not be able to tolerate the slightest hunger pang. However, our Moon sign isn't something we 'grow out of'.  It is true that the influence of our Moon sign can become overlaid by other developing characteristics, but it is always there and continues to be in evidence in domestic situations with our family and close friends, or indeed at any time when we are relaxed or vulnerable.
   Our lunar nature is often playful and instinctual and we may have been taught to suppress it. However, if we are to be whole people in tune with our own needs and able to access the natural wisdom of our intuitions, we need to respect that Moon. Reconnecting with our lunar natures can make us healthy, wealthy and wise.
[From: "Power of the Moon" by Teresa Moorey]

Woden's Day - Scorpio Disseminating Moon

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

22nd Day of the 2nd Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Hesita
Lunar Tree Cycle of Luis/Rowan
6th Day of the Celtic Tree
Month of Nion/Ash
22nd Day of the Cycle of Keolwulf -
Days of the Old Ones
Moon Phase: Disseminating
Moon rises: 12:15AM EST
Moon sets: 9:48AM EST
Moon in the Fixed Water Sign
of Scorpio
Rhiannon's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The service
of parenthood
Sun in Pisces
Sunrise: 7:04AM EST
Sunset: 6:03PM EST
Solar Question for the Day: "What
memories do you most appreciate?"
Imbolc (Gwyl Mair) Quarter
of the Year
February 23rd, 2011

Woden's Day - Mercury Day - the Day of Communication and Connection .... there are minor magickal energies today for doing spells/rituals for 'clarity for decisions.'

Mental Clutter; Mental Clarity - A Sachet for Study

   A powerful aspect of Mercury, besides communication, is study, intellect, and the mind.  Mercury rules Gemini and Virgo, the two most mentally focused, analytical signs of the zodiac.  This sachet spell is designed for people who are undergoing any type of study. For those in school, whether college, high school or another type of formal educational system, consistently performing magick to bring mental focus is a good thing to consider. It's easy for the mind to wander or become overwhelmed with an abundance of information. Utilizing magick can help adhere the mind of the practitioner to the studies at hand, encouraging a constant absorption and comprehension of information being presented.
   This spellbag can be ideal for a person who is engaging in metaphysical studies. Whether in an occult school, training coven, or other type of structured esoteric program, one can reap particular benefits by creating a charm to aid in the progressive work. Occult information can seem daunting and even incomprehensible if a person is beginning a system of study into new information. Just as the Universe is infinite, the amount of wisdom we can attain if just as limitless. Crafting a bag such as this can help keep the mind focused and inspired, knowing that the endless road of knowledge is being embarked upon.
    Discipline is an element of life that is often lacking in the West. Everybody's upbringing and experiences are different, and if you have come to feel a more disciplined approach to life and study would be beneficial. you may want to craft this bag to keep the inspiration and motivation flowing.
   As with all things, there is always a balance. An extreme lack of discipline can create apathy and indifference to progression in life. This can lead to depression and feelings of worthlessness. An overabundance of discipline can lead to rigidity and over-seriousness, and even bitterness and elitism. Everybody responds differently to varying levels of study and devotion, and pushing the limits of the mind can invoke confidence and accomplishment. Life is change, life is progression. To buckle down and study - both regularly and constantly - is to take the path of personal evolution.
  Before performing this spell, be sure that your intention is clear. For what reasons do you feel inclined to craft a spell for study?  Are you embarking on a new 'odyssey of the mind?'  Do you wish to hone skills you already possess? Are you afraid of failure? It's easy to become discouraged with learning and stop. The demon of looming failure is a powerful one, but one that mustn't be surrendered. Giving up only breeds more of the same. Courage can be cultivated by disproving your own doubt.
    If you approach this spell with fear and anxiety, this energy will naturally absorb into the sachet. Instead, take a breath and realize that you have all the ability in the world to learn new information, assimilate it into your consciousness, and progress in life. If you feel you're not absorbing information that's around you, analyze the reasons. Does your mind wander too frequently? Do you really want to be learning the information you're being presented, or it is disinteresting? Consider other energetic elements you can add to the bag. If you are in medical school, maybe adding a folded diagram of the human body to the sachet would be beneficial. If you're studying  Thelema, maybe 93 mustard seeds would be a good addition. As with all spells, craft them to your specific purpose and be creative.
Supplies:
  * 1 candle each of the colors white, yellow and orange
  * raw benzoin (or storax) incense resin
  * a round incense burning charcoal disk and sand in a dish or censor
  * 8 small squares of aluminum foil
  * an orange permanent marker
  * an orange drawstring sachet bag
  * 1 stone each of cirtine, turquoise and moonstone
  * 8 black-eyed peas (backeyed beans) or yellow-eyed beans
  * any combination of the herbs caraway, cinnamon, clove, dill, eye-bright, gingko, jasmine, peppermint, rosemary, sage, spearmint, thistle (milk or blessed), vervain and white horehound.

Notes:  It's a good idea to keep this bag close to you as much as possible. If you take a book bag to school, stick it in there; if you do most of your work at home on the computer, place it nearby.

Procedure:  Begin by casting a circle, calling the quarters, chanting or raising energy as you normally would, performing protective exercises, and altering your consciousness. Clear your mind, bring focus to your breath, and meditate for at least a few minutes. When ready, begin the spell.
   Ignite the candles and benzoin incense. Once the incense if billowing, face the east. Raise your arms above you, close your eyes, and bellow:

"Spirits of study - hear me now!

Mercury and the Muses!

Those of thought, mind and intellect!

Spirits of Air and Will,

aid me in my working.

Venerated keepers of the mental plane,

assist in all my studies hereon forth."

   Grab the aluminum foil and marker. On one side draw symbol 7. On the other side, draw the symbol for Mercury. Fold this three times and place in the bag. Do this eight times, using each of the squares of foil.

   Next add the stones. While adding the turquoise say: Mercury bear witness. Fill this bag, that it may radiate with knowledge ....."

     Add the citrine, saying:  "...through all my days...."

     Add the moonstone, saying: "....and all my nights...."

   Slowly add the 8 black-eyed peas one by one. While doing this, think about your studies. Imagine yourself understanding all of the information you're presented with and see yourself succeeding in your chosen area of study.

   To top off the bag, add the mixture of herbs. When finished, tie the bag and hold it to the incense smoke. Say 8 times:

"Now enchanted, this charm is mine,

I carry wisdom through all time,

From the ears into the mind,

There is no knowledge I cannot find.

So Mote it Be!."

   Thank Mercury and any other spirits present, and close the circle as you normally would.

[ This spell/charm comes from Raven Digitalis's book "Planetary Spells & Rituals"]  

Disseminating Moon enters Scorpio

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


21st Day of the 2nd Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Hestia
Lunar Tree Cycle of Luis/Rowan
5th Day of the Celtic Tree
Month of Nion/Ash
21st Day of the Cycle of Keolwulf -
Days of the Old Ones
Moon Phase: Disseminating
Moon sets: 9:09AM EST
Moon rises: 11:50PM EST
Moon in Libra v/c 3:34AM EST
Moon enters the Fixed Water
Sign of Scorpio at 4:29AM EST
Rhiannon's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: Your spiritual
quest thus far.
Sun in Pisces
Sunrise: 7:05AM EST
Sunset: 6:02PM EST
Solar Question for the Day: "In
what areas do you need to rest
and recover?"
Imbolc (Gwyl Mair) Quarter
of the Year
Feburary 22nd, 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. This is a time to dig deep, weed out the unnecessary, investigate, do surgery, keep secrets and love each other up. Moon in Scorpio weaves the visible and invisible worlds together. We see through and into the roots. Direct this energy away from obsession and towards creation.Sexuality can be potent and musky. A Scorpio Moon transit is a good time for focusing 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 of regeneration and cleaning out of emotions debris from the previous lunar cycle. There can be great energy to complete things and focus on certain areas that you have found yourself too scattered to deal with in the previous cycle. Those who were born under a Scorpio Moon sign came here to find themselves in solitude first, and then through transformative action with others. They may need to learn flexibility. They offer us a fearless guide to the inner worlds.  Moon in Scorpio is the best time to work magick involving sexual matters, power, psychic growth, secrets and fundamental transformation. Healing rituals for ailments of the reproductive organs are also done during this period of time.

Tiu's Day - Mars Day, the Day of Activity and Physicality, Passion and Desire - Action Day...

Disseminating Moon in Libra

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

20th Day of the 2nd Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Demeter
Lunar Tree Cycle of Luis/Rowan
4th Day of the Celtic Tree
Month of Nion/Ash
20th Day of the Cycle of Keolwulf -
Days of the Old Ones
Moon Phase: Disseminating 8:05AM EST
Moon sets: 8:34AM EST
Moon rises: 10:37PM EST
Moon in the Cardinal Air Sign
of Libra
Rhiannon's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The blessing
of rain.
Sun in Pisces
Sunrise: 7:08AM EST
Sunset: 6:01PM EST
Solar Question for the Day: "What
needs clarification and what motivations
underlie it?"
Imbolc (Gwyl Mair) Quarter
of the Year
February 21st, 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 moonplant's life cycle - the fruits of wisdom and experience. Keywords for the Disseminating Moon 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 taken 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. For those who were born during a Disseminating moon phase, life must have meaning, purpose. They enjoy sharing their ideas with others.

Moon Day - the Day of Remembering and Feeling.... Magickally, Monday-Moon Day encourages the lunar energies of inspiration, illusion, prophetic dreams, emotions, psychic abilities, travel, women's mysteries and fertility.

Waning Gibbous Moon enters Libra

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


19thDay of the 2nd Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Demeter
Lunar Tree Cycle of Luis/Rowan
3rd Day of the Celtic Tree
Month of Nion/Ash
19th Day of the Cycle of Keolwulf -
Days of the Old Ones
Moon Phase: waning Gibbous
Moon sets: 8:01AM EST
Moon rises: 9:22PM EST
Moon in Virgo v/c 2:17AM EST
Moon enters the Cardinal Air
Sign of Libra at 4:01AM EST
Rhiannon's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: Your relationship
to your country.
Sun in Pisces
Sunrise: 7:08AM EST
Sunset: 6:00PM EST
Solar Question for the Day: "Is your
criticism undermining someone
or something?"
Imbolc (Gwyl Mair) Quarter
of the Year
February 20th, 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. This is a lunar transit when is time to: to seek justice, romance, meet, approach, create, beautify, find our core balance and balance our needs with others. This transit concerns cooperation, harmony, focus on relationships, fine artistic pursuits. When the Moon is in Libra all partnership activity will be heightened. But those who are in a partnership or feel alone and lone should be aware of superficial bonding just to ease the pain of aloneness. 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 lower back or kidneys are also done during this period of time. Those who were born under a Libra moon sign are peacemakers, but need to remember to keep themselves in the equation. They see the beauty and seek fairness, help us understand one another.

Sun Day - the Day of Intent, Creation, and Renewal...  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. 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 fame 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.

Inspirers

    Yesterday I got on my soap box and cheered on the wonders of Inspiration.  I came across this essay in my "The Celtic Spirit" by Caitlin Matthews and I think this can give another side of Inspiration...

"I draw my knowledge from the famous cauldron,

The breathe of nine muses keeps it boiling."

___ "Preiddeu Annwen" (trans. CM), anon. Welsh poem

   The cauldron of Annwfn (ANN'uvn), the Welsh Underworld, was guarded, warmed and inspired by the nine sisters of the cauldron - the primal inspirers of the Celtic world. The ninefold sisters were understood to take the threefold thread of each life and amplify it till its full potential was realized. They were seen as the Gifting Mothers by the Celtic world, and later as the faery godmothers of medieval tradition. Actual sisterhoods of priestesses played an important part in the sacred and inspirational guidance of the ancient Celtic world. The sacred flame within the enclosure of St. Brigit was tended by nineteen sisters - two shifts of nine nuns and their abbess.

    The relationship between ourselves and our various inspirers is complex and subtle. We rely on the teachers and inspirational people of many ages whose craft we follow; the practitioners of our own life-skills who preceded us; the places, animals, plants trees, and land features that have become central to our symbolic and metaphorical understanding of our vocation; the music, books, art, and skills that feed our soul; the stories, songs, texts and teachings by which we live our lives. All of these come together to heat the brew in our cauldron of life. Our inspirers pull upon the thread of our soul's circuit to remind us where our vocational duty lies.

    The little essays in this book of Ms. Matthews come with a daily meditational thought or suggestion for the these of each daily essay.  This essay's suggested meditation is:

"Which nine major influences in your life keep your own cauldron of inspiration boiling? Visualize each of these, appreciating them and focusing upon those aspects that most inspire you." 

Waning Gibbous Moon in Virgo

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

18th Day of the 2nd Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Demeter
Lunar Tree Cycle of Luis/Rowan
2nd Day of the Celtic Tree
Month of Nion/Ash
18th Day of the Cycle of Keolwulf  -
Days of the Old Ones
Moon Phase: waning Gibbous Moon
Moon sets: 7:30AM EST
Moon rises: 8:05PM EST
Moon in the Mutable Earth
Sign of Virgo
Rhiannon's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The promise
of horizons
Sun in Pisces
Sunrise: 7:09AM EST
Sunset: 5:59PM EST
Solar Question for the Day: "What
new concepts are coming into your
understanding? How do they affect
your present understanding?"
Imbolc (Gwyl Mair) Quarter
of the Year
February 19th, 2011

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

Inspiration -

     This is a word that tossed around a lot in Paganism and Wiccan circles.  In Celtic traditions it is referred to as Awen.  The Celtic Goddess Ceridwen brewed a cauldron of Inspiration and the boy set to tend the cauldron and three drops of the brew leaped from this cauldron and burned his hand. He gained
Awen.  Later this boy was transformed within Ceridwen's womb and became Taliesin.  Awen is not merely an old myth - it is a living possibility. It arises when the rays of experience glance upon and inspire the dormant seeds of knowledge within us.  Our dormant seeds of possibilities are being touched now by the coming of Spring.  The connective energy of inspiration runs through our being, bridging areas of ignorance, reconnecting areas of neglect, bringing into one teeming mass of imagery, metaphor, and understanding all that we about. The assimilation of this experience can take the rest of our lives, or we can welcome the manyfold experiences of our lives to help ripen our understand from day to day.
    Kris Waldherr in her beautiful "Goddess Inspiration Oracle Guide" has a beautiful description and explanation of Inspiration in the intro of her Oracle Guide book with the deck. She says: "Inspiration. The word itself is expansive. It brings to mind the invigorating intake of air into lungs, filling us with energy. It suggests a world charmed with possibilities, unfolding in a sudden flash of light. Haven't we all heard someone cay, 'I had no idea what to do next. Then, out of the blue, I had an inspiration. It was like magic.'   Where did that inspiration come from? What made it take form?
   The word inspiration itself suggests the mode of creation. Its first syllable, in, means to create inclusion, to set limits to that which is limitless. It forces something shapeless to take shape - similar to what happens when water is contained within a cup, or air inside a balloon. Its second syllable, spir, is taken from the word spiritus, the Latin word for breath - meaning to breathe life into something in order to animate it, to fill it with spirit.
   Inspiration. To take spirit into ourselves. Like the Air surrounding us, we cannot see inspiration. But it is there nonetheless. And it animates us when we least expect it.
    When most people think of inspiration, they usually connect it to the mysterious activities of artists and poets. Though inspiration is primarily associated with creative endeavors, it is much more than that. It opens us to possibilities beyond what our rational mind can perceive. In some cases, it takes the form of intuition, an internal knowledge that often keeps us safe and protected. But most of all, inspiration allows us to practice an invaluable skill that Ms. Waldheer calls 'flexible thinking.'
    Flexible thinking is the ability to think outside the box, so we may find a solution to a dilemma when there appears to be none. It is nonlinear in form, arriving in flashes of images, and ideas instead of neatly packaged within an obvious answer that can be deduced empirically. Flexible thinking allows us to bend like a willow tree in the wind instead of shattering into pieces when confronted by adversity.
    If we use the standard wisdom that the feminine represents the receptive principle (or yin) and the masculine is active  (or yang), then flexible thinking is feminine in nature - divinely feminine, if you will. The same equation can be written of inspiration itself..... The Muses were praised for their ability to breathe life into scholarly and artistic works. The Celtic goddess Brigit was invoked for the spark of creativity. Her sacred holiday of Imbolg which we celebrated at the beginning of February included rituals designed to increase creativity.  The Norse goddess Erda of the earth invited mortals to find inspiration within nature's blueprint; divine will could be discerned by watching the patterns of waves or the movement of clouds across the sky. "   So wake up from our long winter's sleep and become inspired by the forceful forward movement of Spring coming.

Full Moon moves into Virgo - Sun moves into Pisces

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

17th Day of the 2nd Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Gaia
Lunar Tree Cycle of Luis/Rowan
1st Day of the Celtic Tree
Month of Nion/Ash
17th Day of the Cycle of Keolwulf -
Days of the Old Ones
Moon Phase: Full - 3:35AM EST
Moon sets: 6:59AM EST
Moon rises: 6:50PM EST
Moon in Leo v/c 3:35AM EST
Moon enters the Mutable Earth
Sign at 4:39AM EST
Rhiannon's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The release
of forgiveness
Sun enters Pisces - 7:25PM EST
Sunrise: 7:11AM EST
Sunset: 5:57PM EST
Solar Question for the Day: "What
do you need to let go of and how
is it impeding you?"
Imbolc (Gwyl Mair) Quarter
of the Year
February 18th, 2011

Full Moon - She opens and blossoms during the Full Moon into the FLOWER, with the desire to share her beauty with others.  The Full Moon rises at sunset and sets at sunrise. Astrologically the Sun and 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. The Keywords for the full Moon phase are: fulfillment, illumination, realization, and experience.  It is a time in a lunar cycle that you are given a clear view so that you can make adjustments to put you back on track to manifesting the goals you set at the New Moon phase. Go to a public place. Do something with a friend. LISTEN. Receive awareness. Understand others. Those who are born in a Full Moon phase enjoy companionship and partnership and desire to merge deeply. Fulfillment and illumination are their goals.

Moon in Virgo - The Moon in Virgo sends us back to work 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. This is a time to: weed out the unnecessary, edit, critique, care, exercise, investigate, study, heal but be gentle with others. During this transit important issues are practicality, organization, cleaning up your diet and/or house, healing your body or offering healing to others and attending to loose ends. After the Leo party its time to clean up our act and turn our attentions to the matter of our health and hygiene. It is a time taking responsibility and cleaning up the messes we've been leaving.  Virgo brings painstaking attention to detail; housekeeping is good way to work through a Virgo transit.   During a Virgo Moon transit, women are mentally active but there is a tendency to excessive criticism both of oneself and others. Emotionally it's an inward time, when we can reflect on personal relationships. 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. For those of you who were born under a Virgo Moon sign - you are curious, responsible, caring but need to cultivate gentle acceptance of self and others.

Freya's Day - Venus Day - the Day of Sharing and Relationship.... there are Major magickal energies for Romance... this Full Moon is known as a Lovers Moon.

Celtic Tree Month of Nion/Ash -

    The Ash is one of the most magickal trees. Yggdrassil, the World Tree, the one from which Odin hung to gain the Runes, is thought to have been an Ash. The Ash was called a check on peace for it was from this tree that spears were made. It is a tree of limitation and intelligence. It is said that the Ash should never be burnt or cut down, but it is permissible to take wood from the living tree is you make the appropriate offerings first. The Ash is a tree of protection and they were planted to keep Witches at bay, although as with many things thought to ward off Witches it is quite possible that this was invented to cover the magickal uses of the tree.
    As well as being used to make spear shafts, it was also used to make the quartershaft. Ash is a healing tree and a staff would be placed over the door to keep illness at bay. Ash leaves placed in water would be placed bu the bed to prevent sickness from entering overnight, the water and leaves being renewed each evening; a good idea if someone in the house has an illness which you do not want others to catch. Ash leaves are also carried in the pocket to attract the admiration of the opposite gender. Placed beneath the pillow the leaves will bring on prophetic dreams.  Scattered around the house leaves act as a protection.
   Note that you should stand under an Ash during a thunderstorm as they are said to attract lightning.
[From Kate West's "The Real Witches' Year"]

The Sun in Pisces -

    The Sun will enter Pisces this evening at 7:25PM.. This is one of those Water signs indicating the intangible world of feelings and emotions. It is also one of the Mutable signs bringing flexibility and problem solving.  Those born when the Sun is in this sign are generally sensitive, compassionate and easy going. They are receptive, imaginative, and many have strong intuitive and psychic abilities.  A typical Piscean is very unworldly, and will react strongly to suffering, either doing everything to help or by recoiling. They are very fluid, hard to pin down and do not easily conform. They work best where rational thought and control are not required, being good at caring and things artistic. In relationships they can be very intense and lovable but are less effective on the practical side. On the negative side they can be over-emotional and inclined to think of themselves as being the victim, and their very flexibility can also lead them to changing direction and to extremes of thought. Pisceans can also be submissive, gullible and easily disillusioned.
    At this time Pisceans need to avoid making commitments, taking strangers on trust, and over-reacting to people and events. They should also avoid practical tasks such as DIY. It is however a good time for looking inward and working on deep-seated problems. Others should be aware that emotional swings are probable in this period. It is a good time for lavishing care and attention on the self, and also for water-based activities. 
[From Kate West's "The Real Witches' Year"]

Thor's Day - waxing Gibbous Moon - Leo Full Moon tomorrow

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

16th Day of the 2nd Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Gaia
Lunar Tree Cycle of Luis/Rowan
28th Day of the Celtic Tree
Month of Luis/Rowan
16th Day of the Cycle of Keolwulf -
Days of the Old Ones
Moon Phase: waxing Gibbous
Moon sets: 6:25AM EST
Moon rises: 5:33PM EST
Moon in the Fixed Fire
Sign of Leo
Rhiannon's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The of grace
Sun in Aquarius
Sunrise: 7:12AM EST
Sunset: 5:56PM EST
Solar Question for the Day: "What
message is your body trying to
tell you?"
Imbolc (Gwyl Mair) Quarter
of the Year
February 17th, 2011

Thor's Day - Jupiter Day, the Day of Vision, Spiritual Insight and Expansion... This Thor's Day there are Major magickal energies for doing rites for Collecting Debts or Favors and for gaining Recognition.

Full Moon tomorrow at 3:35AM EST.....   This moon will be a Leo full moon even tho at the moment the moon reaches its Fullest stage the moon will exit the Leo moon sign.  The moon will enter the Mutable Earth  sign of Virgo about an hour later. This is the final Full Moon at 29 degrees, bringing the current cycle of anaretic degree lunations to a close.  We have had five lunar cycles in a row where this last degree full moon has been happening.  It gets to be rather confusing to those of us who are still a bit
new in lunar astrology.  Here is a good article to read about tomorrow...

http://www.astrodispatch.com/2011/02/09/leo-full-moon-february-18-2011/

Also tomorrow the Sun leaves Aquarius and enters Pisces - 7:25PM EST...

Waxing Gibbous Moon enters Leo

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


15th Day of the 2nd Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Gaia
Lunar Tree Cycle of Luis/Rowan
27th Day of the Celtic Tree
Month of Luis/Rowan
15th Day of the Cycle of Keolwulf -
Days of the Old Ones
Moon Phase: waxing Gibbous
Moon sets: 5:48AM EST
Moon rises: 4:17PM EST
Moon in Cancer v/c 2:06AM EST
Moon enters the Fixed Fire Sign
of Leo 4:14AM EST
Rhiannon's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The integrity
of your vocation
Sun in Aquarius
Sunrise: 7:13AM EST
Sunset: 5:55PM EST
Solar Question for the Day: "What
experience of life do you most crave?"
Imbolc (Gwyl Mair) Quarter
of the Year
February 16th, 2011

Moon in Leo - The Moon in Leo illuminates our extroverted sides; we brim with generosity but can get stuck in our own perspective. This is the 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 Moon in Leo we have the guts to be visible and bring culture to life. Dramatic happenings, especially concerning emotions, being the center of attention, exuberance, and vitality are all hallmarks of the Leo Moon transit.  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. Those who were 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.

Woden's Day - Mercury Day - the Day of Communication and Connection.  Wednesdays carry 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, trickiness and thievery.  Wednesdays bring us 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.  So be bold today! We are in the moon sign of Leo as well.  Expand your knowledge of the Craft by working with the planetary energies of Mercury on this multifaceted day of the week. Embrace change and movement, and work on your communication techniques. Call on Athena to inspire you to try magickal arts and crafts and to become more creative in your own spellwork and witchery.

Waxing Gibbous Moon

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

14th Day of the 2nd Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Gaia
Lunar Tree Cycle of Luis/Rowan
26th Day of the Celtic Tree
Month of Luis/Rowan
14th Day of the Cycle of Keolwulf -
Days of the Old Ones
Moon Phase: waxing Gibbous
Moon sets: 5:06AM EST
Moon rises: 3:03PM EST
Moon in the Cardinal Water
Sign of Cancer
Rhiannon's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The inheritance
of your blood.
Sun in Aquarius
Sunrise: 7:14AM EST
Sunset: 5:54PM EST
Solar Question for the Day: "Who
are you trying to control?"
Imbolc (Gwyl Mair) Quarter
of the Year.
February 15th, 2011

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

The image is from "The Faces of WomanSpirit: A Celtic Oracle of Avalon" by Katherine Torres. I got this deck many years ago and still use the cards from it to mark the different cycles and seasons we go through every year.  The illustrations on the cards are done by Cruz.  Ms. Torres says: "Each card has been designed to most clearly portray the inner world landscape that I experienced every time I went to Avalon and traveled the inner world for more wisdom.  The faces presented just as the Moon Mother, planet or other spiritual assistants depicted them. People, animals, trees, stones, fish, etc. are the ones I met, spoke with, was guided by, and befriended throughout my journeys." 

Poem of Rowan

"Teacher of elegance and grace,

The focus of a sacred place,

Your dimensions we can travel,

Show us through your deliberate means,

the way to unravel - Great Mysteries."

A Witch's Jar for Protection:

        Today is the perfect day to create a Witch's jar. Classically, a Witch's jar is a lidded glass jar filled with broken glass, herbs, old nails, pins, thorns and anything that is sharp and can catch something or prick something. For a modern spin on the Witch jar, Ms Dugan instead of broken glass which are not very safe to handle - she likes to use those flat-bottomed glass marbles that are so popular for wedding decorations and in floral designs. Check any floral section of the arts and crafts stores for lots of colors and options.  When using these instead the glass marbles reflect negativity all over the surface of the colored glass and keeps bouncing around inside the jar until it gets smaller and smaller finally dissipates.

* 1 medium-sized glass jar with lid

* 1 small bag of red or black glass marbles

* old iron nails or pins

* 3-4 holly leaves

* 3-4 thorns from a red rose

* a garlic clove (a Mars herb that will absorb negativity)

* a black permanent marker

   Wash and dry the jar and the lid; set them aside. Begin by placing the clove of garlic in the bottom of the dry jar. Next, begin layering in some of the glass marbles, a few pins, a nail, a holly leaf and the rose thorns.  Add more marbles then another nail or pins, the holly leaf, and thorns. Keep going until you fill up the jar.

   When the jar is full, hold your hands over the top of the jar and put some of your own protection energy into it. Visualize your need for protection filling up the jar and empowering all the supplies that are held within. Now screw the lid onto the jar, and draw a pentagram surrounded by a circle on the top of the jar with the black marker.

    Now pick up the jar and hold it up to the sunlight. See all the light sparkling through the glass and bouncing around off those colored marbles? Pretty isn't it? But in this case, pretty really gets the job done. Now, give the jar a gentle shake to start the magick. Hold the jar in both hands and concentrate on what you are doing. Then when you are ready, repeat the spell:

"Tuesdays are the day for protection and courage

This Witch's jar will remove any and all worries

Garlic to keep emotional vampires at bay

This jar is a magickal tool working night and day

The thorns and nails catch any evil that may occur

While colored pieces of glass will reflect and scatter

This jar is now sealed with the sound of a Witch's rhyme

The protective magick begins in this place time."

   Place the jar in the most-used room in your house. Tuck it in a corner, behind the living room couch, or under your desk. Allow the jar to absorb and to break up any negativity or spite coming your way. This spell may be renewed every few months or so by holding up the jar to the light and allowing the sun's light to burn out any lingering energy. If you wish, you may replace the old garlic clove with a fresh one. Then, please repeat the spell verse over the newly arranged, sealed and freshened jar. 

Gibbous Moon in Cancer

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

13th Day of the 2nd Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Gaia
Lunar Tree Cycle of Luis/Rowan
25th Day of the Celtic Tree
Month of Luis/Rowan
13th Day of the Cycle of Keolwulf -
Days of the Old Ones
Moon Phase: Gibbous - 8:05PM EST
Moon sets: 4:19AM EST
Moon rises: 1:53PM EST
Moon enters the Cardinal Water
Sign of Cancer at 12:49AM EST
Rhiannon's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The invitation
sent by your dreams .
Sun in Aquarius
Sunrise: 7:16AM EST
Sunset: 5:53PM EST
Solar Question for the Day: "What enslaves
you and how can you be free?"
Imbolc (Gwyl Mair) Quarter
of the Year
February 14th, 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 plant, the pulse of life tightly wrapped, wanting to expand. Keywords for the Gibbous Moon 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. For those who were born in a Gibbous phase, their talents lie in the ability to refine, organize and purify. They are seekers, utilizing spiritual tools as guides on their path.

Moon in Cancer - The Moon in Cancer deepens our feelings; our moods are stormy and vast, our hunger and desire to feed others sharpens.  We protect our own, nest in our cave, need to know we're safe. Hunger grows, but for more than food. As our feelings take the lead during Moon in Cancer we will find that this moon transit encourages the wisdom rising out of our oceanic unconscious through our moods and feelings. Ground in the magick of our homes as our temples. Ask what needs protecting and feeding. This transit concerns desires about a home, emotional security, entertaining friends, cooking, security issues, nostalgia and the desire to nurture. Prepare a feast in your home, ask your friends over, or do psychic work together. Women are emotionally and psychically sensitive at this time, and due to these strong emotions it is a 'crybaby' moon.
   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 food 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. This is not a transit when it's easy to be alone, as needs for security in love and friendship are high. Be careful to avoid conflict as a grudge formed now will take a long time to heal.
Moon in Cancer is the best time to work magick for home and domestic live. Healing rituals for ailments of the chest or stomach are also done during this period.  Those born under a Cancer Moon sign search for what nurtures their soul and the world's.  They may need to learn to carry their security with them. They respect our deepest feelings, and ease our past fears.

Moon Day - the Day of Remembering and Feeling - Impression Day.... There are Major magickal energies today for rites regarding Dream Homes, Fertility and Planting.  There are minor magical energies for rites regarding household harmony in the PM.

Valentine's Day -

    While in no way a Wiccan festivall, Valentine's Day has become so much a part of our modern calendar that we probably observe it in some way even if it is a grudging nod.  This day was named after one of two Christian Martyers of the same name, and there have been fertility festivals around this far longer.
   The 15th of February is the Roman festival of Faunus, also known to the ancient Greeks as Lupercalia or the festival of Pan. Both woodland deities, Faunus and Pan are closely linked at this time to Priapus who originated in Asia, definitely a fertility God. Images of the God were decorated and displayed through the streets and the Priests would whip members of the crowd, especially women, to bring about fertility. 
   In addition to the Gods and festivals of fertility there are a great number of Gods and Goddesses who are linked to love, like Eros, Venus and Hathor, and these are perhaps more appropriate deities to honor of you are seeking love and romance. Light a pink candle to your chosen deities and ask them to bring you a true love. Resist the temptation to work magick to make someone love you: not only is it unethical but to also invariably results in problems and disappointment.
    While today it is customary for us to send a greetings card, whether romantic or humorous. to those we love, this only originated in the Victorian era. Before this it was a country custom, which still exists in some parts, for unattached girls and boys to draw names from which to choose their partner for the day. [information from Kate West's "The Real Witches' Year"]

Sun Day - moon goes v/c tonight

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

12th Day of the 2nd Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Hera
Lunar Tree Cycle of Luis/Rowan
24th Day of the Celtic Tree
Month of Luis/Rowan
12th Day of the Cycle of Keolwulf -
Days of the Old Ones
Moon Phase: waxing Half moon
Moon sets: 3:26AM EST
Moon rises: 12:50PM EST
Moon in Gemini v/c 10:19PM EST
Rhiannon's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The compassion
of memory
Sun in Aquarius
Sunrise: 7:17AM EST
Sunset: 5:51PM EST
Solar Question for the Day: "What
significant patterns are emerging from
the last year of your life?"
Imbolc (Gwyl Mair) Quarter
of the Year
February 13th, 2011

Sun Day - this is Day of Intent, Creation and Renewal....today there minor magickal energies for motivation and personal finances.  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 fame and wealth, working that much-deserved promotion at work or being acknowledged for a job well done. Health issues, increasing personal power or simply sticking to achieving your goals for this lunar cycle and being proud of what you have accomplished all fall under the sun's golden influence.

Writing and Adapting Rituals

   A ritual is made up of a series of Rites focused around the magickal working or celebration, which is purpose of that Ritual. There are two main categories of Ritual: those which contain a magickal working or spell, and those which are celebratory. In the first type of ritual you need to cast a Circle and rise power, and in the second type of ritual you do not. Initiations are an exception as they are both a magickal working and a celebration.
   There are several key steps in writing and construction meaningful Rituals, which can be thought of as the questions you ask yourself.  First you need to determine a purpose for and the nature of the Ritual. Without a purpose there is no point in holding a Ritual. You need to define what exactly you intend to celebrate or achieve.  Then you will determine 'where' and 'when' this Rite will occur.  Inside? or outside?  Morning? or evening? or perhaps high noon.  Some steps in a Ritual cannot be ignored: such as preparation, the steps in creating and removing Sacred Space, and so on.  Other steps should be selected because you need them, not because you like them.  How you call the Elements can be adapted to what you like, but also then you cannot skip dismissing them.  Do you need to raise energy and can this be done by dancing or/or chanting.  Do you need to include a meditation?  What tools are you going to use and where are you going to use them in the rite and where do you place them when not using them?  When you write your first few rituals keep them simple.  Memorize as much of your ritual as you can.  You are the one who must be happy with what you write.  If you are not, then the intent and purpose of your ritual will not have 'energy' needed to make it happen.  So sketch out the framework of a ritual and then go back fill in the blanks.  This is like doing a test of your actual Craft studies.

Saturn's Day in Gemini

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

11th Day of the 2nd Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Hera
Lunar Tree Cycle of Luis/Rowan
23rd Day of the Celtic Tree
Month of Luis/Rowan
11th Day of the Cycle of Keolwulf -
Days of the Old Ones
Moon Phase: waxing Half Moon
Moon sets: 2:28AM EST
Moon rises: 11:56AM EST
Moon in the Mutable Air Sign
of Gemini
Rhiannon's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The itinerary
of your spiritual quest
Sun in Aquarius
Sunrise: 7:18AM EST
Sunset: 5:50PM EST
Solar Question for the Day: "What do
you most need and what help is at hand?"
Imbolc (Gwyl Mair) Quarter
of the Year
February 12th, 2011

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

First Quarter Moon phase enters Gemini

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

10th Day of the 2nd Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Hera
Lunar Tree Cycle of Luis/Rowan
22nd Day of the Celtic Tree
Month of Luis/Rowan
10th Day of the Cycle of Keolwulf -
Days of the Old Ones
Moon Phase: First Quarter - 2:18AM EST
Moon sets: 1:28AM EST
Moon rises: 11:09AM EST
Moon in Taurus v/c 2:26PM EST
Moon enters the Mutable Air
Sign of Gemini at 5:20PM EST
Rhiannon's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The vista through
the window of imagination.
Sun in Aquarius
Sunrise: 7:19AM EST
Sunset: 5:49PM EST
Solar Question for the Day: "Is
complacency clogging up your life?"
Imbolc (Gwyl Mair) Quarter of
the Year
February 11th, 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, and 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 are born in a First Quarter phase live a full live active life - old structures are cleared away providing room for new development.

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.  So build a web of understanding, absorb new information.  This is a time of communication and other means of expression, freedom, adaptability. short journeys, reading or writing, desiring variety and having more than one thing going at once. You may find yourself feeling talkative and/or might want to work with your hands during this moon's transit in Gemini.  Towards the end of this transit, when the moon approaches the sign of Cancer (Sunday evening) interactions and communications become more emotional. 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.  Those born under a Gemini Moon can talk to anyone, think fast, multi-task, and shift moods with grace, but need to choose depth and focus.

Freya's Day - Venus Day - the Day of Sharing and Relationship ... There are minor magickal energies today for spells/rites for Good Luck.

Thor's Day in the Moon sign of Taurus

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

9th Day of the 2nd Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Kore
Lunar Tree Cycle of Luis/Rowan
21st Day of the Celtic Tree
Month of Luis/Rowan
9th Day of the Cycle of Keolwulf -
Days of the Old Ones
Moon Phase: waxing Crescent
Moon sets: 12:27AM EST
Moon rises: 10:31AM EST
Moon in the Fixed Earth Sign
of Taurus
Rhiannon's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The blessing
of fire
Sun in Aquarius
Sunrise: 7:21AM EST
Sunset: 5:48PM EST
Solar Question for the Day: "How
is beauty seeking to express itself
in your life?"
Imbolc (Gwyl Mair) Quarter
of the Year
February 10th, 2011

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

"When a witch is also merchant,

she wants business lush and verdant.

Helpful people, flush with cash,

let the Cosmos rock the splash."

[From "Seasons of the Witch" datebook]

Earthy Prosperity Tarot Spell:

     I just couldn't let this opportunity of a moon sign of Taurus in a waxing moon phase on Thor's Day go by without casting a prosperity rite.  So I did this one morning in my eastward facing window.  This comes from Ms Dugan's "Book of Witchery"..  She says: "If possible, work this prosperity outdoors. You will be calling on the element of earth and all of its fertile and abundant energies. (Well, seeing there is about six inches of snow on the ground and the temps this morning are near zero I opted for setting up this spell indoors, on my window sill with the window open.  And believe me the air coming in the window is COLD!)   If weather prohibits you from being outside, then set this up your work area facing north (ok, so my window sill faces  northeast), because the northern direction is associated with the element of earth.

* A green votive candle

*A votive-cup candle holder

* 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: 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. 

  (I will dispose of the burned out candle and the soil outside in a flower bed near the house foundation.)