Tag: Pagan Terminology

History of Christmas

Christmas is celebrated on December 25 and is both a sacred religious holiday and a worldwide cultural and commercial phenomenon. For two millennia, people around the world have been observing it with traditions and practices that are both religious and secular in nature. Christians celebrate Christmas Day as the anniversary of the birth of Jesus of Nazareth, a spiritual leader whose teachings form the basis of their religion. Popular customs include exchanging gifts, decorating Christmas trees, attending church, sharing meals with family and friends and, of course, waiting for Santa Claus to arrive. December 25—Christmas Day—has been a federal holiday in the United States since 1870.

The middle of winter has long been a time of celebration around the world. Centuries before the arrival of the man called Jesus, early Europeans celebrated light and birth in the darkest days of winter. Many peoples rejoiced during the winter solstice, when the worst of the winter was behind them and they could look forward to longer days and extended hours of sunlight.

How Did Christmas Start?

In Scandinavia, the Norse celebrated Yule from December 21, the winter solstice, through January. In recognition of the return of the sun, fathers and sons would bring home large logs, which they would set on fire. The people would feast until the log burned out, which could take as many as 12 days. The Norse believed that each spark from the fire represented a new pig or calf that would be born during the coming year.

The end of December was a perfect time for celebration in most areas of Europe. At that time of year, most cattle were slaughtered so they would not have to be fed during the winter. For many, it was the only time of year when they had a supply of fresh meat. In addition, most wine and beer made during the year was finally fermented and ready for drinking.

In Germany, people honored the pagan god Oden during the mid-winter holiday. Germans were terrified of Oden, as they believed he made nocturnal flights through the sky to observe his people, and then decide who would prosper or perish. Because of his presence, many people chose to stay inside.

Table of Contents

How Did Christmas Start?

Saturnalia and Christmas 

Is Christmas Really the Day Jesus Was Born?

When Christmas Was Cancelled

Washington Irving Reinvents Christmas in America

‘A Christmas Carol’

Who Invented Santa Claus?

Christmas Facts

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

December 23, 2024 Current Moon Phase for the Northern Hemispheres

Source: MoonGiant.com

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

The 8 Lunar Phases

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

Useful Moon Resources

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

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

Moon Phase

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

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

Today’s Waning Crescent Phase

The Waning Crescent on December 23 has an illumination of 42%. 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 23 the Moon is 22.86 days old. This refers to how many days it has been since the last New Moon. It takes 29.53 days for the Moon to orbit the Earth and go through the lunar cycle of all 8 Moon phases.

Today’s Moon Sign: ♎ Libra

The current zodiac moon sign is Libra, positioned at 8.91° within the sign. The Moon entered Libra on Dec 22, 1:41 PM and will shift into Scorpio on Dec 25, 9:10 AM. The zodiac moon sign represents the position of the Moon as it moves through the twelve signs of the zodiac. Each zodiac moon sign lasts about 2 to 2.5 days as the Moon travels through that part of the sky.

Phase Details

Phase: Waning Crescent
Illumination: 42%
Moon Age: 22.86 days
Moon Angle: 0.49
Moon Distance: 405,263.24 km
Sun Angle: 0.54
Sun Distance: 147,135,430.42 km

24 December 2024 Current Moon Phase for the Southern Hemisphere

Source: nineplanets.org

The current moon phase for December 24th, 2024 is the Waning Crescent phase.

On this day, the moon is 22.62 days old and 39.64% illuminated with a tilt of -26.455°. The approximate distance from Earth to the moon is 404,425.14 km and the moon sign is Libra.

The Moon phase for December 24th, 2024 is a Waning Crescent phase. This is the phase where the moon is less than 50% illuminated but has not yet reached 0% illumination (which would be a New Moon).

In this part of the moon cycle, it is getting closer and closer to the Sun as viewed from Earth and the night side of the Moon is facing earth with a decreasingly thin crescent being illuminated.

The waning (shrinking) crescement Moon will rise at around midnight, transit the meridian after sunrise, before setting after noon. This phase is best viewed 1-2 hours before sunrise and is a great time to see the features of the Moon’s surface. Along the illuminated crescent you can see the craters and mountains of the moon casting long shadows.

The Waxing Gibbous phase, like all moon phases, will last for just over 7 days. The actual length will vary because of the elliptical shaped orbit of the moon. During this Waxing Gibbous phase the moon will rise in the east in the mid- to late-afternoon and will be high in the eastern sky at sunset.

Assuming it’s a clear night, the Waxing Gibbous moon will then be visible through most of the night before setting just before sunrise.

Fun fact: the illuminated side of a waning crescent moon is always pointed eastwards, towards the sunrise.

Phase Details

Phase: Waning Crescent

Moon age: 22.62 days

Moon illumination: 39.64%

Moon tilt: -26.455°

Moon angle: 0.49

Moon distance: 404,425.14 km

Moon sign: Libra

December 23, 2024 Daily Horoscopes

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

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

Moon Alert

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

The Stars Rate Your Day

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

Aries (March 21-April 19)

*** Relations with partners and close friends will be upbeat and friendly today. In fact, this is a good day to deal with members of the general public. Admittedly, social plans might be delayed or cancelled due to a lack of energy or enthusiasm. Be patient.

Taurus (April 20-May 20)

*** This is a favourable day for financial matters, especially at work. Respect any moneymaking ideas you have now because they might boost your income or generate assets related to your work. You might also see ways to improve your health today. Stay positive!

Gemini (May 21-June 20)

**** This is a lovely day to socialize because you feel friendly and keen to enjoy the company of others. What’s interesting is that others are glad to see as well! (Major bonus.) Some of you are concerned for the welfare of others, especially children. Artistic projects will also appeal.

Cancer (June 21-July 22)

*** Invite family and friends over today because you’re in the mood to entertain. Quite possibly, friends are meeting where you live, or a gathering is taking place for some reason. Family discussions will be positive because people are open to big ideas for home improvements or a family expansion!

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22)

*** You’re in the mood to schmooze today, which is why it’s great day to get out and talk to neighbours, relatives and siblings. You might also enjoy a short trip. Some will be inspired to learn something new because it will broaden your knowledge of the world. Sign up for a course, or teach one!

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

**** This is an excellent day to discuss finances because whatever you do might boost your income or land you a better paying job or a raise. Something related to cash flow will benefit you today; and most likely it will benefit your reputation in the eyes of others. (You might buy something snazzy!)

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)

**** Today the Moon is in your sign dancing with bountiful Jupiter, which gives you a pleasant sense of well-being. Naturally, you’ll be warm and friendly to others. You will also feel physically fit, enthusiastic and interested in supporting others who need help. (It’s a Mother Teresa thang.)

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

**** You’re busy with short trips and interactions with siblings, neighbours and relatives; plus, many of you are reading, writing and studying more. You might entertain at home because you’re tweaking your digs to make everything look better. This is a feel-good day!

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)

**** You’re popular today because you’re chatting with friends, groups as well as partners. With Venus in your House of Communications, you find it easy to be charming and diplomatic with everyone even though by nature, you can be blunt. Enjoy the company of others.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

*** You are noticed more than usual today. Fortunately, you make an excellent impression on others because they see you as successful, generous and warm hearted. Work-related travel is likely. The help of coworkers plus, increased physical vitality will help you to be productive today.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)

**** You might be excited about travel plans or chances to explore publishing, the media, medicine and the law. You feel hopeful about a positive income. Meanwhile, this is a good day to shop for wardrobe items (especially because tomorrow is a poor day to shop). Timing is everything.

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20)

*** Don’t hesitate to engage in financial negotiations today because you’ll come out smelling like a rose. In any discussion about how to divide something, you’ll get more than your fair share. (Perhaps an inheritance). Good day to set goals.

If Your Birthday Is Today

Actress Alison Sudol (1984) shares your birthday today. You have an eclectic taste and many of your friends are unusual. You are entertaining but also determined to go after what you want. This has been a year of reflection and exploring your religious or spiritual values. Next year, promotions, awards and acknowledgement will come your way! Bravo!

Aries (March 21-April 19)

An easy day for most natives, however you risk ruining it with your selfishness because of course you want to make everything revolve around you.

Some sort of break up will help you rekindle with a personal habit you might have lost touch with. Fate also seems to insist on re-evaluating some of the indulging habits you might have.

You can also read this special Aries Daily Horoscope.

Taurus (April 20-May 20)

You are going to start this week in a great mood, uninterrupted by any nuisance and although you might be in quite a pessimistic mood, you will be surprised to notice your fears are not coming true.

However, you might commence being a bit suspicious about the behavior of someone close to you but it will take you a while to get to the middle of things.

You can also read this special Taurus Daily Horoscope.

Gemini (May 21-June 20)

A day for revealing past matters and for understanding better what has been happening. It still remains a dynamic day so don’t expect you can hide for the whole of it because it is not going to be the case.

Other than that, for some natives this beginning of the week will be marked by taking care of children or other dependents they might have.

You can also read this special Gemini Daily Horoscope.

Cancer (June 21-July 22)

Some family issues might derail you from what you have had planned for this day but this doesn’t necessarily mean that you cannot still work as much as you want.

However, you won’t benefit from the same concentration. Maybe in the future you will try to separate better these two very different aspects of your life.

You can also read this special Cancer Daily Horoscope.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22)

You are trying to maintain yourself optimistic but it seems that the amount of work that is on your head doesn’t help much either.

But perhaps, you are to blame to an extend for what is going on now, maybe because you’ve been playing the procrastination game for too long or maybe because you are taking too much time to react now and are being too slow.

You can also read this special Leo Daily Horoscope.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

A hot day for most natives, for some because of their love life going just great while for some others because of some kind of heated argument they might find themselves in the middle of.

In any case, there is definitely space for words and actions and you are not going to take any step backward when it comes to this.

You can also read this special Virgo Daily Horoscope.

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)

You are going to be the person called to solve all troubles today even by people from the office who you are not very close to.

There is required some sort of mobilization from your side to be able to do all you want but don’t feel overwhelmed because eventually it will be time for everything. A few temptations might be thrown in the mix as well.

You can also read this special Libra Daily Horoscope.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

This Monday is characterized by a lot of curiosity from your side, curiosity that will make you overlook certain boundaries and perhaps meddle a lot more than you should in the lives of those around.

You need to temper this tendency and maybe focus on your own hobbies and interests instead of the lives of other people.

You can also read this special Scorpio Daily Horoscope.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)

It seems that the accent falls on social relationships today and not as much on your efforts and on how well you handle things at home.

This means you will find it quite easy to interact with people although there will be significant pressure on your shoulders as well. On the other hand you will be quite disappointed by this new superficiality.

You can also read this special Sagittarius Daily Horoscope.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

With a little patience this day will go by and all the fears and emotions you might experience at the moment will long be gone.

However, maybe to some extend you need to go through what is now overwhelming you and maybe there are some special lessons you should be learning out of all this before you can move on.

You can also read this special Capricorn Daily Horoscope.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)

You seem to be quite concerned with something that is happening to a friend of yours and even tend to exaggerate the effect this has on your own life.

Maybe you shouldn’t dramatize as much. Plus, think of how this can be interpreted by your poor troubled friend. You need to inspire them not to drag them even further down.

You can also read this special Aquarius Daily Horoscope.

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20)

You need to take your health into consideration in regards to any plans you have for today as things are not going to be so simple in this area.

You also have a tendency towards spending too much and not necessarily on things you find useful. The stars will help you a bit and prevent some indulging but when it comes to protecting your body, you’ll have to do it yourself.

You can also read this special Pisces Daily Horoscope.

Weekly Horoscope Sunday, December 22 to Saturday, December 28, 2024

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

 

All Signs

The holiday season can be a time that presents challenges for everyone. George Burns said, “Happiness is having a large, caring, close-knit family living in another city.” (We can all relate.) I think the key is to avoid over planning and taking control in an attempt to uphold every tradition you can think of. Lighten up! Be grateful for your health and your ability to share good times with loved ones. December 24 is a laid-back, easy-going freewheeling day – if you let it be. By midday December 25, life can be emotionally cozy. Remember to stay in the moment. Get dressed. Go with what’s happening. Charlie Brown said, “Christmas is doing a little something extra for someone.” What matters most is not what’s under your tree – but who is around it. Happy holidays to all my dear readers.

Aries (March 21-April 19)

This week the Sun is at the top of your chart casting you in a flattering spotlight. This means you look great in the eyes of others. Furthermore, Venus in your House of Friendships makes this an excellent time to enjoy parties and socialize with friends and groups. In fact, Venus will guarantee that all your relationships will be warmer and more rewarding. Because Mercury is no longer retrograde, many of you will move forward with travel plans, because who likes to explore the world more than you? No one. Meanwhile, your ability to make big plans (more optimistic than ever before) guarantees exciting times ahead!

Taurus (April 20-May 20)

This week you’re emboldened to do something different. You feel experimental. Obviously, you’ll enjoy travel and unfamiliar experiences that give you a chance to explore your world. Grab any chance to learn something new because it will be rewarding. You might have an interesting discussion with someone that promotes a metaphysical or religious journey because you’re more receptive than usual to these ideas. Meanwhile, fair Venus is at the top of your chart, which means no matter what you do for a living, you might be more involved in artistic matters. People might ask for your advice about how to make something look better. This also means you might strike up a flirtation or a new romance with someone in authority who might be able to help you. (The best labour-saving device is marrying someone rich.)

Gemini (May 21-June 20)

You’re curious about change, new information, and the stimulation of new faces and new places! This is why you’ll love to travel this week. In particular, you will appreciate the artistic creations of others. Perhaps someone might introduce you to something new? You’ll also be attracted to people from different backgrounds. Despite the challenges of unexpected changes to your daily routine, something might occur that prompts you to get in touch with your deeper self. (Someone you encounter might trigger this.) Meanwhile you are focused more than usual on cash flow, and resources that are jointly held with someone else – including debt. (Groan.) You’re humming “It’s beginning to cost a lot like Christmas.”

Cancer (June 21-July 22)

This can be a challenging week for you because the Sun is opposite your sign, which will rob you of your energy. Therefore, it’s important to acknowledge this and go to bed earlier or take naps. (This is a fact.) Meanwhile, this is the perfect week to form working units and get things done through teamwork. You might even consult an expert. Fortunately, this week, gifts, goodies and favours from others will come your way. Intimate relationships will be passionate and memorable. (Well, you are spending more time in bed.) Practical matters will favour you. In fact, this is a solid week to ask for a loan because doors will open for you. Ka-ching!

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22)

You love festivities and tradition. Fortunately, Venus is opposite your sign this week, which is the best placement for all relationships – love affairs, relations with partners, coworkers and even your enemies. For example, this is the perfect time to extend an olive branch to someone. (Mistletoe might be too much.) Meanwhile, your true good fortune is that the placement of the Sun in your chart this week will help you work and be productive. (Bonus!) You will tackle tasks that need to be done with efficiency and effectiveness. You might also be more health conscious. (“I do this exercise for three minutes every day. It’s important to be consistent.”)

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

Lucky you! This week the Sun is sitting in the most pleasure-seeking part of your chart, which means you’re up for fun times during the holidays. It’s ironic because normally, you’re the sign of service; nevertheless, this week your primary drive is to do what you want and set your own priorities. “Me first!” However, this placement of the Sun will enhance your ability to relate to children. In fact, all your relationships with everyone will be lighter and more enjoyable! Venus will also promote warmer relations with coworkers. In fact, someone might begin a work-related romance?

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)

The stars are giving you conflicting messages this week. In one way, you’re better prepared than other signs because your focus is already on home and family. This means you’re pumped for the holidays! Because you love your home and the appearance of your surroundings, you’re primping the place and giving attention to the pretty details so everyone feels welcomed. Nevertheless, by contrast, the conflicting energy of the placement of your Sun, means you want to relax by yourself in a comfy robe with your feet up enjoying good food and drink. Fortunately, your ruler Venus will encourage romance, social outings, parties, enjoying the arts and delighting in playful activities with children.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

Fortunately, you have the energy and zest to tackle this holiday season because the Sun is attracting your attention to your immediate surroundings. This will bless and increase your interaction with friends, neighbours, siblings, relatives and business associates. Oh yes, you’re happy to be on the go. The acceleration of your daily tempo will feel natural. You’ll have more energy to communicate to others and share your feelings and your ideas. Meanwhile, Venus will encourage you to make your home look attractive by dabbling in redecorating ideas and putting out extra effort into loving details. In turn, this encourages you to entertain at home. You can see why you’re a winner this holiday season! Oh yeah, you’ve got what it takes!

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)

You’ll be relieved to know that Mercury is no longer retrograde in your sign. This is a relief because this means errors, mixed-up communications, transportation delays and goofy forgetfulness will be reduced. Admittedly, the shadow phase of Mercury retrograde will last until January 3 next year, which means although the frustrations of Mercury retrograde have been reduced; nevertheless, you will be wise to wait until after January 3 to buy expensive items like ground transportation, computers and cell phones. Meanwhile, a lovely influence from Venus this week will sweeten your words in conversations with others. It will also heighten your appreciation of your daily surroundings. A cool blessing!

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

All hail Capricorn! This week the Sun is in your sign, which is so empowering, it’s your chance to re-charge your batteries for the rest of the year. This will also make you feel very chatty with others, and eager to socialize during this holiday week. Obviously, you’ll make an exceptional impression on everyone. (You like to present well to your public world.) Added to this strong advantage, Venus in your Money House will attract money to you. This is why this is an excellent week for financial negotiations or investments. You will also enjoy buying beautiful things for yourself and loved ones. (“Are those Louboutins 75% off??”)

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)

You are a social sign, and you adore your friends – no question. Nevertheless, there are conflicting influences in your chart this week. In one way, you’re happy to play things low-key and stay in the background. You’re content with your own company while all the party shenanigans take place elsewhere. However, countering this, is the fact that fair Venus is in your sign, and Venus will make you want to socialize with others and have a good time with friends. (This is because Venus ranks pleasure above work.) Therefore, although you will attract people and fun-loving situations to you, you may choose at times, to sit things out. It’s entirely your call.

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20)

This week will be a sociable, fun-loving time for you because the Sun is sitting in your House of Friendships. This means your attention will naturally turn to others. Not only will you want to socialize with others; you will also want to work and cooperate with them. In particular, you will enjoy hanging out with people who share your values, especially because right now, your idealism is aroused. Although Mercury is still in its shadow phase of its prior retrograde motion; nevertheless, it is at the top of your chart prompting you to make plans about your professional life and what you might do to get ahead. For example, is this the time to check out new courses or learning a new skill? This is also an excellent time to talk to bosses and superiors to get their input. (Secret love affairs are likely.)

December 22, 2024 Daily Horoscopes

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

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

Moon Alert

Avoid shopping or big decisions from 8 AM to 2:30 PM EST today (5 AM to 11:30 AM PST). After that, the Moon moves from Virgo into Libra.

The Stars Rate Your Day

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

Aries (March 21-April 19)

**** Relations with partners and close friends will be intense and dynamic, especially later today. Make plans to socialize because you have strong ideas about what you want to do. Great day for sports events and fun activities with kids!

Taurus (April 20-May 20)

*** Later today, you will feel lively and energetic. You might socialize at home. You certainly make an excellent impression on others, especially bosses and authority figures. You might be keen to explore new inroads related to your job or your health.

Gemini (May 21-June 20)

**** Even though you might have a slow start today, this is a wonderful day to socialize! Make plans to enjoy fun activities with friends and family. Sports events, playful times with children and the arts will appeal. Take a mini vacation!

Cancer (June 21-July 22)

*** Family discussions will be lively and intense today. Basically, you or someone else wants to introduce improvements or better ways of doing things, especially better ways of handling shared property, costs and financial matters. (You’re thrifty and you’ll speak up.)

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22)

**** Despite a sluggish start this morning, later in the day, you will come alive! You’ll be full of great ideas and keen to get out and do things. Physical sports and competitive activities will appeal. You might also have an intense discussion with a partner or close friend.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

*** Trust your moneymaking ideas today because you are on the mark. You might also have excellent ideas about how to improve your job, your health or even how you take care of a pet. Meanwhile, relatives might be camped on your doorstep. Stock the fridge.

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)

**** After the Moon moves into your sign today, (see above) you will swing into action! Social outings, fun times with kids, the arts and sports events will invigorate you! Expect to get involved with groups, especially teamwork and competitions. Go after what you want today because you will get it.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

*** This is a busy time for you; nevertheless, today you initially want to be low-key. You might want to sleep in. However, as this day wears on, you will come alive and be keen to interact with others and probably entertain at home. You might want to make home improvements.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)

**** Interactions with friends and groups will be important to you today. Very likely, you’ll attract someone to you who is powerful and intense. This could be because you’re having a physical competition with someone or you’re making grandiose plans to travel. (No surprise there.)

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

**** People will notice you today, perhaps because you have excellent moneymaking ideas or because you’re spending money on art and beautiful things for yourself and loved ones. One thing is certain: You’re energetic, persuasive and sexy! (Some of you have a secret to hide.)

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)

**** Do something different today because you want adventure and a bit of stimulation! Unexpected plans involving partners and close friends might be in the mix. You might also want to do something to improve your appearance or improve the impression that you create on your world. Ideas?

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20)

*** Discussions about shared property, taxes, debt, credit cards or inheritances could be intense today. Someone might want to get to the bottom of something – the real truth. Issues related to your job or your health might also come under scrutiny. Everyone wants to put in their own two cents.

If Your Birthday Is Today

Actor Ralph Fiennes (1962) shares your birthday today. You are sensitive and giving. You work extremely hard because you’re a perfectionist. This year you have helped others. Next year will be a time of reflection, learning and teaching. You will explore philosophies and religions that give you a better self-awareness of the true meaning of your life.

Aries (March 21-April 19)

Don’t play with fire because you are going to get burnt. Of course, hoping this won’t happen in a literal way, we are now focusing on what effects your words have and how they bounce back to you.

This is why you might need to find a good ally this Sunday, someone who can stand by you and who can easily interpret exactly what you are trying to say.

You can also read this special Aries Daily Horoscope.

Taurus (April 20-May 20)

You are still in a pretend mode, maybe denying something that happened in the past few days or refusing to accept some consequences to your own actions.

It is going to be very interesting to see the lengths you go to in order to hide from all this and how you involve even those dearest to you in the avoidance project.

You can also read this special Taurus Daily Horoscope.

Gemini (May 21-June 20)

You are going to be faced with some sort of challenge that at first might sound a bit scary but which will in turn prove to be quite rewarding if you attempt it.

This coupled with how competitive you are feeling this Sunday and how you need something to test your abilities, are going to make a great team and offer you a day which will be hard to forget.

You can also read this special Gemini Daily Horoscope.

Cancer (June 21-July 22)

You will need a lot of perseverance today, even just for relaxation purposes because it seems your mind is restless and you can’t shake off the feeling that something is going terribly wrong or that you are forgetting something really important.

You are going to show yourself terribly materialistic as well, something that won’t do you any honor.

You can also read this special Cancer Daily Horoscope.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22)

The current disposition is making put a real front out there, trying to show yourself full of strength and invincible while behind the curtains you are actually acting like a scared little mouse. You are avoidant and trying to get as little work done as possible.

To some extent this might work but when it comes to house chores, if I were you, I would beware.

You can also read this special Leo Daily Horoscope.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

A tense Sunday which won’t probably offer you too many occasions for relaxation, however you shouldn’t cast a shadow on this either because it is not the case. It will still be a busy but productive day and quite rewarding up to some point.

What will matter most is how you interpret this and how you feel about everything.

You can also read this special Virgo Daily Horoscope.

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)

This Sunday will help expand your horizon but take it only as a taster session as it will probably be up to you to take things to the next level and discover more in depth whatever has caught your eye in the first instance.

You can also take advantage of these kinds of opportunities to meet people and get out of your usual comfort zone.

You can also read this special Libra Daily Horoscope.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

It seems that this Sunday will start on a foot of change and reinterpreting shapes around you. Whether you do this at home, maybe even by starting a bit of do it yourself or planning on a remodel, or that you participate in a creative endeavor, be sure you will have a totally different experience than you might usually have.

Things are boiling in some respects in your love life and you might need to cool them off a bit.

You can also read this special Scorpio Daily Horoscope.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)

You are going to feel exactly when and where things are drifting apart but by the looks of it, the stars won’t really allow you to interfere in any way.

So be patient until a ray of light will show itself. There is also no need for self pity or feeling as if you are disappointing those around you because this is not the case. You might get the chance to make up for this in some small gestures.

You can also read this special Sagittarius Daily Horoscope.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

You have the capacity to make some sort of change or at least be the movement factor in the life of one of your friends but only if you push past some sort of psychological barrier that has been raised there.

You will be able to use your own experience to provide a good example and even bad things that have happened to you might prove useful at this point.

You can also read this special Capricorn Daily Horoscope.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)

You will feel a lot more stability around you these days and if you are lucky, you might actually see with your own eyes, how things settle.

Your partner will probably play a very important role in this happening in your life but it isn’t absolutely compulsory that you count on their intervention. You will see that individuality can also pay off and in a big way.

You can also read this special Aquarius Daily Horoscope.

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20)

Although you might pretend or even genuinely think everything is all right in your love life, this day is here to prove you the contrary.

Whether this happens by things reaching to a boiling point or you just get some time to meditate and think some aspects thoroughly it’s all up to you and up to where previous actions are going to take you.

You can also read this special Pisces Daily Horoscope.

Some of the Witchcraft/Magickal Correspondence for Monday c.2015

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

Winter Images

The Witches Correspondences for Monday

Day: Monday ( Moon-day)

Planet: Moon

Colors: Silver and White and Grey

Crystals: Moonstone, Pearl, Aquamarine, Silver, Selenite

Aroma: Jasmine, Lemon, Sandalwood, Moon Oil, African violet, Honeysuckle, Myrtle, Willow, and Wormwood

Herb: Moonwart

The sacred day of the Moon, personified by such goddesses as Selene, Luna, Diana, and Artemis. The Moon is ruler of flow affecting the changeable aspects of people. If a full moon falls on a Monday, its powers are at their most potent.

Magical aspects: peace, sleep, healing, compassion, friendships, psychic awareness, purification, and fertility Monday is ruled by the moon – an ancient symbol of mystery and peace. Monday is a special day for mothers as the cycle of the moon has long been associated with the female menstrual cycle. Those wishing to conceive a baby would be wise to try on a Monday as the magic of motherhood is strong and pregnancy is in the air.

This is the proper day of the week to perform spells and rituals involving agriculture, animals, female fertility, messages, reconciliation’s, theft, voyages, dreams, emotions, clairvoyance, home, family, medicine, cooking, personality, merchandising, psychic work, Faerie magic, and Goddess rituals

Some of the Witchcraft/Magickal Correspondence for Sunday c.2012

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The Witches Correspondences for Sunday

Magickal Intentions: Growth, Advancements, Enlightenment, Rational Thought, Exorcism, Healing, Prosperity, Hope, Exorcism, Money
Incense: Lemon, Frankincense
Planet: Sun
Sign: Leo
Angel: Michael
Colors: Gold, Yellow, Orange and White
Herbs/Plants: Marigold, Heliotrope, Sunflower, Buttercup, Cedar, Beech, Oak
Stones: Carnelian, Citrine, Tiger’s Eye, Amber, Clear Quartz and Red Agate
Oil: (Sun) Cedar, Frankincense, Neroli, Rosemary

The first day of the week is ruled by the Sun. It is an excellent time to work efforts involving business partnerships, work promotions, business ventures, and professional success. Spells where friendships, mental or physical health, or bringing joy back into life are an issue work well on this day, too.

Spell For Sunday – MIRROR SPELL c. 2016

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

MIRROR SPELL

(this is a spell to send bad vibrations back to their source).


Needed:

Hand Mirror

Black Candle

Incense

Black string

Bell

Spell:


Call the Spirits to witness the rite using the bell. Say:


“I am immune to their hate, their malice.
I will not accept their guilt or their intolerance.
Their words and thoughts are no bane to me.”
Hold the mirror behind the candle and say:
“As this mirror reflects back the light of this candle
so shall these things be reflected back to their sender(s)
and as the mirror neither adds or detracts from the reflection
I shall add no malice to nor subtract any from that which I send back.
As it comes to me so shall it return to them.”


Tie the black string in three knots. As you tie each knot say:


“With this string I bind this spell, As I will it, So mote it be.”


Dismiss the spirits. Let the candle and incense burn out on their own.
Place the string in a special box set aside for spells and leave it there always.

December 22, 2024 Current Moon Phase for the Northern Hemispheres

Source: MoonGiant.com

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

The 8 Lunar Phases

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

Useful Moon Resources

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

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

Moon Phase

The Moon’s current phase for today and tonight is the Last Quarter phase. This phase occurs roughly 3 weeks after the New Moon when the Moon is three quarter of the way through it’s orbit around the earth. If you live in the northern hemisphere the Moons left side will be illuminated and the right side will be dark. For those of you in the southern hemisphere it will be the opposite with the right side illuminated. Also called a Third Quarter phase, it will rise around midnight on the eastern horizon and set in the west around noon the next day. In the days following the Third Quarter Phase the Moon’s illumination will decrees each day until the New Moon.

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

Today’s Last Quarter Phase

The Last Quarter on December 22 has an illumination of 52%. 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 22 the Moon is 21.98 days old. This refers to how many days it has been since the last New Moon. It takes 29.53 days for the Moon to orbit the Earth and go through the lunar cycle of all 8 Moon phases.

Today’s Moon Sign: ♍ Virgo

The current zodiac moon sign is Virgo, positioned at 26.71° within the sign. The Moon entered Virgo on Dec 19, 8:02 PM and will shift into Libra on Dec 22, 1:41 PM. The zodiac moon sign represents the position of the Moon as it moves through the twelve signs of the zodiac. Each zodiac moon sign lasts about 2 to 2.5 days as the Moon travels through that part of the sky.

Phase Details

Phase: Last Quarter
Illumination: 52%
Moon Age: 21.98 days
Moon Angle: 0.49
Moon Distance: 404,074.54 km
Sun Angle: 0.54
Sun Distance: 147,143,394.97 km

23 December 2024 Current Moon Phase for the Southern Hemisphere

Source: nineplanets.org

The current moon phase for December 23rd, 2024 is the Waning Crescent phase.

On this day, the moon is 21.6 days old and 49.33% illuminated with a tilt of -25.536°. The approximate distance from Earth to the moon is 403,363.64 km and the moon sign is Libra.

The Moon phase for December 23rd, 2024 is a Waning Crescent phase. This is the phase where the moon is less than 50% illuminated but has not yet reached 0% illumination (which would be a New Moon).

In this part of the moon cycle, it is getting closer and closer to the Sun as viewed from Earth and the night side of the Moon is facing earth with a decreasingly thin crescent being illuminated.

The waning (shrinking) crescement Moon will rise at around midnight, transit the meridian after sunrise, before setting after noon. This phase is best viewed 1-2 hours before sunrise and is a great time to see the features of the Moon’s surface. Along the illuminated crescent you can see the craters and mountains of the moon casting long shadows.

The Waxing Gibbous phase, like all moon phases, will last for just over 7 days. The actual length will vary because of the elliptical shaped orbit of the moon. During this Waxing Gibbous phase the moon will rise in the east in the mid- to late-afternoon and will be high in the eastern sky at sunset.

Assuming it’s a clear night, the Waxing Gibbous moon will then be visible through most of the night before setting just before sunrise.

Fun fact: the illuminated side of a waning crescent moon is always pointed eastwards, towards the sunrise.

Phase Details

Phase: Waning Crescent

Moon age: 21.6 days

Moon illumination: 49.33%

Moon tilt: -25.536°

Moon angle: 0.49

Moon distance: 403,363.64 km

Moon sign: Libra

December 21, 2024 Daily Horoscopes

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

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

Moon Alert

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

The Stars Rate Your Day

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

Aries (March 21-April 19)

*** Unexpected events might take place today that affect your job, your health or your pet. (Note: pet owners should be vigilant to avoid mishaps.) Big ideas might lead to exciting, new plans because you’re in an exploratory mood! Perhaps an exciting trip in the future?

Taurus (April 20-May 20)

**** Social plans might suddenly change today. You might cancel a particular event or commitment; or perhaps, you might get an unexpected invitation? Parents should be vigilant because this could be an accident-prone your home routine will be interrupted today day for your kids. Be alert. Meanwhile, upbeat feelings make you want to party!

Gemini (May 21-June 20)

**** Your home routine will be interrupted today. Small appliances might break down or a minor breakage could occur. Nevertheless, because you feel upbeat and happy, you might entertain at home because something unexpected or unusual might occur. Turn up those eviction speakers!

Cancer (June 21-July 22)

*** Keep your wits about you today because this is a mildly accident-prone day. It’s also a fun-loving day full of surprises, new people, new situations and new places. You might have clever new ideas? Profound discussions about philosophical, spiritual matters will appeal. You will feel concern for the welfare of someone.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22)

*** Keep an eye on your money today. For example, you might find money: you might lose money. It will be wise to do what you can to protect your belongings against loss, theft or damage. Caution about impulse spending. Meanwhile, you will might meet someone unusual today. Someone intriguing.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

**** Guard against impulsive, rash behaviour, which might tempt you today. This is because the Moon is in your sign dancing with unpredictable Uranus. Be wise and think before you speak and act. Make sure your big ideas are doable. Easy does it. Nevertheless, you will impress bosses, supervisors and people in authority.

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)

**** This is a feel-good day for you! Stay on top of banking details and credit charges because something unexpected could affect you. Meanwhile, discussions about lofty topics including philosophy and religion will intrigue you. (Librans are excellent debaters and comfortable in the legal arena.)

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

*** Expect to meet some unusual people today because friends and members of groups will surprise you. Stay light on your feet because this is a changing landscape. Fortunately, gifts, goodies and favours from others will come your way. Keep your pockets open!

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)

**** You are high viz. today, which means people notice you more than usual. Very likely, you will do something unexpected or unusual, which will surprise someone, especially someone in authority like a boss, supervisor, teacher or even the police. Fortunately, relations with partners and close friends are warm and uplifting. This is a great day to socialize!

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

**** Unexpected opportunities to travel might fall in your lap today. Likewise, you might meet someone unusual or from another background. (Someone intriguing.) Work-related travel is likely for some of you. Meanwhile, you have opportunities to boost your income or buy pretty things.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)

**** Make friends with your bank account because something unexpected could affect your assets. This surprise might also affect your relationship with shared property, taxes, debt or insurance matters. Meanwhile, your plans for vacations or social outings are exciting and grandiose!

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20)

*** Expect a few surprises from partners and close friends today. They might change plans. Someone might want to change the arrangement in a partnership? They might want more freedom? They might want to expand your home base in some way? Anything is possible.

If Your Birthday Is Today

Actress Jane Fonda (1937) shares your birthday today. You have great people skills. You’re charming, entertaining and vivacious; and you’re comfortable with attention. This year has brought change into your world. Next year, in 2025, service will be a theme, especially service to family. Therefore, take care of yourself so that you can be a resource.

Aries (March 21-April 19)

You are going to raise yourself and all initiatives around you beyond mundane and vulgarity and you will have to put your creativity to work.

You see yourself in a different light these days, maybe as a teacher or someone ready to impart wisdom but you are missing the point of the fact that you also need assistance and guidance.

You can also read this special Aries Daily Horoscope.

Taurus (April 20-May 20)

You are putting the need for you to be right beyond some practical aspects and this will make you totally miss the point of this Saturday.

For this day the stars have prepared for you a bit of tasting session of several actions, some presenting themselves with a challenge. So this means this is not going to be your ordinary running errands weekend day.

You can also read this special Taurus Daily Horoscope.

Gemini (May 21-June 20)

The current disposition is really aiming to put you in contact with your inner strength and to demonstrate you the power of your thoughts. You also need to take time off work and just breathe and this is the perfect chance.

There is no need to feel guilty about not doing what you are supposed to do because you are actually the person deciding what you are supposed to do.

You can also read this special Gemini Daily Horoscope.

Cancer (June 21-July 22)

This Saturday is going to be all about order for you and you are going to try and impose this to everyone around you.

Of course this won’t work in the ideal manner and what you will probably end up is a lot of quarrel. Try not to be as inflexible as you are tempted to because this is not the case. You will feel a lot more exhausted mentally if you don’t listen to this.

You can also read this special Cancer Daily Horoscope.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22)

You are going to experience some sort of personality clash with quite an unexpected person, someone you are usually in agreement with.

This will probably leave you baffled for a while, maybe not understanding what is going on. Surprisingly enough, if you resort to even just a bit of communication you will then see things differently.

You can also read this special Leo Daily Horoscope.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

Auto control is going to be the key to every small success you are attaining today but not necessarily in terms of emotions but more like when it comes to perseverance and trying things until you get them right.

There will be some moment of failure and despair and so it is up to you how much interest you put in those and how you interpret them.

You can also read this special Virgo Daily Horoscope.

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)

You know how they say that at times you need to leave your brain aside and do whatever your heart dictates. Well, this time you are supposed to make the two work together.

I really don’t know why or how but it’s interesting how you won’t be able to proceed further until you make a decision that involves the two.

You can also read this special Libra Daily Horoscope.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

You are going to reveal some hidden talents, perhaps in the area of gastronomy if not in another area that has to do with creativity or lifestyle.

And you are quick to jump onto any initiative of this kind. This might help you relax but also feel better about what you can and cannot do. A bit of optimism will probably serve you good.

You can also read this special Scorpio Daily Horoscope.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)

Don’t expect anything spectacular happening today although the stars seem to have prepared something to brighten up your day.

Maybe it’s news from afar or an opportunity to participate in an activity. In any way, this Saturday will be more about acknowledging something than actually living it and you’ll have to postpone the actual excitement for when it happens.

You can also read this special Sagittarius Daily Horoscope.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

You are going to form a very strong team with your partner, for some natives this might be needed in the relation with children or with other members of the family, perhaps older.

Other natives will be able to sort some conjugal issues and maybe discover some new things about each other. Some social choices might show up as well, a lot more important than choosing the place where you want to spend your evening out.

You can also read this special Capricorn Daily Horoscope.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)

Someone close might disappoint you in a way you have expected perhaps, but always hoped is not going to happen.

For some reason you might actually feel relieved that this is happening at this particular time but for the rest you are probably going to be angry as hell at fate. You need to put certain material aspects in order as well this Saturday, although unrelated to what we’ve discussed earlier.

You can also read this special Aquarius Daily Horoscope.

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20)

You are not very good with decisions this Saturday so consider yourself warned. You might be able to seize an opportunity or compare some alternatives but it is only to this point that you can handle things.

Therefore postponing is going to actually be a good solution for you at this stage and life will probably give you the chance to come back to this later on.

You can also read this special Pisces Daily Horoscope.

The Coming of Litha

 

The Coming of Litha

Litha is the Wiccan Sabbat that marks the Summer Solstice and usually occurs around December 21 in the Southern Hemisphere. It marks the first day of summer on traditional calendars, but it is actually the Midsummer mark for Pagans.

Litha marks the longest day of the year, the day when the sun reaches its apex and is aspected to zero degrees Cancer. This is a day that celebrates the God in all his glory. It is also the time of year when the Goddess is glowing with motherhood in her pregnancy.

In Wiccan lore, once again the Holly King and the Oak King battle. This time, it is the Holly King who is victorious, and from this point on, the days grow shorter.

For those of you familiar with Shakespeare, you might remember the play centered around the Solistice: “A Midsummer’s Night’s Dream”. It is believed that Midsummer Night’s Eve is a special time for those who believe in the Faerie traditions. Like Samhain, this is a day where the veils are thin between the realms of the Sidhe (the Faerie realm) and the world of mortals. It is a time for merriment and the making of wishes.

Litha marks the first of three harvest celebrations. This is the time to gather the herbs from your garden. Tradition suggests using your boline or a scythe to cut the plant by the moonlight. Some suggest chanting the use of the planet while doing so.

As we’ve seen happen in the past, Christianity has tried to hone in on our holiday. They have declared it John the Baptist’s birthday. I’ve read that other Saints in the Church are remembered on the day they’ve died. But not so with John the Baptist. He is the only Saint recognized on his birthday. They celebrate the Solstice with the Jack-in-the-Green to the Feast of St. John the Baptist, often portraying him in rustic attire, sometimes with horns and cloven feet (like Pan).

Published on Witchery

December 21, 2024 Current Moon Phase for the Northern Hemispheres

Source: MoonGiant.com

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

The 8 Lunar Phases

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

Useful Moon Resources

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

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

Moon Phase

The Moon’s current phase for today and tonight is a Waning Gibbous. During this phase the Moon can be seen in the early morning daylight hours on the western horizon. This is the first phase after the Full Moon occurs. It lasts roughly 7 days with the Moon’s illumination growing smaller each day until the Moon becomes a Last Quarter Moon with an illumination of 50%. The average Moon rise for this phase is between 9pm and Midnight depending on the age of the phase. The moon rises later and later each night setting after sunrise in the morning.

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

Today’s Waning Gibbous Phase

The Waning Gibbous on December 21 has an illumination of 61%. 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 21 the Moon is 21.08 days old. This refers to how many days it has been since the last New Moon. It takes 29.53 days for the Moon to orbit the Earth and go through the lunar cycle of all 8 Moon phases.

Today’s Moon Sign: ♍ Virgo

The current zodiac moon sign is Virgo, positioned at 16.50° within the sign. The Moon entered Virgo on Dec 19, 8:02 PM and will shift into Libra on Dec 22, 1:41 PM. The zodiac moon sign represents the position of the Moon as it moves through the twelve signs of the zodiac. Each zodiac moon sign lasts about 2 to 2.5 days as the Moon travels through that part of the sky.

Phase Details

Phase: Waning Gibbous
Illumination: 61%
Moon Age: 21.08 days
Moon Angle: 0.50
Moon Distance: 401,927.86 km
Sun Angle: 0.54
Sun Distance: 147,152,110.03 km

22 December 2024 Current Moon Phase for the Southern Hemisphere

Source: nineplanets.org

The current moon phase for December 22nd, 2024 is the Last Quarter phase.

On this day, the moon is 20.59 days old and 58.96% illuminated with a tilt of -25.831°. The approximate distance from Earth to the moon is 401,002.49 km and the moon sign is Virgo.

The Moon phase for December 22nd, 2024 is the Last Quarter phase, which is also sometimes known as the Third Quarter. In this phase, the moon has completed three quarters of it’s orbit around the earth and exactly half of the moon is illuminated and half is in darkness.

The Last Quarter phase comes roughly 3 weeks after the New Moon and this is when the moon has completed three quarters of its orbit around the Earth (hence the name, Last Quarter). The moon will rise around midnight on the eastern horizon, transits the meridian at sunrise, before setting at noon in the west.

The Last Quarter of the moon phase cycle happens on one day. It’s followed by the intermediate phase, Waning Crescent, and will become less illuminated every day until it reaches the New Moon phase.

Fun fact: if you live in the Northern Hemisphere, the left side of the moon will be illuminated during the Last Quarter. If you live in the Southern Hemisphere, the right side is illuminated.

Phase Details

Phase: Last Quarter

Moon age: 20.59 days

Moon illumination: 58.96%

Moon tilt: -25.831°

Moon angle: 0.5

Moon distance: 401,002.49 km

Moon sign: Virgo

December 20, 2024 Daily Horoscopes

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

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

Moon Alert

After 3 AM EST today, there are no restrictions to shopping or important decisions today. The Moon is in Virgo.

The Stars Rate Your Day

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

Aries (March 21-April 19)

*** Today you might have to put your emotional considerations and needs second to those of someone else. In other words, you might have to perform a service for someone or help them out. In your free time, you’ll appreciate a chance to get better organized and catch up on personal details.

Taurus (April 20-May 20)

**** Your feelings are pretty obvious today. In fact, some of you are wearing your heart on your sleeve. This is why you will project yourself more forcefully, especially in romance. Be careful not to be so wrapped up in your own feelings that you forget to see what’s going on with someone else.

Gemini (May 21-June 20)

*** Today you’re happy to retire to your home and relax among familiar surroundings if you can do this. You need a little downtime with good food and drink so that you can ponder profundity or watch daytime TV. You might notice how much your habits control your world.

Cancer (June 21-July 22)

**** Today you have a strong need to speak up about something. You want to be heard by someone. You don’t want to get tied up in superficial conversations about the weather that are meaningless. Therefore, pick and choose who you decide to talk to. Find someone willing to listen.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22)

*** You might identify more than usual with your possessions today, which is why you won’t want to part with anything. (“My precious!”) For some reason, you might feel you have to defend yourself about something that doesn’t really matter.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

**** Today you have a heightened emotions along with increased self-awareness because the Moon is in your sign. You might also feel emotionally vulnerable. This is why you need some nurturing from others and yourself. Focus on your personal needs. Get some pampering. (Send out for dark chocolate.)

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)

*** Even though you’re the most sociable sign in the zodiac, today you crave privacy and solitude. This is why you will try to withdraw from the craziness around you so that you can pull your act together. Look for ways to relax in a quiet environment. Take food.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

*** Today your emotional contact with your friends is important. You might want a discussion with a friend or a member of a group. You might also feel more protective and supportive to a friend. You might even feel jealous if that friend pays attention to someone else.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)

*** The Moon is at the top of your chart today, which happens for 2 1/2 days every month. When it occurs, it can encourage scrutiny from others. You are noticed more than usual. In fact, some people will even know personal details about your private life. It is what it is.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

**** Today you have a strong urge to get away from all this. Travel or explore your own city. Basically, it’s important to do something different. Shake up your routine. This way you’ll feel stimulated by some tiny adventure!

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)

*** Issues related to shared property, inheritances, banking matters, insurance situations and the like will be a focus for you today. This stuff can be boring and frequently involves forms and government speak. Do what you can to tie up some loose details.

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20)

*** Be prepared to go more than halfway when dealing with others today. This is not a big deal. It simply requires a patient, cordial, friendly approach to others. If someone is speaking to you, by all means listen – politely.

If Your Birthday Is Today

Actor Jonah Hill (1983) shares your birthday today. You’re idealistic and fun-loving but also, careful. You strive to help others as well as yourself. This was a year of hard work and building. 2025 will be a time of exciting change and increased personal freedom. Seek out new opportunities and trust your intuition. Expect to travel.

Aries (March 21-April 19)

For some, a time of joy may have arrived, at least in their souls and it seems they are planning on keeping the good mood for longer than a few hours or a day.

You need to take advantage of this glorious moment, especially since you have a lot of liberty to express yourself and people around seem to actually listen to what you have to say,

You can also read this special Aries Daily Horoscope.

Taurus (April 20-May 20)

Remember it’s all in the attitude, especially in the office this Friday, therefore you might find yourself in the situation to kind of fake it till you make it.

Of course I don’t recommend exaggerating what you can do and what you have done but there is place for you to show yourself in a better light and you should take advantage of this while the opportunity is open.

You can also read this special Taurus Daily Horoscope.

Gemini (May 21-June 20)

If you are expecting some sort of promotion then rest assured that you are still going to wait for a while. Maybe you are just at the beginning of the road and you still got a few more things to learn in the place you are currently in.

You should instead be focusing on making the best impression you can and on trying to get involved in as many actions as possible.

You can also read this special Gemini Daily Horoscope.

Cancer (June 21-July 22)

You are spreading a lot of energy wherever you are going today but this doesn’t necessarily mean that it will be helpful to you.

On the contrary, you might find yourself entering all kinds of social chit chats which will wear off any productivity you might have shown at the beginning of the day. You will then need a lot of focus to get through this Friday.

You can also read this special Cancer Daily Horoscope.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22)

It’s not going to be about watching your words but more like down to controlling your mimic this Friday as it seems you are quite sensible and quick to react to whatever is bothering you.

Therefore you will tend to show this dismay in all ways possible, even in situations where it might not be appropriate. At least at home you are surrounded by love and understanding.

You can also read this special Leo Daily Horoscope.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

You are craving for understanding and for actually being listened to but most of the words you are producing today are actually in vain and you are not making any serious points.

Don’t go on the naive path and dramatize because this won’t help you either. Instead of that maybe focus on your health and on your general state.

You can also read this special Virgo Daily Horoscope.

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)

You are all of a sudden a lot warmer with some people you have kept quite a distance from lately and there will be a few raised eyebrows because of this.

At the same time, you will feel a lot better about yourself, more confident in your feelings and your ability to interact with people even in situations you found socially awkward till now.

You can also read this special Libra Daily Horoscope.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

Collaborations are going to be the only way through which you are going to actually see things moving so don’t be surprised if nothing seems to be on the right track on your own.

At the same time this is going to be a difficult day so don’t even think about the weekend. A lot of attention to detail will be required of you in different shapes.

You can also read this special Scorpio Daily Horoscope.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)

You need to resume yourself only to important communications today and try to send clear messages. It’s not like there is too much risk of you being misinterpreted but more like the risk of you appearing too bold or too demanding.

Therefore you need to avoid any complications and stick with the basics. You will have enough time the following week to elaborate on that.

You can also read this special Sagittarius Daily Horoscope.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

It’s not like you are literally pouring hatred in your circle of friends but your actions today are going to resemble this somehow.

Maybe you are dissatisfied with certain aspects or maybe you want to provide some sort of wake up call. But what you don’t probably understand is that it is not your place to do that and you shouldn’t meddle as much as you do.

You can also read this special Capricorn Daily Horoscope.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)

Your passions are going to play a more important role today than even work itself but maybe this will help lead you to a better conclusion.

Maybe there are some changes which should be made in regards to career and occupying yourself with a hobby might provide the relaxed mind frame to tackle those dreaded thoughts once for all.

You can also read this special Aquarius Daily Horoscope.

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20)

For those natives who are passionate about travelling this is going to be an auspicious day with some chances for them to seal the deal to a holiday or at least some long distance work travel.

This is an ascending path for you and you need to make all efforts to remain on it, perhaps take more responsibility for what you are doing.

You can also read this special Pisces Daily Horoscope.

Sun Ritual for Midsummer

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Sun Ritual for Midsummer

Midsummer is the time of the summer solstice, the Litha sabbat, and it’s the longest day of the year. Falling around June 21 in the northern hemisphere, and around December 21 below the equator, this is a time to celebrate the warmth and power of the sun. It’s a great time of year to get outside, enjoy the extra hours of daylight, and celebrate the season with family and friends. You can do this ritual as a group or adapt it to perform as a solitary practitioner.

You’ll need the following items:

  • A larger candle to represent the sun
  • An individual candle for each participant to hold

Also, be sure to decorate your altar with symbols of the season – solar symbols, fresh flowers, in-season summer produce and crops that you’ve harvested. You should do this ritual outside if at all possible, so you can take advantage of the sun’s light and energy.

If your tradition requires you to cast a circle, go ahead and do that first.

Take a moment to ground and center, and get yourself focused. Bask in the rays of the sun, feeling its warmth on your face, and welcoming its power into you.

The person who is leading the ritual – for ease of purpose, we’ll call that person the HPs – should stand at the altar.

HPs: We are here today to celebrate the power and energy of the sun. The sun is the source of warmth and light around the world. Today, at Litha, the summer solstice, we mark the longest day of the year. From Yule until this day, the sun has been moving ever closer to the earth. Flowers are blooming, crops are growing, and life has returned once more. Today we honor the gods and goddesses of the sun.

The HPs lights the sun candle on the altar.

HPs: The sun is the ultimate source of fire and light. Like all sources of light, the sun shines brightly and spreads around the world. Even as it gives its light and power to each of us, it is never diminished by the sharing of that energy. The sun passes over us each day, in the never-ending circle of light. Today, we share that light with each other, passing it around the circle, forming a ring of light.

Using the sun candle, the HPs lights her own candle, and turns to the next person in the circle. As she lights the next person’s candle, she says: May you be warmed and rejuvenated by the light of the sun.

The second person turns to the third, lighting their candle, and passing along the blessing. Continue until the last candle in the circle has been lit, returning back to the HPs.

Remember, this is a joyous celebration – feel free to include dancing, clapping, music or even a drum circle as you enjoy the power of the sun!

As each person in the group holds their lit candle, the HPs calls upon the gods and goddesses of the sun. Feel free to add or substitute different solar deities as your tradition or needs require.

HPs: Gods who bring us light, we honor you!
Hail, Ra, whose mighty chariot brings us light each morning!
Hail, Ra!
Hail, Apollo, who brings us the healing energies of the sun!
Hail, Apollo!
Hail, Saule, whose fertility blooms as the sun gains in strength!
Hail, Saule!
Hail, Helios, whose great steeds race the flames across the sky!
Hail, Helios!
Hail, Hestia, whose sacred flame lights our way in the darkness!
Hail, Hestia!
Hail, Sunna, who is sister of the moon, and bringer of light!
Hail, Sunna!
We call upon you today, thanking you for your blessings, accepting your gifts. We draw upon your strength, your energy, your healing light, and your life giving power!
Hail to you, mighty gods and goddesses of the sun!

Each member of the group should now place their candles on the altar, surrounding the sun candle.

HPS: The sun radiates out, never dying, never fading. The light and warmth of today will stay with us, even as the days begin to grow shorter, and the nights grow cold once more. Hail, gods of the sun!

Invite everyone to take in the warmth of the sun once more, and when you are done, end the ritual as you normally would.

 

Source: ,Paganism/Wicca Expert Article originally published on & owned by About.com

Litha Correspondences c.2018

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The Best Yule EVER!!

It a miserable or beautiful night, depending on your point of view, before Yule as the snow fell heavy and a howling wind could be heard, as it had been going on since noon. The animals were all sleeping in front of the empty fireplace which was waiting for the Yule log that might not be possible this year. The cat had even quit chasing the mouse.
Mom was in the kitchen putting her final loving touch on all that she had made for our Winter Solstice feast next day. Keeping an eye on the children through the archway.
Dad was in his recliner telling a tale or two about elves, unicorns, fairies and dragons. The kids listened closely as they all sip their tea and each had just one of their favorite cookie trying to stay awake on couches and pillows. The tea and dad’s stories were working their magick along with mom’s softly humming a magickal lullaby. They were finally falling asleep wherever they were in the family room.
When out on the lawn they heard a happy, loud sing in amongst the other many other familiar noises. They all jumped up and ran to the windows to see who was there. Even the twins Elliot and Asher who were almost 1 getting to celebrating their very first Yule. When what to their wandering, sleepy eyes should appear through the storm but their wildlife friends the bears and deers, wood nymphs, and gnomes trudging through the blizzard with their Yule log! The children rejoiced to see their friends and the all-important Yule log that helps to welcome the Oak King and bids the Holly King a good rest. Dad had said just that afternoon, “The storm is too ferocious to bring in the Yule log from the forest this year.
Triple Goddess and her Consorts had heard the children’s chant, ” Triple Goddess please bring us a Yule log to light the way for your son and consort the mighty Oak King as he is born and to bid the tired Holly King a good rest. It helps us bring the Sun back to shine more on Mother Earth.” This wasn’t really a chant or sung on key or even close to being a tune. But the Goddess and her Consorts had heard it being sung from their hearts with their parent’s inner children joining in. It was in answer to that chant that they had found a way to get it to them.
As all the friends came into the family room, yes even the deers and bears that had carried the Yule log from the forest to their door were welcomed inside for a drink and cookie. After the guests had been thanked for their help and everyone was done with their Yule snack all their friends slowly left to go to their homes or dens or wherever they lived the children could be heard shouting, “This is going to be the best Yule ever!!!”
Mom and dad tucked them in bed reminding them to thank the Triple Goddess, Oak and Holly King for answering their chant to get them their Yule log. As the children fell asleep their mom and dad decorated the big family room/kitchen with Pine, Holly, and Mistletoe than they laid Yule log just so in the fireplace to be lit when the awoke the children at midnight. They would be leaving their offerings of sweet wine, bread, pastries, and sweets to the retiring Holly King, the newborn Oak King, and the Triple Goddess on the front porch before they partook in the light feast that would sustain them until noon the next day when they would again put offerings from their meal out for the Goddess and newborn Oak King. Singing, dancing, a few games and presents would be exchanged than the best part of all dad telling them the story of the rebirth of the Oak King, the Holly King crossing the veil to be reborn at the Summer Solstice and how the Triple Goddess bids them farewell and welcomes them again as their time comes with the turn of the wheel of the year.
Mom and Dad put out an invitation to all their friends to return for the lighting of the Yule log they had brought that stormy winter night. As they went to their bed for a few hours’ sleep they could be heard echoing their children from a couple of hours ago, “Our thanks to the Triple Goddess and her Consorts the Oak and Holly King. Thanks to all our woodland friends especially the deer and bears who carried our Yule log to us, gnomes, and wood nymphs that helped to make THIS IS THE BEST YULE EVER!!!”
Thank you for your caring support through the good and bad times in my life this year as there were quite a few ups and downs. The best thing was Big Dwag and I getting married on June 21st. If you would like to attend our handfasting on June 22, 2024, via Skype please email me so you will include in the guest list. The worst thing was for her own comfort putting Dreamer into her eternal rest.
May you and yours have one of your best Yule’s ever this year. I wish you light and love as the wheel opf the year has turned full circle again!!

I hope you enjoyed reading this story.

Copyright by Lady Carla Beltane 2023 All rights reserved. This post cannot be reblogged or copy and pasted or in any other way be reproduced for commercial purpose without express written permission from Lady Carla Beltane. It may be printed out for personal use only.

Solitary Yule Ritual c.2015

 

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Solitary Yule Ritual

The altar is adorned with evergreens such as pine, rosemary, bay, juniper, and cedar, and the same can be laid to mark the Circle of Stones. Dried leaves can also be placed on the altar.

The Cauldron, resting on the altar on a heatproof surface (or placed before it its too large), should be filled with ignitable alcohol, or a red candle can be placed within it. At outdoor rites, lay a fire within the cauldron to be lit during ritual.

Arrange the altar, light the candles and incense, and cast the Circle of Stones.

Recite the Blessing Chant

Invoke the Goddess and God

Stand before the cauldron and gaze within it.

Say these or similar words:
I sorrow not, though the world is wrapped in sleep.
I sorrow not, though the icy winds blast.
I sorrow not, though the snow falls hard and deep.
I sorrow not; this too shall soon be past.

Ignite the Cauldron (or candle), using long matches or a taper. As the flames leap up say:
I light this fire in Your honor, Mother Goddess.
You have created life from death; warmth from cold;
The Sun lives once again; the time of light is waxing.
Welcome, ever-returning god of the Sun!
Hail, Mother of All!

Circle the altar and cauldron slowly, clockwise, watching the flames. Say the following chant for some time:

The wheel turns; the power burns.

Meditate upon the Sun, on the hidden energies lying dormant in winter, not only in the Earth but within ourselves. Think of birth not as the start of life but as its continuance. Welcome the return of the God.

After a time cease and stand once again before the altar and flaming cauldron. Say:
Great God of the Sun,
I welcome Your return.
May You shine brightly upon the Goddess;
May You shine brightly upon the Earth,
Scattering seeds and fertilizing the land.
All blessings upon You.
Reborn One of the Sun!

Works of magic if necessary, may follow

Celebrate the Simple Feast

The Circle is released

Source: Scott Cunningham