“Ten More Days to Yule”
“Nine More Days to Litha”
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NORTHERN HEMISPHERE SECTION
“Witchcraft is part of a living web of species and relationships, a world which we have forgotten to observe, understand or inhabit. Many people reading this paragraph will not know even the current phase of the moon, and if asked for it will not instinctively look up to the current quarter of the sky, but down to their computers. Neither will they be able to name the plants, birds or animals within a metre or mile radius of their door. Witchcraft asks that we do these first things, this is presence.”
—Peter Grey, Apocalyptic Witchcraft, 2013
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Current Planetary Positions
December 11, 2018
Tropical Zodiac
Sun: 19 Sagittarius 28
Moon: 06 Aquarius 57
Mercury: 28 Scorpio 57
Venus: 05 Scorpio 41
Mars: 16 Pisces 21
Jupiter: 07 Sagittarius 21
Saturn: 09 Capricorn 00
Uranus: 28 Aries 54 Rx
Neptune: 13 Pisces 46
Pluto: 19 Capricorn 56
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Planetary aspects for the Month of December
December 15, 06:49 am – 1st Quarter Moon 23 26
December 16, 09:26 am – Venus sextile Saturn
December 17, 01:57 am – Mars sextile Pluto
December 20, 11:21 am – Sun trine Uranus
December 21, 12:11 pm – Venus trine Neptune
December 21, 12:36 pm – Mercury conjunct Jupiter 09 34
December 22, 12:48 pm – Full Moon at 00 49
December 24, 07:31 pm – Mercury square Neptune
December 28, 04:30 pm – Venus sextile Pluto
December 29, 04:34 am – 3rd Quarter Moon 07 36
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The Solar Almanac for Tuesday, December 11, 2018
Sun Direction: 127.22° SE↑
Sun Altitude: 8.35°
Sun Distance: 91.531 million mi
Next Solstice: Dec 21, 2018 4:22 pm (Winter)
Sunrise Today: 6:57 am↑ 119° Southeast
Sunset Today: 4:37 pm↑ 241° Southwest
Length of Daylight: 9 hours, 39 minutes
–timeanddate.com
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Did You Know…
The sun was born about 4.6 billion years ago. Many scientists think the sun and the rest of the solar system formed from a giant, rotating cloud of gas and dust known as the solar nebula.
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The Lunar Almanac for Tuesday, December 11, 2018
Moon Direction: 94.72° E↑
Moon Altitude: -27.75°
Moon Distance: 251466 mi
Next Full Moon: Dec 22, 201811:48 am
Next New Moon: Jan 5, 20197:28 pm
Next Moonrise: Today10:18 am
Current Moon Phase: Waxing Crescent
Illumination: 16.3%
–timeandate.com
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Moon Lore
There’s the romantic La Bella Luna, the star of cinema, art and poetry. Luna is the Latin name, from which the words lunatic or lunacy evolved. When Luna is close, in Perigee, there are tidal surges called Spring Tides, because the water springs up suddenly.
And there’s the emotional effect, with the Moon’s changes and pull on our own interior waters mysteriously stirring us up.
The Moon’s changes stir up erratic emotional effects that seem to overwhelm the rational nature. The sign it rules, Cancer, is known for its rapid mood swings. This lends the Moon its darker reputation, as the entity of hysteria, road rage and clouded perceptions. Under the Moon light, things aren’t always as they seem in the bright light of day. That’s why following the lunar cycle helps you stay aware of these rhythms and beware, — as in be aware — so you don’t go off the deep end!
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BEST DAYS IN DECEMBER 2018
Below are the best days for activities, based on the Moon’s sign and phase in December.
Cutting hair:
1, 3, 29, 30
Quit Smoking:
5, 28
Traveling for pleasure:
25, 26
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This Week’s Sky at a Glance, December 11 – 15
By: Alan MacRobert
Tuesday, December 11
• Now you’ll find Alpha and Beta Capricorni to the right of the Moon at nightfall.
• The Summer Triangle is sinking lower in the west, and Altair is the first of its stars to go (for mid-northern observers). Start by spotting bright, zero-magnitude Vega in the northwest right after dark. The brightest star above Vega is Deneb. Altair, the Triangle’s third star, is farther to Vega’s left or lower left. How late into the night, and into the advancing season, can you keep Altair in view?
Wednesday, December 12
• The thick crescent Moon forms a roughly equilateral triangle, 20° or more on a side, with Mars to its upper left and Fomalhaut to its lower left.
Thursday, December 13
• The Mars-Moon-Fomalhaut triangle has narrowed since yesterday as the Moon moves eastward along its orbit.
• The Geminid meteor shower should be at its peak late tonight! In early evening the meteors will be few, but those that do appear will be Earth-grazers skimming far across the top of the atmosphere. As the hours pass and the shower’s radiant (near Castor in Gemini) rises higher in the east, the meteors will become shorter and more numerous — the most so from midnight to dawn.
Layer up even more warmly than you imagine you’ll need; think radiational cooling! Find a dark open spot with no local lights to get in your eyes, lie back in a reclining lawn chair, and gaze up into the stars. Be patient. As your eyes adapt to the dark, you may see a Geminid every minute or two on average as night grows late.
Friday, December 14
• In early evening, Mars shines above the Moon. Mars is about twice as big as the Moon in physical diameter, but it’s currently 425 times farther away.
Look far below them for Fomalhaut. At a distance of 25 light-years, Fomalhaut is 1.4 million times farther away than Mars.
Saturday, December 15
• Now, in early evening, Mars shines to the right of the first-quarter Moon. Look above them for the Great Square of Pegasus.
As evening grows late, Mars tilts down to the Moon’s lower right.
–Sky and Telescope
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Moon Phase Calendar
Tuesday – 11th December 2018
Current Moon Phase: Waxing Crescent
Moon Currently in the sign of Aquarius
Moon in Aquarius:
Your relationship with your emotions might be more complicated, because Moon in Aquarius has a strong need for emotional freedom. However, when you are in a group of people, it is easier for you to understand your feelings and free yourself from negative emotions such as fear, anger and jealousy.
Organs influenced by Aquarius Moon Sign:
Organs: Calf, ankle, shin, Achilles, forearm muscles, thyroid hormones.
These organs are now more sensitive so provide them with extra care.
Surgical operations:
Surgical operations are not recommended during the Waxing Moon.
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Moon in Aquarius
Moon in Aquarius may be prone to temper tantrums when young, even though as they grow they end up feeling that emotions are “messy.” While they can be so good at understanding others’ motivations and behaviors, they often lose touch with their own. This happens because they get too caught up in what they want to achieve rather than what is reality.
Aquarius Moon Sign person is kind and compassionate, though it may tend to be shown more as a broad philosophy rather than in actual actions. While they may seem aloof, in fact they enjoy the eccentricities of those around them, and they feel confident in giving their partners a lot of freedom. Their optimism and friendliness helps them attract lots of friends. When they are unhappy, they tend to focus on their activities to such an extent that those around them have difficulty figuring out that something is wrong.
Aquarius Moon is an intellectual that is both intense and intuitive. They love all aspects of freedom, both on a personal level as well as in the wider sense for humanity. They can work long hours to support a cause they believe in. Playful and childlike, they can have a great sense of humor, but they must be cautious they don’t inadvertently hurt an other’s feelings while trying to be funny. They are great dreamers, preferring to keep their head in the clouds at times.
Aquarius Moon can be unreliable about the little details in life, but they are seldom flaky. They are usually loyal and trustworthy and make terrific friends. Criticism can make them stop in their tracks and dig in their heels like a donkey. They expect to be accepted just as they are, even when they are wildly unpredictable. Their charm makes it difficult to remain angry with them for long.
–-Always Astrology.com
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Today is Tuesday, December 11
Tuesday is dedicated to the powers of the planet Mars, personified in Ares, Tiwaz, Tiw, Tuisco and Tyr. Tuesday rules controlled power, energy and endurance.
Deity: Tiwaz
Zodiac Sign: Aries
Planet: Mars
Tree: Holly
Herb: Plantain
Stone: Agate
Animal: Crab
Element: Fire
Color: White
Number: 2
Rune: Tyr (T)
Celtic Tree Month of Ruis (Elder) (November 25 – December 22)
The Runic Half Month of Is (November 28 – December 12)
Goddess of the Month of Astraea (November 28 – December 23)
—The Pagan Book of Days
Nigel Pennick
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The Goddess Book of Days for Tuesday, December 11
In Rome, the day of the Goddess Bruma, who is winter. She is Arianrhod, Yuki Onne, the Snow Queen, Hecate. In the Hebrew calendar, Chanukah, the Feast of Lights. Goddesses of Light are Vesta, Hestia, Lucia, Lucina, Perchta, Bertha, Befana, Luz, Aurora, Eos, Amaterasu, Oya, Arinna, Izanami, Changing Woman, Freya, Sunne, Sol, Igaehindvo.
Goddesses Associated With Tuesday
Soorejnaree, Pinga1la, Anna, Aine, Danu, Yngona, Bellona, Aida Wedo, Sun Woman
—The Goddess Book of Days
Diane Stein
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~ The Goddess Days of the Moon ~
Days 10-12 Ruled by Hera, Queen of Heaven and creatrix, representing the power of inspiration
Days 13-15 Demeter, the nurturer, rules these
Days 16-18 Dedicated to Gaia, the Earth Goddess
Days 19-21 Hestia, Goddess of Waning Moon, is the matriarchal grandmother, ruling and protecting her family
Days 22-24 Ruled by Medusa, the crone of death and spiritual release, the necessary destruction that allows a new cycle to begin
Days 25-27 Ruled by Hecate, queen of the underworld and the shades, she is seen as the one who allows departed souls to choose thier paths in the next phase of existence and rebirth
The remaining days of the moon – the dark days – are those of the unknowable Masked Goddess, who is present, but invisible.
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On Tuesday, December 11, We Celebrate….
Blowing the Midwinter Horn (Netherlands)
SKADI
Themes: Protection; Banishing; Communication; Insight; Winter
Symbols: Snow; Wind (cold or northerly); White Crystals or Clothing
About Skadi: In Northern tradition, Skadi is the spirit of the north wind, who is blowing powerfully over the earth now. She is the goddess of winter and wears white fur, crystal armor, and a bow and arrow for hunting. Hers is the power of communication—of announcing new insights and perceptions as they awaken within.
To Do Today: In this festival, which dates back two thousand years, farmers around the country take out birchwood horns today and blow them to scare away evil influences and announce Skadi’s presence. To encourage her communicative powers in your own life, stand outside and breathe deeply of a cool, northerly wind today, letting the air empower your speech. Or, carry a pumice stone wrapped in white cloth with you throughout the day (if you can’t find one, cut out a white paper snowflake instead and write Skadi’s name on it). This keeps the goddess with you in all your discourse.
At home, find a horn (perhaps a kazoo or noise maker). Follow the Dutch custom of blowing this once in all four cardinal directions to send protection throughout your living space. Afterward, put four white decorations (candles, stones) close to the directional points. This welcomes Skadi’s insight and open discussions therein.
–365 Goddess: A Daily Guide To the Magic and Inspiration of the goddess
Patricia Telesco
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Tuesday: Shake the only hand of Tyr
Tyr (referred to as Tiw, Tiu or Tew in Old English) was the god of combat. He had just one hand and the story behind it is as follows.
The prophecy of the sybil that three siblings would bring troubles to gods alarmed the pantheon and Odin (see also the section for Wednesday) decided to get rid of them. One of them was Fenrir, a huge mythological wolf. They tried to bound him, but he was too strong and tore any chain they used.
Finally they asked dwarves to make a special, untearable binding called Gleipnir. It consisted of six wondrous ingredients which do not exist any longer because the gods took them from the world for good. These were the sound of a cat’s footfall, the beard of a woman, the breath of a fish, the roots of a mountain, the sinews of a bear (meaning rather sensibilities in this case) and the spittle of a bird.
Fenrir did not believe them that they would set him free again after having tried the binding on him. Tyr had to put his arm in his mouth as the guarantee. That is why one of his arms is missing. And again, when Ragnarok begins, the wolf will free himself from Gleipnir and avenge this deception by devouring Odin.
In Romance languages, this day belongs to Mars, the Roman god of war (martes in Spanish, mardi in French).
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The Magick of Tuesday
Magickal Intent:
Courage
Binding
Protection
Achievement
Power
Initiation
Protection
Passion
Planet: Mars
Colors: Red, Orange
Crystal: Garnet, Ruby
Incense: Myrrh, Ginger, Cardamom
Plant: Cardamom
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Magical Days Of the Week – Tuesday
Named for the Norse god Tyr, who was a deity of heroism and combat, Tuesday is a very martial sort of day – color associations include bright red and oranges, as well as warrior-like metals such as iron and steel.
The ancient Romans called this day Martis, after the warrior god Mars – other deities associated with Tuesday include Ares, the Morrighan, and other gods of battle and glory. Red gemstones like rubies and garnets come into play on Tuesdays, as do herbs and plants such as thistles, holly, coneflowers and cacti – you’ll notice these are all sharp, prickly plants!
One of the interesting – and more than a little amusing – aspects of Tuesday magic is that in addition to war and conflict against your enemies, this is a day also associated with marriage. You can also use this day of the week for magical workings connected to protection and initiation. Use Tuesday to assert yourself, make a mark and stake your claims.
Author
Patti Wigington, Paganism/Wicca Expert
Article published on & owned by ThoughtCo.com
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The Witches Guide to Tuesday
A god, goddess, or planet governs each day of the week. It is usually easy to spot the ruler of the day by its name. The word Tuesday, however, is not so easy, but if we look at the word in Spanish, Martes, we clearly see its connections to Mars.
Because Tuesday revolves around the energy of Mars, Tuesdays are good for business, mechanical things, buying and selling animals, hunting, beginning studies, gardening, sexual activities, and confrontation. This is a day for sex magick, energy, stamina, and health. As in the old saying, Tuesdays child is full of grace, is also good for success magick and defense against enemies.
Angels of Tuesday are Camael, Samael, Satael, Amabiel, Friagne, and Hyniel. When invoked, Camael takes the form of a leopard. In Druid mythology he is a god of war, which is why we see him associated with Mars. Camael is said to be a member of the “Magnificent Seven” in some circles. Camael is another “terminator” angel.
Samael walks both worlds as a magician and sorcerer. some see him as the angel of death, others as “the bright and poisonous one.” Many consider him more of a demon, and accuse him of being Satan. However, there is reference to the satans (plural) as enforcers of the law, a sort of angelic police, if you will. Supposedly, when Samael is around, dogs howl in the night. On one hand, he is the ruler of the fifth heaven and in charge of two million angels; on the other, he is the one who changed into a serpent and convinced Eve to partake of the forbidden fruit of knowledge.
Satael is an angel of air invoked in magic rites and is the presiding spirit of the planet Mars. Amabiel is another spirit of the planet Mars; however he spends his energy on issues of human sexuality. Friagne, also an angel of this day, is invoked from the east. He is a member of the fifth heaven. Hyniel also belongs to this day and is subject to the east wind.
On Tuesdays the hour of sunrise and every eight hours after that are also ruled by Mars, and that makes these times of the day doubly blessed. These four hours are the strongest ones to do ritual in. Check your local newspaper, astrological calendar, or almanac to determine your local sunrise.
—Gypsy Magic
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The Witches Almanac for Tuesday, December 11
Pilgrimage at Tortugas
Waxing Moon
Moon phase: First Quarter
Moon Sign: Aquarius
Incense: Ylang-ylang
Color: Gray
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The Witches Correspondences for Tuesday
Tuesday (Tiw’s-day)
Planet: Mars
Colors: Red and Autumn Shades
Crystals: Bloodstone, Ruby, Garnet, Flint, Rhodonite, Iron and Steel
Aroma: Basil, Ginger, Black Pepper, Mars Oil, Dragon’s blood and patchouli
Herb: Basil
The day of Mars. This day could only ever symbolize the sheer power of the god of war! The ideal spells to be cast on this day are that of force, power war and protection.
Dedicated to the powers of the planet Mars, personified as Ares, Tiwaz, Tiw, and Tyr.
Magical aspects: controlled power, energy, and endurance, passion, sex, courage, aggression, and protection.
This is the proper day of the week to perform spells and rituals involving courage, physical strength, revenge, military honors, surgery, the breaking of negative spells, dynamic energy, matrimony, war, enemies, prison, hunting, politics, contests, protection, victory, and athletics.
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Tuesday is Ruled by Mars
Tuesday is a Mars day, and just like the god of war, this is the time to tap into magicks to call for strength and courage. This day of the week is for rebels and warriors. If you are facing a challenge of any kind, need a boost to your courage, or want to enhance your passions, Tuesday is the day of the week for you. Some suggestions for Tuesday enchantments would include:
*Wearing the fiery colors associated with this day: scarlet, red, black, and orange. Don some of the more daring and bewitching colors of your wardrobe on Tuesdays and turn a few heads
*Carrying a bloodstone in your pocket or wearing garnet-studded jewelry to reinforce your convictions
*Working with protective and fire-associated plants such as the snapdragon, thistle, and holly to boost your shields and bravery
*Burning spicy-scented energy-enhancing candles to add a little magical aromatherapy to your home
*Cooking up a hearty meal featuring carrots, peppers, and garlic (all Mars foods and spices) to empower yourself for victory and success
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Today for Tuesday, December 11, Our Magick is Focused on Cleansing
CLEANSING CHANT
Uphold the rules of the Wiccan Rede.
Be high in spirit ye shall succeed.
Power of the Elements Five,
Will help Mother Nature stay alive.
From grains of Earth to the moving Air.
Past the burning Fire that magick flares.
Flow with Water, lakes, and streams;
Around the Spirit’s aura and dreams.
WINTER DAWNS CLEANSING RITUAL
(Anoint head with salt water)
“I cleanse my thoughts that they might be pure and honest.”
(Anoint throat)
“I cleanse my voice, that all I say might be good.”
(Anoint heart)
“I cleanse my heart, that it might be open, giving and full of light.
Grant that I may give freely of my love to others.”
(Anoint hands)
“I cleanse my hands, that I may use them only for good.”
(Anoint feet)
“I cleanse my feet, that they may take me far in life.
That my journeys may be filled with love light and peace.”
SOUTHERN HEMISPHERE SECTION
Custom Planetary Positions
December 12, 2018
Zodiac: Tropical (Standard Western)
Sun: 20 Sagittarius 29
Moon: 18 Aquarius 47
Mercury: 29 Scorpio 40
Venus: 06 Scorpio 26
Mars: 17 Pisces 00
Jupiter: 07 Sagittarius 34
Saturn: 09 Capricorn 07
Uranus: 28 Aries 52 Rx
Neptune: 13 Pisces 47
Pluto: 19 Capricorn 58
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Planetary aspects for the Month of December
December 15, 06:49 am – 1st Quarter Moon 23 26
December 16, 09:26 am – Venus sextile Saturn
December 17, 01:57 am – Mars sextile Pluto
December 20, 11:21 am – Sun trine Uranus
December 21, 12:11 pm – Venus trine Neptune
December 21, 12:36 pm – Mercury conjunct Jupiter 09 34
December 22, 12:48 pm – Full Moon at 00 49
December 24, 07:31 pm – Mercury square Neptune
December 28, 04:30 pm – Venus sextile Pluto
December 29, 04:34 am – 3rd Quarter Moon 07 36
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The Solar Almanac for Wednesday, December 12, 2018
Sun Direction: 175.64° S↑
Sun Altitude: -33.00°
Sun Distance: 91.531 million mi
Next Solstice: Dec 22, 2018 9:22 am (Summer)
Sunrise Today: 5:37 am↑ 119° Southeast
Sunset Today: 7:59 pm↑ 241° Southwest
–timeandate.com
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The Lunar Almanac for Wednesday, December 12, 2018
Moon Direction: 227.08° SW↑
Moon Altitude: -21.58°
Moon Distance: 251472 mi
Next Full Moon: Dec 23, 20184:48 am
Next New Moon: Jan 6, 201912:28 pm
Next Moonrise: Today9:37 am
Current Moon Phase: Waxing Crescent
Illumination: 16.4%
–timeandate.com
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Lunar Lore
Women made fertility offerings to the virgin huntress Artemis, later the Roman Diana, to attract the virile male, and to ensure fertility and safety in childbirth.
The original virgin moon goddess was self-contained; the marriage of the Sun (divine masculine) and Moon (divine feminine) was the path to knowing the divine Self.
The earliest matriarchal traditions, carried on by pagans today, had a lunar trinity of Maiden-Mother-Crone as deities of the sacred mysteries.
As Queen of the Night, the Moon invites us to revel in the glow at the full Moon, but also to learn to “see in the dark” at the new moon.
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BEST DAYS IN DECEMBER 2018
Below are the best days for activities, based on the Moon’s sign and phase in December.
Cutting hair:
1, 3, 29, 30
Quit Smoking:
5, 28
Traveling for pleasure:
25, 26
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Moon Phase Calendar
Wednesday – 12th December 2018
Southern Hemisphere
Moon Phase: Waxing Crescent
Moon Currently in the Sign of Aquarius
Moon in Aquarius:
Your relationship with your emotions might be more complicated, because Moon in Aquarius has a strong need for emotional freedom. However, when you are in a group of people, it is easier for you to understand your feelings and free yourself from negative emotions such as fear, anger and jealousy.
Organs influenced by Aquarius Moon Sign:
Organs: Calf, ankle, shin, Achilles, forearm muscles, thyroid hormones.
These organs are now more sensitive so provide them with extra care.
Surgical operations:
Surgical operations are not recommended during the Waxing Moon.
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Moon in Aquarius
By Tarot.com Staff
When the Moon is in Aquarius
Regardless of what your sign is, for a couple of days each month we all get drawn into the influence of the Aquarius Moon. This is the time when we’re more inclined to march to the beat of our own drum. Aquarius is anything but cookie-cutter, and this lunation will have us trying to figure out what it is that makes us unique so that we can share it with the world.
Aquarians are social butterflies, making friends and influencing people wherever they go. This isn’t surprising considering Aquarius rules the 11th House of Friendships! When the Moon moves into this gregarious sign, you’ll feel the urge to call your friends, make plans, and get out and interact with those around you.
The Aquarius Moon could also have you feeling a little but more rebellious and spontaneous than usual. You may crave freedom and a distraction from your everyday life. If you’ve been feeling stuck in a rut, this is when you’ll decide to change up your routine or break old habits.
New Moon in Aquarius
New Moons are times of new emotional cycles and planting seeds for whatever we want to come next. The futuristic Aquarius New Moon encourages us to cut our past loose, or at least some of the things that we’re still hung up on. Aquarius is cool and detached, ideal for making a clean break from things that are no longer serving us so that we can boldly step into the next phase of our lives.
Our innovative spirit is off the charts with the New Moon in unconventional Aquarius! When the Sun and Moon team up in this brainy sign, we have a greater ability to expand our perceptions and come up with bright ideas. Aquarius sometimes dreams up concepts so far ahead of its time that they cannot be applied to current circumstances. However, the New Moon helps put us in touch with reality so that we can bring these groundbreaking insights back down to earth.
Full Moon in Aquarius
This Full Moon occurs when the cooperative Aquarius Moon opposes the individualistic Leo Sun. This cosmic coupling allows us see the difference between satisfying ourselves (Leo) and collaborating with others (Aquarius), and helps us understand the relationship between teamwork and individuality. The community-conscious Aquarius Full Moon reminds us that we are part of something larger than ourselves, and that acting on our ideas and ideals will benefit everyone.
You’ll probably wonder where your invitation is because it’s always a party when the Full Moon is in Aquarius! Full Moons spark an increase in activity and energy, and Aquarius is one of the most outgoing signs in the zodiac. You’ll be more apt to let your hair down and have a good time during this fun-loving Full Moon.
Tarot.com is Part of the Daily Insight Group ©2018
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Today is Wednesday, December 12
Wednesday is the day of the Teutonic deity known as Wodin or Odin, an aspect of the Allfather, god of knowledge, wisdom, enlightenment and combat, the parallel of Hermes, the planet Mercury
Deity: Woden
Zodiac Sign: Gemini & Virgo
Planet: Mercury
Tree: Ash
Herb: Cinquefoil
Stone: Emerald & Sardonyx
Animal: Raven & Cat
Element: Air
Color: Red & Blue
Number: 6
Rune: Odal(O)
Celtic Tree Month of Ruis (Elder) (November 25 – December 22)
The Runic Half Month of Is (November 28 – December 12)
Goddess of the Month of Astraea (November 28 – December 23)
—The Pagan Book of Days
Nigel Pennick
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The Goddess Book of Days for December 12
Our Lady of Guadualupe in Mexico, Holy Day of Coatlique/Tonantzin, who became the Black Madonna, Lady of Guadualupe Hidalgo. She is Mary, Kwan Yin, Isis, Yemaya, and possibly Persephone or Kore.
Goddesses Associated with Wednesday
For Woden: Isis, Demeter, Ceres, Spider Woman, Bona Dea, Oya, Devi-Kali, Hella, Rhiannon, Coatlique, Maman Brigette
—The Goddess Book of Days
Diane Stein
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On Wednesday, December 12, We Celebrate….
Sada (Persia)
BAMYA
Themes: Victory; Banishing; Protection; Overcoming
Symbols: Light; Fire
About Bamya: In Zoroastrian tradition, this goddess guides the sun god Mithra’s vehicle through the sky. More important, as the goddess of twilight, her presence signals the beginning of today’s festival.
To Do Today: As the sun sets in Iran today, a huge bonfire will be ignited near a water source to symbolize the power of light to overcome darkness and the power of good over evil. For us this means accepting our power and potential to overcome any obstacles that life may bring in any season.
Too often our lives seem overwhelmed with obligations, and we find ourselves feeling lost in the seething sea of humanity. Bamya’s counsel today is to learn how to swim in that sea by recognizing the ability of one person to truly make a difference—be it within yourself, in the life of another, in a specific situation, or in the world.
At sunset today, light an orange candle (or another one the color of twilight) and greet Bamya with this prayer:
Lady of gentle twilight, I welcome you.
As the sun sets on this day,
let things from the past that I no longer
need to bear also fade away.
Teach me to leave them behind as easily
as you leave behind the daylight.
As darkness falls, grant rest to my unsettled spirit
so that I can rise tomorrow renewed and whole.
Bamya be with me. Amen.
–365 Goddess: A Daily Guide To the Magic and Inspiration of the goddess
Patricia Telesco
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Wednesday: On the way to the afterlife
The fourth day of the week is named after Odin (Wodan or Woden). In Anglo-Saxon world, Woden is not necessarily the mirror of the Norse Odin. Up to the seventh century, he was worshipped as the main deity. He was the psychopomp which is a word for someone who helps deliver human souls to the afterlife.
In Romance languages, the name of the day comes from Latin Dies Mercurii (miércoles in Spanish, mercoledi in Italian, mercredi in French), associated with Mercury, the Roman god of trade, profit and commerce.
In German, the word for Wednesday is simply Mittwoch, meaning the middle of the week
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Wednesday’s Associations
Color: Purple
Planet: Mercury
Metal: Mercury (Quicksilver)
Deities: Odin, Hermes, Lugh
Gemstones: Mercury, Athena
Crystals: Adventurine, Agate
Herbs: Aspen trees, lilies, Lavender, Ferns
Associations: Business, Communication, Loss and Debt, Travel.
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The Magickal Days of the Week: Wednesday
Wednesday is named for Woden himself, although the Romans called it dies Mercurii.This is a day associated with the color purple, the planet Mercury, and the metal quicksilver – which is also called mercury. See a pattern here?
When it comes to deities… yes, Mercury! However, there are a few other gods associated with Wednesday, including Odin and Hermes, Athena, and Lugh. Gemstones like adventurine and agate come in handy as well, as do plants such as aspen trees, lilies, lavender and even ferns.
Business and job-related issues, communication, loss and debt, traveling, and journeys are all tied in to Wednesday. This is a good day to do a working to open up lines of communication – especially if your own actions are preventing you from being an effective speaker or listener. Go someplace new or return to an old favorite stomping ground, step up your game, and settle up your accounts
–Patti Wigington, Paganism/Wicca Expert
Article published on & owned by ThoughtCo.com
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The Witches Guide for Wednesdays
Ruler: Wodin, Mercury
Colors: Orange, light blue, and gray
Power Hours: Sunrise and the 8th, 16th, and 24th hours following
Keywords: Success, creativity, communication
The word Wednesday is reminiscent of the Norse wind god Wodin, which is referenced in the popular rhyme verse “Wednesday’s child is full of woe.” This does not mean that those born on this day are full of sorrow or trouble. To be full of Wo (Wodin) means to be full of wind, to be spirited. Woden was such a powerful pagan god that the German church fathers changed the name of his day to Mittwoch, meaning midweek, in an attempt to exorcise his influence.
In the Spanish word for Wednesday, miercoles, we clearly see its connection to Mercury. Under the guidance of Mercury; Wednesday is a day of swift activity, communication, correspondence, and phone calls. This is a good day for journalists, writers, poets, bargaining, hiring employees, and visiting friends.
On Wednesdays, the hour of sunrise and every eight hours after that are also ruled by Mercury, making these times of the day doubly blessed. These are the strongest four hours for ritual work. Check your local newspaper, astrological calendar, or almanac to determine when sunrise occurs.
—Gypsy Magic
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The Witches Almanac for Wednesday, December 12
Fiesta of Our Lady of Guadalupe (Mexican)
Waxing Moon
Moon phase: First Quarter
Moon Sign: Aquarius
Incense: Honeysuckle
Color: Brown
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WEDNESDAY CORRESPONDENCES
Mercury/Neptune/Air/North/West/Southwest/Female/Male/Gemini/Virgo
Magickal Intentions: Communication, Divination, Writing, Knowledge, Business Transactions, Debt, Fear, Loss, Travel, Money Matters
Color: black, light blue, brown, gray, green, magenta, orange, peach, purple, red, silver, turquoise, violet, white, yellow; orange is the primary color
Number: 3, 5
Metal: mercury
Charm: distaff, rod, runes, staff, iridescent garments
Stone: moss agate, amethyst, bloodstone, emerald, hematite, lapis lazuli, lodestone, pearl, ruby, sapphire, sodalite, all blue stones
Animal: bear, dog, fox, magpie, swan, weasel
Plant: almond, bayberry, chamomile, cherry, cinnamon, cinquefoil, clove, coltsfoot, ginger, hazel, hazelnut, jasmine, lavender, millet, oak, peppermint, periwinkle, rosemary, sage, St. John’s wort, sweet pea, tamarind, lemon verbena, violet
Incense: cassia, cedar, cinnamon, clove, frankincense, jasmine, lavender, mastic, mint, rosemary, sage, sandalwood, storax, dried and powdered citrus peel, and all incense made from aromatic bark, wood, and seeds
Goddess: Carmenta, Hecate (Queen of Crossroads), Hel, Ishtar, Ma’at, the Morrigan, Nike
God: Anubis, Bragi, Elath-Iahu. Enki, Garuda, Hermes, Maximon (Black Magician), Mercury, Nebo (Wise God of Wednesday), Odin, Shango, Ullr, Vishnu, Wayland, Woden
Evocation: Agrat Bat Mahalat, Michael, Miel, Raphael, Seraphiel, Tiriel
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Wednesday Is Ruled By Mercury
Wednesdays are wild and wacky days. They are for communication, change, cunning, and the arts. This is a Mercury day, and just its patron god this day is full of contradictions, change, and excitement. Some suggestions for Wednesday enchantments would include:
Pulling a little Wednesday color magic into your life by wearing purples or orange
Carrying a multipurpose agate with you and tapping into its various charms
Working with magical plants such as the fern for protection. This plant will also boost the power of any other magical plants with which it is arranged.
Incorporating lavender into charms and spells for transformation
Using the charming scent of lily of the valley to improve your memory, or working with the aspen tree for communication
Calling on Athena, patron of arts and crafts, for inspiration for a new project
Fanning out a Tarot spell to increase you creativity
Calling on Hermes on a Wednesday night to bring movement and good luck into your life
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On Wednesday, December 12, Our Magick Focuses on Poppets
MAGIC POPPETS
A Poppet is a doll. It is the shape of a human that is used for magical purposes. They are used in spells to help either you or someone else. These dolls can be made from wood, cloth, clay, paper, or fabric.
To make a fabric Poppet cut a human outline from two pieces of fabric with their right sides together. It does not need to be detailed. You can keep the hands and feet rounded. If the Poppet is to represent you, use a piece of fabric from some of your old clothes.
Sew most of the figure with right sides together. Leave a small area unsewn. Turn it right side out and stuff. You may stuff the figure with batting, tissue, straw, paper, or whatever is handy. You may add herbs, a lock of hair or other personal effect. Sew the hole. You may add button eyes and decorate to personalize.
Do not make Poppets of other people unless you have permission. Do not destroy the Poppet. If it represents another person, give it to that person to keep it safe. If it was made for binding, bury it
BANISHING SPELL USING POPPETS
Items You will Need:
1/2 ounce olive oil
15 drops pine oil
12 drops rue oil
7 drops pepper oil
10 drops peppermint oil
flower: crushed black peppercorns
gem: obsidian or black onyx
As with most recipes, you’ll probably have to substitute, this is a good thing, it makes it your own. Be careful though as most of the oils called for are skin irritants.
Make a Poppet out of black cloth, stuff it with cotton balls or batting and tobacco. Add hair and/or nail clippings if you have them. Sew it closed and staple a picture of the person to the front of the Poppet (if you have one).
Carve the person’s name into a black candle and add the runes Thurisaz, Isa, Eihwaz, Dark Moon, Widdershins and Bars. (Dark Moon is a filled-in circle; Bars is a tic-tac-toe with 4 lines up and 4 lines across; Widdershins is a counter-clockwise spiral with a an arrowhead at the end.)
Anoint the Poppet and Candle with Banishing Oil (if you can’t make the oil, a single oil with banishing properties can be used). Cast a circle, invoke the elements and the God or Goddess you are working with (I’d use The Morrigan, but she can be rather volatile).Light the altar candles. Light the black candle and adjust the mirror so that the flame is reflected in the glass. Hold the Poppet out in front of you and say:
Creature of cloth thou art,
Now creature of flesh and blood you be.
I name you (name of the person you are binding).
No more shall you do me harm,
No more shall you spread false tales,
No more shall you interfere in my life, nor in the lives of my loved ones.
By the power of the Gods and by my will,
So mote it be!
Draw an invoking pentagram over the Poppet. Take a red ribbon and begin to wrap the Poppet like a mummy, leaving so space unwrapped. Say:
I bind your feet from bringing you to harm me.
I bind your hands from reaching out to harm me.
I bind your mouth from spreading tales to harm me.
I bind your mind from sending energy to harm me.
If you do so continue, let all negative energy be cast and reflected directly back at you!
Tie off the ribbon and hold the Poppet in front of the mirror while you visualize all negative energy this person has sent to you being reflected back to them. Wrap the Poppet in black cloth and tie with another length of ribbon. Say:
Great Mother, I have bound this person
from harming me and my loved ones.
By the powers of three times three
By Earth and Fire, Air and Sea
I fix this spell, then set it free
‘Twill give no harm to return on me
As I will, so mote it be!
Let the candle burn out while the Poppet sits at its base, then take the Poppet and the remains of the candle far from your home and bury it deep in the ground or toss it in the ocean and walk away without looking back.
Note: This spell is very powerful and works quite well. I’ve never had the need for a different binding spell.
Sometimes binding spells work in unexpected ways. The person you are binding may suddenly decide to move away, they may have a change of heart and turn into a decent person after all, they may go through a horrible streak of bad luck and learn their lessons the hard way. There is an outside chance that if they are projecting enough negative energy, the might end up hurt. Be assured, they were only caught in the backwash of their own negativity.
The Wheel of the Year
The Wheel of the Year refers to the eight Sabbats, or Holidays. These are days of power, when there is a definite switch in the energies of the Earth and Nature, a “changeover.” For example, with the “first” of the Sabbats (there is no “true” first, for this is a cycle, forever spiraling on, without beginning or end,) the Winter Solstice, the switch is apparent in the amount of sunlight in the day. This is the shortest day of the year, the darkest day. But, after this long night, the amount of sunlight in the day will increase, until Summer Solstice, the longest day of the year, after which the night will begin to overtake the day.
Beginning at the Solar New Year, the eight Sabbats are: Winter Solstice (aka Yule, Midwinter;) Imbolc (aka Imbolg, Candlemas, Lady Day, Purification Day;) Vernal Equinox (aka Spring Equinox, Ostara, Eostara;) Beltain (aka May Day, Beltane;) Summer Solstice (aka Midsummer, Litha;) Lughnasadh (aka Lammas;) Autumnal Equinox (aka Fall Equinox, Mabon;) and Samhain (aka Halloween, All Hallows Eve.)
There is much that can be said about these days of power (and much has been,) but the best source of information as to what these Sabbats are truly about is to just be outside, to feel what’s going on. If you’re calm, if you’re quiet, you’ll notice the change. However, as the Wheel turns, we will go into each Sabbat, covering dates and times, common traditions, and general background for each of these Holidays.
Noticing these changes and living your life in tune with this cycle and the rhythm of the Earth and Nature is referred to as “Walking the Wheel.” Most simply, because all cycles are depicted as circles, but more so for what a circle stands for: unity and continuity. This Wheel traces the course of the Sun through the Stars. This Wheel then symbolizes the unity of all things under the stars and, in accordance with one of the Laws of the Universe (also known as the Laws of Magick,) “As Above, So Below*,” in all of the Universe, as well. This also implies a set order to things, hinting at the existence of the Laws of the Universe.
*The entire Law is “As Above, So Below; As Within, So Without,” and originally comes to us from Alchemy.
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Yule- the Winter Solstice
Midwinter, the longest night of the year. Light a candle in every window, beacon for the soon to be reborn Sun. Celebrate a bounty at this time when things are at their bleakest.
Common Yule Traditions
Many contemporary Christmas traditions have their roots in ancient Winter Solstice celebrations. Here are a few common Wiccan and Pagan ways to celebrate this Sabbat:
stay up all night to welcome the new born Sun in the morning, often accompanied with enthusiastic drumming
decorate a Yule tree! String seeds, nuts, cranberries, and popcorn for garland. After the Sabbat, the garlands can be hung outside as offerings and to feed birds and squirrels.
light a Yule Log: save the trunk (at least part) of your Yule Tree to use for next year’s Yule Log. Burn as part of sympathetic magick to draw back the Sun.
a Feast: appropriate foods are roast meats (such as pork, venison, and game birds,) baked apples, mince pies, and nuts.
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Midsummer- the Summer Solstice
aka Litha, Midsummer
The height of Summer! All of Nature is at its peak & celebrates the abundance of life and the strength of the Sun. This is the longest Day of the Year, from here after the Days will get shorter, the Nights longer. But today is bright, warm, and full of power and energy.
Common Midsummer Traditions
These are just a few of the many traditions that many Witches, Wiccans, and Pagans enjoy on Summer Solstice.
Today is a day of such strength and power that even the faeries come out to celebrate. Be leery of their tricks.
Children should make garlands and wreaths of Daisies to wear to avoid the mischief of the Fay.
In homage of the Sun and this His most powerful time, erect a bonfire to celebrate. Leap the flames for good fortune and prosperity.
Today is a great day for Divination and magick of all forms! Try your hand at scrying by the embers of the balefire; see what visions may be had within the sacred flames.
Dancing and fire spells are well suited to this day, as is pure celebration of this the strongest Day of the Sun.
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Today’s Inspiration – Hugging a Tree
BY MADISYN TAYLOR
If you are feeling anxious, sad, or drained, try hugging a tree and allow her vast amount of grounding energy to assist you.
Trees are among the world’s greatest givers. Their slow and gentle life cycles provide the world with clean air, their roots filter water, and their majestically spreading branches provide shade. Full of vibrant, natural energy, trees can also give us the gifts of peace and nurturance. Hugging or sitting with your spine against the trunk of any tree can ground your body and inspire a profound closeness with nature as the energy of the tree connects to you. Making physical contact with a tree can help you relax, alleviate stress, sleep more deeply, and hold on to more positive energy. Trees can absorb great amounts of energy and have the ability to soak up harmful energy from deep within you. If you are feeling anxious, sad, drained, or tense, then try hugging a tree.
Go to the woods, a garden, or a park, and find a tree that you would like to hug. Stand next to the tree and close your eyes. Relax your senses while breathing in the scent of leaves and bark. Listen to the creaking of the branches. When you feel settled, open your eyes, keeping them unfocused, and walk around its trunk. Feel the unique energy of the tree as your auras meet each other. Ask the tree for permission to touch it. If you feel the tree saying yes to you, begin breathing in its energy. Put your arms around the trunk and press your face to its bark. Embrace the tree for as long as you wish, feeling the roughness of its wood and the strength of its years. Relax into that strength and let the tree support you. You may even be able to physically feel a cyclical flow of energy taking place between your body and the tree.
You can sit with your back pressed to the tree for the same effect if you feel more comfortable doing so. Likewise, if you are seeking greater comfort, you may want to wrap your legs and arms around the tree, either at the base or by straddling a branch. Remember to thank the tree because by hugging your tree you are drinking from the well of natural copious energy cultivated by the tree’s many years on this earth.
–-Daily OM
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Spirit Message of the Day – Focus, Direct Energy
THE MAGICIAN
“Long ago there was a boy named Wu who lived with his father and grandmother on a farm. Wu was a quiet child who would often walk to the garden gate and fall into daydreaming. One day, as he was gazing across the plain, an elegant youth in flowing yellow garments rode toward him on a brilliant white horse. As he dismounted in front of the gate, an accompanying servant held out an umbrella to shield the youth from the sun. ‘Wu, son of Yin, we are in need of rest. May we enter your father’s home?’ the youth asked.”
“Wu bowed and led the youth and his entourage through the courtyard. The visitor was greeted with refreshments and conversation. Wu sat quietly and watched as the youth and his father talked. After several hours, the visitor stood up and thanked Yin for his hospitality before returning to the gate. As the youth mounted his horse, he turned to Wu and said, ‘I will see you again soon.’ He then galloped away majestically into the haze of the setting sun.”
“Wu returned and saw a puzzled look on his father’s face. ‘How could that stranger have known my name?’ asked his father. ‘Wu, did you see anything out of the ordinary?’ ‘His clothes had no seams’ said Wu ‘and his horse had five spots and scaly skin. And the rider and his mount never touched the ground.’ Yin’s eyes grew wide, ‘We’ve been visited by spirits!’ ‘Yes father’ agreed Wu. ‘They galloped westward and rode up into large clouds gathering in the sky.’”
“Yin and Wu went to the wise Grandmother and told her what they saw. Grandmother nodded, ‘Ah yes, that was a dragon spirit. The youth wearing yellow is a great thunder dragon. Is there anything else you saw, Wu?’ Grandmother asked. ‘Yes, one of the servants held the umbrella upside down as he was leaving our garden.’ ‘This is a good sign’, said Grandmother assuredly, the dragon is to unleash a great storm, and perhaps we will be spared harm.’ Grandmother then retired to bed. Just then a great howl pierced through the thickening air. Yin and Wu decided to stay awake as an ominous gale whooshed nearby. The storm grew fiercer as rivers spilled over their banks and inundated the villages with lethal force.”
“‘We should have escaped to the safety of the mountain while we had the chance,’ lamented his father. Wu looked out the window and saw a dragon flying over their house. ‘Look father,’ Wu cried, ‘I see the dragon!’ As they peered up at the sky, they noticed that the torrential rain could be seen all around the perimeter of their farm, but none of the raindrops hit their roof. The dragon was protecting them with its great hood. At last, the storm subsided, and the villagers grieved their looses. The only home unscathed was that of the farmer Yin. The next day, the youth returned, only this time he did not pass through the gate.”
“He plucked a scale from the horse’s neck and handed it to Wu. ‘I’ve returned as I said I would. Keep this scale, and do not forget me.’ Wu nodded and placed the scale in a wooden box and showed it to his grandmother. ‘It won’t be long until the emperor sends for you.’ she observed wisely. And Grandmother was right. Word of the miraculous events surrounding the devastating storm reached the ears of the emperor. Wu was accompanied to the palace by the emperor’s courtiers. There, he told the emperor of his exchanges with the yellow thunder dragon. He took out his wooden box, lifted the lid, and illuminated the room with the brilliant dragon scale. The emperor, feeling that the dragon had endowed the boy with special powers, designated him as the palace magician. As magician, the boy made accurate predictions for years and helped keep everyone safer in the kingdom. He lived a happy life and never forgot the youth-dragon who had given him a special gift.”
SYMBOLS AND MEANING
“The contents of the golden box are the key to accessing hidden powers. The dragons in the air reflect mental strength and potentiality; they are knowledgeable creatures and can serve as guides and teachers. The luminescence sweeping out of the box mimics cosmic energy reminding us that the use of magic requires discipline and focus. The boy wears an orange shirt, representing fire and enthusiasm, both attributes that will serve him well on his quest for knowledge.”
MESSAGE FOR YOU
“Start building your visionary powers as a means of influencing potential energies. You have the opportunity to start tapping into inner resources that will enable you to travel deeper into the realm of unconscious mysteries.”
Today’s message is from The Fairy Tale Tarot by Lisa Hunt.
Spiritblogger’s Blog
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Celebrating Legends, Folklore & Other Spirituality 365 Days A Year
Bowing the Midwinter Horn, Agonalia
The Netherlands festival of Blowing the Midwinter Horn is more that 2,000 years old and takes place horns and blow them. It is hoped that the sounds emanating from the horns will frighten away any evil influence that may effect the settle upon the land during the Winter season.
Agonalia, called dies agonales, was held four times a year in ancient Rome, possibly for Janus, although even the Romans mans seemed to be unsure exactly which deities were actually involved. However, at each of the celebrations a ram was sacrificed rificed at the Regia and a different God honored, including Janus, Vediovis, and Sol Indiges.
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Daily Incantations & Enchantments for December 11 & December 12
Enchantment for Luck
Good fortune follows wherever I go.
With blessings and providence to bestow.
Karma smiles upon me, and kismet’s on my side
All that is charmed shall abide.
Lucky cat and four leaf clover
Serendipity all over.
–The Power of Positive Witchcraft: Daily Incantations & Enchantments: A Spell a Day for 30 Days
Garden Summerland
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Witch Tip #121 for December 11 & December 12
A potato can be used as a temporary poppet.
–Witch Tips : The Essential Guide to Contemporary Witchcraft
A. Rayne
“Walk barefoot, listen to the wind, drink in the moon…. BE MAGICK”
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The Rings
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