Category: All Regular Daily Posts

16 Pagan Christmas Traditions that People Mistakenly Credit to Christianity

Christmas is a midwinter festival celebrated on December 25th that is dedicated to the birth of Jesus Christ. Those who mark it celebrate in a variety of ways. Some attend services at church- the traditional services that initially gave the festival its name: “Christ’s mass.” Even those who do not believe in Christ enjoy the attendant festivities, celebrated with family and friends as well as putting up decorations, lighting candles, holding parties, eating and drinking and giving and receiving gifts.

Many of these Christmas traditions seem puzzling when compared to the central message of the Christian Christmas. For they either appear entirely irrelevant to it or else forced to fit. The reason for this is that many Christmas practices are much older than Christ’s Mass itself, dating back to much older religious traditions and gods. Some of these traditions can be easily traced back to their origins, while the exact roots of others have become lost in time. Here are just sixteen of the pagan traditions of Christmas.

16. The Twelve Days of Christmas Originates from the Numerous Pagan Festivals Once celebrated around midwinter.

15. Christmas Feasting and overindulgence was a Hangover from Pagan Midwinter Celebrations.

14. The Original Christmas Carols were not Christian hymns; they were pagan seasonal songs to drive away Evil.

13. Decking the Halls with Greenery was a Sign of Life during the Dead of Winter.

12. Christmas Trees were an extension of this tradition of life amidst the death of winter.

11. Christmas wreaths are another form of Christmas greenery that celebrates the wheel of life.

10. Holly was the symbol of the Pagan ‘King of Winter’- not the Blood of Christ.

9. Ivy was the partnership plant of Holly. However, it was the symbol of death, not life.

8. Mistletoe was an ancient symbol of peace, reconciliation- and love.

7. The Yule Log was lit to celebrate the rebirth of the Sun- and to keep fires burning while people partied.

6. Candles were lit to imitate the sun and Ward off Evil

5. The Giving of Gifts at Christmas has nothing to do with the Three Wise Men

4. The Lord of Misrule was a Popular Figure in the Middle Ages. However, he was a blatant hangover from Saturnalia.

3. Father Christmas or Santa Claus Started Life as a Pagan God

2. New Year Celebrations were so Pagan that the Council of Tours banned them.

1. Christmas Day was the date of the Rebirth of the Sun before it was the Birthday of the Son of God.

Click here to read the rest of this informative article historycollection.com

Where Do We Get This stuff? Here are our sources:

Nine Christmas Customs with Pagan Roots, Patti Wigington, Learn Religions, June 18, 2017

Christmas, BBC, June 22, 2009

Lord of Misrule, Encyclopedia Britannica, August 13, 2015

Christmas tree, Encyclopedia Britannica, October 15, 2018

Chambers Dictionary of Beliefs and religions, ed Mark Vernon, Chambers, 2010

Chambers Book of Days, ed R Chambers, Chambers, 2004

Christmas wreaths, Christmas Forest

Stations of the Sun: A history of the Ritual Year in Britain, Ronald Hutton, 1996

Tree worship: why are our trees so sacred? Ed Cumming, The Telegraph, December 19, 2013

The Contest of the Ivy and the Holly, in Songs of the nativity by William Henry Husk, John Camden Hotten.

Ancient mysteries described: especially the English miracle plays, founded on apocryphal New Testament story, extant among the unpublished manuscripts in the British Museum: including notices of ecclesiastical shows. William Hone, London: W. Hone, 1823

Price, S, and Kearns, E. The Oxford Dictionary of Classical Myth and Religion- ed. Oxford University Press, 2003

Did the Romans invent Christmas? BBC: Religion and Ethics, December 17, 2012

St Nicholas, Bishop of Myra, Encyclopedia Britannica, March 14, 2018

The Ancient Origins of New Years Celebrations, April Holloway, Ancient Origins, December 30, 2013

Did the Romans Invent Christmas? Matt Salusbury. History Today. 12 December 2009

Christmas Isn’t Christian: The Pagan Roots of The Winter Holiday. Wear Your Voice. Laurel Dickman. Dec 2, 2016

Christmas Wreaths Are a Classic Holiday Decoration with a Surprisingly Deep History. Time Magazine. KAT MOON. DECEMBER 21, 2018

10 Christian Holidays and Beliefs Steeped in Pagan Traditions. Larry Holzwarth. History Collection. July 12, 2018

Pagan Roots? 5 Surprising Facts About Christmas. Stephanie Pappas. Live Science. December 23, 2012

What Is the Significance of the Three Wise Men and Their Gifts? Robert Hampshire. Christianity. 1 December 2020

These Abysmal Christmases in History Make us Grateful for the Cringey Family Gatherings. Tim Flight. History Collection. December 25, 2018

Laugh for Today

6 December 2022 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

6 December 2022
03:00 pm GMT 12:00 PM BRT
Zodiac: Tropical (Standard Western)

Sun:14 Sagittarius 28
Moon:27 Taurus 00
Mercury:29 Sagittarius 33
Venus:25 Sagittarius 34
Mars:16 Gemini 43 Rx
Jupiter:29 Pisces 05
Saturn:20 Aquarius 14
Uranus:15 Taurus 50 Rx
Neptune:22 Pisces 39
Pluto:26 Capricorn 55

True Lunar Node:13 Taurus 14 Rx
Mean Lunar Node:11 Taurus 33 Rx

Lilith (Black Moon):26 Cancer 19

Chiron:12 Aries 04 Rx
Ceres:26 Virgo 23
Pallas:26 Cancer 19 Rx
Juno:15 Pisces 09
Vesta:04 Pisces 48

Eris:24 Aries 02 Rx

Fire:5
Earth:6
Air:2
Water:6
Cardinal:5
Fixed:5
Mutable:9

Southern Hemisphere

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

6 December 2022
10:00 am GMT 12:00 PM SAST
Zodiac: Tropical (Standard Western)

Sun:14 Sagittarius 15
Moon:24 Taurus 25
Mercury:29 Sagittarius 15
Venus:25 Sagittarius 18
Mars:16 Gemini 48 Rx
Jupiter:29 Pisces 04
Saturn:20 Aquarius 13
Uranus:15 Taurus 51 Rx
Neptune:22 Pisces 39
Pluto:26 Capricorn 55

True Lunar Node:13 Taurus 14 Rx
Mean Lunar Node:11 Taurus 33 Rx

Lilith (Black Moon):26 Cancer 17

Chiron:12 Aries 04 Rx
Ceres:26 Virgo 19
Pallas:26 Cancer 20 Rx
Juno:15 Pisces 05
Vesta:04 Pisces 43

Eris:24 Aries 02 Rx

Fire:5
Earth:6
Air:2
Water:6
Cardinal:5
Fixed:5
Mutable:9

Southwestern Hemisphere

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

6 December 2022
01:00 am GMT 12:00 PM AEDT
Zodiac: Tropical (Standard Western)

Sun:13 Sagittarius 52
Moon:19 Taurus 44
Mercury:28 Sagittarius 41
Venus:24 Sagittarius 50
Mars:16 Gemini 57 Rx
Jupiter:29 Pisces 03
Saturn:20 Aquarius 11
Uranus:15 Taurus 52 Rx
Neptune:22 Pisces 39
Pluto:26 Capricorn 54

True Lunar Node:13 Taurus 15 Rx
Mean Lunar Node:11 Taurus 35 Rx

Lilith (Black Moon):26 Cancer 15

Chiron:12 Aries 04 Rx
Ceres:26 Virgo 12
Pallas:26 Cancer 22 Rx
Juno:14 Pisces 58
Vesta:04 Pisces 36

Eris:24 Aries 02 Rx

Fire:5
Earth:6
Air:2
Water:6
Cardinal:5
Fixed:5
Mutable:9

A Thought for Today

December 5, 2022 Daily Horoscopes

Click here to read Georgia Nicols Daily Horoscopes

 

Moon Alert

There are no restrictions to shopping or important decisions today. The Moon is in Taurus.

Aries (March 21-April 19)

“It was Monday. It was Monday all day.” Today things might feel a bit grim, especially financially speaking. And in turn, this could make you feel anxious or depressed. Ironically, to counteract these feelings, you might make impulsive, extravagant, travel plans or do something dramatic. “I’m at the airport.”

Taurus (April 20-May 20)

This is a slightly accident-prone day. (You might feel agitated and worried.) Fortunately, with the Moon in your sign, your luck is good. Guard against impulsive travel plans or agreeing to foreign negotiations or wild ideas connected with publishing and the media. If discussing shared property or inheritances, don’t give away the farm.

Gemini (May 21-June 20)

Don’t worry if you feel a bit depressed today, because many people feel this way today. This is because the Moon is at odds with Saturn, and it is also lined up with unpredictable Uranus. This makes people feel bleak and on edge. Fortunately, you still create a fabulous impression on others.

Cancer (June 21-July 22)

You might find yourself at odds with a friend today, or a group, or a member of a group. This could be about finances, budgets or the wealth and resources of someone else, especially your partner or spouse. Meanwhile, someone might promise you the Moon. Don’t believe it.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22)

You might be blindsided by someone in authority today – a boss, parent, teacher or the police. Whatever happens might cramp your style and make you agitated or anxious. Guard against knee-jerk reactions. Remember the power of courtesy. Fortunately, something related to your job is uplifting, possibly work-related travel?

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

Steer clear of controversial subjects today because something out of the blue will catch you off guard, especially related to your work (and possibly your health). Meanwhile, travel plans might suddenly change. Nevertheless, social plans look promising! Go figure.

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)

Double check everything to do with banking, shared resources, jointly-held property, inheritances and insurance issues because something unexpected might occur. Be in the know! Also, make sure your ambitious ideas related to home and family are doable.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

Expect a few surprises from partners, spouses and close friends today. For example, an argument might break out, especially if it involves a parent or duties and obligations at home. You might want to react by booking a vacation or blowing town. Think again.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)

Something will interrupt your work routine today. It might not be pleasant. You might be in hot water with a boss or someone in authority. This could happen because you overestimated something or thought something was better than it was. No one is perfect.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

Parents should be extra vigilant today because this is an accident-prone day for your kids. It’s also an accident-prone day for sports. Meanwhile, social plans might suddenly change. Be careful about overestimating something, which is not your style. (You are cautious, careful and you hate waste.)

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)

Small appliances might break down today or a minor breakage could occur because something will change your home routine. Get dressed because someone might appear at your door. Be respectful with parents to avoid disputes. Caution about overspending or making financial projections.

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20)

Pay attention to everything you say and do today because this is an accident-prone day for you. Meanwhile, new faces, new places and sudden trips are likely. However, you might find yourself a bit worried about something that has caught you off guard. Stay positive. (You always get better results when you expect the best.)

If Your Birthday Is Today

Pioneer of film animation Walt Disney (1901-1966) shares your birthday today. You have a lot of optimism and enthusiasm for life. You are talented, creative and have wonderful visionary skills. Exciting changes might trigger more personal freedom for you this year. This is because change is in the air, which means you will have to be ready to act fast. Trust your intuition.

December 5, 2022 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 Waxing Gibbous phase. Visible through most of the night sky setting a few hours before sunrise. This phase is when the moon is more than 50% illuminated but not yet a Full Moon. The phase lasts about 7 days with the moon becoming more illuminated each day until the Full Moon. During a Waxing Gibbous the moon rises in the east in mid-afternoon and is high in the eastern sky at sunset. The word Gibbous first appeared in the 14th century and has its roots in the Latin word “gibbosus” meaning humpbacked.

Visit the December 2022 Moon Phases Calendar to see all the daily moon phase for this month.

Today’s Waxing Gibbous Phase

The Waxing Gibbous on December 5 has an illumination of 93%. 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 5 the Moon is 12.27 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 Gibbous
Illumination: 93%
Moon Age: 12.27 days
Moon Angle: 0.51
Moon Distance: 389,668.85 km
Sun Angle: 0.54
Sun Distance: 147,406,469.42 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

December 5, 2022 Northern Hemisphere’s Planetary Positions

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

Currentplanetarypositions.com

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

For Your Local Time and Date

Northwestern Hemisphere

The time for these Custom Planetary Positions is from the local time in Los Angeles, California, USA

December 05, 2022
08:00 pm GMT 12:00 PM PST
Zodiac: Tropical (Standard Western)

Sun:13 Sagittarius 39
Moon:17 Taurus 07
Mercury:28 Sagittarius 22
Venus:24 Sagittarius 34
Mars:17 Gemini 01 Rx
Jupiter:29 Pisces 03
Saturn:20 Aquarius 10
Uranus:15 Taurus 52 Rx
Neptune:22 Pisces 39
Pluto:26 Capricorn 54

True Lunar Node:13 Taurus 15 Rx
Mean Lunar Node:11 Taurus 35 Rx

Lilith (Black Moon):26 Cancer 13

Chiron:12 Aries 05 Rx
Ceres:26 Virgo 08
Pallas:26 Cancer 22 Rx
Juno:14 Pisces 54
Vesta:04 Pisces 32

Eris:24 Aries 02 Rx

Fire:5
Earth:6
Air:2
Water:6
Cardinal:5
Fixed:5
Mutable:9

Northern Hemisphere

The time for these Custom Planetary Positions is from the local time in Chicago, Illinois, USA

December 05, 2022
06:00 pm GMT 12:00 PM CST
Zodiac: Tropical (Standard Western)

Sun:13 Sagittarius 34
Moon:16 Taurus 04
Mercury:28 Sagittarius 15
Venus:24 Sagittarius 28
Mars:17 Gemini 03 Rx
Jupiter:29 Pisces 02
Saturn:20 Aquarius 10
Uranus:15 Taurus 52 Rx
Neptune:22 Pisces 39
Pluto:26 Capricorn 54

True Lunar Node:13 Taurus 15 Rx
Mean Lunar Node:11 Taurus 36 Rx

Lilith (Black Moon):26 Cancer 13

Chiron:12 Aries 05 Rx
Ceres:26 Virgo 06
Pallas:26 Cancer 23 Rx
Juno:14 Pisces 53
Vesta:04 Pisces 30

Eris:24 Aries 02 Rx

Fire:5
Earth:6
Air:2
Water:6
Cardinal:5
Fixed:5
Mutable:9

Northeastern Hemisphere

The time for these Custom Planetary Positions is from the local time in Frankfurt, Germany, Europe

December 05, 2022
11:00 am GMT 12:00 PM CET
Zodiac: Tropical (Standard Western)

Sun:13 Sagittarius 17
Moon:12 Taurus 24
Mercury:27 Sagittarius 48
Venus:24 Sagittarius 06
Mars:17 Gemini 10 Rx
Jupiter:29 Pisces 02
Saturn:20 Aquarius 09
Uranus:15 Taurus 53 Rx
Neptune:22 Pisces 39
Pluto:26 Capricorn 53

True Lunar Node:13 Taurus 15
Mean Lunar Node:11 Taurus 37 Rx

Lilith (Black Moon):26 Cancer 11

Chiron:12 Aries 05 Rx
Ceres:26 Virgo 00
Pallas:26 Cancer 24 Rx
Juno:14 Pisces 47
Vesta:04 Pisces 25

Eris:24 Aries 03 Rx

Fire:5
Earth:6
Air:2
Water:6
Cardinal:5
Fixed:5
Mutable:9

5 December 2022 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

5 December 2022
03:00 pm GMT 12:00 PM BRT
Zodiac: Tropical (Standard Western)

Sun:13 Sagittarius 27
Moon:14 Taurus 30
Mercury:28 Sagittarius 03
Venus:24 Sagittarius 18
Mars:17 Gemini 06 Rx
Jupiter:29 Pisces 02
Saturn:20 Aquarius 10
Uranus:15 Taurus 53 Rx
Neptune:22 Pisces 39
Pluto:26 Capricorn 54

True Lunar Node:13 Taurus 15 Rx
Mean Lunar Node:11 Taurus 36 Rx

Lilith (Black Moon):26 Cancer 12

Chiron:12 Aries 05 Rx
Ceres:26 Virgo 04
Pallas:26 Cancer 23 Rx
Juno:14 Pisces 50
Vesta:04 Pisces 28

Eris:24 Aries 02 Rx

Fire:5
Earth:6
Air:2
Water:6
Cardinal:5
Fixed:5
Mutable:9

Southern Hemisphere

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

5 December 2022
10:00 am GMT 12:00 PM SAST
Zodiac: Tropical (Standard Western)

Sun:13 Sagittarius 14
Moon:11 Taurus 52
Mercury:27 Sagittarius 45
Venus:24 Sagittarius 03
Mars:17 Gemini 11 Rx
Jupiter:29 Pisces 02
Saturn:20 Aquarius 09
Uranus:15 Taurus 53 Rx
Neptune:22 Pisces 39
Pluto:26 Capricorn 53

True Lunar Node:13 Taurus 15
Mean Lunar Node:11 Taurus 37 Rx

Lilith (Black Moon):26 Cancer 10

Chiron:12 Aries 05 Rx
Ceres:26 Virgo 00
Pallas:26 Cancer 24 Rx
Juno:14 Pisces 47
Vesta:04 Pisces 24

Eris:24 Aries 03 Rx

Fire:5
Earth:6
Air:2
Water:6
Cardinal:5
Fixed:5
Mutable:9

Southwestern Hemisphere

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

5 December 2022
01:00 am GMT 12:00 PM AEDT
Zodiac: Tropical (Standard Western)

Sun:12 Sagittarius 51
Moon:07 Taurus 07
Mercury:27 Sagittarius 11
Venus:23 Sagittarius 35
Mars:17 Gemini 20 Rx
Jupiter:29 Pisces 01
Saturn:20 Aquarius 07
Uranus:15 Taurus 54 Rx
Neptune:22 Pisces 39
Pluto:26 Capricorn 53

True Lunar Node:13 Taurus 15
Mean Lunar Node:11 Taurus 38 Rx

Lilith (Black Moon):26 Cancer 08

Chiron:12 Aries 05 Rx
Ceres:25 Virgo 52
Pallas:26 Cancer 25 Rx
Juno:14 Pisces 40
Vesta:04 Pisces 16

Eris:24 Aries 03 Rx

Fire:5
Earth:6
Air:2
Water:6
Cardinal:5
Fixed:5
Mutable:9

Astronomy Picture of the Day for December to Today

You can use these hyperlinks to view each day’s pictures

2022 December 05: Pleiades: The Seven Sisters Star Cluster
2022 December 04: Video: Powers of Ten
2022 December 03: Stereo Mars near Opposition
2022 December 02: Merging Galaxy Pair IIZw096
2022 December 01: Artemis 1: Flight Day 13

December 5 Today in History

Today’s Important Historical Events

771 Charlemagne becomes the sole King of the Franks after the death of his brother Carloman

1349 500 Jews of Nuremberg massacred during Black Death riots

1456 Earthquake strikes Naples; about 35,000 die

1848 US President James K. Polk triggers gold rush of 1849 by confirming a gold discovery in California

1933 Prohibition ends in the US when 21st Amendment to the US Constitution ratified, 18th Amendment repealed (5:32 PM EST)

1969 Four-node ARPANET network is established

Today’s Historical Events

63 BC Cicero reads the last of his Catiline Orations

633 Visigothic King Sisenand convenes Fourth Council of Toledo at the church of Saint Leocadia in Toledo; all bishops of Hispania agree to establish seminaries in cathedral cities and implement educational standards

771 Charlemagne becomes the sole King of the Franks after the death of his brother Carloman

1082 Ramon Berenguer II, Count of Barcelona is assassinated

1301 Pope Boniface VIII’s decree Ausculta fili (only nominee)

1349 500 Jews of Nuremberg massacred during Black Death riots

1360 The French Franc is created

1408 Emir Edigu of Golden Horde reaches Moscow

Today’s Historical Events in Film and TV

1859 Dion Boucicault‘s play “Octaroon” premieres in NYC

1941 “Sullivan’s Travels”, directed by Preston Sturges and starring Joel McCrea and Veronica Lake, is released

1954 KTEW (now KJRH) TV channel 2 in Tulsa, OK (NBC) begins broadcasting

1958 WTOL TV channel 11 in Toledo, OH (CBS) begins broadcasting

1971 KCBJ (now KMIZ) TV channel 17 in Columbia, MO (ABC) 1st broadcast

1974 Final episode of Monty Python‘s Flying Circus airs on BBC TV

1982 15th NAACP Image Awards: “An Officer and a Gentleman” wins Outstanding Motion Picture

2001 “Ocean’s Eleven” directed by Steven Soderbergh, starring George Clooney, Brad Pitt, Matt Damon and Julia Roberts premieres in Westwood, California

Today’s Historical Events in Music

1830 Hector Berlioz‘s program symphony “Symphonie fantastique” premieres at the Paris Conservatoire

1837 Hector Berlioz‘s “Requiem” premiere at Les Invalides, conducted by François Habeneck

1890 Hector Berlioz‘s opera “Les Troyens” premieres in Karlsruhe, Germany

1966 “I Do! I Do!” opens at 46th St Theater NYC for 561 performances

1968 Rolling Stones release “Beggar’s Banquet” LP

1973 Paul McCartney & Wings release album “Band on the Run” in the US

1975 “Me & Bessie” closes at Ambassador Theater NYC after 453 performances

1991 “Catskills on Broadway” opens at Lunt-Fontanne NYC for 452 performances

Today’s Historical Events in Sports

1868 1st American bicycle college opens (NY)

1914 CFL Grey Cup, Varsity Stadium, Toronto: Toronto Argonauts win first Championship; beat U of Toronto Blues, 14-2

1924 Hamilton Tiger Red Green scores 5 goals to beat Tor Maple Leafs 10-5

1925 CFL Grey Cup, Landsdowne Park, Ottawa: Ottawa Senators win first title; beat Winnipeg Tammany Tigers, 24-1

1931 CFL Grey Cup, Molson Stadium, Montreal: Montreal AAA Winged Wheelers shutout Regina Roughriders, 22-0 for their first title

1936 CFL Grey Cup, Varsity Stadium, Toronto: Sarnia Imperials defeat Ottawa Rough Riders, 26-20 for their 2nd Championship

1942 CFL Grey Cup, Varsity Stadium, Toronto: Toronto RCAF Hurricanes beat Winnipeg RCAF Bombers, 8-5

1943 NFL Philadelphia Eagle-Pitts Steeler merger dissolves

A Laugh for Today

WHAT PLANETS ARE RETROGRADE DECEMBER? 2022 IS ENDING WITH A BANG

From elitedaily.com

If things have felt a little too quiet in the cosmos, things are about to get very interesting. Though the main culprit of chaos will be Mars, as its retrograde in Gemini continues throughout the remainder of the year, inner planet Mercury is getting ready to join the party, while an outer planet will finally station direct, and another will remain retrograde. The good thing is that outer planet retrogrades are far less noticeable because they’re farther away from the sun, but that still brings the total amount of retrograde planets in December 2022 to a whopping four.

During the month of December, only one planet will *actually* be stationing retrograde — it just so happens to be the most ominous, Mercury. Typically, Mercury retrogrades only three times per year, but 2022 obviously had to be extra and go out with a bang. With Mars retrograde in Gemini, Mercury’s sign, things are bound to get interesting this month — and right before the ball drops.

What Is A Retrograde?

Retrogrades occur when a planet slows down in the sky, appearing to retrace its steps through the cosmos. While planets can’t actually move backward, the idleness of a planet that typically moves quite swiftly tends to affect everyone in major ways, bringing up complications regarding the planet in question. When inner planets like Mercury, Venus, or Mars station retrograde, it tends to be pretty noticeable, since they’re so close to Earth that they can be seen with a naked eye. Outer planets, like Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto, however, retrograde for much longer, since they’re further away from Earth, and naturally move pretty slowly.

What Planets Will Be Retrograde December 2022?

In December, a total of four planets will be retrograde, but one of them, Neptune, will station direct before the month’s over. Uranus will continue its retrograde throughout the month, but since this planet spends several months retrograde every year, this period is far less noticeable. Mars retrograde, however, is much more rare, taking place only once every two years, which causes this period to be far more apparent. Mercury will station retrograde at the very end of the month, but since this happens at least three times annually, it’s nothing too unfamiliar.

Mercury Retrograde (Dec. 29—Jan. 19, 2023)

Mercury is the planet that rules over thoughts, communication, and ideas. When it stations retrograde, it tends to create challenges when it comes to sharing and receiving important details and information. Taking place in the cardinal earth sign of Capricorn, Mercury retrograde will prompt every sign to review and revise goals, ambitions, and future plans and endeavors. Capricorn is a sign all about prioritizing success and achievement, so this retrograde is bound to invite you to take a closer look at your current and future endeavors, to determine whether you’re on the right track. Now may not be the best time to launch any new plans or pursuits. Instead, use this time to reorganize and restructure your current goals.

The house Capricorn rules over in your birth chart is where you’re prone to notice a period of review arising during this period. It may also be a time when important information you receive may need a second look. Since Mars is currently retrograde in one of Mercury’s signs, conflict and discourse may also be a theme during this Mercury rx. Be sure to be mindful of weaponizing words or important information against others during this period.

A Couple of Challenges to Let Your Inner Child Out to Play

Ok, I know technically winter is not here for 17 more days. But remember as a child most of us did not wait for a specific calendar date to tell us it was winter? Personally the first snowfall meant it was winter and time to build snowman, have a snowball fight, and make snow angels.

So, I have a challenge for anyone that possibly can to let your inner child out to have fun. Make a snowman and/or have a snowball fight with your neighborhood children of all ages (just make sure there are no stones or ice in your snowballs) . Definitely get down in the snow and make a snow angel. I was told by psychologist, who also helps me with pain management, that making a snow angel can help relieve joint and soft tissue inflammation. The fantastic side effect of all of these things is they helps us relieve stress and other negativity.

Another challenge, remember cutting out snowflakes from paper or making garland from strips of construction paper? Baking cookies by yourself or with your children/grandchildren,coloring, painting or anything else that reminds you things you did before becoming a grown up with all kinds of responsibilities.

Email Lady Beltane at ladybeltane@witchesofthecraft.com with a short video or pictures showing how you let your inner child out to play and be creative for whatever season we are in, in the hemisphere you live in. Your faces will be covered over if you do not want it seen. Please include a short description of what your activity means to you. Lady Beltane is going to start a seasonal page that will include your pictures or short 60 second video of you my dear Sisters, Brothers, and Honored Guests doing something that brings you and your inner child joy and happiness. Lady Beltane will start it off with something today.

Weekly Horoscope Sunday, December 4 to Saturday, December 10, 2022

All Signs

This week we have a Full Moon in Gemini that will line up with retrograde Mars on Wednesday. This will trigger a buildup of tension on Monday and Tuesday as we approach that Full Moon. (Every month, problems intensify before the Full Moon; and afterwards, they diminish or disappear.) But this week, because of the influence of retrograde Mars, we might feel anger and revenge about past hurts. All that sulky stuff. A wise teacher once told me when you hold on to a grudge, it’s like holding on to a hot pot with both hands. You are the one who gets hurt. (I know this is true; nevertheless, I keep oven mitts in every room of the house.)

Aries (March 21-April 19)

You are fast-moving, fast-acting. In fact, you’re so fast, you often blurt out something without thinking. Be smart this week because the Full Moon on Wednesday could trip you up. Earlier in the week, you might feel tension building up. Perhaps a past resentment about something? Annoyed feelings might permeate your thoughts, which means you could say something you later regret. It might create an argument with a neighbour, sibling or relative. It could trigger an accident while jogging, biking or driving. Hey, you don’t need this. (What you need is a of scenery!) Be smart and remind yourself to think twice before you respond. This way you’ll have no regrets.

Taurus (April 20-May 20)

Keep your eyes open this week because as I’ve mentioned before, you are the financial wizard of the zodiac; and this week, the Full Moon on Wednesday will set up a dynamic tension between both your Money Houses. In fact, this tension will build on Monday and Tuesday. It might pertain to difficulties in getting a mortgage, or a loan, or paying bills, taxes or debt. It might be a threat to your earnings. It is definitely an indication of financial angst. The thing to know is that things will look worse before the Full Moon peaks on Wednesday night. Then afterwards – they will improve! Money will come your way. Therefore, wait until Thursday or Friday to make financial decisions because things will look much better.

Gemini (May 21-June 20)

“Hello Sunshine!” The only Full Moon in your sign all year is taking place this week on Wednesday. Naturally, this will create tension between you and others. But hey — you can handle this with grace and patience because both Mercury and Venus are opposite your sign now, and they will ameliorate difficult situations. Mercury will encourage easy communications with others. And Venus is in the best position possible to promote talking to partners, spouses, close friends and members of the general public. This means you’ve got this! You can handle this tension with skilful means. Be polite; listen and keep smiling. By the end of the week, you’re laughing!

Cancer (June 21-July 22)

The Moon is your ruler, and this week there will be a Full Moon on Wednesday, with a buildup of tension beforehand on Monday and Tuesday. This particular Full Moon is tricky because it lines up with retrograde Mars, in a “hidden” part of your chart. This means you might feel upset about past hurts, insensitive comments or snubs. And yet, you can’t speak up. As a result, you will nurse these grudges privately. As you read these words, you can see there’s no upside to this. Only you are suffering. By the end of the week, this will be history. Why not move on? Why waste your precious time on this stuff?

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22)

Each month, the Full Moon is different. It occurs in a different sign, which gives it a different flavour. As such, it takes place in a different part of your chart, which activates different tensions in your life. Wednesday’s Full Moon might create problems with friends and your kids. It might also create problems with clubs and groups. Romantic relationships might take a hit. Because this Full Moon lines up with retrograde Mars, you might be upset about old business with these people. Something from the past. Perhaps old jealousies with a romantic partner? (Grrr.) Whatever it is, don’t give it energy. By the end of the week, this will be resolved.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

This week, a Full Moon on Wednesday will create tension in your life as you juggle the demands of home and family versus the demands of your career, and your public reputation. However, you can’t ignore home and family. This means you’re caught in a bind. Problems with an old boss, a parent or something from the past that mad you unhappy are at stake. If you can’t change anything, you might as well let it go. If you keep holding on to a grudge or feedings of being treated poorly – where does it get you? It only drains your energy. By the end of the week, you will see this and be able to let it go and move on. Look to the future!

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)

The big thing happening for you this week is the Full Moon that occurs midweek on Wednesday. It will set up tension between yourself and others, especially siblings, relatives and neighbours and people you deal with on a daily basis. You might find that past resentments about beliefs, religious matters, or your stance on masks or other daily situations will resurface. This might be about past hurts related to publishing matters or something to do with higher education or travel. Whatever it is, it rubs you the wrong way, and you’re unhappy. Note: This can be resolved by the end of the week. You will feel better. (“I used to be indecisive, but now I’m not so sure.”)

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

This week, the Full Moon energy will culminate by Thursday. It will affect your finances and concerns about your earnings as well as debt, inheritances, and your involvement with the wealth and resources of someone else. You might feel old resentments about inheritances or how something was divided or that you didn’t get your fair share. (We’ve all been there.) Actually, this is an opportunity for you to work this out. You might put your cards on the table and speak up; or perhaps, you will accept what happened and move on because that’s your best option. In the final analysis, you want to be happy. Do what makes you happy.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)

This week the only Full Moon that is opposite your sign all year will be taking place. This will trigger tension between you and others, especially those who are closest to you. It will create an energy that builds up before the Full Moon peaks on Wednesday night. Be aware of this and be patient with yourself and others because why get your belly in a rash? Especially if you are upset about an old resentment or a past hurt? You can be gracious because Venus is in your sign. And by the end of the week, very likely, these concerns will be resolved or they will diminish. Keep this in mind and don’t say or do something you will later regret.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

This week you might find that you feel some resentment about something related to your job, or your health, or possibly, even a pet. Whatever it is – it gets your goat. Although the first few days of this week might be a challenge for you because you have to decide whether or not to speak up, or be gracious and let things slide. The latter might be your best option because by Thursday, you will feel differently. The Full Moon will have peaked on Wednesday night, and this will release a lot of negative feelings that you had. Wait and see what happens. By the weekend, you will probably be much happier and more content.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)

Friendships are important to you. This is why you might feel challenged this week because the Full Moon will impact friendships, as well as your relations with romantic partners and even your kids. There will be tension that begins on Monday and continues to build until Wednesday night, when the Full Moon peaks. However, afterwards, everything will fall into place. You will see things differently. You will have a better understanding of the situation and feel less resentful. Perhaps even forgiving? Therefore, don’t jump the gun at the beginning of the week if you’re unhappy with others. Wait and see how things play out by the end of the week, because your situation might be resolved. (Relationships are sometimes like algebra: You look at your X and wonder Y.)

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20)

You might encounter difficulties with parents, bosses and VIPs, as well as family members this week because of the Full Moon that peaks Wednesday night. Beforehand, you might nurse some resentments, especially about a family member. But hey, all families have problems. Naturally, these problems set up resentments. You have to decide how long you want to carry this negative feeling. What’s the cost? Think about what you actually want. By the end of the week, you will find it easier to forgive yourself and others and move on. Right now, Jupiter is in your sign, and Jupiter makes you emotionally generous. This is a good thing. Be big.

Click here to read Georgi Nicols Daily Horoscopes

 

I will be Back Today

Although some of the regular daily posts might be posted later than usual, I will do my best to get them up at the usual times. Any missing birthday horoscopes and astronomy picture of the day will be done also. After the daily posts are caught up to date and at least part of the N. H. tomorrow ones are done I will start working usual monthly. I may need to wait until tomorrow to finish the monthly posts. Of course getting all posts done today depends on how long I can comfortably sit and type.

Thank you very much for your encouragement, support, healing energy, and caring about me during another very rough patch in my life. If not for all the positive feedback and energy I receive from so many of you I would not carry on with WOTC website and witchcraft school. Again thank you for being with me and WOTC not only through the positive times in my life but especially for being with me through the negative times as well.

My wish for each of you is that you have people in your life that support you through all the different times in your life. Please know I am one of them and that you can email me at ladybeltane@witchesofthecraft.com anytime about anything. All correspondences go no further than my eyes.

December 3rd Today in History

Today’s Important Historical Events

1586 Sir Thomas Herriot introduces potatoes to England from Colombia

1854 Eureka Stockade: In what is claimed by many to be the birth of Australian democracy, more than 20 goldminers at Ballarat, Victoria, are killed by state troopers in an uprising over mining licences

1967 1st human heart transplant performed in South Africa by Dr. Christiaan Barnard on Louis Washkansky

1984 Bhopal disaster: Union Carbide pesticide plant leak 45 tons of methyl isocyanate and other toxic compounds in Bhopal, India, kills 2,259 (official figure) – other estimates as high as 16,000 (including later deaths) and over half a million injured

1989 Soviet President Mikhail Gorbachev and US President George H. W. Bush, declare the Cold War over

Today’s Historical Events

741 St Zachary begins his reign as Catholic Pope succeeding Gregory III

1347 Pope Clemens VI declares Roman tribunal Cola di Rienzo as heretics

1557 1st Covenant of Scottish protestants form

1586 Sir Thomas Herriot introduces potatoes to England from Colombia

1639 1st annulment by court decree passes

1676 Battle of Lund (Scanian War): Swedish army of 8,000 defeats much larger joint Danish/Dutch force of 13,000

1678 Edmond Halley receives MA from The Queen’s College, Oxford

1685 Charles II bars Jews from settling in Stockholm, Sweden

Today’s Historical Events in Film and TV

1730 Colley Cibber is appointed British Poet Laureate under King George II

1907 George M. Cohan‘s musical “Talk of the Town” premieres in NYC

1949 KRLD (now KDFW) TV channel 4 in Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas (CBS) begins broadcasting

1950 Paul Harvey begins his national radio broadcast

1952 1st TV broadcast in Hawaii

1955 KTVE TV channel 10 in Monroe-El Dorado, LA (NBC) begins broadcasting

1956 KFSA (now KFSM) TV channel 5 in Ft Smith, AR (CBS) 1st broadcast

1960 Alan Jay Lerner and Frederick Loewe’s musical “Camelot”, starring Richard Burton and Julie Andrews, and introducing Robert Goulet, opens at Majestic Theater, NYC; runs for 873 performances, wins 4 Tony Awards

Today’s Historical Events in Music

1908 Edward Elgar‘s 1st Symphony in A performed by the Hallé Orchestra conducted by Hans Richter, premieres in Manchester, England

1930 Richard Rodgers and Lorenz Hart‘s musical “Evergreen” premieres in London

1939 Dmitri Shostakovich‘s 6th Symphony premieres

1943 Howard Hanson conducts premiere of his 4th Symphony (“Requiem”) with the Boston Symphony; wins Pulitzer Prize for Music, 1944

1953 Premier of Dmitri Shostakovich‘ 5th String Quartet

1953 Robert Wright and George Forrest’s musical “Kismet” opens at Ziegfeld Theater, NYC; runs for 583 performances, wins Tony Award for Best Musical

1953 Webb Pierce records single “In the Jailhouse Now” (Billboard Song of the Year, 1955)

1954 Samuel Barber‘s cantata “Prayers of Kierkegaard” premieres

Today’s Historical Events in Sports

1901 At the MLB meeting, the Milwaukee Brewers franchise is officially dropped from the American League and replaced by the St. Louis Browns

1921 CFL Grey Cup, Varsity Stadium, Toronto: Toronto Argonauts win 2nd Championship; beat Edmonton Eskimos, 23-0

1929 Boston Bruins beat the Montreal Canadiens 3-1, the first win of an NHL record 14-game winning streak, and a 22-game home winning streak

1932 CFL Grey Cup, AAA Grounds, Hamilton: Hamilton Tigers defeat Regina Roughriders, 25-6 for their 5th Championship

1933 As part of a famous MLB fire sale of players, Philadelphia A’s owner Connie Mack sells catcher Mickey Cochrane to Detroit for $100,000; Cochrane is immediately named Tigers manager

1933 Joe Lilliard QBs Chic Cardinals; last NFL black until 1946

1943 9th Heisman Trophy Award: Angelo Bertelli, Notre Dame (QB)

1944 Temporary merger of 2 NFL teams, the Pittsburgh Steelers and Chicago Cardinals, dissolves at finish of season; WWII ends before start of 1945 season, so both teams resume normal operations

A Laugh for Today

Both of my canine familiars lay like this often. Wishing you a silly Saturday!

December 2, 2022 Daily Horoscopes

Click here to read Georgi Nicols Daily Horoscopes

Moon Alert

There are no restrictions to shopping or important decisions today. The Moon is in Aries.

Aries (March 21-April 19)

A positive day! TGIF! This is a wonderful day to explore new ideas, talk to people, see new places and if possible – travel! This is because your sense of adventure and desire to explore is very strong today. Enjoy meeting people from different backgrounds and other cultures.

Taurus (April 20-May 20)

This is an excellent day for business and commerce. It’s a particularly good day to ask for a loan or mortgage or to raise funds from other sources. You might benefit indirectly through your partner or a third party. This is also a passionate, romantic day! Perfect for a date.

Gemini (May 21-June 20)

Relations with friends, partners and spouses are warm and mutually supportive today. Enjoy hanging out with groups and working to achieve collective goals. In fact, you might want to discuss your own future goals with a friend? You feel optimistic today.

Cancer (June 21-July 22)

Today you have the energy to work and accomplish things. Furthermore, you are high viz., which means people notice you more than usual, especially bosses and authority figures. (Incidentally, this includes the police.) People are aware of personal details about your private life.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22)

This is a marvellous date day! It’s a great day to schmooze. Enjoy romantic outings, social visits with others, the theatre, sports events and fun activities with children. Get out and expand your world in a way that excites and pleases you. Be happy today!

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

Family, home and everything to do with your personal life will get a lovely lift today. You might enjoy cocooning at home today. Many of you will tackle home repairs and redecorating projects. You might even entertain. All these things are possible – your choice.

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)

Get out of bed, get dressed and explore your world! This is the perfect day for short trips, conversations with others, visits with siblings and relatives plus reading, writing or studying, if you so choose. The main thing is you want to learn something new and have a stimulating, invigorating day!

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

Business and commerce are favoured today. Look for ways to boost your income because they do exist. Respect your moneymaking ideas. Doors will open for you if you want to explore financial options. Many of you also will enjoy shopping for beautiful things for yourself and loved ones.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)

There is no time like the pleasant! Enjoy today because the Sun, Mercury and Venus are in your sign dancing nicely with the Moon in your fellow Fire sign Aries. This means it’s a great day to schmooze! Your energy and enthusiasm will create a positive day for you.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

For most people, today is positive and full of buoyant energy. This same influence applies to you; nevertheless, you might choose to keep a low profile. You might want to work alone or behind the scenes. In fact, some of you will enjoy quiet solitude in beautiful surroundings.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)

This is a popular day for you, which is why you will enjoy hanging out with younger, creative people. You might want to share your hopes and dreams for the future with someone to get their feedback. Stimulating conversations will appeal. Make things happen!

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20)

You look wonderful in the eyes of others today, which is why this is an excellent day to advance your agenda. In particular, you might explore opportunities to boost your earnings. Use your good press to your advantage when talking to bosses and anyone else in power. When you’ve got it – flaunt it!

If Your Birthday Is Today

Actress Lucy Liu (1968) shares your birthday today. You are intelligent, innovative and direct when dealing with others. You express yourself frankly and have a strong personality. People know they can count on you. This is a slower paced year. Take time to rejuvenate your energies. Focus on partnerships and concentrate on what brings you happiness.

A Thought for Today

I do color by number apps on my cellphone and the one has some kind of picture with as saying everyday. Today’s really spoke to my heart because I would not want to live without all the different types of love we cannot express. High on my list is the “love” we share through supporting each other through positive and negative times in our lives. Remember I am as close as an email or comment on a post or however we can communicate to support and try to help you through things just as you are here for me.

December 2 Astronomy Picture of the Day

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

2022 December 2

A merging galaxy pair cavort in this image captured by the NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope. This pair of galaxies, known to astronomers as II ZW 96, is roughly 500 million light-years from Earth and lies in the constellation Delphinus, close to the celestial equator. As well as the wild swirl of the merging galaxies, a menagerie of background galaxies are dotted throughout the image.The two galaxies are in the process of merging and as a result have a chaotic, disturbed shape. The bright cores of the two galaxies are connected by bright tendrils of star-forming regions, and the spiral arms of the lower galaxy have been twisted out of shape by the gravitational perturbation of the galaxy merger. It is these star-forming regions that made II ZW 96 such a tempting target for Webb; the galaxy pair is particularly bright at infrared wavelengths thanks to the presence of the star formation. This observation is from a collection of Webb measurements delving into the details of galactic evolution, in particular in nearby Luminous Infrared Galaxies such as II ZW 96. These galaxies, as the name suggests, are particularly bright at infrared wavelengths, with luminosities more than 100 billion times that of the Sun. An international team of astronomers proposed a study of complex galactic ecosystems — including the merging galaxies in II ZW 96 — to put Webb through its paces soon after the telescope was commissioned. Their chosen targets have already been observed with ground-based telescopes and the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope, which will provide astronomers with insights into Webb’s ability to unravel the details of complex galactic environments. Webb captured this merging galaxy pair with a pair of its cutting-edge instruments; NIRCam — the Near-InfraRed Camera — and MIRI, the Mid-InfraRed Instrument. If you are interested in exploring the differences between Hubble and Webb’s observations of II ZW 96, you can do so here.MIRI was contributed by ESA an

Merging Galaxy Pair IIZw096

Image Credit: ESA/Webb, NASA & CSA, L. Armus, A. Evans

Explanation: Bright at infrared wavelengths, this merging galaxy pair is some 500 million light-years away toward the constellation Delphinus. The cosmic mashup is seen against a background of even more distant galaxies, and occasional spiky foreground stars. But the galaxy merger itself spans about 100,000 light-years in this deep James Webb Space Telescope image. The image data is from Webb’s Near-InfraRed Camera (NIRCam) and Mid-InfraRed Instrument (MIRI). Their combined, sharp infrared view follows galactic scale restructuring in the dusty merger’s wild jumble of intense star forming regions and distorted spiral arms