balmasic moon in taurus

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

Well here I am attempting to post with a cast on my left wrist/arm.  On the 19th I was in an automobile accident and my left wrist was broke. I can recite a long list of woes of what problems this can bring to one but won't - I will leave this to your fertile imaginations.  I am going to try to continue posting my headings until I heal but remember each letter typed here is pretty much one finger hunt and peck and my keyboard has many letters worn off.  

28th Day of the 5th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Hecate
Lunar Tree Cycle of Saille/Willow
18th Day of the Celtic Tree Month
of Hauth/Hawthorn
28th Day of the Cycle of Mab -
Days of Faerie
Moon Phase - Balsamic
Moon rises: 4:09AM EDST
Moon sets: 6:54PM EDST
Moon in the Fixed Earth
Sign of Taurus
Ceridwen's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation:  The song
of the night.
Sun in Gemini
Sunrise: 5:53AM EDST
Sunset: 8:42PM EDST
Solar Question:  "How can you
bring simplicity and shape to
your muddle?"
Beltane (Calan Mai) Quarter
of the Year
May 30th, 2011

OK, this about all I can get done today with type of slow posting method. Will try again tomorrow.

waning Full Moon enters Capricorn

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

17th Day of the 5th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Gaia
Lunar Tree Cycle of Saille/Willow
7th Day of the Celtic Tree
Month of Hauth/Hawthorn
17th Day of the Cycle of Mab -
Days of Faeries
Moon Phase: waning Full
Moon sets: 7:45AM EDST
Moon rises: 11:11PM EDST
Moon in Sagittarius v/c 10:17AM EDST
Moon enters the Cardinal Earth Sign
of Capricorn at 4:16PM EDST
Rhiannon's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: Partnerships
in your life.
Sun in Taurus
Sunrise: 6:01AM EDST
Sunset: 8:32PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "What
sacrifices must you make to fulfill
your planes?"
Beltane (Calan Mai) Quarter
of the Year
May 19th, 2011

Moon in Capricorn - The Moon in Capricorn inspires our 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. This transit is a time to: build, dig, organize, exercise discipline, work on foundations, make practical progress on a dream. A Capricorn transit 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, the need to be recognized, desire to create environments, time to take care of business, deal with alternative healing for your body and intensification of your powers.
    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 good for setting and achieving goals, 'going for it' materially; as now we feel persistent and ambitious. It is a bad time to ask or obtain anything from patriarchal and established authorities as traditional modes prevail.
    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 sign have a strong work ethic, competence, and leadership capacity, but may need to learn to love themselves holding still.

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

waning Full Moon in Sagittarius

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

16th Day of the 5th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Gaia
Lunar Tree Cycle of Saille/Willow
6th Day of the Celtic Tree
Month of Hauth/Hawthorn
16th Day of the Cycle of Mab -
Days of Faeries
Moon Phase: waning Full Moon
Moon sets: 6:45AM EDST
Moon rises: 10:17PM EDST
Moon in the Mutable Fire Sign
of Sagittarius
Rhiannon's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The blessing
of the earth.
Sun in Taurus
Sunrise: 6:01AM EDST
Sunset: 8:31PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "What
do you need to learn or master at
this time?"
Beltane (Calan Mai) Quarter
of the Year
May 18th, 2011

Woden's Day - Mercury Day, the Day of Communication and Connection..... there are Major magickal energies today for Working in Astral.

Astral Magick

      Talk of 'working in Astral' is something I am not totally sure of is meant.  So I search through a few of my books to see if I could find a fairly good explanation and I did come across one in The Witch's Guide to Life by Kala Trobe.  I am going to post it here to help any of those who, like me, don't really understand what is meant by Astral Magick....  "All magick is astral in that what occurs on the physical plane is merely intended to symbolize what occurs on an invisible level. However, adept magickians and some witches are able to set spells into motion without recourse to ritual or physical symbolism. They simply think it in the correct way, utilising the correct 'doorways' and symbolism, and compound it with intense, concentrated will power. It can also occur accidentally, especially when a person is emotionally overwrought or sexually frustrated (this is particularly relevant to young people). The psychically active person acts as a beacon on the astral plane, attracting all sorts of emtities with his or her thoughts. In some respects, every thought we have is a kind of astral magick. If we spend all our time thinking about trivial things, we will barely be visible on the astral (unless a very intense inner life emerges in between).  If our thoughts are compassionate or spiritual, they will attract spirits and entities of high integrity.
     Most of us practice astral magick with props - a candle flame, a chalice, an athame, and so on. Of course, the magick does not stop on the astral. It is intended to filter through to the casual plane, and influence the root cause of events to come. Eventually this will have an effect on the physical. This is why group spiritual meditations are effective - the human will to evolve is conveyed to the Masters (spiritual intercessors, essentially on the astral and causal planes), refined, augmented and returned to earth. Meditations for world peace have far more of an effect than is visible in a group of people holding hands or concentrating on one another's positive intent. We are all channels of the Divine and to make this a conscious act greatly increases our chances of working effectively. ...."   Ms. Trobe goes on to talk about astral magick  that takes place during projection from the body but I am not covering that today.  This Woden's Day - a day of communication and connection and so I think her words on that aspect of astral magick to be quite appropriate for today.

    

Full Moon - leaves Scorpio

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

15th Day of the 5th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Gaia
Lunar Tree Cycle of Saille/Willow
5th Day of the Celtic Tree
Month of Hauth/Hawthorn
15th Day of the Cycle of Mab -
Days of Faeries
Moon Phase: Full - 7:08AM EDST
Moon sets: 5:52AM EDST
Moon rises: 9:13PM EDST
Moon in Scorpio v/c 7:08AM EDST
Moon enters the Mutable Fire
Sign of Sagittarius at 1:23PM EDST
Rhiannon's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: Your heart's desire. ]
Sun in Taurus
Sunrise: 6:02AM EDST
Sunset: 8:30PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "What
challenges are on the horizon?"
Beltane (Calan Mai) Quarter
of the Year
May 17th, 2011

Full Moon - The Full Moon rises at sunset and sets at sunrise. Astrologically the Sun and Moon are in
opposition (ie., 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 full moon phase are: fulfillment, illumination, realization and experience. It is the time in a lunar cycle that you given a clear view so that you can make adjustments to put you back on track to manifesting the goals you at the new moon. Go to a public place. Do something with a friend. LISTEN. Receive awareness. Understand others.  Those who were born during a Full Moon phase enjoy companionship and partnership and desire to merge deeply. Fulfillment and illumuination are their goals.

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. This the time to get honest, forgive, dance, hike, explore and connect to the natural world. A Sagittarius transit 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. Have a long talk with the animals in your garden. Work the soil but hold off the 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. Her restless and independent nature wishes to explore and warm and friendly vibes make it a good time for seeing new places, encountering different people and relating to a changing environment.  There is a tendency towards open, honest exchanges. Sagittarius also brings an interest in philosophy, education, ethics, women's culture and seeing things from an idealistic viewpoint. 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 under a Sagittarius moon sign are funny, restless, freedom-loving, and direct; they are a natural global citizen  but need also to look for answers at home. They accept the wild in all sentient beings.

Tiu's Day - Mar's Day - the Day of Activity and Physicality, Passion and Desire.....there are Major magical energies for seeking Independence. 

"Earth, Air, Fire and Water

A Witch thrives as Freedom's daughter.

Esbat Blessings bring to thee

the prize, the grail. Be wild, Be free."

From Season of the Witch datebook



Waxing Gibbous Moon - Moon Day

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

14th Day of the 5th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Gaia
Lunar Tree Cycle of Saille/Willow
4th Day of the Celtic Tree
Month of Hauth/Hawthorn
14th Day of the Cycle of Mab -
Days of Faeries
Moon Phase: waxing Gibbous
Moon sets: 5:08AM EDST
Moon rises: 8:02PM EDST
Moon in the Fixed Water Sign
of Scorpio
Rhiannon's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The secret
country of dreams.
Sun in Taurus
Sunrise: 6:03AM EDST
Sunset: 8:29PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "What
makes you most angry? Why?"
Beltane (Calan Mai) Quarter
May 16th, 2011

Moon Day - the Day of Remembering and Feeling - Impression Day..... there are minor magickal energies today for household harmony and patience.

Magickal Images

     There are times when it is useful to have a picture or image of the person you are working for, more as when you don't know the person. While it is possible to work on a healing for stranger using their name, date of birth, Sun sign, etc. it is much easier to maintain your visualization if you have their picture in front of you. Obviously photographs are the most useful for this, but a drawing can be just as useful. While you may not be able to get a 'good likeness', you can represent details which a photograph may not capture, like the person's favorite color or the fact that they like gardening. You could even represent aspects such as the fact that they have had their hair colored and style changed. It is a good idea to practice this skill before you need it. Try sketching a close friend and then adding other personal details to create an image of them and their life.
     Likewise, the creation of an image sometimes called a fith-fath or poppet, can help you to visualize the healing process for, say, a broken limb. Fith-faths are also frequently used in fertility spells where you can create the image of pregnancy as part of your magickal working.  The images can be made of wax, clay, straw or any other medium. You can even add pieces of hair if the subject gives them. Of course it is possible to create an image with a photograph and a sketch containing other details if you really need the extra help in your spell.
[From Kate West's The Real Witches' Year]

Full Moon tomorrow morning - 7:08AM EDST

Waxing Gibbous Moon enters Scorpio

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


13th Day of the 5th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Gaia
Lunar Tree Cycle of Saille/Willow
3rd Day of the Celtic Tree
Month of Hauth/Hawthorn
13th Day of the Cycle of Mab -
Days of Faeries
Moon Phase: waxing Gibbous
Moon sets: 4:26AM EDST
Moon rises: 6:45PM EDST
Moon in Libra v/c 12:01PM EDST
Moon enters the Fixed Water
Sign of Scorpio at 12:32PM EDST
Rhiannon's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The rhythms and
cycles of the moon in your life.
Sun in Taurus
Sunrise: 6:04AM EDST
Sunset: 8:28PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "What
is preying on your mind?"
Beltane (Calan Mai) Quarter
of the Year
May 15th, 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. With Moon in Scorpio dig deep. 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, musky. 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 of regeneration and clearing out of emotional debris from the previous 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 born under a Scorpio Moon sign are intense, fiercely curious, and need to create solitude with healthy boundaries, rather than isolation.

Sun Day - is the Day of Intent, Creation and Renewal....there are Major magickal energies for spells/rites for Vigor.

The Besom

    The besom or broomstick is made from many twigs, usually birch or heather, about 3 feet in length and tied in place around a pole of Willow, Ash or Hazel.  The ties are made of willow. As the besom is a fertility symbol, the pole being the male principle and the twigs into which it is inserted being the female, it was popular to carve the hidden end of the pole in a phallic shape. Like some other tools of the Craft it is best to make your own.
     Popular images of the Witch show her riding a broomstick, or besom. While this is not a form of transport, many Witches will have one for other reasons. The besom is an ideal garden broom, as it can sweep leaves off the flowerbeds and lawns in a way no other garden tool can. It is useful for sweeping indoors and in some ways it is superior to a vacuum. Magically we use it to sweep the Circle or to sweep away negative influences and energies. For a Handfasting Ritual it will be decorated with ribbons, flowers, and even bells. It is held across the Circle for the couple to jump, signifying their leap into a new life together, often being slightly raised during the leap to add to the fun.  The besom was once used as an indicator as to whether visitors were permitted to call at a home. Bristles upward would mean the callers were not welcome, while bristles down indicated that you could expect a welcome.
[From Kate West's The Real Witches' Year]

Gibbous Moon phase in Libra

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


12th Day of the 5th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Hera
Lunar Tree Cycle of Saille/Willow
2nd Day of the Celtic Tree Month
of Hauth/Hawthorne
12th Day of the Cycle of Mab -
Days of Faeries
Moon Phase: Gibbous - 1:06AM EDST
Moon sets: 3:51AM EDST
Moon rises: 5:32PM EDST
Moon in the Cardinal Air Sign
of Libra
Rhiannon's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: Happiness
Sun in Taurus
Sunrise: 6:05AM EDST
Sunset: 8:27PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "How
are you limiting yourself at present?"
Beltane (Calan Mai) Quarter
of the Year
May 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 phase are: analyze, prepare, and trust. It is the time in a cycle to process the results 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.

Yesterday the Moon enters the Cardinal Air Sign of Libra at 11:56AM EDST.  This is a moon transit that opens our sociability and brings friendly vibe and encourages us to connect. Those born under a Libra Moon sign are peacemakers.  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.  Tomorrow the moon goes v/c at 12:01PM and then enters Scorpio at 12:32PM.  Also tomorrow Venus and Mercury enter the sign of Taurus.

Saturn's Day - the Day of Manifestation and Structure, Assessment and Responsibility..... today there are Major Magickal energies for spells/rituals for Justice.

Waxing Half Moon - Thor's Day

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


10th Day of the 5th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Hera
Lunar Tree Cycle of Saille/Willow
28th Day of the Celtic Tree
Month of Saille/Willow
10th Day of the Cycle of Mab -
Days of Faeries
Moon Phase: waxing Half
Moon sets:2:50AM EDST
Moon rises: 3:05PM EDST
Moon in the Mutable Earth
Sign of Virgo
Rhiannon's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: Growth in
your emotional life.
Sun in Taurus
Sunrise: 6:07AM EDST
Sunset: 8:25PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "What
do you appreciate most about
your life?"
Beltane (Calan Mai) Quarter
of the Year
May 12th, 2011


Thor's Day - Jupiter Day - the Day of Vision, Spiritual Insight and Expansion..... there are Major magickal energies for Financial Gain...

Waxing Half Moon moves into Virgo

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

9th Day of the 5th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Kore
Lunar Tree Cycle of Saille/Willow
27th Day of the Celtic Tree
Month of Saille/Willow
9th Day of the Cycle of Mab -
Days of Faeries
Moon Phase: waxing Half Moon
Moon sets: 2:20AM EDST
Moon rises: 1:54PM EDST
Moon in Leo v/c 5:43AM EDST
Moon enters the Mutable Earth
Sign of Virgo at 9:59AM EDST
Rhiannon's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The wisdom
of nature
Sun in Taurus
Sunrise: 6:06AM EDST
Sunset: 8:24PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "Who
do you need to forgive the most?"
Beltane (Calan Mai) Quarter
of the Year
May 11th, 2011

Moon in Virgo - The Moon in Virgo sends us back to work and gives 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 transit is a time to weed, edit, critique, care, exercise, investigate, study, heal, but remember to be gentle with other. During this transit important issues are practicality, organization, cleaning up your diet or your home, healing your body or offering healing to others and attending to loose ends. After the Leo party it's a time to clean up our act and turn our attentions to the matter of our health and hygiene. This 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. 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, intellectua matters, health and dietary concerns. Healing rituals for ailments of the intestines or nervous system are also done during this period of time. Those who were born under a Virgo Moon are curious, responsible, caring but need cultivate gentle acceptance of self and others.

Woden's Day - Mercury Day, the Day of Communication and Conncection..... there are minor magickal energies for divination and working Elemental magick. 

Elemental Magick

     Deborah Lipp says in the beginning of her book The Way of Four this:  "In Wicca and much of occult, the four elements of Fire, Water, Air and Earth describe the universe and everything in it. Everything can be understood as taking part in one or more elements. Everything this is whole contains all four, and can be understood more deeply by dividing it into four and viewing it through a lens. The elements are the building blocks of creation; they are the beginning of things. The undifferentiated void that preceeded creation had no elements, or to put it another way, all elements are One. But creation - things, reality - consists of the elements. ...... The four elements give us a way of thinking about the world. They give us a structured approach to knowing the unknowable. They provide us with a system of interrelations and magick is all about interraltions."  
     Here is a link to an About.com website that give us more information about the Elements and how they can work in our magick spells and rituals:  http://paganwiccan.about.com/od/wiccaandpaganismbasics/a/elements.htm

First Quarter Moon phase

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

8th Day of the 5th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Kore
Lunar Tree Cycle of Saille/Willow
26th Day of the Celtic Tree
Month of Saille/Willow
8th Day of the Cycle of Mab -
Days of Faeries
Moon Phase: First Quarter - 4:37PM EDST
Moon sets: 1:48AM EDST
Moon rises: 12:44PM EDST
Moon in the Fixed Fire Sign
of Leo
Rhiannon's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The skills that
you possess.
Sun in Taurus
Sunrise: 6:09AM EDST
Sunset: 8:23PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "Where
do you hurt and why?  Where does
the healing lie?"
Beltane (Calan Mai) Quarter
of the Year
May 10th, 2011

First Quarter phase - 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 are: action, expression, growth, and breaking away. It is the time in a lunar 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.

Tiu's Day - Mars Day - the Day of Activity and Physicality, Passion and Desire - Action Day..... there are magickal energies today for spells/rites regarding warrior energy and courage. 

Waxing Crescent Moon enters Leo

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

7th Day of the 5th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Kore
Lunar Tree Cycle of Saille/Willow
25th Day of the Celtic Tree
Month of Saille/Willow
7th Day of the Cycle of Mab -
Days of Faeries
Moon Phase: waxing Crescent
Moon sets: 1:13AM EDST
Moon rises: 11:35AM EDST
Moon in Cancer v/c 4:34AM EDST
Moon enters the Fixed Fire Sign
of Leo at 5:35AM EDST
Blodeuwedd's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The complementarity
of women and men.
Sun in Taurus
Sunrise: 6:10AM EDST
Sunset: 8:22PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "What
old story are you telling against yourself?
What new story waits to be told?"
Beltane (Calan Mai) Quarter
of the Year
May 9th, 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 transit is a 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. In your life arrange, glorify and weed the extraneous so your star can shine.  Dramatic happenings, especially concerning emotions, being the center of attention, exuberance. vitality and working with patriarchal issues are all hallmarks of the Leo Moon. This transit is a good time to set appointments within the patriarchal system as this is when we can successfully deal with these issues and people who are in positions of authority and power. It is worth to reset your appointments for these opportunities. There is high drama when the Moon is in Leo as she steps out onto the stage of life to entertain us once again. You may find yourself wanting to play out the 'drama queen' part of yourself, or just be romantic. This is a time of vital energy,
affection and romance. Now is the time of Leo extravaganza.. 'Everybody is a Star'. Everyone is recognized for her particular Goddess within. Enjoy the warmth of kindness and generosity, excitement and exuberance, parties and celebrations. You will want to spend money during Moon in Leo.
    It's hard to recognize limits in Leo Moon transits; it's also time for power issues to erupt. Who will be the center of attention?  Ambition and independent leadership are important issues. Leo has great pride, which is evident now. As the moon moves to Virgo, (which will be Tuesday evening), the ambitious energy of Leo becomes unassuming. Moon in Leo is the best time to work magick involving authority, courage, fertility or childbirth. Healing rituals for ailments of the upper back, spine, or heart are also done during this moon transit.  For those born under a Moon in Leo 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 Day - the Day of Remembering and Feeling..... there are minor magickal energies for working with domestic power.

Waxing Crescent Moon in Cancer - the Mother's Day

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


6th Day of the 5th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Artemis
Lunar Tree Cycle of Saille/Willow
24th Day of the Celtic Tree
Month of Saille/Willow
6th Day of the Cycle of Mab -
Days of Faeries
Moon Phase: waxing Crescent
Moon sets: 12:33AM EDST
Moon rises: 10:28AM EDST
Moon in the Cardinal Water
Sign of Cancer
Blodeuwedd's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: Abundance in
your life.
Sun in Taurus
Sunrise: 6:12AM EDST
Sunset: 8:21PM EDST
Solar Question of the Day: "Where
are your energies overextended?"
Beltane (Calan Mai) Quarter
of the Year
May 8th, 2011


Sun Day - is the Day of Intent, Creation, and Renewal.....  there are minor magickal energies today to work with animals...

The Mother's Day - My own mother passed over many years ago, and so I was thinking this morning I don't have to make sure I sent flowers and/or a card to her today.  And then as I was watching a beautiful sunrise, a thought came to me, but I still have a Mother to honor - the Mother Goddess and the Earth Mother.  So I light incense and burned a candle this morning and offered up thanks to my spiritual Mother and to my Earth Mother who nurtures me every day.  She doesn't ask for commercial offerings, just a gentle, heartfelt thanks for Her continuing support.  Also it comes to me that it would a good day to honor my ancestral mothers.

"Weave a thread of blood through time

Ladders of lives we all have climbed.

Grandmothers sail

on Summerland seas.

I honor you who live in me."

From Season of the Witch Datebook



Crescent Moon phase - Moon in Cancer

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

5th Day of the 5th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Artemis
Lunar Tree Cycle of Saille/Willow
23rd Day of the Celtic Tree
Month of Saille/Willow
5th Day of the Cycle of Mab -
Days of Faeries
Moon Phase: Crescent Moon - 12:59AM EDST
Moon rises: 9:24AM EDST
Moon sets: 11:59PM EDST
Moon in the Cardinal Water
Sign of Cancer
Blodeuwedd's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: Projects you
most wish to come to
fruition.
Sun in Taurus
Sunrise: 6:13AM EDST
Sunset: 8:20PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "What is
the source of the vital power with you?"
Beltane (Calan Mai) Quarter
of the Year
May 7th, 2011

Crescent Moon - The Crescent Moon (or waxing crescent moon) rises midmorning and sets after sunset. She is the first visible sliver of Moon seen in the western sky in the late afternoon or early evening. The Crescent Moon is the SPROUT. The seed of the moon plant has broken through the earth and reaches up as she ventures from the dark, moist earth she has known. Keywords for the Crescent Moon phase are: expansion, growth, struggle and opportunity. It is the time in a lunar cycle that you gather the wisdom learned in the new phase and communicate your intention to move forward. Light a candle. Write or read an affirmation. LISTEN & ABSORB. Commit to your goal(s) for this lunar cycle.

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

Waxing New Moon moves into Cancer

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


4th Day of the 5th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Artemis
Lunar Tree Cycle of Saille/Willow
22nd Day of the Celtic Tree
Month of Saille/Willow
4th Day of the Cycle of Mab -
Days of Faeries
Moon Phase: waxing New
Moon rises: 8:28AM EDST
Moon sets: 11:48PM EDST
Moon in Gemini v/c 4:12PM EDST
Moon enters the Cardinal Water
Sign of Cancer at 10:32PM EDST
Blodeuwedd's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: Peace and concord
among earth's nations.
Sun in Taurus
Sunrise: 6:14AM EDST
Sunset: 8:19PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "What
pattern is emerging from your spiritual
path to date?"
Beltane (Calan Mai) Quarter
of the Year
May 6th, 2011


Moon in Cancer - With Moon in Cancer our feelings take the lead. Cancer encourages the wisdom rising out of our oceanic unconscious through moods and feelings. Ground in the magick of your home
as a temple. Ask what need 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.
     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 preparations. 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. We protect our own, nest in our cave and need to know we're safe.  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. Those born under a Cancer moon can be wonderfully nurturing to our culture, body, and soul when we feel safe. Early mother/home issues can be composted into empathic understanding.

Freya's Day - Venus Day, Day of Sharing and Relationships.... There are Major magickal energies for Art Projects and minor magickal energies for love, romance, and creativity.

Waxing New Moon in Gemini on Thor's Day

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

3rd Day of the 5th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Persephone
Lunar Tree Cycle of Saille/Willow
21st Day of the Celtic Tree
Month of Saille/Fearn
3rd Day of the Cycle of Mab -
Days of Faeries
Moon Phase: Waxing New Moon
Moon rises: 7:34AM EDST
Moon sets: 10:58PM EDST
Moon in the Mutable Air Sign
of Gemini
Blodeuwedd's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: Lovers you have
lost and found.
Sun in Taurus
Sunrise: 6:15AM EDST
Sunset:  8:18PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "Where
are your energies overextended?"
Beltane (Calan Mai) Quarter
of the Year
May 5th, 2011

Tbor's Day - Jupiter Day - the Day of Vision, Spiritual Insight, and Expansion.... there are Major magickal energies today for Business Plans and minor magickal energies for networking....

Eta Aquarids Meteor Shower:

    http://meteorshowersonline.com/eta_aquarids.html 

Hopefully you will have clear skies to see this meteor shower.. Also tonight the new moon will be setting 11:00PM EDST - so if your skies are clear you will be able to see it in the western skies.

5th Lunnation: Saille/Willow

    The Willow is sacred to the death aspects of the Triple Goddess. Her bird is the hawk; her color is
haze.  She heals fevers and headaches. 
     Mystical Associations:  To the ancient Celts the willow was the Tree of Enchantment and Mysteries, a feminine tree that was ruled by the moon, with a great influence over the vision-producing subconscious. Being in the company of willows was believed to promote and increase psychic and intuitive powers, making dreams more vivid and more open to interpretation. Groves of willows were
considered so magical that poets, musicians, priests and priestesses would meditate within them to enhance their visionary skills and to gain inspiration and clarity of the mind. This practice of exploring inner worlds in sacred groves was known to the Celts as gaining Tree-top Inspiration. The willow was associated in many other cultures with poetic and visionary skills. 
     Many ancient goddesses are associated with willows. Persephone, Queen of the Underworld, had a sacred willow grove. The Greek sorceress Circe (a favorite of mine) had a riverside cemetery planted with willows that was dedicated to Hecate and her moon magick. Hecate, most powerful goddess of willow and water, presided over the magick of the dark side of the moon. Hecate taught sorcery and witchcraft and haunted crossroads and tombs. The ancient Sumerian goddess, Belili, presided over all trees and willows in particular, as well as the moon, love and the Underworld. Her willow god consort was called Bel. Bel became honored by European Celts as the Sun god Belin, Lord of Life and Death.
Great fires were lit in his honor at Beltane, on April 30th and May 1st. These celebrations were once
sacred primarily to the moon goddess and her watery willow magick, but as patriarchal sun-god worship ousted the more ancient matriarchal order, so the emphasis shifted away from the mysterious feminine energies of water and the moon toward the more direct masculine approach of fire and the sun. Wells and springs are also honored at the traditional fire and water ceremony at Beltane, which is the second of the four Cross-Quarter Days in the witches' calendar. 
       The goddess Anatha had a willow cult in Jerusalem until Jehovah's priests ousted her and claimed the willow as Jehovah's tree at the Hebrew Feast of Tabernacles - a fire and water ceremony that to this day is still known as the Day of the Willows. In Britain, sprays of Goat Willows covered with golden catkins were customarily carried to Christian churches at Easter on Palm Sunday,  in remembrance of the branches of palm strewn before Jesus as he entered Jerusalem. This is why the Goat Willow is known as the "Palm Willow" or Pussy Palm. 
      The Willow reminded ancient peoples of the White Goddess in all three of Her aspects, lithe and supple like the virgin, fertile and prolific; like the mother, and wizened and hoary like the crone. They were encouraged to recognize in themselves the whole range of emotions, from love and joy, to jealousy and hatred. With its roots deep in the waters of the subconscious and the emotions, the willow is the sacred tree of the visionary goddess, queen of the world of dreams and intuition, of prophecy and psychic powers.

Circe   

waxing New Moon enters Gemini

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


2nd Day of the 5th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Persephone
Lunar Tree Cycle of Saille/Willow
20th Day of the Celtic Tree
Month of Saille/Willow
2nd Day of the Cycle of Mab -
Days of Faeries
Moon Phase: waxing New Moon
Moon rises: 6:49AM EDST
Moon sets: 10:02PM EDST
Moon enters the Mutable Air
Sign of Gemini at 1:09PM EDST
Blodeuwedd's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The messages
of your body.
Sun in Taurus
Sunrise: 6:16AM EDST
Sunset: 8:17PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "Which
of your dreams do you most want to
come true?"
Beltane (Calan Mai) Quarter
of the Year
May 4th, 2011

Moon in Gemini -  The Moon in Gemini wakes us up again after Taurus' calm steady transit; we lose our concentration but quicken our communication. The conversation sparkles, our thinking broadens but doesn't deepen. This transit is a time to network, investigate, translate, brainstorm, mediate, prune, edit,
explain, and broadcast. The Moon in Gemini quickens our nervous system. Build a web of understanding - network and absorb new information. This is a time of communication and other means of expression, freedom, adaptability, short journeys, reading or writing, and the desire for variety and having more than one thing going at once. You feel talkative and might want to work with your hands during the moon's transit in Gemini.
   All communication (talking, writing or reading) and intellectual matters are easier during a Gemini Moon. Women are more adaptable and changeable, so take all statements and promises with a grain of salt, especially if the person has proven fickle in the past. It's a hard time to make any decisions, but a good time to use your wit and cleverness in conversation. Issues of the practical world are set aside for now. Towards the end of the transit, when the moon approaches the sign of Cancer, 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 transit.  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.

Woden's Day - Mercury Day - the Day of Communication and Connection..... there are Major magickal energies today for Written Communication and Favorable Negotiations.  With the Moon moving into Gemini today, you have tremendous opportunity to communicate.

New Moon - Saille/Willow Cycle

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

1st Day of the 5th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Persephone
Lunar Tree Cycle of Saille/Willow
19th Day of the Celtic Tree
Month of Saille/Willow
1st Day of the Cycle of Mab -
Days of Faeries
Moon Phase: New - 2:50AM EDST
Moon rises: 6:10AM EDST
Moon sets: 9:04PM EDST
Moon in void of course till
tomorrow at 1:09PM
Blodeuwedd's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The support of
friendship
Sun in Taurus
Sunrise: 6:17AM EDST
Sunset: 8:16PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "What
do you need to allow growth in
your life?"
 Beltane (Calan Mai) Quarter
of the Year
May 3rd., 2011

New Moon - (or Dark Moon) rises at sunrise and sets sunset. Astrologically, the Sun and the Moon are in conjunction. Because the Sun's light overpowers the nearby Moon in the day, and the Moon is on the other side of the Earth with the Sun at night, She is not visible in the sky at all.
    As above, so below. Look into the sky and observe which phase the Moon is in. Then you will know where you are in the growth cycle of each lunar month. The phase that the moon was in when you were born reflects your purpose, personality and preferences. 
     The New Moon is like a SEED planted in the earth. We cannot see Her but She is ready to grow, full of potential and energy for Her new journey. Those who born during the new moon phase are impulsive, passionate and intuitive. They are the risk takers and pioneers. Keywords for the New Moon are: beginning, birth, emergence, projection, and clarity.  It is the time in a lunar cycle that you are stimulated to take a new action. During this phase the new cycle is being by your vision, inner and outer. Engage in physical activity. Spend time alone. VISUALIZE your goals for the 29.6-day cycle ahead.

Tiu's Day - Mars Day, the Day of Activity and Physicality, Passion and Desire.....  In the Seasons of the Witch Datebook this day has the notation of 'No Spells'.  What this means simply is the Moon is void of course (v/c) for the entire day. This happens two or three times a year. In summary, do not cast when the moon is void of course.

Willow - From the Pracownik-Baggott Ogham: The Celtic Oracle

    Meaning: Willow teaches us the lesson of life in death. Endings are just beginnings and with new growth comes change. Willow helps us to integrate change into our lives and reminds us to allow inspiration to enter our lives at such times. Inspiration can come from the smallest or most unlikely sources to keep an open mind at all times. Willow is strongly linked with the moon and you would do well to co-ordinate your spiritual practice with the phases of the moon. Start new projects on the new moon, seek inspiration by the light of the full moon and bring matters to a close at the dark moon. Go with the flow and all will be well.

    Commentary:  The Willow tree favors damp or watery places and is prolific in its growth. A cut branch, if planted into the ground, will easily root and grow into a new tree. For this reason, the willow is strongly linked to new growth, regeneration and inspiration. Willow was used in the annual purification ritual of 'beatint the bounds' (defining the parish boundary) and the birch twigs a witch's broom were traditionally bound with willow thongs. It is also sacred to the moon with willow wands being favored for lunar magick and ritual. It is also thought that placing willow under one's pillow, especially around the full moon, helps promote night visions.
     The willow is sacred to poets and bards as a tree of inspiration. It is also a favorite tree for dowsers to use for divining water. A tea or incense of willow bark can be used to help connect with the divine feminine energy within each of us as willow is a strongly feminine tree. Medicinally it is most well known for its pain-relieving properties but it has also been used to treat fevers, rheumatism, mouth and throat infections and as an external wash for sores, wounds, burns and other skin disorders.
     The Celtic willow, the pussy willow, was known in Ireland as one of the 'seven noble trees of the land' and was honored for its wide range of craft uses including basket weaving, thatching spars, wattles for houses and fencing. The corresponding bird, the hawk is noted for its swiftness and agility in flight and is considered a visionary of the air likewise linking it to flexibility and inspiration.

Dark Moon enters Taurus - Hecate's Night

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


30th Day of the 4th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Hecate
Lunar Tree Cycle of Fearn/Alder
18th Day of the Celtic Tree
Month  of Saille/Willow
30th Day of the Cycle of Annwyn -
Days of Avalon
Moon Phase: Dark Moon
Moon rises: 5:37AM EDST
Moon sets: 8:04PM EDST
Moon in Aries v/c 1:24AM EDST
Moon enters the Fixed Earth
Sign of Taurus at 1:58AM EDST
Ceridwen's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: "What needs to
be restored and appreciated?"
Sun in Taurus
Sunrise: 6:19AM EDST
Sunset: 8:15PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "What
fears are holding you back? What
weakness do they hide?"
Beltane (Calan Mai) Quarter
of the Year
May 2nd, 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.  This transit is a time to: garden, plant, cultivate seeds, relationships, and ideas, make love, nurture and take a stand. This lunar transit concerns money, work, property, the body, being conscientious, growth, sensitivity, planting and emotional patterns based on
security. The energy flow is even and a time for us to experience the sensual. The forceful forward movement of Aries becomes solid, calm and patient during Taurus. There is a desire to protect material goods and a strong need for financial security. The middle of Taurus is a good time to continue or finish projects. Taurus gives attention to order and detail. Emotionally there is stubbornness, but great sensitivity to others. This sensual sign is a good time to appreciate the wonders of the beautiful earth. During a moon transit in Taurus you might want to work in the garden. Moon in Taurus is the best time to work magick for love, real estate, material acquisitions, and money. Healing rituals of the throat, neck, and ears are also done during this period of time. Someone born under a Taurus Moon roots deeply and changes slowly; she collects, touches, supports, sees the sacred in the world of matter. Steady he/she can loan their strength to others, but may need to learn the beauty in change.

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

Tomorrow is the New Moon at 2:50AM EDST - also the Moon goes v/c from Taurus and will move into the Mutable Air sign of Gemini on Wednesday at 1:09PM EDST.  So any Taurus workings you want to do, do them tonight.  Also, tonight is Hecate's Night; be sure to pay homage to Her.

May Day - Beltane

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

29th Day of the 4th Lunar Cycle
Ruled by Hecate
Lunar Tree Cycle of Fearn/Alder
17th Day of the Celtic Tree
Month of Saille/Willow
29th Day of the Cycle of Annwyn-
Days of Avalon
Moon Phase: Balsamic
Moon rises: 5:08AM EDST
Moon sets: 7:04PM EDST
Moon in the Cardinal Fire
Sign of Aries
Ceridwen's Cycle of the Moon
Lunar Meditation: The times when
things seemed hopeless but came right.
Sun in Taurus
Sunrise: 6:20AM EDST
Sunset: 8:14PM EDST
Solar Question for the Day: "What
creative possibilities are surfacing
at this time?"
 Beltane (Calan Mai) Quarter
of the Year
May 1st, 2011

Beltane:  The summer quarter of Beltane brings the gift of increased confidence and is a time of growth and greater sociability as the weather grows fine and hot. It is traditionally the time for celebrating the essential eros of the year, the vitality of Summer and the joys of youth. In the human growth cycle it corresponds to the period of young adulthood when the blood is hot, when ideas are sometimes impetuous and ambitions pursued with vigor and ardor. Beltane is a good time to celebrate the lives of all heroes and heroines, all protectors of the land, all who were involved in innovative and resourceful means of help, all holy ones whose great love complements their spiritual practice with human grace.
[From Caitlin Matthews' Celtic Devotional: Daily Prayers & Blessings ]

Activities for the Summer Months:

Practice your physical skills such as sport/exercise/ dance, etc., drawing upon the vigor of the season.

Regularly assess your motivations and your use of the gift of life.

Remember spiritual kindred - those whose spiritual focus you share.

In this busy season, make time for proper soul-nurture.

Be aware of the heroes and heroines who have made the spiritual pathways come alive for you.

Plant and plan your garden to provide a treasury of color in late Summer and Autumn.

Walk and meditate  outdoors for at least half an hour daily.

Identify flowers and animals in your locality and learn about their life and habitat.

Create a spontaneous dance that physically expresses your kinship with the universe.

Be active with like-minded others, in providing support for environmental concerns both at local
and global levels.

As you travel through the country of Summer, relate your spiritual journey to the bright gifts of this season. 
[From Caitlin Matthews' Celtic Devotional: Daily Prayers & Blessings ]


Beltane:  The festival of Beltane marks the onset of summer; the Hawthorn is in blossom, as are many other plants; wild animals and birds are busy raising their young. All around us can see the life of the land. This is the time to welcome the Mother Goddess in all her bounty, and the God her Consort as they come to bring fertility to the land and the crops.
     Take a little wine or fruit juice, honey and fruit out into the woods. Find a well-grown, mature tree and make your offering under its branches. Then sit down, resting your back on the tree, and take several deep breaths to center yourself. Look slowly and carefully all around you and observe all the signs of the season. Now close your eyes and visualize the Mother Goddess walking towards you. As you watch her approaching you become aware that walking towards you from another direction is the God, a young man in the prime of his life. Watch as they greet each other and then turn to smile at you. If you have a question for them you may ask it now. Wait until they say farewell and walk away together. Once they have gone, you can open your eyes. Once again look all around you and take in all the sights, sounds and scents of the season. Look carefully to see if there is anything special which catches your eye; a piece of wood, stone or whatever. If there is, you may take it with you as a reminder of the festival.
[From Kate West's The Real Witches' Year ]