Author: Rev. Lady Carla Beltane

Merry meet Sisters, Brothers, and Honored Guests, I'm an ordained High Priestess walking my spiritual path as an Eclectic Witch for over 45 years. I'm also a wife, mother of 5, mother-in-law of 4 (although I treat them the same as those, I gave birth too) and grandmother of 10. I am a spirit mother and sister to many of my dearest friends and apprentices. My magickal companions are a Chihuahua, Star, 11-years-old and Miniature Pinscher, Cleo, 14-years-old. MY beloved husband is known as Big Dawg. We also another canine fur kid, Merlin, 11-years-old. We all live very happily in a small home in a small town in Illinois, USA. I enjoy helping witches find their spiritual and magickal path. More information for the novice or adept courses offered look under "WOTC's School of Witchcraft" on the main menu. Please email me at wotcladybeltane@gmail.com for further information about our novice or adept or private study with Lady Carla Beltane witchcraft courses. If you have questions or suggestions for posts please email me at ladybeltane@witchesofthecraft.com I offer different types of readings, house, aura, and chakra cleansings, look for "Readings and Cleansings Done by Lady Beltane" in the main menu. Merry part and blessed be, Lady Carla Beltane

February 19 Today in History

Today’s Important Historical Events

356 Emperor Constantius II shuts all heathen temples

1600 Peruvian stratovolcano Huaynaputina explodes in the most violent eruption in South American recorded history

1878 Thomas Edison is granted a patent for his gramophone (phonograph)

1945 US 5th Fleet launches invasion of Iwo Jima against the Japanese with 30,000 US Marines

Today’s Historical Events

197 Battle of Lugdunum [Battle of Lyon]: Lucius Septimius Severus‘ army beats Clodius Albinus at Lyon

356 Emperor Constantius II shuts all heathen temples

607 Boniface III begins his reign as Catholic Pope

842 Medieval Iconoclastic Controversy ends as a council in Constantinople formally reinstates the veneration of icons in churches

1512 French troops under Gaston de Foix occupy Brescia

1516 Consecration of the Lady Chapel, part of Westminster Abbey, by Henry VII, called “one of the most perfect buildings ever erected in England” [1]

1539 Jews of Tyrnau Hungary (then Trnava Czech), expelled

1574 Spanish troops plunder Krommenie, Wormerveer & Jisp, Netherlands

Today’s Historical Events in Flim and TV

1922 Ed Wynn becomes 1st talent to sign as a radio entertainer

1942 Dutch actors protest obligatory membership of Culture Chamber

1947 CBS radio premiere of Villa-Lobos’ “Bachianas Brasilieras No 3”

1960 Bil Keane’s “Family Circus” cartoon strip debuts

1968 Children’s educational TV program “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood” debuts on NET (now PBS)

1971 British TV chat show “Parkinson” debuts on BBC1 presented by Michael Parkinson

1978 Cy Coleman, Betty Comden & Adolph Green‘s musical “On The Twentieth Century”, starring John Cullum and Madeline Kahn, and Kevin Kline, and directed by Hal Prince, opens at the St. James Theatre, NYC; runs for 449 performances, wins 5 Tony and 4 Drama Desk Awards

1985 British soap opera “Eastenders” premieres on the BBC

Today’s Historical Events in Music

1736 George Frideric Handel‘s opera “Alexander’s Feast” premieres at the Covent Garden Theatre, London

1910 English premiere of Richard Strauss‘ opera “Elektra”

1914 Riccardo Zandonai’s opera “Francesco da Rimini” premieres in Turin

1923 Jean Sibelius‘ 6th Symphony premieres

1942 Tommy Dorsey & his orchestra record “I’ll Take Tallulah”

1949 “Inside USA” closes at Century Theater, NYC, after 339 performances

1958 Carl Perkins leaves Sun Records for Columbia Records

1964 UK flies ½ ton of Beatles wigs to the US

Today’s Historical Events in Sports

1928 Canada retains the Olympic ice hockey title when they rout Switzerland, 13-0 in the final round in St. Moritz; Canadian left-wing Dave Trottier top scores with 15 points

1928 Gillis Grafström of Sweden wins his 3rd consecutive Olympic men’s figure skating gold medal at St. Moritz; one of only 2 athletes to win gold at both Winter & Summer Games (won figure skating Antwerp 1920)

1928 II Winter Olympic Games close at St Moritz, Switzerland

1928 World champion French team Andrée Joly and Pierre Brunet win the Olympic pairs figure skating gold medal at the St. Moritz Winter Games; the couple marry in 1929 and take 2nd straight gold in 1932

1942 NY Yankees announce 5,000 uniformed soldiers admitted free at each of their upcoming home games

1946 Giants outfielder Danny Gardella is 1st major leaguer to announce he is jumping to the “outlaw” Mexican League

1952 American defending champion Dick Button becomes first figure-skater to land a triple jump in competition; performs a triple loop in the Olympic free skate in Oslo; wins gold medal ahead of Austria’s Helmut Seibt

1960 Swedish cross country skier Sixten Jernberg follows his 50k gold medal in Cortina d’Ampezzo (1956) with victory in 30k event at the Squaw Valley Winter Olympics

19 February 2023 Southern Hemisphere’s Planetary Positions

If you need to calculate the planetary positions for a specific use and time, click on this link

Currentplanetarypositions.com

To figure out GMT (Greenwich Mean Time) to your local time use this link

For Your Local Time and Date

Southeastern Hemisphere

The time for these Custom Planetary Positions is from the local time in Sao Paulo, Brazil, South America

19 February 2023
06:00 pm GMT 3:00 PM BRT
Zodiac: Tropical (Standard Western)

Sun:00 Pisces 49
Moon:23 Aquarius 05
Mercury:11 Aquarius 59
Venus:29 Pisces 17
Mars:15 Gemini 39
Jupiter:09 Aries 50
Saturn:28 Aquarius 06
Uranus:15 Taurus 17
Neptune:24 Pisces 13
Pluto:29 Capricorn 14

True Lunar Node:06 Taurus 19 Rx
Mean Lunar Node:07 Taurus 34 Rx

Lilith (Black Moon):04 Leo 44

Chiron:13 Aries 24
Ceres:06 Libra 03 Rx
Pallas:10 Cancer 29
Juno:18 Aries 57
Vesta:05 Aries 07

Eris:24 Aries 03

Fire:6
Earth:4
Air:5
Water:4

Cardinal:8
Fixed:7
Mutable:4

Southern Hemisphere

The time for these Custom Planetary Positions is from the local time in Cape Town, South Africa

19 February 2023
01:00 pm GMT 3:00 PM SAST
Zodiac: Tropical (Standard Western)

Sun:00 Pisces 36
Moon:19 Aquarius 54
Mercury:11 Aquarius 40
Venus:29 Pisces 02
Mars:15 Gemini 34
Jupiter:09 Aries 48
Saturn:28 Aquarius 05
Uranus:15 Taurus 16
Neptune:24 Pisces 13
Pluto:29 Capricorn 14

True Lunar Node:06 Taurus 21 Rx
Mean Lunar Node:07 Taurus 35 Rx

Lilith (Black Moon):04 Leo 42

Chiron:13 Aries 23
Ceres:06 Libra 04 Rx
Pallas:10 Cancer 29
Juno:18 Aries 50
Vesta:05 Aries 01

Eris:24 Aries 03

Fire:6
Earth:4
Air:5
Water:4

Cardinal:8
Fixed:7
Mutable:4

Southwestern Hemisphere

The time for these Custom Planetary Positions is from the local time in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

19 February 2023
04:00 am GMT 3:00 PM AEDT
Zodiac: Tropical (Standard Western)

Sun:00 Pisces 14
Moon:14 Aquarius 12
Mercury:11 Aquarius 06
Venus:28 Pisces 34
Mars:15 Gemini 26
Jupiter:09 Aries 43
Saturn:28 Aquarius 02
Uranus:15 Taurus 16
Neptune:24 Pisces 12
Pluto:29 Capricorn 13

True Lunar Node:06 Taurus 25 Rx
Mean Lunar Node:07 Taurus 36 Rx

Lilith (Black Moon):04 Leo 40

Chiron:13 Aries 22
Ceres:06 Libra 07 Rx
Pallas:10 Cancer 28
Juno:18 Aries 38
Vesta:04 Aries 51

Eris:24 Aries 03

Fire:6
Earth:4
Air:5
Water:4

Cardinal:8
Fixed:7
Mutable:4

How to Cast a Spell

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

HOW TO CAST A SPELL

A spell is nothing but a story (from an old word “spelen,” to “tell a story”).

You’ve had spells cast on you all your life, without knowing it.

When your father called you “lazy,” or “stupid,” or “sloppy,” or “a failure,”
he was casting a spell on you. Most likely, you still act the way your father
(or mother) said you were.

And you’ve cast spells on yourself all your life, without knowing it. Whenever
you say the words “I can’t” you are casting a spell of failure on yourself.
Whenever you tell someone they give you a headache, you are casting a headache
spell on yourself.

Learning to cast spells is learning how to control your own life.

You can cast a spell simply by telling yourself a story out loud, alone or with
friends.

You can cast a spell by thinking a story to yourself.

You can cast a spell by acting out a story. (This is the purpose of ritual, of
course.)

And you can cast a spell by wearing or carrying a physical object that
constantly reminds you of the story (an amulet).

A spell works simply because it is spoken. Strong emotions are not necessary.
You don’t even have to believe it to make it happen.

Try it. Start each day by saying to yourself: “Today, I am going to receive
some money” (or “will make a new friend,” etc.) See what happens.

One caution: Be careful what you wish for — you WILL get it!

And remember the ancient rede: “An ye harm none, do what you will.” This
means that we cannot cast a spell concerning another person (with the possible
exception of a healing spell) without their consent. Any interference in
another person’s life force is unacceptable.

A Laugh for Today – Tricky “What Am I?” Riddles – From Reader’s Digest

Here is a just few riddles of the 42 riddles offered to get our brains working somewhat on a lazy Saturday or if you have youngsters in the house something to keep them occupied while you have that second cup of coffee or whatever your beverage choice is from rd.com

Scroll down for the answers if you need to.

“What am I?” riddles

If you’re a fan of riddles you’re probably familiar with “what am I?” riddles. Put your smarts to the test with these tricky ones that only the most intelligent will be able to solve. If you want even more of a challenge, try to solve some of these trick questions, long riddles, the hardest riddles ever, or these riddles for teens.

RIDDLES

Green and red

You go at red, but stop at green. What am I?

Tall to short

I’m tall when I’m young, and I’m short when I’m old. What am I?

Head and tail

I have a head and a tail that will never meet. Having too many of me is always a treat. What am I?

Head to toe

I help you from your head to your toe. The more I work, the smaller I grow. What am I?

No wings or eyes

I can fly but have no wings. I can cry but I have no eyes. Wherever I go, darkness follows me. What am I?

ANSWERS:

Green and red

Answer: A watermelon. You eat the red part, and you stop eating at the green part. If these “What am I?” riddles don’t have enough visual clues for you, try these rebus puzzles that only the smartest can get right.

Tall to short

Answer: A candle. Also, try out these riddles for kids.

Head and tail

Answer: A coin. These brain games are guaranteed to boost your brainpower.

Head to toe

Answer: A bar of soap. How long will it take you to solve these Bible riddles? (I left this for the fun of it)

No wings or eyes

Answer: Clouds. If you’re solving all of these “What am I?” riddles that probably means you’re good with words. Try out these word puzzles that will leave you stumped as well.

Some of the Witchcraft/Magickal Correspondence for Saturday

Magickal Intentions: Spirit Communications, Meditation, Psychic Attack or Defense, Locating Lost Things and Missing Persons, Building, Life, Doctrine, Protection, Knowledge, Authority, Limitations, Boundaries, Time and Death
Incense: Black Poppy Seed and Myrrh
Planet: Saturn
Sign: Capricorn and Aquarius
Angel: Cassel
Colors: Black, Grey and Indigo
Herbs/Plants: Myrrh, Moss, Hemlock, Wolfsbane, Coltsfoot, Nightshade and Fir
Stones: Jet, Smokey Quartz, Amethyst, Black Onyx, Snowflake Obsidian, Lava, Pumice
Oil: (Saturn) Cypress, Mimosa, Myrrh, Patchouli

Saturn lends its energies to the last day of the week. Because Saturn is the planet of karma, this day is an excellent time for spellwork involving reincarnation, karmic lessons, the Mysteries, wisdom, and long-term projects. It is also a good time to being efforts that deal with the elderly, death, or the eradication of pests and disease.

Spell for Today – Cold Fire (to Bring Down a Fever)

A doctor discovered that I could bring fevers down. It takes a little practice, but I’ll bet that most natural witches can do it. Ust the Cornish invocation to St. Brigit:

Three ladies came from the East

One with fire and two with frost

Out with thee, fire, and in with thee frost.*

This can be used in conjunction with laying-on of hands. To remove fever from someone, summon energy like cold fire from your body. I usually do this by invoking the Snow Queen, who was always a goddess to me.

Direct energy into your hands, then lay them on the person’s neck or forehead. Make the cold fire flow into the person until you feel it confront the fever. When you feel the fever, set up a second channel to draw it into your own body. It may be easiest for you to use your receptive hand to draw the fever, the other to deliver the cold fire. Do this until you feel the cold fire has overcome the fever. If the person is shivering with fever, direct the heat out of the body and onto the skin while you fight the fever. It may help to wrap your hands around the subject.

This technique is not a substitute for aspirin or other fever-reducers. It is something you can do while waiting for the medicine to kick in. It can also be used in emergencies, when there is no medication. You may feel a bit flushed for a while afterwards, but you will not actually take on the fever. Fevers are cyclical, so you may need to repeat the spell whenever the fever spikes.

*Robert Graves, The White Goddess, p. 394

SOURCE:

Eileen Holland, The Wicca Handbook, p. 91 – 92

(Side Note from Lady Beltane: I have used this spell since I first discovered it many years ago with success. I use it on myself regularly when my fibromyalgia is messing with my body’s natural temperature gage. I sit cross legged on the floor, imagining I have a small fire in my left-hand (my non-power hand) and ice in my right-hand. I than start chanting the spell until I feel it is time to bring my hands together to combine the cold and hot to restore my normal body temperature. It also works great for hot flashes during menopause or anytime anyone may get them.)

February 18, 2023 Daily Horoscopes

Moon Alert

After 12:45 AM EST today there are no restrictions to shopping or important decisions. The Moon is in Aquarius.

Aries (March 21-April 19)

Someone will surprise you today, perhaps a friend or a member of a group. Get ready because anything might happen. They might have an unusual suggestion for you. Or perhaps, they will introduce you to someone who is different or unusual in some way? You won’t mind because you’re adventurous.

Taurus (April 20-May 20)

Something out of the blue might happen in your dealings with parents, bosses, teachers, VIPs and the police. Someone in authority might overact to you or throw you a curveball. Tread carefully! Never underestimate the power of courtesy.

Gemini (May 21-June 20)

Travel plans might be suddenly interrupted today. They could be delayed or cancelled. Alternatively, you might suddenly have to travel when you did not expect to do so. Likewise, surprising news in the media might catch you off guard. It’s not a boring day.

Cancer (June 21-July 22)

Double check everything related to banking, finances, inheritances, taxes and debt, as well as insurance agreements because something unexpected could impact these areas today or tonight. If you’re not on top of things, whatever happens might cost you money or create a setback. Be in the know.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22)

Expect a few surprises or something unusual in your relationships to friends, partners and spouses today. They might say or do something you least expect. Or possibly, they will introduce you to someone who is different or unusual? Be prepared.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

Your work routine will be interrupted today, perhaps later in the day. Technological problems or computer crashes are a possibility. Staff shortages, power outages and cancelled meetings are also some things that might occur. Meanwhile, pet owners should be vigilant about their pets.

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)

Parents should be aware of their children today – where they are and if they are safe because this is an accident-prone day for your kids. It doesn’t have to happen but do be aware of the possibility. Meanwhile, social plans might surprise. This could be a cancellation or an invitation?

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

Something will interrupt or change your home routine today. For example, small appliances might break down or a minor breakage could occur. Very possibly, someone will knock on your door when you least expect it. Obviously, get dressed. It might be smart to stock the fridge.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)

Pay attention to everything you say and do today because this is an accident-prone day for your sign. However, because you can think outside of the box today, you might have brilliant, clever ideas! Or not. You might meet someone new today who is different or a close contact might surprise you.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

Keep an eye on your possessions and wealth because something unexpected could impact your assets. For example, you might find money or you might lose money. Likewise, be smart and protect what you own against loss, theft and damage. If you are mindful and aware, you will have no regrets.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)

Don’t be hasty to jump to conclusions today, which might be the case because you feel independent and even rebellious. You’re impatient with restraints, duties and responsibilities. (Not good.) Yes, you value your freedom but don’t throw the baby out with the bathwater.

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20)

This is a restless day for you. Nevertheless, you are very sensitive to other people’s moods, which is why you will pick up impressions very easily. You might even be like a sponge and start to feel the way others feel. Today you might have a strong interest in psychic or spiritual subjects.

If Your Birthday Is Today

Actor John Travolta (1954) shares your birthday today. You live life fully charged. You’re not afraid to take risks, physically and emotionally. You explore new ideas and ways of doing things. This year is the last year of a nine-year cycle, which means it’s time to take stock. Let go of people and situations that are holding you back.

February 18, 2023 Moon Goddess Current Phase

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.

From MoonGiant.com

The Moon’s current phase for today and tonight is a Waning Crescent phase. This phase is best viewed just before the sunrise in the western sky. In this phase the Moon’s illumination is growing smaller each day until the New Moon. During this part of the Moon cycle, the Moon is getting closer to the Sun as viewed from Earth and the night side of the Moon is facing the Earth with only a small edge of the Moon being illuminated. It can also be a great time to see the features of the Moon’s surface. Along the edge where the illuminated portion meets the dark side, the craters and mountains cast long shadows making them easier to observe with a telescope or binoculars.

Visit the February 2023 Moon Phases Calendar to see all the daily moon phase for this month.

Today’s Waning Crescent Phase

The Waning Crescent on February 18 has an illumination of 5%. 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 February 18 the Moon is 27.44 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: Waning Crescent
Illumination: 5%
Moon Age: 27.44 days
Moon Angle: 0.55
Moon Distance: 363,297.65 km
Sun Angle: 0.54
Sun Distance: 147,870,489.84 km

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