Day: August 17, 2011

Lady A’s Spell of the Day for Aug. 17th: A SIMPLE REVERSING SPELL

A SIMPLE REVERSING SPELL

Ingredients

First for this spell you will need:
1 black and red reversing candle (You may find this in any occult supply shop, botanical, etc.) or you may use 3 red household candles with the bottom portion dipped in black wax 1 bag of reversing bath salts (or you may use solar sea salt which you have consecrated for this purpose)
1 bag of reversing incense, 1 piece of virgin parchment, 1 vial of reversing oil India ink which has been consecrated for this purpose, a quill pen to draw upon the parchment
.
First you must bathe in water with the bath salts, allowing yourself to air dry after.
Next, you dress your candle with the oil; anoint the candle starting in the center and rub the oil towards each end (If using a jar candle anoint the top of the wax in a counter-clock-wise circular motion, starting at the center and out). Write upon the parchment that which you desire to be directed away from you in this case psychic attacks (if you know the source, write that too). Light the incense and pass the parchment through the smoke, then place the parchment under the candle. Light the candle while visualizing a white ball of light forming above it. Then say with all of the force of emotion that you can muster:

“By incense’ smoke and candles’ flame,
Away from me I send all bane;
By cleansing water and power of salt,
Let any harm come to naught.
To any who would wish me pain,
May all their curses be in vain;
All that blocks me from success,
With this spell I lay to rest.
Harm to None and Good to all,
Lord and Lady hear my call;
As I do will, So Mote It Be!”

Repeat this chant three times As you say the chant, imagine the small white ball above the candle growing and expanding until it encompasses you and anyone else who you desire to protect. Imagine that any negative energy that meets this ball of light will be reflected off, never touching you at all. After the candle has burnt out (about 6 or 7 days for a jar), take the jar and any wax left over, and the parchment and place them in a brown paper bag. Take them to a remote location and break the jar inside the bag and dispose of it. As you dispose of it say:

“Return to the elements from which thou came!”

As you may have guessed, this is also a success spell in the form of reversing any negative energies which may be blocking you from the success you desire, whatever form that success will take. As for the form of the success; leave that to the Gods. Oh, and if you are using household candles, remember to repeat the spell three nights in succession, burning each candle and disposing of the remaining wax after all three have been burnt. This spell will bring you much success and protection if done in the right way.

Silver

Silver

Silver is easily my favorite metal to wear. While Gold is beautiful,
impressive and inspires power, I’ve always enjoyed the calmer, more tolerant
attitude that surrounds me when wearing Silver.

Native Silver, which refers to the pure mineral occurring in nature is quite
rare. Silver crystals are wiry, sometimes coiling and twinning so that
clusters can resemble bizarre bushes or trees. Cubic, octahedral and
dodecahedral crystals are extremely unusual and highly sought after. The
majority of native Silver is found as massive deposits, sheets, flakes or
grains.

While native Silver can be rare, there is a wide group of minerals that
include Silver in their composition or as a by-product. These Silver
minerals are usually divided into four categories: Silver Sulfides
(Acanthite, Argentite, Stephanite) which form in deposits caused by lower
temperature hydrothermal (hot water) veins; Silver sulfosalts (Antimony,
Bismuth) which usually form in the primary hydrothermal veins; Silver
halides, these photo-sensitive minerals are used in the chemicals that bring
photographic exposures to life; Silver amalgams – Copper, Gold, Galena, Zinc
and other minerals that produce Silver as a by-product. In all, there are
approximately 150 different species of Silver minerals. The majority of the
Silver used in industry and exchange comes from these secondary sources.

The first Silver mines were in an area call Antolia, which is near modern
Turkey. In 900 BC the Larium mines by Athens Greece began operating – these
mines would produce most of the world’s Silver for 1,000 years. Rome mined
their Silver in Spain, emptying out those mines by the middle ages.

Today the top six producing countries in the world are Mexico, USA, Canada,
Russia, Peru and Australia. Silver is also found in Bolivia, Norway, Czech
Republic, Germany and Austria. The largest piece of native Silver ever is a
massive specimen that weighs 844 pounds that was found near Aspen Colorado.
The Coeur d’Alene mines in Idaho are the largest producers of the mineral in
the world, digging out a total of one billion ounces since it began
operation in 1880.

Modern life has found many practical uses for the versatile physical
properties of this metallic crystal. It is highly malleable and ductile,
meaning it can be stretched and pounded to extreme limits. An ounce of
Silver can be stretched into a 30 mile long wire; it can be pounded into a
thinness of 1/100,000 of an inch. It has the highest optical reflective
qualities of any metal, making it very useful in mirrors and solar energy.
It is resistant to extreme temperatures and exhibits excellent conductivity,
so it is used in switches, batteries, coatings and and endless list of
electronic applications.

Photography, bearings, jewelry, coins, water purification, silverware and
almost anything you turn off and on depend on Silver.

While Gold and Bronze may have made an earlier introduction in Human
history, Silver’s impact is no less significant. Very early in that history
it was noticed that liquids kept in Silver containers remained fresh and
pure longer. In fact a Persian king, Cyrus the Great took an unusual
approach to his subjects’ physical health. During his reign, between 550-529
BC, he set up one of the first boards of health and established a medical
dispensary. Plus, drinking water was drawn from a special stream, boiled and
then stored in massive Silver containers.

Numerous legends, traditions and myths have grown up around this bright
reflective mineral. In the Greek and Roman myths, the second age of the
Olympians is the Silver Age, when man began to civilize and develop his
environment. The doors to Apollo’s palace on Mount Olympus were Silver and
his sister, Artemis was fond of using arrowheads dipped in the mineral.
Dian Cecht, the Irish God of Healing replaced the warrior Nuada’s hand with
one made of Silver when his was lost in a great battle. The home of the
Norse Gods, Asgard, is filled with palaces constructed of Silver and Gold.
Ulysses’ leather bag that held the Winds was tied with a Silver string.
Chinese children were often given lockets made of Silver to protect them
from harm.

Certain purification rites practiced by the Egyptians called for special
basins made of Silver. Such practices even find their way into contemporary
rituals. Catholic, Anglican and Lutheran chalices for their masses must be
constructed of Gold, Silver or Vermeil.

As a magical tool Silver has been used to reflect and capture Lunar
energies. It also provided protection against evil intent, reflecting spells
and harm back to the sender.

You can also use it to enhance your psychic skills. Wearing or sleeping with
the metal can both be effective. You can use a piece with the Moon for
psychic trancing. Take a small polished Silver object and catch the
reflection of the Moon’s light. Focus your gaze on this point until you
begin to feel your psychic energies awakening. Keep a journal of your
experiences, making note of your progress and improvements in your skill.

If you want to wear gemstones or crystals that you are working with, Silver
is the perfect metal to set them in. It has almost no vibrational impact on
stones. On the contrary, it can help enhance the connection between the
wearer and the gem, allowing for a gentle flow of energy between the two.
Over time, the Silver will absorb and reflect the same energy as the stone
set in it, much like Grandmother Moon absorbs and reflects the Sun’s light.
Place a piece of this mineral on your forehead to activate and open your
Third Eye Chakra. A Silver bracelet worn around the wrist of your receptive
hand will aid you in receiving channeled information and drawing certain
energy forms.

Use the Lunar qualities of your Silver to balance your life; growing what is
good and necessary while voiding whatever causes you harm or prevents your
evolution. Let it perform like a psychic mirror, allowing you to see your
life from the outside. View this new perspective without judgment, but with
a purer knowledge of what is best for your highest good.

Practitioners of astral travel may like using Silver as an anchor as they
move from one reality to another. It provides a kind of energy beam or
signal trace that allows you to always “see” where your physical body is. So
you aren’t distracted by the fear of not being able to return.

There is a long history and tradition of healing associated with Silver. It
is believed Silver (Colloidal Silver) is antibacterial, a sort of
disinfectant for the Human body that boosts your immunity. Several resources
suggest that this metal, when ingested, kills anaerobic (nitrogen breathing)
bacteria – which are very bad. It lets aerobic (oxygen breathing) bacteria
survive, which are very good, especially for digestion.

Silver was used in many ancient cultures to purify water and prevent
festering in wounds. In 1884, a Dr. F. Crede discovered Silver could cure a
disease that had been responsible for causing blindness in thousands of
babies.

Energy workers will find this metal a wonderful conduit for sending energy
to a patient. It can also be used to help channel the energies of stones in
healing. Turquoise, Carnelian, Moonstone, Amethyst and Quartz are excellent
healing stones to channel with Silver.

This mineral should also be beneficial in treating some infectious diseases,
like hepatitis or the flu. Silver may help cleanse your blood and correct
chemical and hormonal imbalances. In more traditional medicine it is used
for dental fillings and fittings, plus surgical implants.

By Stephanie Pflumm

Today’s Goddess: Diana

Today’s Goddess: Diana

Festival of Diana (Rome)
 
Themes: Fertility; Children; Providence; Abundance; Harvest
Symbols: Moon; Water; Forest Items; Sun
 
About Diana: This Roman goddess embodies the moon’s fertility and watery aspects,
along with the sun’s protective and nurturing power over the forests and its creatures.
On this day she was celebrated in Rome, and she will be remembered in our hearts
as the huntress who helps us capture the spiritual “food” we need.
 
To Do Today: Starting on August 13, the Romans had a weeklong festival for Diana,
praying to her for the harvest’s bounty, and to turn damaging storms away. The traditional
place to leave an offering of fruit or vines for her is in the forest, or at a crossroads.
 
As you do, if any stone or leaf catches your eye, pick it up and carry it as a charm
that will keep Diana’s power with you that entire day. Come night, release the gift to
flowing water or back to the earth with a prayer of thanks and a wish for one of Diana’s
attributes that you wish to develop in your life.
 
It is also customary to light some fire source to honor her on August 15 or anytime during
the festivities. Afterward, to generate this goddess’s physical or figurative fertility within you,
follow Roman convention and wash your hair with specially prepared water (water to which
just a little milk is added so that it looks white, like the moon). If you have children, doing
this for them incurs Diana’s protection over their lives.
.

By Patricia Telesco~ From “365 Goddess”

The Book Of Hours: Prayers to the Goddess

Lady,

 

Your hair becomes a tangle of
green vines and wheat and sweet blossoms
of undefined fruit.
Your arms embrace the sky as
Terra is eternally begotten anew,
ever-emerging from Your boundless womb.
In rapture You call forth life
and without You all would be barren.
I call upon You with many-sided names;
You answer with your rainbow-colored smile.

Meditation

Your garden grows (or sleeps) What do you see in the growing? What do you see as potential?

Daily Affirmation

In the Name of the All-Mother: I will complete a project today.
 

Closing Prayer

Terra Mater, Mother of all life. I give

Thee thanks for Thy blessings–

the fruit of the vanes;the fruit of my spirit;

life’s abundance.

 

Blessed Be

…

 

 

The Book Of Hours: Prayers to the Goddess

By Galen Gillotte

School of Seasons

School of Seasons

 

Rome: Portunalia, a festival honoring Portunis, an aspect of the god Janus. Also called the Tiberinalia, or the festival of the
Tiber river, as he is the God of the Tiber. Portunis is also the God of keys, and the opening of locked gates. On this day old
keys were burned in the hearth as a sacrificial offering. Also on this day, Romans celebrated the Festival of Diana, Goddess of
the Moon, the protector of all young girls and chastity, and Goddess of the Hunt. The coincidence of festivals honoring the
God of Keys and the Goddess who protected virginity is apt.

Asatru: Odin’s Ordeal, from August 17-25. Also called Othin, Wotan, and Wodin, he was the Nordic and Germanic all-father.
From the Viking age, Odin survived the Christianization of Europe and is still remembered, despite a period when even
saying his name was banned by the Church. He ruled over the Valkyries and rewarded slain heroes with glorious afterlife in
the Hall of Valhalla, where warrior spirits wait in readiness to defend Asgard against the Jotuns and Frost Giants at the
foretold battle of Ragnarokk. Odin’s symbol is the valknut knot, his animal is the raven, his weapon is a rune-carved spear.
Odin’s story has obvious parallels to the story of Christ: he once pierced himself with his own spear, and hung for 9 days on
the world tree, Yggdrasill, to gain knowledge throughcommunication with the dead.

1950: Native American mystic and medicine man, Nicholas ‘Black Elk,’ died in Manderson, SD. Profiled in the book, “Black Elk
Speaks” by John G. Neihrdt, known for his powers of prophecy and healing, a warrior of the Oglala Sioux tribe. Black Elk was an
adherent of the Ghost Dance, and witnessed the tragic massacre of followers of this Native American spiritual “last stand” at
Wounded Knee, SD, in 1890.
.

 

Remember the ancient ways and keep them sacred!

Seasons Of The Witch – Ancient Holidays (and some not so ancient!)

Seasons Of The Witch – Ancient Holidays (and some not so ancient!)

 

Blessing of the Grapes – In Armenia, the blessing of the Grapes takes place on the Sunday closest to the Assumption (they coincide this year). No grapes are eaten until today when they are taken to church to be blessed, then distributed to the churchgoers when they leave. Women named Mary have parties in vineyards or their homes (because this is considered their name day — as in many cultures, the saint’s day associated with your name is celebrated like a birthday). Spicer, Dorothy Gladys, The Book of Festivals, The Women’s Press 1937

 

Hera Thelkinia – On the 20th day of the lunar month of Metageitnion, the Greeks celebrated this festival in honor of Hera as Thelkinia, which some translate as the Charmer and others as the Enchanter.

 

Cat Nights -Someone thought that cats deserved their own month-long holiday after the Dog Days and decided that this was the starting date for it. Makes sense to me.

 

Portunalia – An obscure Roman festival associated with the harbor god Portunus, whose symbol was the key. He may have been a god of gates, or the keys that secure grain storehouses. Until AD 17, this was also the dedication day of Janus’s temple. Considering the value of stored grain, which is both food in winter and seed for spring, it makes sense that blessing the keys or transporting the grain to the storehouse at harvest time would become a sacred ritual.

 

China: FEAST OF THE HUNGRY GHOSTS. Wide variety of offerings for those who died orphans, paupers or beggars & those who died far from home. Those lonesome & desolate souls may return to inhabit leaves & grasses, & spread plagues. If offerings are made, they may stay away.

Lunar Lore

Lunar Lore

…

Ye stars and moon, that, when the sun retires,
Support his empire with succeeding fires;
And thou, great Hecate, friend to my design;
Songs, mutt’ring spells, your magick forces join;
And thou, O Earth, the magazine that yields
The midnight sorcerer drugs; skies, mountains, fields;

– Ovid, “Metamorphoses,” Dryden’s translation.
…

Silver was, by the ancient alchemists,
called “Diana” or the Moon.

– Brewer, “Dictionary of Phrase & Fable”.
…

The silent city was flooded with the
mellowest light that ever streamed from the moon,
and seemed like some living creature
wrapped in peaceful slumber.

– Mark Twain, “The American Vandal Abroad.”

Today Is: Woden’s Day

Today Is: Woden’s Day 

Energy: Male Ruler: Mercury – Rules healings, the mind – Use for magick involving mental issues, learning, higher education, addictions, communications, travel, young people, messages, perception, self-expression, artists, poets, and writers

  • Today’s Magickal Influences: Conjurations, Predictions, Knowledge, Writing, Eloquence
  • Today’s Goddesses: Aset [Isis], Demeter, Ceres, Spider Woman, Bona Dea, Oya, Devi-Kali, Hella, Rhiannon, Coatlique, Maman Brigette, Sekhmet, Het Heret [Hathor]

  • Incense: Cinnamon, Cinquefoil

  • Perfumes: Sweetpea, Lavender, Mastic, Frankincense, Cloves

  • Color of The Day: Yellow, Gray, Violet

  • Colors for Tomorrow: Purple, Indigo, Blue

  • Lucky Sign: Wednesday Is The Lucky Day For Gemini And Virgo

  • Candle: Purple Violet

 

‘THINK on THESE THINGS’

‘THINK on THESE THINGS’
By Joyce Sequichie Hifler

In this jet age when almost “instant there” is completely accepted, the world has become very small. The days of remaining in one’s own birthplace are near an end, and those who never dreamed of traveling have adjusted themselves to it quite well.

And with shorter distances between us and our neighbors it seems our worlds should find more opportunities for mutual understanding. But we must realize that even though our material worlds may be easily crossed, our thoughts are worlds apart. Until we can bring together a thinking people with the desire to create living conditions that are peaceful and full of kindness, fast travel can waver between good and bad.

A British novelist and poet, George Moore, said, “It is thought, and thought only, that divides right from wrong; it is thought, and thought only that elevates or degrades human deeds and desires.”

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Available online! ‘Cherokee Feast of Days’
By Joyce Sequichie Hifler.

Elder’s Meditation of the Day – August 17

Elder’s Meditation of the Day – August 17

“If a child hasn’t been given spiritual values within the family setting, they have no familiarity with the values that are necessary for the just and peaceful functioning in society.”

Eunice Baumann-Nelson, Ph.D., PENOBSCOT

When we are born, we start with a beautiful empty mind ready to be given our beliefs, attitudes, habits and expectations. Most of our true learning comes from watching the actions of others. As we watch our family or relatives, whatever their actions and values are, so will be the children’s values and acts. If we see our families living a just and peaceful way of life, so then will the children. If we see our family shouting, arguing and hateful, so will it be for the children. The cycle of life – baby, youth, adult and Elder is all connected. If the older ones have good values, it will be connected to the children.

Oh my Creator, if there are values I have missed, it is not too late. I can get them from You. Teach me today Your spiritual values. Respect, trust, giving, honesty, wisdom – teach me these.

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August 17 – Daily Feast

August 17 – Daily Feast

 
We never really lose anyone. If they were ever a part of our lives, they are always a part of our lives. The important thing is not to regret what has gone before but to take from it the lesson, the experience that was in it for us. Lie is a two-way street, not always sunshine and flowers but a few clouds, a few tears, go with it. It is a complex mixture of many things we are supposed to glean from it. We cannot park by what went wrong, nor can we linger forever by something we might have done right. It is a progressive, moving time filled with new experiences, memories both good and not so good, and many promising hours. It is possible to put our emotions aside and remember joy. But above all, the best is yet to be.

~ The Great Spirit placed me here…..to take good care of the ground and to do each other no harm. ~

YOUNG CHIEF

‘A Cherokee Feast of Days’, by Joyce Sequichie Hifler

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Your Daily Number for August 17th: 9

Today brings with it a grand opportunity for healing your mind and body. Get rest, and treat yourself to a massage or some other rejuvenating ‘time out.’ You may have a conversation later in the day that helps you strengthen your bond with another.

Fast Facts

About the Number 9

Theme: Encompassing a love for all, Compassion, Patience, Selfless
Astro Association: Virgo
Tarot Association: Hermit

Today’s Tarot Card for August 17th is Strength

Strength

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

This Tarot Deck: Angel Tarot

General Meaning: What has traditionally been known as the Strength card represents Nature which, however wild in its primal form, is tamed by our subtler, finer (feminine, interior) self. The will and passion of our instinctive nature does not need to be broken, but refined and brought to consciousness — so that all levels of Creation, inner and outer, may come into harmony.

The feminine soul-force contains a persuasive power that can nurture and induce cooperation from others, stilling disruptive energies by harmonizing differences in the spirit of collective good will.

Your Daily Horoscopes for Wednesday, August 17th

The impulsive Aries Moon can get us into a heap of trouble today unless we consciously practice patience. Our moods are on a rollercoaster ride as the Moon joins explosive Uranus, squares passionate Pluto and reckless Mars, and then opposes karmic Saturn. Additionally, a red-hot Sun-Mars alignment floods our bodies with adrenaline, provoking fear or anger. No one gets to sit on the sidelines now; we are fully engaged whether we like it or not.

 

Aries Horoscope
Aries Horoscope (Mar 21 – Apr 19)

It’s challenging to contain yourself now that the Moon is back in your sign. You may spend so much time trying to get ahead, only to be delayed by circumstances beyond your control. Perhaps you really believe that you can talk your way out of anything, but it’s hard to find your way through this tricky period. Don’t whine if your boss sends you back to finish an incomplete task. Just make sure you do it right so you can fully enjoy yourself later on.

Taurus Horoscope
Taurus Horoscope (Apr 20 – May 20)

You aren’t necessarily forthcoming about your intentions today because you think that your enthusiasm could attract resistance. Discretion is a smart tactic now; although you probably won’t get what you want, your perseverance is very likely to be rewarded. However, you know that it’s not enough to wait for the right moment. Use your current time wisely to improve upon your plan for success.

Gemini Horoscope
Gemini Horoscope (May 21 – Jun 20)

The demands on your time could be overwhelming because you’re surrounded by people with big ideas. Still, you don’t want to engage in lighthearted banter and playful games that distract you from your real purpose. Nevertheless, you know how to have a good time; it’s just that you would enjoy yourself more if the pressure of unfulfilled obligations wasn’t weighing heavily on your mind. Save the long-winded explanations for another time. Simply let others know that it’s nothing personal and that you will join in the fun after your work is done.

Cancer Horoscope
Cancer Horoscope (June 21 – Jul 22)

You don’t want to play the role of the bad guy just because no one else is taking responsibility for what needs to be done. The situation can be nerve-wracking, especially if others on your work team are as disorganized as they appear. But don’t be overly critical; you might be correct in your perceptions, yet outright confrontation won’t bring you any closer to your goals. Fortunately, your current frustration should begin to fade tomorrow when everybody seems more cooperative.

Leo Horoscope
Leo Horoscope (Jul 23 – Aug 22)

It isn’t enjoyable to have an adventurous streak if you cannot find a way to express it today. Unfortunately, you might experience a block in your imagination that prevents you from getting a lot done. Maybe a current event triggers an old negative thinking pattern. Or, perhaps, someone is covertly working to thwart your efforts. Instead of dealing with obstacles head-on now and fulfilling your current need for an adrenaline rush, ease off and let the tension settle on its own accord.

Virgo Horoscope
Virgo Horoscope (Aug 23 – Sep 22)

You don’t normally mind playing with fire if you are well-trained in pyrotechnical matters. It’s much easier for you to feel confident if you’re the one who’s in control. You know where you want to go and have a plan to get you there. However, you grow disheartened if someone stands in your way and tries to limit your freedom. Don’t attempt to assume authority today, for you will only make matters worse. Your best move now is to temporarily acquiesce or to retreat. You’ll be back in the driver’s seat tomorrow.

Libra Horoscope
Libra Horoscope (Sep 23 – Oct 22)

If you’re trying to avoid a commitment, you may not be able to escape it too much longer. Unfortunately, your current options may not include what you’re looking for now. You might become so discouraged that you want to throw your hands up in the air and just walk away from it all. But accepting defeat won’t make you any happier. It’s better to admit your dissatisfaction and continue to search for common ground. Be persistent and you will find a way through this uncomfortable dilemma.

Scorpio Horoscope
Scorpio Horoscope (Oct 23 – Nov 21)

Three planets in steadfast Leo and your 10th House of Public Life require you to be disciplined as you work toward achieving your goals. However, you may not be satisfied with how long it will take. You want to sprint to the finish line, but it’s still too far away. Do what you do best under pressure and focus on the deep satisfaction that you’ll feel when you’re done, rather than the frustration you experience along the way.

Sagittarius Horoscope
Sagittarius Horoscope (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

You could be flying on a creative high today, but instead you might run into blockades and delays that can bamboozle you. You aren’t clear about what you’re doing differently now or why you have lost your edge. Instead of worrying about being productive, consider each setback as an opportunity to catch your breath. Don’t push too hard; your confidence will return soon enough.

Capricorn Horoscope
Capricorn Horoscope (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

It’s tough to express your emotions today, especially if you believe that someone has already squared off for battle. Ironically, you don’t even want to win; you are more interested in people acknowledging your feelings and validating your perceptions. Avoid playing the blame game or you can inadvertently put a friend or partner on the defense. Be extra careful to take full responsibility for what’s in your heart.

Aquarius Horoscope
Aquarius Horoscope (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

You might waste time and energy following a wide variety of interests today. Although you’re able to make progress, it feels as if there are stop signs facing you no matter which way you turn. But staying active is a double-edged sword because you could miss an important lesson. Slow down and pause long enough to get a clearer version of the picture. There’s no need to be in such a hurry to go anywhere when there’s plenty for you to do right where you are.

Pisces Horoscope
Pisces Horoscope (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

You may believe that spending money on something you want today increases your chances for happiness. You might be tempted to take a quick weekend getaway, but don’t have the extra cash available for discretionary purchases. Don’t get discouraged because good news is coming your way in the next day or two. In the meantime, concentrating your energy on a creative project that makes you feel good is better than the temporary pleasure of any escapist behavior.

the daily humorscopes for wednesday, august 17th

the daily humorscope

 

Wednesday, August 17, 2011

 
Aries (March 21 – April 19)
It’s time to seriously consider indoor golf. How else are you going to use terms like “mashee” or “niblick” in casual conversation?
Taurus (April 20 – May 20)
Good day to bring home a bag or two of live bugs.
Gemini (May 21 – June 20)
You’re about to spend a considerable amount of time with someone who personifies “dour.” The kind of person who never once clapped for Tinkerbell, even as a child. Just ignore them, if you can. If you can’t ignore them, pretend they are a duck.
Cancer (June 21 – July 22)
Having trouble sticking to that diet, aren’t you? It’s even harder when you see all those enticing commercials for fast food on TV. The trick to dealing with those is to use your imagination – mayonnaise becomes shaving cream, a burger becomes compressed compost, and everything else is coated with synthetic motor oil. Which, these days, is pretty close to the truth.
Leo (July 23 – August 22)
Paper airplane day, today. Have as much fun as you can stand — tomorrow will be ugly.
Virgo (August 23 – September 22)
Today you’ll start a new rock group, named “SPAM Catapult”, and kick things off with a really smokin’ number combining the best aspects of reggae, rap, and polka.
Libra (September 23 – October 22)
Good day to curl up with a good book. Later, you will build a fort out of your furniture and some sheets, and shoot rubber bands at people.
Scorpio (October 23 – November 21)
Excellent day to be expansive and benevolent. It will make people worry.
Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21)
While poring over some old historical documents, you will discover that the Norman invasion was actually supposed to be the “Bob” invasion, but Norman stole the credit for it. Sadly, it will turn out to be too late to change it now.
Capricorn (December 22 – January 20)
Beware! The Celestial Jade Emperor may banish you to the Big Grumpy Place if you don’t start paying more attention to the four Winds. Obviously, this is a metaphor, somehow involving Cleveland.
Aquarius (January 21 – February 18)
People will begin complimenting you on how clean you are. You will find this strangely irritating.
Pisces (February 19 – March 20)
It’s nice that you’ve made good friends that you feel comfortable with. You might be getting a trifle TOO comfy, though – or you wouldn’t keep nodding off while talking with them.

Astronomy Picture of the Day for August 17th

Astronomy Picture of the Day

Discover the cosmos!Each day a different image or photograph of our fascinating universe is featured, along with a brief explanation written by a professional astronomer.

2011 August 17

Perseid Below
Credit: Ron Garan, ISS Expedition 28 Crew, NASA

Explanation: Denizens of planet Earth watched this year’s Perseid meteor shower by looking up into the moonlit night sky. But this remarkable view captured by astronaut Ron Garan looks down on a Perseid meteor. From Garan’s perspective onboard the International Space Station orbiting at an altitude of about 380 kilometers, the Perseid meteors streak below, swept up dust left from comet Swift-Tuttle heated to incandescence. The glowing comet dust grains are traveling at about 60 kilometers per second through the denser atmosphere around 100 kilometers above Earth’s surface. In this case, the foreshortened meteor flash is right of frame center, below the curving limb of the Earth and a layer of greenish airglow. Out of the frame, the Sun is on the horizon beyond one of the station’s solar panel arrays at the upper right. Seen above the meteor near the horizon is bright star Arcturus and a star field that includes the constellations Bootes and Corona Borealis. The image was recorded on August 13 while the space station orbited above an area of China approximately 400 kilometers to the northwest of Beijing.