Day: December 2, 2024

Some Humor for Your Day

May the rest of your day be filled with relaxation, love, and all positive things!

Until we meet again blessed be.

If you want to see some information on any tradition of witchcraft or herbs or flowers or anything pertaining to witchcraft, please put it in the comment section or email Lady Carla Beltane at ladybeltane@witchesofthecraft.com. I will try to find some information to post about it. If you want a friend to talk to please email me and I will get back to you as soon as possible. We can do it by email or audio or video Skype. I am an ordained minster the reason this might be important to you is I cannot discuss anything we talk about with anyone else (even Big Dawg)

Spell For Tuesday – Embracing Your True Self: A Cord Cutting Ritual

(YOU CAN COPY AND PASTE ANY SPELLS POSTED TO A DOCUMENT TO PRINT AND/OR SAVE ON YOUR COMPUTER FOR PERSONAL USE ONLY)

Embracing Your True Self: A Cord Cutting Ritual

What taught beliefs are you ready to purge? What feels like you and how do you want to share that person in the world? While not everyone will be comfortable with your true self, know that it’s OK to change and evolve. So long as you feel at home in your energy know that you are on the right path.

REQUIRED MATERIALS:

A black taper candle

Banishment herbal spell mix

Cut & Clear oil

A white or red skull candle (skulls focus on the mind)

Empowerment herbal spell mix

Master key oil

String or twine (dental floss will work in a pinch)

Good Juju soap

Magical tip: when I am attracting something I like to fill my candle with as much intention and yummy energy as possible. “You catch more flies with honey than vinegar is a well-known English proverb.” When I want to banish something I leave my candle empty of intention. Leave room so that what you are banishing can fill up the candle. 

HOW TO PERFORM:

Begin by cleansing your candles by running them under cold water for 30 seconds.

While holding your black candle connect with the patterns and beliefs you want to shed. Take 3 full breaths and blow out your breath over your candle as forcefully as you can. Visualize those outdated beliefs being pushed out of your body through your breath.

Start dressing your candle by engraving the old patterns and beliefs onto your candle. Cover the candle with the cut & clear oil. Move in a counter clockwise direction from bottom to top to draw away from you. Finish by applying the banishment herbal blend to your candle. Once your candle is fully dressed place your candle in a fire safe container on your altar.

While holding your white skull candle connect to your authentic self. Who do you want to be in society? Take 3 full breaths and blow your intention over your candle. whisper your intention to your candle. Fill it with your true self, your true desires, who you really want to be.

To dress your candle first choose a symbol or create a sigil for empowerment. Carve your symbol or sigil and your intention onto your candle. Next your candle in the master key oil. Move in a clockwise direction from the top to the bottom to draw your true self to the surface. Finally apply the empowerment herbal blend to your oiled candle. Once your candle is fully dressed and charged place your candle in a fire safe container on your altar next to your black candle.

Cut 8 or so inches of string. Tie one end to the wick on your black candle and tie the other end to the wick of your skull candle. Move the candles away from each other until the cord is taught.

Feel the cord keeping yourself attached to the societal beliefs you want to rid yourself of. Think of various times those beliefs have stopped you from being your authentic self. For an extra boost write your list on a piece of paper to burn once your candles are lit.

Once you feel ready, take a match, or a piece of wood (everyone has takeout chopsticks or toothpicks in their drawers) and light it on fire. Really feel this part! Take the piece of wood and hold it in the middle of the string, feeling the cord connecting yourself to the unwanted beliefs BURN AND SNAP!

Depending on the string used, it should spread to the two wicks, but if not simply light those two candles separately. While the candles are burning continue to feel any remains of those beliefs unchain you. Do some breath of fire, jump around, move vigorously to expel those beliefs from your body.

Take some time to divine any messages your candle flame has to offer. Candle flames can indicate possible blocks or results of your spell depending on the way it is burning.

Finish by burning the list if you have one in the black candle flame. Allow the candles to burn out.

Immediately go take a shower and clean yourself with the good Juju soap to attract good luck and fortune to you. Continue using the soap for 7 days for a powerful effect.

To dispose of your spell, carry the black candle far from your property and throw it into a trash can or dumpster that is emptied often. You can bury the remains of the white candle on your property or throw it into a bonfire that you are enjoying.

Some of the Witchcraft/Magickal Correspondence for Tuesday

(YOU CAN COPY AND PASTE ANY COROSPONDENCES POSTED TO A DOCUMENT TO PRINT AND/OR SAVE ON YOUR COMPUTER)

Tuesday Source: witchucation.com

Tuesday is ruled by Mars.

Do spells and rituals concerning war, battle, conflict, defence, competition, lust. Physical endurance, sports, hunting, politics.

Tuesday Source: smudgemetaphysical.com

Planet: Mars

Colour: scarlet, red, black, and orange.

Plants: snapdragon, thistle, and holly

Stone: garnet, bloodstone

Herbs: Basil, Ginger, Black Pepper, Dragon’s blood and patchouli

Oils:Dragon’s Blood Oil

God/Goddess: Ares, Tiwaz, Tiw, and Tyr.

Food: carrots, peppers, and garlic

Tuesday is ruled by the planet mars who is associated with the roman god of war Ares. This day of the week is perfect for any areas of your life that requires strength, courage and speed. 

This day is also great for boosting your energetic shields, to guard yourself before jumping into action. 

Spells and rituals: courage, physical strength, revenge, military honours, surgery, the breaking of negative spells, dynamic energy, matrimony, war, enemies, prison, hunting, politics, contests, protection, victory, and athletics.

Trusty Tuesday spells:

Take a ritual bath with epson salts, a garnet and dragon’s blood oil to cleanse yourself and boost your protection shields and armour up. 

Start your day with a hearty omelet with peppers and garlic to strengthen you throughout the day.

Wear red, orange and black today and use colour magic to boost your confidence and bring courage into your day.

A History of Litha and Midsummer

Litha, also known as Midsummer or the Summer Solstice, is an ancient festival celebrated by various cultures around the world. Litha has its roots in ancient agricultural societies that heavily relied on the sun for their livelihoods. The festival marks the peak of the sun’s power and the longest day of the year. Celtic mythology associates Litha with the Oak King, representing the waxing power of the sun. Bonfires were lit during Litha to honor the sun’s strength and ensure abundant harvests. In Norse traditions, the solstice was celebrated with bonfires, feasts, and ceremonies dedicated to Freyr, the fertility god.

Where does the name Litha Come from?

The name “Litha” is derived from Old English and has its origins in the Anglo-Saxon calendar. The term “Litha” is believed to be related to the word “liþa,” which translates to “gentle” or “calm” in Old English. It refers to the period of the summer solstice when the sun reaches its highest point in the sky and the day is at its longest. The term gained popularity among modern pagan and Wiccan communities as they sought to reclaim and revive ancient traditions and festivals. Today, Litha is widely recognized and celebrated as the name for the festival that marks the summer solstice.

Litha and the Wheel of the Year

Litha is part of the Wheel of the Year, a cycle of seasonal celebrations observed by modern pagan and Wiccan communities. It represents the changing seasons and the eternal cycle of life, death, and rebirth. Litha stands opposite to Yule, the winter solstice, symbolizing the balance between light and darkness. It is a time to celebrate the fullness of life and embrace the energy of the sun.

Throughout history, Litha has been accompanied by various customs and rituals. Gathering medicinal herbs and plants believed to be more potent during this time is a common practice. These herbs are used in rituals and potions for health and protection. Another tradition is the construction of sunwheels, which are wheels adorned with flowers and set on fire. Rolling the wheel down a hill signifies the descent of the sun and the turning of the wheel of life.

Litha and Midsummer

Additionally, Litha is often associated with Midsummer, a celebration that extends beyond the pagan and Wiccan traditions. Midsummer festivities are observed in many cultures around the world, including Scandinavian countries where it holds a prominent place in their cultural heritage. Midsummer dances, bonfires, and feasts are integral parts of these celebrations, often accompanied by folklore and traditional rituals that honor the sun’s energy and the abundance of nature during this time.

In modern times, Litha is celebrated by pagans, Wiccans, and nature-based spiritual communities. Many gather at ancient sacred sites, such as Stonehenge, to witness the sunrise and … Click here to read the rest of this article Source: mabonhouse.co

December 2, 2024 Daily Horoscopes

Click here to read Georgia Nicols Daily, Weekly and Monthly Horoscopes

Click here for Anyone’s Birthday or Daily or Monthly Horoscopes Source: thehoroscope.co

Moon Alert

Caution! Avoid shopping or important decisions from 10:15 AM to 4:30 PM EST today (7:15 AM to 1:30 PM). After that, the Moon moves from Sagittarius into Capricorn

The Stars Rate Your Day

5-Dynamic; 4-Positive; 3-Average; 2-So-so; 1-Difficult

Aries (March 21-April 19)

**** A sudden attraction to someone older or more established, or perhaps in a position of power (like a boss) might happen today. This will be swift and probably brief. But it will be thrilling, as sudden attractions are. (Eyes across a crowded room and all that.)

Taurus (April 20-May 20)

**** A flirtation or a romance with someone different, perhaps from another country or culture, might begin today. You will also be inspired by unusual art and the unique creations of others. Surprise opportunities to travel might drop in your lap! (Interesting Monday.)

Gemini (May 21-June 20)

**** A sudden benefit might come to you through someone else or via a partner or close friend. Someone might give you a gift, or money, or an advantage, or let you use something they own. Avoid important decisions during the Moon Alert today when you should restrict shopping to food and gas.

Cancer (June 21-July 22)

*** Do be aware that a large part of this day is a Moon Alert, which can be conducive to fun socializing and artistic, creative endeavours. This is why sudden attractions and a desire for fresh experiences, especially in relationships, might arise. (Not a boring day!)

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22)

**** Unexpected benefits through others might occur at work today. Coworkers might help you. In fact, a coworker might be so friendly that a flirtation or a romance begins? You will also be drawn to chances to express your artistic talents.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

**** This is an exciting day full of adventure and unexpected possibilities! Get dressed and be ready for anything. Go off and see what the world offers because social diversions, fun interactions with others, flirtations, interesting sports connections and playful activities with kids will please you.

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)

**** You might have some interesting ideas about how to make your home more attractive today. If you’re shopping for beautiful things, be aware of the restrictions of today’s Moon Alert. However, it’s a great day to spontaneously entertain at home. Invite someone over for laughter, food and drink!

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

**** Spontaneous short trips and chances to see new places and meet new faces will delight you today. This is because you want some adventure! You also want a chance to be spontaneous and explore whatever interests you. Beware of the restrictions of the Moon Alert when it comes to spending money.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)

*** Interesting financial opportunities are present today; however, don’t sign important papers or agree to anything important during the Moon Alert (see above). Nevertheless, a financial windfall might come your way. You might boost your earnings? You might have a chance to buy something you like?

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

**** A spontaneous purchase of wardrobe items for yourself might occur today; however, don’t do this during the Moon Alert. (See above.) Meanwhile, this is a great day to socialize and meet new people. Be bold and ready to mingle with someone unusual and different. Test the boundaries of your cautious crib.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)

**** A secret love affair, especially with someone different, might percolate today. (You are often attracted to characters.) Be spontaneous! Explore new interests and embrace your individuality. Sudden attractions will lead to fresh experiences that intrigue and titillate. Oh my.

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20)

*** A platonic friendship might turn flirtatious today because of unexpected and surprising energy in the air. You might foster unique connections and sudden attractions with unusual people, at least unusual in your playbook. You want to try new things! (Check Moon Alert.)

If Your Birthday Is Today

Singer Britney Spears (1988) shares your birthday today. You are creative and spontaneous. You have a strong adventurous, sunny spirit. People respond to your friendly nature. Simplicity is the key to life this year. It’s time to work to build structures both physical and internal. Explore martial arts and yoga. Stay grounded and levelheaded.

Aries (March 21-April 19)

You are running from some chores and might actually congratulate yourself on how imaginative you are while at it but it seems that even the trickster can be tricked at times and you will probably end up in a bigger trouble with more complicated tasks than from the beginning.

And if this doesn’t happen at work, at home your partner will have like a sixth sense to get you house chores as you were too free at the office.

You can also read this special Aries Daily Horoscope.

Taurus (April 20-May 20)

You will see that this Monday will be more than a lazy wait for the weekend and you will actually get the chance to try your hand at something you didn’t do before.

This might couple perfectly with your need for some sort of adventure to happen but don’t expect anything out of the ordinary though. It might just be a really challenging task at work and that’s it.

You can also read this special Taurus Daily Horoscope.

Gemini (May 21-June 20)

This is a good period for you to get out with your partner as you both seem to be on the same frequency and little can go wrong.

On the other hand, we cannot say the same thing when it comes to you and people of a younger age than you, be it siblings or your own children. You are just not on the same track with them and might appear despotic in your decisions.

You can also read this special Gemini Daily Horoscope.

Cancer (June 21-July 22)

You’re not making enough sense of what is going on around you and this is why you are feeling as if something very important is missing from the picture.

And this is not only happening this Monday, but has occurred several days in the recent weeks. You should be content with what you have and look ahead rather than round, especially when it comes to long term goals.

You can also read this special Cancer Daily Horoscope.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22)

This Monday will bring some novelty in your love life but don’t expect to be served the exact answers to what is troubling you because you are not getting any of this.

What you might get though is the occasion to be open and the courage to ask the questions you might be afraid to ask. And who knows, with a bit of luck, you might actually get some useful answers and starts a communication process.

You can also read this special Leo Daily Horoscope.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

The current disposition can only promise a lot of work and no fun but you are allowed to work your magic around and maybe get some time off.

It does depend on how lucky you feel though and how willing you are to try your best. At home on the other hand, some things might come directly on a plate, in a surprising manner actually, with no effort required.

You can also read this special Virgo Daily Horoscope.

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)

You are full of energy but it’s not like you’ve had your five a day but more like you are mentally so peaceful that you get all of a sudden in the mood to do all kinds of activities.

If there is a problem you are quick to jump to fix it, if someone is complaining, you are quick to jump to the rescue. This Monday you are simply the doctor of every lost soul.

You can also read this special Libra Daily Horoscope.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

Time spent with your family will be the most satisfying part of this day and will probably get you in a big mood. This might help you get through the work Monday too so I would say it’s a win win.

On the other hand, the stars are not in a hurry to celebrate what you have around you so might challenge you a bit in terms of talking and conflict resulting from saying too much.

You can also read this special Scorpio Daily Horoscope.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)

This is a good time for activities in the outdoor for you, regardless of how the weather is in your region. So don’t be surprised if I’m asking you to get out in some rather extreme conditions, at least have a walk.

It will be good for your mind if not also for your body. Another way of getting some balance might be through a sport so don’t avoid such activities either.

You can also read this special Sagittarius Daily Horoscope.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

You are missing out on some free entertainment in your life; most likely because you are too busy complaining about work.

If you have to work extra hours this doesn’t mean you have to rant about this during the very few free hours you have left. In your relationship you will soon discover that your partner is trying to boss you around in those moments too.

You can also read this special Capricorn Daily Horoscope.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)

You are aware that in most people’s lives things are not simply and you are no exception. This is how your love life can be characterized this Monday.

And these are some things you won’t be able to escape, no matter how many extra hours you put in at work or how much you are trying to distract everyone’s attention. You have the tendency to go in the opposite extreme.

You can also read this special Aquarius Daily Horoscope.

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20)

Your house will probably be quite animated in the morning as everyone is getting ready for work but this is exactly when you risk turning all emotional.

You are quite in touch with your spiritual side and seem to try and be thankful for what you have. For some natives this might set up the tune of the whole day while others will be a lot more pragmatic.

You can also read this special Pisces Daily Horoscope.

Ancient Celebrations for Today LITHA

A lesser known Wheel of the Year celebration, Litha occurs during the Summer Solstice between June 19 -22.  More commonly referred to as Midsummer’s Night, Litha is believed to be a time when faerie folk pass into the human world at Twilight and offer blessings.  Litha is a time to celebrate the abundance and beauty of Mother Earth. Flowers are in bloom and gardens are producing fresh vegetables and fruits. Gather family and friends to celebrate the longest day of the year and coming harvest season.

History of Litha

Midsummer Night is the longest day of the year and has been celebrated in some fashion since ancient times.  In Pagan tradition, Litha marked the end of the Oak King’s reign and the rise of the Holly King, who oversees the world as the days gradually get shorter as the world descends into the cold dark of winter.

Like Beltane, fire is an element of Litha. Bonfires were lit to assist the sun as it journeyed across the sky, changing course and shortening the days.  It was believed that the faerie realm was the most accessible during Midsummer Night.

Litha was also a celebration of the Celctic goddess Danu (Anu) who represents earth and fruitfulness.  According to Irish mythology Danu was the Universal Mother of Tuatha De Danaan – a tribe of ancient people in Ireland believed to have invaded Ireland and ruled until being defeated in war on midsummer’s day, after which they retreated to the hills and eventually became the Faerie folk.

As Christianity swept across Europe in the early middle ages, Litha / Midsummer Night was adopted by the Catholic church as St. John’s Day, celebrating John the Baptist.

Setting Intentions at Litha

Symbols of Litha

Ways to Celebrate Litha

Click here to read the rest of this article Source: mabonhouse.co

What Is Yule? What Is a Yule Log?

The Story Behind Yule and the Yuletide Season

By Catherine Boeckmann

Are you familiar with the tradition of the Yule log? Or perhaps you like to “troll the ancient yuletide carols”? Yule is one of the oldest winter celebrations in the world—celebrated on the solstice. Learn more about this centuries-old festival and its traditions (including the Yule log cake!).

What Is Yule?

Today, “Yule” and “Yuletide” are largely synonymous with “Christmas” and “Christmastide,” but the meaning behind them is quite different from that of the Christian holiday.

“Yule” comes from Old English geol, which shares a history with the equivalent word from Old Norse jól. Both these words referred to a midwinter festival centered around the winter solstice, which traditionally marked the halfway point of the winter season. After the solstice—the shortest day of the year—the days again begin to grow longer, so it’s thought that Yule was a celebration of the reappearance of the Sun and the fertile land’s rebirth.

The celebration of Yule is one of the oldest winter celebrations in the world. Ancient people were hunters and spent most of their time outdoors. The seasons and weather played a significant part in their lives. The customs and traditions associated with it vary widely. Most commonly, the celebration consisted of a hearty feast and general revelry, which included wassailing (caroling), drinking, and dancing.

Later, when Christianity came to the British Isles, Christians adopted aspects of the pagan festival into a celebration of the birth of Christ. As Christianity began to spread in the 4th century, the Christmas feast day was set on December 25 by Pope Julius I to align with the Roman pagan holiday Dies natalis solis invicti, “the birthday of … Click here to read the rest of this article Source: almanac.com

November 2, 2024 Current Moon Phase for the Northern Hemispheres

Source: MoonGiant.com

You can use this link to go forward or backward in time for Moon phase information. If you are curious, you can even find out what phase the Moon was in when you or anyone else was born.

The 8 Lunar Phases

There are 8 lunar phases the Moon goes through in its 29.53 days lunar cycle. The 4 major Moon phases are Full Moon, New Moon, First Quarter and Last Quarter. Between these major phases, there are 4 minor ones: the Waxing Crescent, Waxing Gibbous, Waning Gibbous and Waning Crescent. For more info on the Moon Cycle and on each phase check out Wikipedia Lunar Phase page.

Useful Moon Resources

Check the weather before a night of Moon gazing at weather.com

For a list of all the current meteor showers visit American Meteor Society

The Moon’s current phase for today and tonight is a Waxing Crescent Phase. Best seen in the west after the sun dips below the horizon at sunset. This is the first Phase after the New Moon and is a great time to see the features of the moon’s surface. The moon is close to the sun in the sky and mostly dark except for the right edge of the moon which becomes brighter as the days get closer to the next phase which is a First Quarter with a 50% illumination.

Visit the December 2024 Moon Phases Calendar to see all the daily moon phase for this month.

Today’s Waxing Crescent Phase

The Waxing Crescent on December 2 has an illumination of 2%. This is the percentage of the Moon illuminated by the Sun. The illumination is constantly changing and can vary up to 10% a day. On December 2 the Moon is 1.41 days old. This refers to how many days it has been since the last New Moon. It takes 29.53 days for the Moon to orbit the Earth and go through the lunar cycle of all 8 Moon phases.

Today’s Moon Sign: ♐ Sagittarius

The current zodiac moon sign is Sagittarius, positioned at 24.78° within the sign. The Moon entered Sagittarius on Nov 30, 12:19 PM and will shift into Capricorn on Dec 2, 3:48 PM. The zodiac moon sign represents the position of the Moon as it moves through the twelve signs of the zodiac. Each zodiac moon sign lasts about 2 to 2.5 days as the Moon travels through that part of the sky.

Phase Details

Phase: Waxing Crescent
Illumination: 2%
Moon Age: 1.41 days
Moon Angle: 0.51
Moon Distance: 390,354.74 km
Sun Angle: 0.54
Sun Distance: 147,455,089.68 km

3 December 2024 Current Moon Phase for the Southern Hemisphere

Source: MoonGiant.com

You can use this link to go forward or backward in time for Moon phase information. If you are curious, you can even find out what phase the Moon was in when you or anyone else was born.

The 8 Lunar Phases

There are 8 lunar phases the Moon goes through in its 29.53 days lunar cycle. The 4 major Moon phases are Full Moon, New Moon, First Quarter and Last Quarter. Between these major phases, there are 4 minor ones: the Waxing Crescent, Waxing Gibbous, Waning Gibbous and Waning Crescent. For more info on the Moon Cycle and on each phase check out Wikipedia Lunar Phase page.

Useful Moon Resources

Check the weather before a night of Moon gazing at weather.com

For a list of all the current meteor showers visit American Meteor Society

The Moon’s current phase for today and tonight is a Waxing Crescent Phase. Best seen in the west after the sun dips below the horizon at sunset. This is the first Phase after the New Moon and is a great time to see the features of the moon’s surface. The moon is close to the sun in the sky and mostly dark except for the right edge of the moon which becomes brighter as the days get closer to the next phase which is a First Quarter with a 50% illumination.

Visit the December 2024 Moon Phases Calendar to see all the daily moon phase for this month.

Today’s Waxing Crescent Phase

The Waxing Crescent on December 3 has an illumination of 6%. This is the percentage of the Moon illuminated by the Sun. The illumination is constantly changing and can vary up to 10% a day. On December 3 the Moon is 2.38 days old. This refers to how many days it has been since the last New Moon. It takes 29.53 days for the Moon to orbit the Earth and go through the lunar cycle of all 8 Moon phases.

Phase Details

Phase: Waxing Crescent
Illumination: 6%
Moon Age: 2.38 days
Moon Angle: 0.52
Moon Distance: 385,719.77 km
Sun Angle: 0.54
Sun Distance: 147,432,924.23 km

What Is Yule and How Does It Differ from Christmas?

Let’s face it, by the time November rolls around, we’re all rooting for the return of light. And, there’s a celebration for just this thing. It’s called Yule.

What is Yule? Yule is the pagan holiday that celebrates the return of longer days. Many cultures — from ancient Germanic peoples to Celtic Druids — celebrated Yule. This turning of the wheel of the year also has traditions that may seem familiar to those who celebrate Christmas today.

What is Yule?

Yule is the time to celebrate the rebirth of the light after the very darkest part of the year. In neopagan traditions, Yule (also known as Jól) is when the god, who sacrificed himself at Samhain, has journeyed through the underworld and, in the embrace of the goddess, becomes the child of light.

Yule or the winter solstice is also the stage of the Wheel of the Year when the god transforms from the Oak King into the Holly King. He’ll shift back to the Oak King at the summer solstice.

The time between Samhain and Yule is one of purging what does not serve you and reflecting on the upcoming year with fresh eyes and hope for new beginnings.

Yule is the moment where the energy of the new year rises up. It is a wonderful time to look within and set intentions for the following year.

When is Yule?

What is Yuletide?

Is Yule the same as Christmas?

Click here to read the rest of this article Source: pagangrimoire.com

By Ash Elding is a writer and witch based in coastal New England. The roots of her practice are British Traditional Wicca and Alexandrian Wicca. She loves the Golden Dawn Tarot deck, Alan Moore’s Promethea, and keeps a fulgurite on her altar.