[All times are calculated for the Pacific Daylight Zone. If you are living in a different time zone, add or subtract the necessary hours so that any timed alignment will be exact where you live.] On the one day each month when the Moon unites with Pluto in Capricorn (11:36AM), it is wise to tune into your spiritual willpower and mental concentration in order to avoid fiery debates or arguments with dear ones and associates. If angry sentiments start to simmer in your relationship realm, do all you can to create a harmonious environment for verbal give-and-take. On the other hand, it is also okay to become more of a hermit for several hours — around the exact time of the lunar merger with underworld-ruling Pluto — allowing you to study psychology or esoteric subjects without interference. Looking within for guidance is definitely something that makes sense with the Moon and Pluto in a dynamic rendezvous. In the meantime, the Sun makes a fairly rare conjunction with the largest asteroid — Ceres — at 26 degrees of Leo (5:49PM). Consider bold ways to increase productivity in your main fields of expertise. Go over your dietary and nutritional needs with a fine-tooth comb. Treat maternal figures with respect — if they deserve it and have been truly nurturing in your life. All mother-daughter relationships are in the spotlight.
Tag: Sun
Your Daily Horoscopes for Friday, August 16th
Our hopes are high today, but reality won’t let us get away with excessive fantasy. The upbeat Sagittarius Moon harmonizes with the proud Leo Sun, raising our expectations while romantic Venus shifts into relationship-oriented Libra, emphasizing our desires. But powerful solar aspects to strict Saturn and relentless Pluto can prompt power struggles. The erratic energy begins to settle down once the Moon enters steady Capricorn at 11:25 pm EDT.
Aries Horoscope
(Mar 21 – Apr 19)
You feel as if you can make progress on projects that are stalled now, but there’s still a complicated cocktail of cosmic disturbance to manage. You might not be able to actually put your plans into action yet, but you’re in a forward-thinking mode, nonetheless. Watch the signs carefully today; paying attention to your relationship dynamics ultimately helps you get to where you want to go.
Taurus Horoscope
(Apr 20 – May 20)
It may seem out of character if you overreact, but everything feels extremely important today. You want to be sure that you aren’t missing anything that could negatively impact your progress. But it’s possible to overcompensate in your attempt to achieve perfection. If you find your emotions growing intense, taking a few steps back enables you to maintain a healthy perspective on your life.
Gemini Horoscope
(May 21 – Jun 20)
Relationships are emphasized now, but the energy between you and others probably won’t be all that warm and fuzzy today. The connections can, however, be exciting and even adventurous, but the emotional aspects of your interactions might be temporarily relegated to the back burner. What’s more important now are the activities that you undertake together. Being a good companion allows you to have your fair share of fun at work or at play.
Cancer Horoscope
(Jun 21 – Jul 22)
You might bring a rather unrealistic idea into your workplace today and your solutions could be more grandiose than the problems they seek to remedy. The good news is that, although you may be stressing over finding the right amount of passion to bring to the job, you still have a solid chance to strike the balance you need. Don’t give up; small steps in the right direction are better than none at all.
Leo Horoscope
(Jul 23 – Aug 22)
You’re feeling as if you’re on the top of the world today and it seems as if accomplishing anything should be as easy as just visualizing it and making a wish. Unfortunately, all your problems are not magically solved by simply thinking about them. Nevertheless, you can make progress on many fronts as long as you take a creative approach and apply your energy in a balanced manner.
Virgo Horoscope
(Aug 23 – Sep 22)
It’s nearly impossible for you to gauge how much is enough today. You are pretty sure that your best strategy is to narrow your focus of vision, yet a loud inner voice tells you to widen your scope to get the largest possible view. It’s as if you are experiencing reality simultaneously through two different camera lenses. Instead of attempting to favor one perspective over the other, keep your options open for a while longer.
Libra Horoscope
(Sep 23 – Oct 22)
You may stress about what to say and what to keep secret now. Although your fantasies are more vivid than usual, it’s been easier to keep them to yourself. However, your key planet Venus makes her yearly return to your sign today, encouraging you to relax and share more of your inner world with those you trust. There are still some things that should be left unsaid, but don’t waste too much energy worrying about it. If it feels right, smile and say what’s in your heart.
Scorpio Horoscope
(Oct 23 – Nov 21)
Unfortunately, others might not understand the depth of your feelings now, so it’s better to keep them private. You may be cleansing the wounds of an emotional battle scar, whether it is quite recent or from your childhood. Thankfully, establishing boundaries and creating safe space gives you the room you need to honor your process. Heal quietly on your own or in the company of a trusted friend.
Sagittarius Horoscope
(Nov 22 – Dec 21)
Your words pack more of an emotional punch now that the evocative Moon is back in your sign. But you might also notice that your feelings are in a state of flux. It’s as if your heart is attached to a kite, getting tossed around by the changing breezes. Controlling the sky is out of the question; you cannot harness the wind. Thankfully, going with the flow allows you to gain power and take charge when the turbulence settles down.
Capricorn Horoscope
(Dec 22 – Jan 19)
Although you’re unlikely to show all your cards today, you’re more motivated than anyone realizes. It’s not that you are specifically attempting to be secretive; it’s just that you know more than others think you do. Your knowledge is your secret weapon and you’ll be better off if you hold onto this advantage for a little while longer. The future will arrive sooner than you think.
Aquarius Horoscope
(Jan 20 – Feb 18)
The call of far-away places and great adventures beckons, but you may need more time to make your great escape happen. On one hand, this is a magical and dreamy phase when you can put your creative nature to good use. On the other hand, you need to monitor your daydreams or they could lure you down the wrong track. Ultimately, acknowledging your long-term desires is healthy as long as you remember to also be appreciative of your current set of circumstances.
Pisces Horoscope
(Feb 19 – Mar 20)
You’re expected to do something at work that draws your energy away from what you prefer to be doing for yourself. Although it might be frustrating if you cannot find the time to attend to your personal needs, don’t panic. It’s all a matter of perspective. A change of attitude is all that’s required to make your present moment more enjoyable. Instead of putting your energy into unrealized dreams, find the magic in the here and now.
Daily Cosmic Calendar for August 16th
[All times are calculated for the Pacific Daylight Zone. If you are living in a different time zone, add or subtract the necessary hours so that any timed alignment will be exact where you live.] You may want to get going with key errands and plans early today as Mercury forms a subtle and yet still supportive, 30-degree link to Pallas (5:51AM) while Venus enters one of its two home signs — Libra (8:38AM). The Mercury-Pallas rapport is a boost for problem-solving, strategy sessions and research. Venus in Libra — until September 10 — is great for artists, musicians, dancers, fashion designers and anyone desiring to put their creative stamp within their societal niche. A flowing trine in fire signs between the Moon in Sagittarius and the Sun in Leo (10:33AM) is a vitality-producer in the couple of hours before it happens. However, once it becomes exact, this Moon-Sun connection becomes a void lunar uncertainty zone that lasts until 8:26PM. During the void lunar dispensation, you can raise your productivity I.Q. via a Moon-Ceres trine (11:41AM) while serious research can bear fruit due to the Sun making an inspirational, 72-degree tie with Saturn (12:04PM). An additional psychic monkey-wrench comes in the form of an abrasive, 135-degree contact from the Sun to Pluto (5:19PM). Treat dear ones and friends with respect. Use words to heal — not harm and critique. Once the Moon leaves void status in Sagittarius by entering Capricorn at 8:26PM, think more about novel ways to reach important career milestones. Remember that hard work and perseverance are the dynamic duo that will eventually bring about huge professional rewards down the road.
Calendar of the Sun for August 15
Calendar of the Sun
Feralia: Day of Purification
Color: White
Element: Air
Altar: On a white cloth put a lit candle, incense, a cup of water, and a bowl of salt.
Offering: Although this day is not a day of total silence, it is a solemn day and talking should be done only when necessary and in quiet tones. Bodies should be thoroughly cleaned during the bathing hour, and then the altar area should be cleaned and purified with all four elements. Each person, upon entering the altar space at the beginning of Sponde should remove their clothing and be naked, and each body should be purified with the four elements and marked with water and salt, at which point they may enrobe again. Chores of the day should concentrate on cleaning and repair.
Daily Meal: Vegan and extremely simple and plain.
Feralia Invocation
Breathe the air into your body
And breathe out again,
And as you breathe out,
Let all grime and corruption
Depart on that breath
(All breathe together for twelve breaths.)
Feel the blood coursing through your body
And imagine it clean
Of anything but what should be there.
Feel the energy coursing through your body
And wash it clean
Of anything that does not belong.
Feel the Earth beneath you,
Remember that She can absorb all
Remember that all rot is her provenance
Draw her energy up into you
And give it back again.
(After this grounding, all breathe together again in a yogic breathing pattern for the next half an hour, after which all will go with water and salt and incense and fire to all rooms in the house and cleanse them. Great care should be taken for the rest of the day not to disturb the energy of the freshly cleaned house.)
'THINK on THESE THINGS' for August 13th
‘THINK on THESE THINGS’
By Joyce Sequichie Hifler
Two qualities so well liked in people are brightness and warmth, both parts of the sun. Sir David Brewster was a Scottish physicist of the eighteenth century. His study of the material world and its phenomena called the sun glorious, “the center and soul of our system, the lamp that lights it, the fire that heats it, the magnet that guides and controls it, the fountain of color which gives its azure to the sky, its verdure to the fields, its rainbow hues to the gay world of flowers, and the purple light of love to the marble cheek of youth and beauty.
What more beautiful qualities for any human being to possess than to have a soul at the center of its system, to light the appearance, to warm the feelings, to guide and control it through its colorful moods, and to let it rise as high as the azure skies and as wide as the gay world of flowers. But better yet, to be most beautiful with the purple light of love. What more to be given than the same qualities of the sun – by one Creator.
To live we need more than light, we need warmth. We need more than strength, we need grace. And more than all these we need love. There can be no greater joy than to see our respect for each other – the warmth and grace and love that bind together people in mutual concern.
Only when we can lay aside our personal feelings, our self-concern and worry of our own gain, can we join in true communion and fellowship with others. And to feel a sense of belonging is necessary to humankind.
It is the nature, not only to be liked and wanted, but to like and want others. And in this relationship find not just warmth but light, not only grace but strength, and in all of these find love.
“Walk in the light and thou shalt see they path, though thorny, bright; for God, by grace, shall dwell in thee, and God himself is light.” – BARTON
*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*
Available online! ‘Cherokee Feast of Days’
By Joyce Sequichie Hifler.
Visit her web site to purchase the wonderful books by Joyce as gifts for yourself or for loved ones……and also for those who don’t have access to the Internet: http://www.hifler.com
Click Here to Buy her books at Amazon.com
Elder’s Meditation of the Day
By White Bison, Inc., an American Indian-owned nonprofit organization. Order their many products from their web site: http://www.whitebison.org
Daily Cosmic Calendar for August 12th
[All times are calculated for the Pacific Daylight Zone. If you are living in a different time zone, add or subtract the necessary hours so that any timed alignment will be exact where you live.] Keep a special notebook by your bed to record dreams, visions, and out-of-the-body adventures as the Moon parallels Neptune (1:29AM). With the Moon still in void mode in Libra until 1:19PM, psychic tensions can build up — especially as the Sun forms a subtle and yet still meaningful, 30-degree liaison to Mars (3:03AM). Hopefully, a sense of logic, common sense and decorum will return a few hours later during a Moon-Saturn parallel (6:02AM). A main shift of the day involves the Moon switching allegiance from airy Libra to watery Scorpio (1:19PM). The Moon transiting through the eighth sign of the zodiac is a diamond mine for anyone skilled as a would-be sleuth, psychologist or investigator. Over the next 48 hours, you have the dynamic power to explore forgotten realms of childhood fantasy and ferret out familial secrets. Take a time-out from the stressful happenings of the past week to experiment with a digital or video camera as the Moon trines Neptune in water signs (9:06PM). Try your hand at rhyme poetry, limericks or haiku for a change of pace. A respected mentor’s teachings reach deep into your core values during the monthly Moon-Saturn conjunction (11:49PM). Just make sure you steer clear of a tendency toward self-doubt and pessimism.
Current Moon Phase for August 6 – New Moon
New Moon
(waxing/0% illumination)
The New Moon is a time best suited for new beginnings! For the first 48 hours following the exact time of the New Moon each month, a window of opportunity opens for making wishes that, if noted, come true in the days and months ahead. There is a tremendous amount of enthusiasm in the atmosphere, making it a great time to go forward and begin projects that you feel instinctively attracted to initiating. Follow your impulses and let yourself make new starts in areas that are important to you.
Today's Tarot Card for August 5th is The Sun
The Sun
Monday, Aug 5th, 2013
What has traditionally been known as the Sun card is about the self — who you are and how you cultivate your personality and character. The earth revolves around the sun to make up one year of a person’s life, a fact we celebrate on our birthday.
The Sun card could also be titled “Back to Eden.” The Sun’s radiance is where one’s original nature or unconditioned Being can be encountered in health and safety. The limitations of time and space are stripped away; the soul is refreshed and temporarily protected from the chaos outside the garden walls.
Under the light of the Sun, Life reclaims its primordial goodness, truth and beauty. If one person is shown on this card, it is usually signifying a human incarnation of the Divine. When two humans are shown, the image is portraying a resolution of the tension between opposites at all levels. It’s as if this card is saying “You can do no wrong — it’s all to the good!”
New Moon in Leo Horoscopes (on August 6th)
New Moon in Leo Horoscopes
Open your heart with the August New Moon
Jeff Jawer on the topics of horoscopes, leo, new moon, moon, astrologyCreativity is kicked into high gear with the New Moon in Leo on August 6, 2013. Self-confidence can grow with this fiery Sun-Moon conjunction in expressive Leo, but there is a risk of appearing arrogant if we come on too strong.
Innovation and originality are supported by a favorable trine to this lunation from inventive Uranus in Aries. Discovering different ways of seeing ourselves liberates us from old self-images and opens doors to living, loving, working and playing with more joy in our hearts.
Aries (March 21 – April 19)
Fun, games, creativity and romance are potential areas of growth with this playful Leo New Moon landing in your 5th House of Self-Expression. Taking chances in presenting ideas for work and sharing your feelings in your personal life are likely to pay off. Innovative Uranus makes a favorable trine to this Sun-Moon conjunction from your pioneering sign to spur originality.
Taurus (April 20 – May 20)
Family matters can take a dramatic turn with this expressive Leo New Moon in your 4th House of Roots. Making your living space more beautiful is a great way to lift your spirits, but having the courage to show your feelings is even more important. This is an opportunity to expand your future by being bolder, more creative while burning away left over doubts and fears from the past.
Gemini (May 21 – June 20)
Your fertile brain is enriched with even more ideas than usual with this creative Leo New Moon lighting up your 3rd House of Information. Innovative Uranus’ favorable connection to this lunation adds an extra dose of originality that can help you resolve complicated problems. Your enthusiastic communication helps to overcome skeptics as long as you have the facts to back up your words.
Cancer (June 21 – July 22)
Getting a fresh perspective on financial matters is a gift of this expressive Leo New Moon in your 2nd House of Resources. This lunation can charge you up with creativity, an entrepreneurial spirit and a willingness to take risks. The economic benefits will come from building up your self-confidence and then boldly pushing for more return from your efforts at work and in your personal life.
Leo (July 23 – Aug. 22)
You might feel like all eyes are on you with this dramatic Leo New Moon in your 1st House of Personality. But whether people are looking or not, this is a time for you to act bravely and push yourself forward in pursuit of your goals. Taking risks in relationships, changing your image or in promoting an idea works well when you plan your actions in advance to make a positive impression.
Virgo (Aug. 23 – Sept. 22)
This bold Leo New Moon occurs in your 12th House of Secrets, which could shed light on some mysterious parts of your life. Uncovering hidden truths and motivations will empower you with self-awareness that can release a flood of creativity. You may be driven by newfound confidence as faith in yourself and the world around you emerges as the shadows of shame and secrecy melt away.
Libra (Sept. 23 – Oct. 22)
Heading in a fresh direction with friends and organizations is likely with this energizing Leo New Moon in your 11th House of Groups. It’s your time to step up and take a leadership position that will earn you the attention and respect that you deserve. Acting bolder and being more creative are excellent ways to have fun and get a big boost of energy when working for a cause you care about.
Scorpio (Oct. 23 – Nov. 21)
Professional opportunities and responsibilities are likely to expand with this dramatic Leo New Moon in your 10th House of Career. It’s wiser to take chances by pushing ahead on the job, perhaps even moving to a different vocation, than to settle for the current situation. Be brave about expressing yourself by taking the lead and putting more creativity and personality into your work.
Sagittarius (Nov. 22 – Dec. 21)
This energizing Leo New Moon in your visionary 9th House kicks your usual interest in adventure up another notch. Connections with faraway places for personal pleasure or business are favored by this lunation, which is also associated with a desire to expand your mind through higher education. And, if you believe in what you’re promoting, your powers of persuasion grow stronger.
Capricorn (Dec. 22 – Jan. 19)
Taking risks in relationships is worth the effort, thanks to this expressive Leo New Moon in your 8th House of Deep Sharing. Putting more into your personal and professional partnerships can produce big returns. Take the initiative to make a connection if you’re seeking a business associate or investor. Love grows, too, when let down your defenses and open your heart to someone new.
Aquarius (Jan. 20 – Feb. 18)
Relationships should be rocking with the dramatic Leo New Moon in your 7th House of Partners. While you may attract some bold, assertive, outgoing and creative people, it’s better to come on strong yourself instead of letting someone else take the lead. If you have a project you’re trying to promote, seeking a job or a new mate, being warm, imaginative and generous can lead you to success.
Pisces (Feb. 19 – March 20)
Finding fresh sources of excitement and inspiration on the job is a potential gift of this expressive Leo New Moon in your 6th House of Employment. Coming up with different methods and being more creative can bring you satisfaction and more recognition for your work. If you’re strongly motivated by a creative idea, push it forward with as much style, flash and personality as you can.
Your Daily Horoscopes for Monday, August 5th
We might as well be on a Twilight Zone set today since weird twists of fate can suddenly change the plot. Otherworldly aspects between irrepressible Uranus, trickster Mercury and beautiful Venus plague us with interdimensional messages that we don’t know how to interpret. Lingering excitement from yesterday’s innovative Sun-Uranus trine is reactivated when the Moon shifts into extroverted Leo at 12:57 pm EDT, prompting us to act on our feelings.
Aries Horoscope
(Mar 21 – Apr 19)
You may feel panicky this morning if it seems like you missed your chance to express your feelings. You could even be singing the hesitation blues since you can’t move forward now, yet you’re not satisfied with any retreat scenario. However, your impulses might just be on a time delay today. Don’t worry if you can’t get enough traction to start something new; heading off in a different direction will likely have to wait until later when the Moon enters lively Leo. In the meantime, practice patience; your ultimate satisfaction will be worth the wait.
Taurus Horoscope
(Apr 20 – May 20)
You have quite a bit to say about what’s happening in your immediate environment, but you can’t just blurt out your thoughts because of your hypersensitivity to those around you. However, you’re not willing to compromise your ideas by sacrificing your position through negotiation. Although you prefer sticking to your plan and wearing down the opposition with your determination, a stubborn approach could backfire on you today. Ironically, you can come out ahead by adopting a flexible attitude.
Gemini Horoscope
(May 21 – Jun 20)
Your key planet Mercury is in the spotlight today, creating mischief through a bait-and-switch trick. You think you’re agreeing to one thing only to discover that you promised something else. Pay extra careful attention to all interactions now or you could end up in trouble. Rash decisions are certainly not a good idea. Contemplation helps you process your feelings so they don’t get in the way of making healthy choices.
Cancer Horoscope
(Jun 21 – Jul 22)
Your mind is abuzz with thoughtful Mercury traveling through your sign until August 8. Although your emotions are quite strong, you won’t necessarily be very talkative. In fact, you may find it harder today to express yourself in words as you your feelings get lost in the translation. Don’t worry about explaining your internal process. Instead, observe your reactions but keep them to yourself for now.
Leo Horoscope
(Jul 23 – Aug 22)
You’re roaring with anticipation this morning, as if you were on the edge of something wonderful. However, you intuitively recognize that you can’t just push your way into whatever is next. Instead, prepare yourself by putting your house in order. Fastidious mental housekeeping now helps to ensure your success over the days following tomorrow’s Leo New Moon. Channel your enthusiasm into tying up as many loose ends as possible so you’re ready to go.
Virgo Horoscope
(Aug 23 – Sep 22)
Your imagination might get the best of you today, especially if you don’t take the time to check out the validity of your feelings. Asking for feedback from your friends is a good place to start, but they may not be forthcoming with their responses. Be patient and give them the room to tell you what’s on their minds. You can learn as much from what they don’t say now as from what they do. Nevertheless, there’s no need to worry about things that will never happen.
Libra Horoscope
(Sep 23 – Oct 22)
Your key planet Venus is entangled in a bit of strangeness today, drawing you close to the edges of reality. Fortunately, you have support from helpful colleagues and powerful business allies. You are appreciated by others now more than you may realize. Even if your friends rush to your rescue, they might forget to take the time to tell you how much they care about you. Don’t fish for compliments or validation, or you could push away the very thing you are seeking.
Scorpio Horoscope
(Oct 23 – Nov 21)
Your mental antennae are fully extended now and you can pick up signals that originate from a parallel universe. A special evening allows you to see into your future, even if you aren’t sure how you’ll get there. Meticulous planning comes naturally to you these days. Singularly focus on what’s important to you, for this can assure your success in most anything you initiate.
Sagittarius Horoscope
(Nov 22 – Dec 21)
An uncharacteristic hesitancy may come over you today, preventing you from sharing what’s in your heart. This is especially true if you are also feeling insecure about your most intimate relationships. You aren’t as willing to risk rejection now, so you might quickly swallow your words before they leave your mouth. Don’t judge yourself harshly for holding back. Trust your instincts; you’ll know when it’s time to say what needs to be said.
Capricorn Horoscope
(Dec 22 – Jan 19)
It feels as if someone in your life is holding out on you. There are significant things to be discussed, but you can’t seem to get others to open up. Even if you can sense the frustration of your friends and associates, you might not have a lot of sympathy for them today. You want more facts; you need to know the truth and you don’t want to guess any longer. There’s no point in hitting your head against the wall. Allowing a few more days before you push for what you want improves your chances for success.
Aquarius Horoscope
(Jan 20 – Feb 18)
The Sun and the Moon activate your 7th House of Relationships now, but it’s still challenging to clearly see what’s going on. You might feel a bit disjointed emotionally, for it’s tricky to know the best way to proceed when you cannot decide upon your destination. The truth is there’s no reason to be in a hurry at all. Take your time and let the situation unfold before you commit yourself to any one direction. In the meantime, gather more information and listen to the constructive advice you receive from others.
Pisces Horoscope
(Feb 19 – Mar 20)
You might feel a bit confused today from all the mixed planetary messages. On one hand, it seems as if your window of opportunity is rapidly closing. A domestic cycle is reaching its conclusion whether you are ready for this transformation or not. On the other hand, your anticipation of the potential creativity and love in your future tickles your imagination now. Stay with the paradox. Forcing a premature solution will only stop the magic in it tracks.
Daily Cosmic Calendar for Monday, Aug. 5th
[All times are calculated for the Pacific Daylight Zone. If you are living in a different time zone, add or subtract the necessary hours so that any timed alignment will be exact where you live.] If you are looking to test your mettle or go through a trial by fire, the next seven days should suffice. Today begins somewhat innocently with a void lunar cycle in home-loving and family-oriented Cancer. This lasts until 9:59AM when the Moon enters Leo. Playing games and having child-like fun will keep you entertained. Delving into an art project, visiting a museum or gallery also fills the lunar mood with the Moon in the creative fifth sign of the zodiac. Romance could be beckoning as well as the Moon in Leo energizes the heart and stirs passions. Meanwhile, ingenious ideas are illuminating the mind like fiery comets streaking through the night sky as Pallas makes a rare conjunction with Jupiter in Cancer (8:50PM). Hone your problem-solving skills and make the most of strategy sessions as this optimistic and mentally-expansive alignment occurs. Even the next alignment — a potent Sun-Vesta union in Leo (9:20PM) — can prove rewarding as it has the capacity to increase the value of your assets and investments. However, this entire 24-hour time-period is part of what is called the dark-of-the-moon monthly cycle which occurs right before a New Moon and which suggests the need to complete old projects with self-assurance. Therefore, the necessary traction and oomph to take any great leaps forward will have to wait until the Sun and Moon merge tomorrow and in the few days following.
Daily Cosmic Calendar for July 29th
As you look forward to the last three days of July and the start of August, think of today as your best of the quartet in order to get things accomplished your way with pizazz. Taurus Moon can boost your money-management skills while you re-energize physical fitness routines. Gardening, cooking, baking, arts and crafts look promising. Engage your creative imagination for enhanced problem-solving and strategy sessions as Pallas trines Neptune in water signs (8:50AM PDT) while Pallas also develops a profound and inspirational Grand Triangle along with Saturn tomorrow. Be steady as a rock to get through rising tensions during the Last Quarter Sun-Moon Phase (activating 7 degrees of Leo and Taurus at 10:44AM PDT). Later on the Moon makes constructive 60-degree and 120-degree links to Jupiter (12:13PM PDT), Venus (2:49PM PDT), Pluto (4:18PM PDT), Mars (7:10PM PDT), and Chiron (10:54PM PDT) — with the two trines of 120-degrees to Venus and Pluto creating a temporary, dynamic and resourceful Grand Triangle in earth signs. It is pretty rare to have five favorable lunar aspects in a row and extending for 10+ hours. Plus, it is the combination of all of these alignments that can assist you greatly in making this an all-around successful day.
To All of Our New Friends & Family, Welcome & Merry Meet!
“Now is the time of the First Harvest,
when bounties of nature give of themselves
so that we may survive.
O God of the ripening fields, Lord of the Grain,
grant me the understanding of sacrifice as you
prepare to deliver yourself under the sickle of the
goddess and journey to the lands of eternal summer.
O Goddess of the Dark Moon,
teach me the secrets of rebirth
as the Sun loses its strength and the nights grow cold.
I partake of the first harvest, mixing its energies
with mine that I may continue my quest for the starry
wisdom of perfection.
O Lady of the Moon and Lord of the Sun,
gracious ones before Whom the stars halt their courses,
I offer my thanks for the continuing fertility of the Earth.
May the nodding grain loose its seeds to be buried in
the Mothers breast, ensuring rebirth in the warmth
of the coming Spring.”
– Scott Cunningham, Lammas Ritual
Your Love Horoscopes for the Weekend of July 26 – 28
Weekend Love Horoscopes
July 26-28: Honesty Is the Best Policy
Jeff Jawer on the topics of love, horoscopes, astrologyRomantic dreams and super-sensitive feelings inspire imagination early on Friday while the Moon is traveling in the gentle waters of tender Pisces. But the courage to act on our ideals strengthens with a lunar entry into rambunctious and impatient Aries in the late afternoon. The desire for instant gratification triggers impulsive behavior and incites hunger for new experiences.
You may feel brave enough now to take the initiative in relationships, yet you can also appear selfish or crude in the eyes of someone more cautious and timid. Fortunately, the Moon’s lovely alignment with the bold Leo Sun that night can attract playful folk who find brash behavior appealing. As long as generosity matches self-interest there’s almost no limit in terms of what you say or do in pursuit of pleasure.
Saturday morning, though, is when the glow of the night before fades away and we’re held accountable for our actions. Relationships could grow testy, but if you’re able to express negative feelings without going too far or can handle constructive criticism, hearts will be healed by this difficult work. Trust is essential to turn hard, cold reality into the warmth of intimacy and affection that makes partnerships worthwhile.
Being honest without falling into guilt, blame or shame invites a glorious Sunday morning that’s ideal for indulging in a sensuous breakfast in bed or an extravagant brunch somewhere special. Showering the one you adore with love and appreciation is a delightful way to spend the day.
Daily Cosmic Calendar for July 26th
Finish old business on a high note this morning. This is particularly emphasized with the Moon void in Pisces — the last sign of the zodiac — until 2:30PM PDT. In addition, confusion and chaos are potentially on the rise due to Venus forming its annual opposition with its higher-guardian planet Neptune (5:09AM PDT). What you believe to be true about a significant other may not be the case. Don’t jump to conclusions without the facts. In the meantime, Venus moves on to making two aspects with ring-master Saturn — a seemingly supportive, 60-degree contact (11:37AM PDT) and a more caustic contra-parallel (1:52PM PDT). Even with favorable alignments — like the 60-degree sextile aspect — Saturn can rub you the wrong way and increase limits, frustrations or delays. Therefore, be more cautious and careful as the waning hours of the void lunar uncertainty zone come to pass. Once the Moon enters fiery Aries (2:30PM PDT), the universe encourages you to be more assertive and to accentuate your leadership credentials across the board. This is emphasized several hours later when the Moon trines the Sun in fire signs (10:14PM PDT). However, Aries Moon can also equate with a build-up of stubborn attitudes and since tomorrow offers many disturbing sky patterns, you should strive to be on your best behavior as tonight morphs into Saturday morning.
Calendar of the Sun for July 26th
Calendar of the Sun
Solstitium
Colors: Green and gold
Element: Earth
Altar: Upon cloth of green and gold set flowers and herbs in pots, a bowl of rainwater, a large pitcher of manure tea, and several empty baskets.
Offerings: Water and fertilizer, to be added to the garden.
Daily Meal: Vegetarian.
Solstitium Invocation
Earth, you begin to give forth your bounty!
Like the maiden blossoming into the mother,
Like the youth growing into the father,
You yield your children up to us
For our sustenance and health,
As we are also your children.
We will not waste your gifts!
We will nurture what you bring forth
With the labor of our hands,
That those gifts shall be sustained
Year after year, and that you shall
Never be exhausted.
We will not be ungrateful, O Earth whose life is ours,
But we will give back as much as we take,
For this is the way of balance.
Chant:
Life harnessed
Call the sun to us
Sacred harvest
You are one with us
(Two who have been chosen to do the work of the ritual take up the rainwater and the manure tea, and carry them out to the garden, where they are ceremonially poured around the roots of the herbs and vegetables. All others follow with the empty baskets, and harvest some thing from the garden, whether a token or a main part of the next meal. After this, each should do some part of the work of further watering, or fertilizing, or mulching, to give back to the earth as much as is taken away.)
Happy Birthday, Leo!
Happy Birthday, Leo!
Three cheers for the bold, bright and boisterous Lion
Maria DeSimone on the topics of leo, birthdays, astrology
It’s your birthday, Leo, and you want the world to know it! That’s right; you’re not ashamed to admit that you want to feel like the center of attention on your special day. Hey, you deserve it. After all, you spend plenty of time making others feel exceptional, so why not get some of that ego boosting goodness delivered right back atcha? Either way, you’re ready to party into the night and enjoy every drop of birthday goodness.
Pride of the Lion
Indeed, no other sign exudes love, warmth and joy the way you do, Leo. You’ve got a talent for simply being in anyone’s presence and making them tremble with instant jolts of happy. Since you’ve also got plenty of pride, however, you do expect admiration in return. If your light beams aren’t met with appreciation or if you feel disrespected then watch out — you will roar! Also, a born leader, you prefer to rule the land — something you do quite well. Just remember to be a noble leader since you may have a tendency towards bossy bursts of superiority.
You tend to shower those you love with extravagant, impressive gifts. And when it’s your birthday, you certainly appreciate the same attention to showiness. Drama is your middle name and if there’s not a party in your honor this year, you’ll be happy to make a night on the town attending a play, concert or other fun, entertaining event. As long as you’re given plenty of attention and applause, you’ll continue to beam joy out to the world. Leo, on your birthday, there’s only one word that counts: celebration. It’s time to rejoice in YOU!
Daily Correspondence for Thursday, July 25th
Try to accomplish your key errands and plans in the early hours as the Moon in Pisces starts a long, 26+ hour void cycle at 11:44AM PDT that lasts until 2:30PM PDT tomorrow. Before the lunar orb enters its void uncertainty zone, communications — as well as literary and educational endeavors — are vitalized by a Sun-Mercury parallel (7:14AM PDT). Healing forces are back on the march — courtesy of the monthly union of the Moon with Chiron (9:21AM PDT). The hours building up to 11:44AM PDT are also highly favorable for a variety of discussions and correspondence as the Moon is approaching one of two, monthly trines to Mercury. However, once the void Moon condition takes hold at 11:44AM PDT, it makes sense to complete odd jobs and old projects rather than attempt to initiate bold, new enterprises. Enjoy time-outs for reflection and contemplation since the next two days will present a wide array of celestial challenges — including several discordant aspects by Venus as well as a tension-building Mars-Pluto opposition on Saturday that occurs only a few hours before the Sun squares Saturn. Immerse yourself in film or literary classics tonight that can carry you away to imaginative realms of fantasy and adventure.
The Magick of Life
The Magick of Life
Author: Crick
Have you ever taken a moment to notice the magick of life?
While walking along a country road, the reeds off to the side begin to waver to and fro. Is there a Sylph at play? Or is it Father Time heaving a sigh as he passes through?
Have you ever had the pleasure of listening to an old bullfrog bellowing out the blues? A grand old song of love lost and of love yet to be realized. An adage of life presented by way of the lyrics of nature in a symphonic way.
Have you watched as a caterpillar goes wafting along a rough barked tree? She is a beautiful metamorphous in motion, a budding mystery waiting to transform into a colorful and majestic form. From earth to sky, a wonderful delight forever touching our souls. The magick of life in a brief expanse of titillating color.
Have you ever noticed mother spider silently gazing over her web of silken strands. A superb artisan as she quietly guards the doorway to a special realm. Hers is an ancient lesson in patience. Sitting off to the side as a master shaman stealthily traverses from this realm to that using the glistening web as a mystic gateway into orbs of awareness floating about just beyond our senses.
Have you listened to the crescendo of a community of crickets as they sing in unison? First softly then loudly, then softly again, never missing a beat. An exercise in harmony, an everlasting bond of harmony. An awareness of their surroundings woven into the tapestry of their opera.
Such is the magick of life.
Have you ever noticed tiny dewdrops glistening like little diamonds clinging to the tall green blades of grass? An Undine child in the making perhaps as Father Sun draws them up into his warm embrace. Or perhaps a treasure forever in the making and yet never to be harvested.
Have you ever watched as a solitary leaf floats lazily out of the sky? Going this way and that and yet with a sure purpose. Directed by the currents of the breeze, much like life that is influenced by the changing winds of society. And yet a steady yet unseen goal looms before it.
Have you ever watched as a mother bird feeds her young? A bond of love stronger then steel and yet undetected by the human eye. The continuation of life, a magick ever so strong. For love can lead to birth as well as to death.
And so the wheel turns.
Have you ever watched as a black snake silently slithers across a path? A symbol of evil to some and yet seldom seen. Misunderstandings leading to fear, spiraling about in the darkness of ignorance. And yet knowledge will bring you back to the depths of understanding. And such awareness leads to tranquility and peace.
For such is the magick of life.
Have you ever watched a busy colony of ants? Oh the magick that resides within. A common purpose and involvement by all. No obstacle too great. No task too small. Surely lessons here to be learned by those who seek out such mysteries.
For the magick of life offers lessons not to be seen nor heard but to be felt and absorbed when we open up our hearts. Some teach that humans tower above nature. But as pagans it’s our way to be as one with life. For nature is life and the magick that she offers transcends all such misguided beliefs.
Have you noticed?
Deep within the forest, mother bruin lies within the embrace of hibernation, new life forming within her womb. An ancient ritual practiced through the ages. Have you ever wondered about her dreams as she sleeps through the frigid months of winter?
Now that is the magick of life.
Have you ever stood at the waters edge and watched as a mighty fish comes bursting through the surface of its watery domain? Perhaps it is carrying a message of truth and wisdom from He who resides in the murky depths.
Awaken witch, to the wonders of this realm. Listen to all that your ancestors knew to be true. Perhaps it is telling you to shake off the detritus of the mind and to feel with your heart that which is your destiny to experience as a pagan.
Far too long such knowledge has been suppressed by man; let nature be your ears and eyes.
Have you ever listened to the lone cry of a coyote during the moon lit night? A primal reaction to an awareness that has always been and will always be. Shaman quietly smiles in acknowledgement as his brother bids him welcome.
Such, my friend, is the magick of life.
Have you ever come upon the empty shell of a cicada clinging silently to a tree?
It would appear that death in place of life is in evidence; however a metamorphism onto a greater reality is the result of such an event. For death is the balance that creates life, one without the other is an energy, which has not come full circle, a partial reaction to what must be in order to be complete.
Have you ever sat amidst a field on the edge of dusk as an owl goes gliding quietly by? Some would say a witch in flight. Striking fear into its potential prey as it wings by on its deadly mission. And yet even fear has its place in the magick of life.
As pagans of whatever path, we too have something to contribute to the cacophony of magick that swirls all about us like a silent mist contained within the fog of reason.
Freeing our minds from the shackles of fears and insecurities that such knowledge brings to those who are not of pure heart is a step forwards towards such a contribution.
Acknowledging that such wisdom is within our ability to accept is a gift of awareness and acceptance that has been sorely lacking by so many of our species.
Throw off the blinders of prejudice and ignorance and allow yourself to be a student of life.
For the path of the pagan is truly the magick of life.
The Royal Babies' Astrology Chart (I just had too!))
The Royal Baby Has Arrived
Exploring the Astrology of England’s future king
Maria DeSimone on the topics of leo, cusp, celebrities, cancer, astrology
Its official, Kate Middleton and Prince William have welcomed their newborn prince into the world — a healthy boy weighing in at 8 pounds 6 ounces. His name hasn’t been released yet, but his horoscope is firmly written in the stars. What follows is a brief overview explaining the latest member of the royal family’s potential, as explained by his Astrology.
This royal cusper caused some confusion as many astrologers thought he may be a Leo! But it turns out Wills and Kate’s boy was born when the Sun was in the final degree and minute of the sign Cancer. This 29th degree in Astrology is known as a critical degree and does suggest that this little prince will have a certain amount of karmic responsibility in the domestic arena … no surprise there! Obviously this child was born with significant history and big shoes to fill. Based on the degree of his Sun sign he will surely take his role seriously.
A Full Moon, baby!
At the time of his birth, the Moon was also in the final degrees of Capricorn, right before a Full Moon in Aquarius. For all intents and purposes, the prince is a Full Moon baby which adds to the “fulfillment” role he will have in terms of domestic responsibility. How interesting that his mother was born with the very same opposition between the Sun in Cancer and Moon in Capricorn! Furthermore, there’s a remarkable array of four planets is in the sign Cancer at the time of his birth — and all of them are placed in the 8th House of Deep Transformation. With lucky Jupiter, assertive Mars, and intellectual Mercury posited in this sensitive water sign (along with the Sun), we can be sure that the new prince will have an intuitive and extremely intense mind and character. His memory will be strong and his gut instinct a force to be reckoned with. He will crave privacy and security which may prove troublesome for someone destined to be in the public eye.
Like mother, like son
Another extraordinary link in his chart has to do with the shift of Venus into Virgo on the day he was born. This suggests a soul who will be extremely service oriented and humble. Since Venus is opposite Neptune, he’ll have a vivid imagination and will be prone to idealism. He’ll certainly be someone with great faith! Another fascinating tidbit about the degree of his Venus is that it falls on the fixed star Regulus which is a royal star in Astrology. Many royal figures have planets or angles prominently placed at the 29th degree of Leo or first degree of Virgo. This star literally means “Little King” and will endow the native with a will to reign. He may run into some confusion about how to express his power since Venus does oppose Neptune in the communication axis (3rd House of Communication and 9th House of Big Ideas). However with Venus at a gorgeous angle to Saturn, Jupiter and Mars, he will surely have his heart in the right place.
The Moon in his chart makes a loose, out of sign square to Saturn which will deepen his emotions even more, amplifying the effects of a sober Capricorn Moon. The authoritative influence in his life may feel overwhelming at times, yet this will also be the catalyst that leads him towards great success. Still, someone with four planets in sensitive Cancer in the deeply emotional 8th house may struggle with this Capricorn Moon square Saturn which demands a stiff upper lip.
A chart fit for a king
Another notable feature of the little prince’s horoscope is the fact that his Mercury placement is at the degree at which it turned direct only two days ago. This is a strong indicator that his mind will be especially clever and sensitive, although with a square to Uranus he may be prone to excitable communication when his emotions are triggered. His Mercury placement is near the fixed Star Sirius (14 degrees Cancer) which tends to bestow one with riches and fame. No surprise there.
Overall, the little prince has a chart of gold. Jupiter applies to an opposition to Pluto endowing him with tremendous power potential so this young man will be much more than a “poster boy” for royalty. Thankfully, the rest of his chart suggests he will use his clout for good.
Witches Of The Craft® 
You must be logged in to post a comment.