Crystal of the Day for Sept. 16 – Quartz

QUARTZ

Amplifies the healing energy of the one using it. Used to help draw out pain. Able to tap into the energies of the universe. A good stone for meditating on. Works primarily with the Third Eye center, also relates well with the heart center. To be able to tune into the quartz promotes clarity while concentrating on it. Also affects the crown chakra. Very potent and often worn
to protect from negative vibrations. Cleanse regularly. Rudilated-rutile needles help focus attention. Smoky-good for calming the mind. Rose-vibrations of universal love & inner serenity.

Your Daily Horoscopes for September 15th

The feisty Aries Moon gives us one last kick as she forms a dynamic square with aggressive Mars today. But this is also the first full day of sweet Venus’ visit to her airy home sign Libra, encouraging us to turn on the charm and reach out to others. The mood changes abruptly as the Moon shifts into Venus’ other home sign, earthy Taurus, at 3:24 pm EDT, reinforcing our desire for pleasure while reminding us to enjoy the simpler things in life.

Aries Horoscope (Mar 21 – Apr 19)

You might be worried that you have too much going on today, but you should be able to complete most of your tasks as long as you remember to remain focused. Fortunately, you can turn a tricky set of circumstances into a manageable situation, but there isn’t much margin for error. Even if you cannot finish everything, give yourself permission to feel good about your efforts.

Taurus Horoscope (Apr 20 – May 20)

The bumps in the road could smooth out today when the Moon returns to your determined sign. Although you apply yourself diligently toward your responsibilities, meeting your obligations isn’t enough to bring satisfaction; you also want to enjoy yourself in the process. Ironically, finishing your work can leave you feeling frustrated, unless you have a partner to share in your success. Spice up your day by asking someone to join you for a bit of fun.

Gemini Horoscope (May 21 – Jun 20)

You may feel irritated by the restrictions being placed on you today. You might need to cut your extracurricular activities short so you can take care of a chore at home or respond to a family matter. Don’t fret over a missed social opportunity because it’s healthier to simply let it go. You will feel better now if you just focus on doing your job well and helping out any way you can.

Cancer Horoscope (June 21 – Jul 22)

Your life seems uncomplicated when you just do what you’re supposed to do. But even if you know what you should be working on, you may lack the inspiration that’s required to conjure up the correct magical words or actions. Even if you aren’t very excited about what’s ahead, keep plodding through the day. Luckily, your enthusiasm will gather momentum, giving you the ability to affect others in a positive manner.

Leo Horoscope (Jul 23 – Aug 22)

You’re progressing toward your destination and, fortunately, your recent efforts finally begin to show progress. However, you may not have a lot of time to celebrate because there’s so much to do in order to fulfill your professional commitments. Although a sudden attraction could catch you off guard, it’s best to maintain a healthy perspective and refrain from impulsive or obsessive behavior. Honor your feelings, but don’t lose sight of those things that are important to your work.

Virgo Horoscope (Aug 23 – Sep 22)

The Moon’s shift into stable Taurus indicates that you must pay attention to the practical side of life. You may not want to stop what you’re doing just to engage in essential activities such as drinking and eating, but running off to participate in a wildly impractical adventure can be dangerous now. Don’t wait until your health is compromised before you start taking care of yourself.

Libra Horoscope (Sep 23 – Oct 22)

You have a gnawing sensation that your social conditions are becoming too complicated to manage now. It feels as if something is going to change, but you cannot tell what it may be yet. You might even feel on edge as you run through all the possibilities. Unfortunately, your heightened sense of anticipation of the unknown could be happening a few weeks too soon. Instead of worrying about what’s ahead, finish up anything you’ve already started and give yourself a chance to relax.

Scorpio Horoscope (Oct 23 – Nov 21)

Your social life may be very active these days, but it’s important to be discriminating about what you do so you aren’t lured away from your responsibilities. It’s wise to be practical, even if your fantasies are another source of distraction now that Venus is visiting your 12th House of Dreams. But don’t just spend your time making plans. A methodical approach and consistent effort may not produce immediate results, but you’ll gain significant momentum over the days ahead.

Sagittarius Horoscope (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

You may rebel if you are expected to manage a whole lot of details today because being serious is not your idea of fun and games. Still, you’re bound to feel much better if you can tie up as many loose ends as possible. Just don’t take any shortcuts because questionable motives will invite the energy to unravel what you already completed. It’s more important now to follow through on a project already in motion than to go off on a new venture.

Capricorn Horoscope (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

The Moon’s shift into fellow Earth sign Taurus this evening reflects your need to slow down and get things right the first time. You can always make plans for your next great adventure tomorrow. Still, this isn’t a particularly easy day, but you can be very productive if you’re willing to balance your down-to-earth approach with your ambitious goals.

Aquarius Horoscope (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

You may be feeling extra clever now and are motivated to move quickly on your plans for the immediate future. But, too much spontaneity can spell trouble, so look carefully at what you are going to do prior to initiating action. Be smart and reconsider your options, while you still have time. Postpone the actual start date until next week for the best results.

Pisces Horoscope (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

The picky Virgo Sun is camping out in your 7th House of Partnerships now, suggesting that you must deal with more interpersonal drama than you prefer. But the Moon in your 3rd House of Communication starts a conversation with a practical person, revealing the weak links in your pet project. Don’t shut out your friends who disagree with your opinions. Opening your mind increases your chances of cultivating successful relationships.

Zen and the Art of Berry Harvesting

by Amanda Silvers

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I am very warm; it is one of those days where your hair clings to your neck and the sweat beads above your lip. I want something sweet, but not too sweet, and juicy.

Hmmmmmm, I think, about the blackberry bower by the driveway. I think that the berries might be perfect to quench my hunger.

The bush has been very prolific this year, and it is so heavy with ripe berries that they hang down to the ground in places. I think about the berries bowing the branches under their weight, their shiny plump blackness oozing sweetness, and my mouth waters as I walk outside into the sun. I am blinded momentarily by the brightness, and I think about the fact that I left my sunglasses in the house. I am also wearing only shorts and a tank top, not the best attire for blackberry picking! I remember seeing a friend a few days earlier; she was covered with angry red scratches and cuts, from picking blackberries, she said. Oh well, I think to myself, I’ll be careful and just take a few of the more accessible berries.

I approach the bush and the thorns loom, shining sharply; they are all I can see. The thought of the berries is now eclipsed by the terrible threat of injury from the thick branches rimmed with thorns. Not to mention the fact that the berries, so many I can see dozens as I park my car every day, are nowhere to be found now as I stand there next to the bush squinting into the sun.

I stop for a moment as I feel the bush diva pull back its branches and threaten me telepathically with sharp scratches if I so much as try to pick a berry. Then I remember: I have to ask the bush for the berries, and ask it with respect and a small amount of fear for the sharp thorns.

I smile to myself and the berry bush diva as I think to the bush, “Hello there, Mama Berry Bush! How are you doing today? Did you get enough water when I watered you last night?” The bush relaxes a bit, but not completely, as I stand before her with a bowl, smiling at her like a lunatic. I again address the bush psychically, “I was wondering, oh great Berry, you have produced much beautiful fruit this year, would you share it with us humble humans? You know we are unlike you, and unable to produce such sweet and luscious fruit, and we would be honored by your gift.” The berry bramble is practically beaming at me now, and all of a sudden the branches seem to open up, and there is the fruit! Hundreds of beautiful plump shiny blackberries, hanging in hefty clumps of six or ten, along with gorgeous green fuzzy leaves, all on stalks with little, teeny-tiny thorns.

Where did those huge thorns go? I ask the bush as I begin to pick a berry here and one there, and she answers “Oh, those were in your imagination. I just helped you to see the ones I have as several times as big as usual.” I laugh to myself and continue picking and telling the bush diva how lovely the fruit is.

I pop a berry into my mouth, and it bursts in an explosion of pungent tart sweetness. These are the best blackberries I have ever tasted, I tell the bush. Just then, she reveals even more berries, bigger and more lush that the ones before, and all in easy reach as I stand inside the shelter of the branches and continue to pick.

I picked and chatted merrily to the berry diva as I gathered the remarkable fruit. Toward the end, I made sure to thank her for the fine gift. I promised her that I would only prune her lovely branches and not cut her down, as so many people do. She was delighted and promised me more berries whenever I wanted, at least during the next few weeks.

I finally picked all of the ripe berries I could find that day, and I only ended up with one tiny scratch on my arm. It was near the end of my harvest; I was getting a bit greedy, and she had to remind me to not take any berries that were not yet ripe. I wound up with a huge bowl of luscious fruit to share, and with no pain. See, all you have to do is ask nicely!

A Summer Walk to Dream

by Jim Sun Weed

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I walk out into the sunny day, the morning breeze growing sweeter as the day’s heat develops. Over the soft grass, over the concrete sidewalk, striding in my sturdy boots and feeling like good Tom Bombadil, the Master. A small brown bird is on the ground, tugging at a food wrapper. She winks at me and hops out of the way.

Another bird swoops over my head. They say hello and bless me; their language is a visceral one which my body understands. The blackberries, ripe and heavy, and the golden grass gone to seed, vibrate their hellos.

The Earth is singing, and it’s a tune which calls me back time and again to the old ways, when Nature taught us everything, gave us everything.

Tall trees are swaying in the breeze, caressing my vision as the wind moves through their leaves, showing the white undersides contrasting with the dark green of summer growth. I pass beneath a great Himalayan Pine, touching the top of my head to its hanging boughs. These trees, these plants and animals, are all players in a rhythm which is of wholeness and rightness.

I am open and strong. I forget about work, bus schedules, career plans. I stop arguing with myself. I stop trying to define, and the answer is given as I too enter the sacred rhythm.

I visit the old pine trees on Capitol Hill. They were here before white people came to this part of the Earth. I can feel their thoughts telegraphing to one another, preserving the fabric of unity and protection. They are the good old citizens and I am grateful to be walking beneath them. Am I just like a human animal today? I have no creed, only rhythm, aliveness, gratitude and the sustaining oneness-interaction. Just as the trees and animals vibrate in their innate communication, I feel the blood of my body resonate with this vibration. A friendly Douglas Fir beckons me; I run my hand lightly over the rough bark of its trunk. I sit at its base, my head against the trunk, feeling as though we are the center, with the Wholeness choreographed around us. I close my eyes and feel the comings and goings of animals and insects, and the passing of time.

My thoughts melt into dreaming as I fall into a sleep. Nature is everywhere alive; the web of Spirit cannot be destroyed. Sometimes I am unaware of it. Often I don’t understand the significance of whatever work or play I’m doing. But that doesn’t matter. The only judge is me. As I enter more deeply into awareness of Nature around me, I become healed and whole. How have we ignored Nature for so long? What are we learning through our experience of separation?

In my sleep a dream washes over me. I am in a dank tavern, wood paneling, a couple of pool tables, just a few patrons talking about regular workaday things as the afternoon light slants in through the tiny window. I notice a tingling sensation in my feet and hands. Looking around the room I see it suffused with the same tingling: a light, a shimmering which seems to grow and envelop everything and everyone in the room. Is it coming from the spaces between atoms, from the freefall that lends grace to the gaps in our understanding? I wake.

The breeze plays in my hair. A squirrel is looking at me, head cocked to one side. An airplane flies overhead. The sun is still bright and the air sweet and warm; the afternoon feels as lazy as I do. I get up, dust off my jeans, and stride away to the tavern for a beer.

Getting Married One Chakra at a Time

by Freya Ray

Marriage. We all know couples that do it and succeed. They have the big wedding, and then they’re at least reasonably happy with each other and have a nice long run. But what about the other version? Tom and Jeff or Jeff and Betty or Betty and Sue live together reasonably happily for years, decide to get married/handfasted/have a commitment ceremony, and within months aren’t speaking to each other.

What happens to cause this? Why do functional relationships crater so completely after a wedding? Surely it’s not just the stress of a big emotional production, as this type of breakup seems far more common than breaking up due to other kinds of stress. It’s almost predictable with many couples — wedding, three months later distance and fighting, three months after that filing for divorce.

I have a theory. I hope it’s even one that will help people avoid this fate themselves.

The focal point of a commitment ceremony is just that: the taking of vows that speak to the couple’s commitment to each other. Vows. The problem with vows is that they have great power, power beyond the words themselves. When spoken in front of one’s entire community of family and friends, in a sacred setting consecrated to the Divine, they are immensely powerful. They take on a life of their own.

And (drum roll, please) every way in which the relationship does not currently live up to the vows declared is immediately thrown in the couple’s faces.

If you vow to love and there are resentments in your heart, those will become magnified and impossible to hide. If you promise to take care of your partner and aren’t sure you mean it, that will be tested. If you promise to be truthful and sometimes you avoid the issue, you will get caught. Any and all ways in which reality does not live up to the grand promises made will be brought to the surface for attention.

It’s bad enough in a traditional wedding ceremony. To “love, honor and cherish, in sickness and in health… till death do us part” is hard. But at least it’s simple. There are just three things, which are pretty standard noble virtues. One should always love, honor and cherish the people in one’s life, whoever they are. But pagans have a bad habit of writing their own vows, and the next thing you know they’ve spent five minutes describing all they’re going to do and be for each other.

It’s a long laundry list of good intentions. When half of them come screaming at you for immediate remedial work, it’s overwhelming.

Welcome to the post-ceremony meltdown.

If you don’t believe me, do a mental inventory of the couples you’ve known who have broken up soon after their wedding. Most of the time, they break up because of issues they knew about before they got married. The issues were stuff they thought they could live with and were living with. And the issues were in conflict with the vows taken. When the issues were something to be accepted as part of living together, they could be worked with. When the full force of collective intention had been directed at a life consonant with the higher virtues and in conflict with the bad habits, it quickly leads to disaster.

How to avoid this? Well, you could only marry someone with whom you have no issues whatsoever. Ha! Welcome to lifelong celibacy. Or you could only promise to take one day at a time and care about each other as best you can in the moment and try to be nice. Seems rather pointless, doesn’t it?

How about taking things in stages?

Who says you have to get married all at once?

I’m proposing a chakra wedding ceremony — well, actually, seven or eight of them. In a series. Strung out over time.

Say we’ve got a couple with the following issues: He is tempted to lie and cheat occasionally; he comes from money and she doesn’t, so she feels guilty that he makes most of their money; she’s more powerful psychically and has a bad habit of using her intuition to manipulate him into doing what she wants him to. Before you think, “Wow, what a mess! They should never get married,” let me tell you this is not that bad a set of stuff. It’s just that mostly we only look at one problem at a time and minimize its importance. All of these issues can be overcome, and the couple is probably together to do the healing work to overcome them.

So what have we got here? We’ve got a belly chakra issue with the cheating, a root chakra issue with the money and dependency stuff and a third-eye issue with the psychic stuff.

The couple has a wedding; they promise to be honest and faithful, to take care of each other for richer and for poorer, and to respect each other, compromise and work through things together as equal partners. They’ve announced their intentions to eradicate their three huge issues, all in one day, when they’re already tired and overwhelmed on innumerable levels from the wedding stress.

Instead, why not try making a commitment to each other one chakra at a time? Have a private ceremony, speaking your root chakra vows to each other. Promise to take care of each other physically and financially. Promise for sickness and health, for richer and poorer. But leave all the rest of the stuff out of it.

Then sit back and wait for what comes up. Our example couple would, I hope, have opportunities to discuss their class issues, negotiate ways to share money, clarify for her that he loves her regardless of the amount of money she brings in and so on. They will have plenty of stuff to work through to keep them busy. Money issues, basic survival financial stuff, is incredibly stressful. It’s enough all by itself.

Issues that could come up at root for another couple might have to do with health, dependency, responsibility and reliability, getting off the couch and finding a damn job, where to live, getting out of debt, who’s going to do the cooking and cleaning, sleeping issues and so on. Everything having to do with survival on the material plane. Plenty.

Have a ceremony for your root chakras, and then do all the healing and cleanup work required. Do all the negotiation, moving, figuring out of schedules, learning how to live together, financial planning. Whether it takes six days or six years, stay with this one set of stuff until it feels clear. Then and only then, have a ceremony to commit to each other at the belly chakra.

Sexuality and relationships live at the belly. Many couples are going to have quite the rodeo ride here. Survivor issues, fidelity challenges, past relationships both good and bad, sexual incompatibilities and expectations and everything of that nature arises here.

In our example couple, he’ll get caught trolling for women on the Internet, or she’ll find a letter from a woman he cheated with a year ago, or he’ll confess to his urges, or something. It will come up. They’ll talk about it, fight about it, get couple’s counseling and either work through it or not. But, supposing they’ve done the root-chakra work first, they’ve got a vastly better chance of making it through, because they have a solid foundation to stand on. She knows he loves her enough that he doesn’t mind supporting her. She’s seen the way he’s been willing to talk through their root chakra incompatibilities and negotiate compromises. And it’s just the one thing.

Over time, maybe they’ll find the source of his need to cheat, he will get therapy for that, and it’ll be handled. Another couple might need to work out that she wants sex every day and he only once a week, she can’t have oral sex due to sexual abuse, he isn’t totally over his ex-girlfriend, she wishes he were in better shape, he wants to get kinky and she doesn’t. Etcetera. Every couple is likely to have sexual issues of some kind or another, and it takes time to work through them. Six days or six years later, you move on to the solar plexus.

Power. Power and success in the world, your sense of personal power and your level of power in the relationship. It’s a murky area, and every couple needs to deal with who’s running things and how the power is shared or not. It’s never as simple as “Let’s negotiate everything equally.” You’d go insane. You can’t sit down and process your feelings about zucchini in the grocery store. You can’t call each other during the day to find out if it’s okay to spend $10 on your lunch instead of $8 today. You need to divide up responsibilities somewhat, so you both understand what’s yours to decide, what’s the other’s to decide and what’s shared. This takes time to sort out.

I’m not going to go through all seven chakras, as you can study up on them and figure the rest out for yourself. Running through the first three in some detail gives you enough information to get started and a sense of what I’m talking about. There’s plenty there to deal with. You’ve got time to become an expert on chakras before you’re done with the first three, I promise.

What I’m proposing is that a couple deepens their commitment to each other one chakra at a time. When you’ve gotten through all seven, and you feel good, solid, stable and clear with each other on all fronts, then you can invite a couple hundred people over to help you celebrate your union. Take the public vows, inviting your community to hold that energy with you. Step into the arena of a sacred vow with a reasonably clear path between you.

Give yourselves time to grow closer. Give yourselves time to catch up to your promises, one step at a time. Breathe and grow closer in between each one.

You know you love each other. You know you’ve come together for your healing and to help each other move forward personally and spiritually. You know your love is not a simple thing, but rather a complex, intricate dance of life between you. If it were a tree, you wouldn’t transplant it, prune it and harvest its sap all in the same day. If you were managing a company, you wouldn’t announce layoffs the same day that the new product line is released. Don’t pile everything on the same day in your relationship either. Manage it more gracefully, taking one step at a time.

It’s just a thought. Whatever you do, bright blessings for you and all your loving relationships.

Freya Ray is a professional psychic, shaman, writer and teacher. She is available as a psychic for parties and events such as Samhain parties. In readings, she accesses the Akashic records and the client’s guides, bringing her clients the most useful information available for life’s challenges and adventures. She has worked at Phoenix and Dragon in Atlanta and Rainbow Moods and Lemurian Imports in Tucson. Her writing has appeared in the Sedona Journal of Emergence, the New Times, the Awareness Journal and the Magical Journal. She can be reached for comment or for psychic readings by phone at (206) 276-4290 or freya_ray@yahoo.com. For full information on her practice and a writings archive, check out www.freyaray.com/.

General Daily Horoscopes for Tuesday, Sept. 7th

Today is a cosmically quiet day without significant planetary aspects, giving us a bit of breathing room to integrate the recent changes before the next wave hits. Although we might have extra time on our hands, we may be confronted with issues that we previously tried to avoid. The steadfast Capricorn Moon settles our intense feelings as she separates from yesterday’s conjunction with dark Pluto and harmoniously trines the practical Virgo Sun.

Aries Horoscope (Mar 21 – Apr 19)

Being overly concerned about how others see you isn’t your normal style, but the cautious Capricorn Moon in your 10th House of Status requires you to be on your best behavior now. You must proceed carefully, for your natural inclination is to talk before you think. Thankfully, your intuition should show you the most practical course of action, which is exactly what you need.

Taurus Horoscope (Apr 20 – May 20)

Everything appears to fall into place today, but, unfortunately, you still may not feel completely at ease. Although it’s reassuring that your life has settled down sufficiently for you to have some time to relax, you might think that you’re missing something important now. Don’t worry about anything that’s not concrete. Focusing on reality rather than your anxiety is your best preparation for whatever might occur next.

Gemini Horoscope (May 21 – Jun 20)

Accept the support of your closest friends and family today, for they will supply the solid foundation that you might lack on your own. The help you need now isn’t about money; it’s about knowing that others have faith in you and in what you’re doing. Don’t wait for someone to offer assistance; ask and you shall receive.

Cancer Horoscope (June 21 – Jul 22)

You may be more content with listening to what others want without feeling the necessity to fix anything today. You can be sweet and caring, but it’s more important now to fulfill your obligations and make time to meet your own needs, instead. Remember, you will have more to give later on if you feel satisfied yourself.

Leo Horoscope (Jul 23 – Aug 22)

No matter what you feel today, it’s best to stick to your regular routine as closely as possible. However, you still must remain flexible enough to handle changing circumstances because unexpected situations may arise that pull you off your normal schedule. Don’t be overly rigid when responding to a surprise; instead, just return to the safety of the tried and true as soon as you can.

Virgo Horoscope (Aug 23 – Sep 22)

The Moon brightens your 5th House of Self-Expression, reflecting your current need to tell someone how you feel, especially if there is a romantic attraction. You would prefer to let your love light shine all the time, but sometimes you turn it down low so you can be of service to those who need your help. Now, however, don’t deny your desires; let your heart guide your way.

Libra Horoscope (Sep 23 – Oct 22)

You might prefer to hide away at home today, out of sight from the real world. Unfortunately, your little mini-retreat may not work out so well because you still have to go to work or run errands. Being productive is admirable, but don’t be afraid to honor your own needs, too. Finish what you start quickly, so you still have some time left over for relaxation later in the day.

Scorpio Horoscope (Oct 23 – Nov 21)

You really want to do something special with your friends or family today, but are hesitant to schedule too much into your day. If you’re busy, you may be resistant to the idea of doing more, yet you’re likely to enjoy yourself once you get into the flow of events. Don’t procrastinate; the sooner you put your calendar in order now, the smoother everything will go.

Sagittarius Horoscope (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

If you aren’t in conflict with someone else today, you are probably arguing with yourself. Your thoughts could be leading you around in circles; even if you attempt to stop the inner dialogue, it seems to have a mind of its own. Regain your emotional balance by allowing your mental meanderings to continue without trying to push them away. Paradoxically, once you try to exert control, the cycle restarts for another round.

Capricorn Horoscope (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

Your strong resolve to follow your agenda is being severely tested today and you’re ready to bury your feelings if you think that they might get in the way of your progress. Unfortunately, denying your emotions only postpones the inevitable; your repressed energy will come out sooner or later. If tension does escalate, however, the expression can be much more difficult. It’s healthier to deal with the consequences as they occur and then let them pass.

Aquarius Horoscope (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

You might not be telling the whole truth about what’s happening today because your desire for self-sufficiency encourages you to keep your feelings secret. You don’t have a reason to show your vulnerability, which could restrain the intensity of an emotional interaction. There’s no right or wrong way to approach a situation now as long as you keep your heart open and act with kindness.

Pisces Horoscope (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

You can count on your friends to come through for you today as the Moon visits your 11th House of Social Networking. Your desires are pretty basic, and thankfully you should be able to get what you want. Ironically, others may not be very demonstrative now, but you still won’t have any doubt about their love and support. Don’t be afraid to ask for what you need because you’ll likely receive it.

Daily Horoscopes for September 5

We are inclined to ignore the facts today as the optimistic Sagittarius Moon lifts our spirits and encourages us to believe that anything is possible. Although there may be real limits to the power of positive thought, the Moon’s smooth trine to clever Mercury in dramatic Leo empowers us to motivate others with the strength of our convictions. Nevertheless, we are brought back to reality when the Moon enters sensible Capricorn at 10:03 pm EDT.

Aries Horoscope (Mar 21 – Apr 19)

Your overconfidence can create problems today, unless you scale back your ambitions a bit. Unfortunately, it’s hard to tell where to draw the line between reality and fantasy, making your decisions even more difficult. Widening your spiritual horizons is easy now; maintaining a solid connection with the mundane world at the same time is more difficult, yet also worth the effort.

Taurus Horoscope (Apr 20 – May 20)

Your current fascination with philosophy tempts you to believe that you have discovered the meaning of life. Unfortunately, others might see things differently today, believing that you are evading the important issues by using big words and talking about complex ideas that are removed from what’s actually happening. Although your search for truth may appear cavalier, there’s no need to change anything now as long as you’re respectful to the reactions of those around you.

Gemini Horoscope (May 21 – Jun 20)

Thankfully, the pace of life may be a bit slower today, but you still wish that things would return to normal. Still, you have a chance to review your recent experiences and think about what to do next. Just remember that there is a magnifying lens between you and your world now, making everything appear bigger, better or more important than it truly is. Giving yourself a reality check is healthier than waiting for someone else to do it for you.

Cancer Horoscope (June 21 – Jul 22)

Today your false sense of optimism may have you believing that anything you can imagine will come true. Although your positive attitude might be sufficient to tip the scales in your favor, there are other things that should be considered, too. It’s not necessary to give up as long as you’re willing to face the current difficulties. Fortunately, it will be easier to overcome any obstacles in your path once you first acknowledge them.

Leo Horoscope (Jul 23 – Aug 22)

You could be at the top of your game now, yet still may be insecure about a close relationship because you’re not seeing the situation in its true light. The truth is that your self-image could suffer if you spend too much time analyzing what’s going on. You’re probably more creative and refined than you realize now. Change your attitude by deciding to project yourself into the future instead of looking back into the past.

Virgo Horoscope (Aug 23 – Sep 22)

Your innate tendency to be discriminating is always useful, but now it can turn into an obsession and get in the way of your happiness. You may grow uncomfortable with your current starry-eyed visions and decide to rein in your fantasies. Unfortunately, you could pull back so far that your caution causes you to miss out on a lovely opportunity. You don’t need to lower your standards as long as you remain open to starting small and growing from there.

Libra Horoscope (Sep 23 – Oct 22)

You may have unresolved issues that linger from a recent emotional meltdown. Although your feelings probably won’t be put to rest, you have a chance to raise your game to a higher level now. Instead of struggling for dominance or survival, shift your focus to more spiritual concerns. The real magic isn’t in the physical world today. You will be able to let go of unnecessary resentment if you act with compassion instead of fear.

Scorpio Horoscope (Oct 23 – Nov 21)

You might want to establish new financial goals now that the Moon is visiting your 2nd House of Wealth. However, there is a deep connection between your self-esteem and your net worth. Obviously, there are many practical things you can do to augment your income and increase your assets, but today an attitude change might be more important than anything else. If you value yourself, it will be easier in the long run for others to invest in you.

Sagittarius Horoscope (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

It’s not easy to keep your feelings secret now because they’re obvious to others, even if you don’t express them directly. The moody Moon is visiting your 1st House of Personality and she has her own language that bypasses words and social pleasantries. Nevertheless, it’s unwise to assume that others know what’s going on for you unless you actually take the time to specifically tell them. Confiding in someone you trust will make you feel instantly better.

Capricorn Horoscope (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

The Moon’s presence in your 12th House of Privacy raises conflicts between your need to be constantly in the world doing your thing and your current desire to isolate yourself so you can work in solitude. Neither extreme is an acceptable course of action now, even if you think that you must choose one way or the other today. Change the rules of the game by imagining a scenario where you can be in the spotlight when necessary, yet are still able to escape when you need to be alone.

Aquarius Horoscope (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

You’re motivated by your dreams now that the adventurous Sagittarius Moon is in your 11th House of Future Goals. Unfortunately, you might not have enough common sense to know which of your ideas are good enough to follow and which should be set aside. Luckily, you don’t have to decide today; just allow your thoughts to take you on a fascinating ride without being bound to any single outcome.

Pisces Horoscope (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

The Moon’s current visit to your 10th House of Career encourages you to make big plans to fulfill your professional ambitions. Although you may feel as if you’re sitting on top of the world — or, at least have a clear path to the mountain’s summit — others may not see your success in the same way. Don’t be discouraged by the doubters and naysayers; go ahead and reach for the stars. Just remember to keep your feet firmly planted on the ground at the same time.

Cranberry and Cool Weather Kitchen Magick

Cranberry and Cool Weather Kitchen Magick

Author: Kiki’s Cauldron

For many, cranberries become a part of the meal between Samhain and Yule. Prior Samhain, fresh cranberries are harvested from northern bogs and available for many autumn dishes. At Thanksgiving, stuffing is sweetened with a heaping spoonful of delicious cranberry chutney. And at Yule, many enjoy the fragrant smell of cranberry cooking in dessert dishes or in its perfume smell by the hearth with cranberry-scented candles. The cranberry’s deep red color is admirable, exotic, and comforting. It’s unique tale of growth in bog and harvest in water, it’s lavish mythical lore, and even its long list of health benefits make it a berry worthy of examining for magickal qualities.

Cranberry Growth
Cranberries are one of only three berries native to North America (the other two being the blueberry and concord grape) . They grow on low-level vines and flourish in bogs (that is to say: they need acidic peat soil and fresh water to grow) . Cranberries are also a berry of the north, commonly growing in Massachusetts, New Jersey, Oregon, Washington, Wisconsin, and Canada. A smaller variety of the cranberry also grows in Scandinavia. Oftentimes when we see commercials on television with cranberry gardeners knee-high in cranberry-filled water, we assume that the cranberries actually grow in water. However, this is an image of a specific farming technique known as “water harvesting.” In this process, the cranberry vine-filled bogs are flooded with water. Special farming equipment known as watering reels turn and stir the water in the flooded bogs, loosening the berries from the vine. Because the cranberries contain pockets of air inside them, they float to the surface, which then makes it easy to corral and harvest. Cranberries can also be harvested the old fashion way. “Dry harvesting” is the simple method of plucking the berry from the dry vines during the fall.

The Cranberry in History, Lore and Mythology
The bog is the home of the cranberry, but was also sacrificial stomping ground of ancient societies in Northern Europe. Consider all of the archeological findings that have been discovered in bogs from Denmark Scotland, England, Sweden, and Northern Germany: daggers, swords, shields, spears, javelins, drinking vessels, sickles, y-shaped dowsing rods and jewelry have all be recovered from bogs. Also recovered from a bog was the famous Gundestrup Cauldron, a silver cauldron of Celtic origin, which had mythological narratives on it. Even more shockingly, excellently preserved human bodies, which appear to have been victims of sacrifice, have been discovered in bog. It appears that to ancient society, the watery bog was a place of significant importance, where sacrifices and treasures were willingly deposited.

Some researchers and academics have suggested that the bog deposits were offerings for protection, or rituals to bring fertility to the land and well-being to the land’s inhabitants. One cannot avoid the idea of a spooky, dank bog on a cold dark night either. Perhaps it is the fact that the unstable, marshy territory could lead to hazardous falls and injuries. Legend has it that the murky, watery parts of a bog were bottomless, so to step in one meant imminent doom. Hans Christian Andersen shared many stories of the bog, most of which involved witches, elves and fairies. And in English and Welsh folklore, Will-o-the-wisps are said to be glowing lights that would float above the bog. Some believed that they were benevolent fairy or nature spirits that acted as guides to lost travelers; on the other hand, some saw the Will-’o-the-Wisps as ill spirited fairies, dark elves or spirits connected to the devil.

It’s also interesting to note that the cranberry has a special place in the hearts of the Finnish and students and admirers of ancient Lapland mythology. The Kalevala, epic legend of Finland, and reputed inspiration for J.R.R. Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings, is a compiled collection of Finnish oral stories that have been sung by Lapland bards for centuries. In the final passage, or Rune, of The Kalevala, we hear of the tale of a virgin Goddess’ encounter with the cranberry. Described as a beautiful maiden, Marjatta is a Goddess who is chaste, yet connected with her Northland home. While roaming the forests, she hears the singing of the cranberry, which begs her to eat him. Because of her maidenhood, she couldn’t pluck the berry, but instead used a charm to have the berry rise from the vine and into her mouth. After she ate the berry, she was impregnated. (*See endnote) . When her family found out of her pregnancy, they did not believe her story of the cranberry and was shunned. Similar to the story of Christ’s birth, Marjatta gave birth to her sun in a stable in a forest. The heroic god of The Kalevala, Väinämöinen, is summoned to decide the destiny of the baby. When it is told that the child’s father is a cranberry, Väinämöinen sentences the baby to banishment in the forest and seals his death. However, when the baby pleads for his life by pointing out Väinämöinen’s unfair judgement, he is saved. Väinämöinen also recognizes that the son of the cranberry would grow to be his successor: a royal king and mighty ruler.

Some of the American history and lore of cranberries is fascinating as well. Native Americans were very familiar with the cranberry, and used it graciously as food, medicine, and dye. They used the berry to flavor meats, in a poultice to heal wounds and lower inflammation, and as a dye to make deep burgundy rugs. When Dutch and German settlers came to America, they named the berry “Crane Berry.” This name was inspired by the berry’s pink spring blossoms, which were said to resemble the head and bill of a Sandhill Crane.

The Cranberry’s Astounding Health Benefits
There are so many health benefits for cranberries that after seeing how they can help your general health, you may consider keeping cranberry juice, tea or supplements in stock in your kitchen. Cranberries are very effective in the healing and relief of urinary tract infections. Cranberries are chock-full of antioxidants, which could mean that cranberries could have anti-aging qualities. The juice is said to prevent peptic ulcers, while eating the berry is said to cut back dental plaque. Recent research has suggested that cranberry can reduce the development of kidney stones and the risk of cancer and heart disease. Cranberries contain no cholesterol, trace amounts of fat and minimal sodium. They have a hearty amount of Vitamin C and fiber, and historically were taken to sea by mariners who wished to fight scurvy.

Cranberry Recipes
There are countless recipes for cranberries available. If you have not indulged in the tart, yet sweet taste of cranberries, autumn and winter are the seasons to incorporate them into your meals, as they will usually be in stock between September and December. Two websites I highly recommend for recipes are the recipes available at Cape Cod Cranberry Grower’s Association ( http://www.cranberries.org/cranberries/recipes.html) and my favorite kitchen magazine: Cook’s Illustrated ( http://www.cooksillustrated.com/) .

Cranberries can be frozen, so they can last in the freezer for a long period of time. And, they are a “Prepper” and “Homesteader” friendly food, as they can be purchased canned, or be made into a preserve. Keep in mind as well: cranberries were used as a form of barter amongst Native American tribes!

Cranberry’s Magickal Components
Oftentimes, the cranberry’s beautiful red color has associated it with the planet Mars, and as a result, its magickal correspondences are similar to that of Mars. Because of this, cranberry can be used for protection, positive energy, courage, passion, determination, goals, and action. Consider having Cranberry Sauce as part of a protective meal, or drinking cranberry juice or tea while doing magick for anything associated with Mars.

If color were considered as a way of marking the cranberry’s magickal associations, it would be foolish to not highlight the deep, sensual and erotic red color as corresponding to love and lust magick. If you are cooking a meal for a loved one, consider incorporating cranberry into the meal. There is actually cranberry wine available, which fermentors of homemade wines and meads would find easy to brew (see “How to Make Cranberry Wine” for details: http://www.ehow.com/how_2123157_make-cranberry-wine.html) . In Magick Potions: How to Prepare and Use Homemade Incense, Oils, Aphrodisiacs and Much More, Gerina Dunwich supplies a recipe for “Lovers’ Meditation Blend.” In the context of her book, she suggests using this while working with the Lovers Tarot Card. You may also want to sip this tea while performing love magick. Simply add two teaspoons cherry juice to 1-cup hot cranberry tea. Stir it with a cinnamon stick clockwise. There is something incredibly comforting and warming about Cranberry, so to show your love and appreciation for your family and friends, consider adding Cranberry sauce or chutney to a dinner. It will bring a feeling of peace, comfort, warmth, good health and love to those who enjoy it.

Tale of Marjatta reminds us of the nutritional value of the cranberry- so fertile and powerful is the cranberry, that it is the vehicle for immaculate conception. Since it is tied to immaculate conception, and the birth of a child who will replace the old King, it can be linked to rejuvenation, reincarnation, and the themes of Yule and Christmas. Cranberry also has clear links to fertility magick in this context. Spell work aside, the nutritional benefits of the cranberry are worthy enough to be incorporated into a routine diet, as it will aid in overall health and well being.

Finally, it is important to not forget the magick of the bog, the motherland of cranberry. Here, we see cranberry’s tie to the supernatural, mystical, and ancient. In a place where humans and precious objects were sacrificed, there was much value put on the mystical powers of the bog. It is a place where the protection of people and armies, the fertility of land and nature, and the well being of those who visit it, could be determined and sought after through ritual and sacrifice. Perhaps you will include a bowl of cranberries next to your pomegranate on your Samhain altar to show thanks to the supernatural powers of the bog. Or simply, while cooking cranberries during the colder season or enjoying its fragrance in oil or a candle, you can reflect on the mystical, protective, and fertile powers of the deep red berry.

*Please note: Many translators cannot agree on which berry Marjatta actually enjoys in The Kalevala. Translations include cranberry, bilberry, lingonberry, blackberry and strawberry. The original Finnish word used was “punapuola, ” which is indeed a variety of cranberry, though smaller and sweeter than the one grown in Northern America.

Footnotes:
Bonser, Wilfrid. “The Magic Birth ‘Motif’ in The Kalevala.” Man 18 (1918) : 20-22. http://www.jstor.org/stable/2787792.
Chamberlain, A.F. “Notes on the History, Customs, and Beliefs of the Mississagua Indians.” The Journal of American Folklore 1.2 (1888) : 150-160. http://www.jstor.org/stable/533821.
“Cranberry Benefits and Information.” NutraSanus. http://www.nutrasansu.com/cranberry.html.
Cunningham, Scott. Cunningham’s Encyclopedia of Wicca in the Kitchen. Llewellyn Publications: St. Paul, Minnesota, 2003.
Dunwich, Gerina. Magick Potions: How To Prepare and Use Homemade Incense, Oil, Aphrodisiacs and More. Citadel Press Books: New York, 1998.
Glob, P.V. Trans. Rupert Bruce-Mitford. The Bog People: Iron-Age Man Preserved. New York Review Books: New York, 1969.
“History of Cranberries.” Cape Cod Cranberry Association. http://www.cranberries.org.
Holland, Eileen. The Spellcaster’s Reference: Magickal Timing for the Wheel of the Year. Weiser Books: San Francisco, 2009.
Kelly, Eaomonn P. “Secrets of the Bog Bodies: The Enigma of the Iron Age Explained.” Archaeology Ireland 20.1: 26-30 (2006) . http://www.jstor.org/stable/20559121.
Meredith, Dianne. “Hazards in the Bog- Real and Imagined.” Geographical Review 92.3: 319-332 (2002) . http://www.jstor.org/stable/4140913.
The Kalevala. Compiled by Elias Lönnrot. Trans. John John Marin Crawford. Project Guttenberg. 31 May 2002. http://www.gutenberg.org/.
“Where do Cranberries Grow?” Ocean Spray Food Service. http://www.oceansprayfoodservice.com.

Your Daily Horoscopes for Wednesday, Aug. 31

Today’s socially astute Libra Moon insists that we take relationships seriously. Her conjunction with taskmaster Saturn can slow us down or even stop us in our tracks until we handle unfinished emotional business. Nevertheless, the Moon’s square to feisty Mars might fire up our feelings, prompting us to lose our tempers. Exercising self-control, combined with a willingness to enter into a meaningful discussion, may be enough to keep us on track.

Aries Horoscope (Mar 21 – Apr 19)

You are more aware of other people’s needs today as the Moon visits your 7th House of Relationships. It’s easier to put your desires aside, even if only for a while, to make sure that everyone else is at ease. Although you want to do what’s best, your patience is tested later in the day when the Moon squares your key planet Mars, provoking you to be more assertive. You’ll be happier if you can find healthy ways to express your energy instead of letting frustration get the best of you.

Taurus Horoscope (Apr 20 – May 20)

You might feel as if you have too many chores to do today and are anxious that you cannot possibly finish all of them. Although you want to meet your obligations, worrying won’t help. You might even be so overwhelmed now that you consider just throwing in the towel. However, quitting isn’t the answer; instead, establish an even pace and simply do the best you can.

Gemini Horoscope (May 21 – Jun 20)

The Moon’s current visit to your 5th House of Fun and Frivolity allows you to temporarily avoid serious issues. However, austere Saturn won’t let you lighten up too much unless you work extra hard first. Take care of your responsibilities early in the day so you can have a bit of down time later. Don’t begrudge the lessons you’re learning now; they will put you in good stead for what comes next.

Cancer Horoscope (June 21 – Jul 22)

You wish you could be objective, but your strong judgments can entangle you in an uncomfortable situation today. You should be able to regain your equilibrium by remembering to balance your subjectivity with cool logic, but your interactions may still be a bit unfulfilling now. Thankfully, you’ll probably feel more in your own element by tomorrow.

Leo Horoscope (Jul 23 – Aug 22)

You might feel as if the good times are slipping away, along with the heat of the late summer Sun. You’re tempted to do something for the sheer sake of your own personal enjoyment today, but current obligations require your attention first. It’s not easy to be flexible once you’ve made up your mind, but changing your schedule allows you to accommodate both work and play.

Virgo Horoscope (Aug 23 – Sep 22)

The idea of skipping out on work might be appealing today, but it’s not going to happen with the Moon conjunct hard-nosed Saturn. Even if you have conjured up a bullet-proof scheme, you may need to re-evaluate your priorities and save the fun and games for another day. Instead, concentrate your energy on doing something that will either bring in additional money or cut back on some expenses. Managing your resources well is more important now than having a good time.

Libra Horoscope (Sep 23 – Oct 22)

You can turn a challenging situation into your advantage today and, luckily, this helps someone close to you have an easier time, too. You perform gracefully under pressure now that the Moon is back in your diplomatic sign and gaining strength from her conjunction to stabilizing Saturn. Others look to you for answers, but you don’t have any to give them. However, you do have the ability to help people find common ground and this may be better than any quick fix you might offer.

Scorpio Horoscope (Oct 23 – Nov 21)

The Moon in your 12th House of Soul Awareness can enrich your spiritual journey now, and her proximity to realistic Saturn makes sure that you get the lesson you need to learn. You may uncover a whole new dimension of beauty while managing the most mundane issues of your life. Don’t give in to fear; it has no useful place in your current world. Instead of worrying about abandonment, focus on the love that you can spread because it will resonate and come back to you many times over.

Sagittarius Horoscope (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

Your responsibilities may seem overwhelming today, but your attitude will improve if you simply step back from your work for a bit and reconsider your long-term goals. This isn’t about creating a new strategy or setting a new course of action; there will be time for that later. It’s sufficient to acknowledge several different scenarios without picking one. Think of your options, but wait to narrow your path until you are very clear about where you’re going.

Capricorn Horoscope (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

The fair-minded Libra Moon is moving through your 10th House of Status, reminding you to be objective as you handle issues that concern others. Even if you have a specific point of view, don’t let it interfere with your decisions today. Setting aside your personal feelings is the right thing to do now, but only if you do it out of deep conviction and not just because you think that you should.

Aquarius Horoscope (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

The airy Libra Moon in your 9th House of Big Ideas raises your hopes about what’s next in your life. Maybe you’re thinking about taking a trip or beginning a new course of study. Whatever you are planning now, keep an open mind and expand your horizons. Don’t close down prematurely; your optimal future is not about maintaining the status quo. Stretch your wings and see where your vision takes you.

Pisces Horoscope (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

Although close relationships may be on your mind now, you’re not satisfied with simply meeting your commitments. You want to increase the intensity and depth in your intimate interactions, and won’t be satisfied until it happens. Thankfully, the Moon’s current visit to your 8th House of Deep Sharing helps to create the environment necessary for the kind of emotional connection you want.

Herb of the day for August 30 is Jujube Berries

Jujube Berries

Botanical: Zizyphus vulgaris (LAMK.)
Family: N.O. Rhamnaceae

—Synonyms—Zizyphus sativa. Brustbeeren. Judendornbeeren. Rhamnus Zizyphus.
—Part Used—Fruit.
—Habitat—Southern Europe.

—Habitat—Originally a native of Syria, Zizyphus vulgariswas introduced into Italy in the reign of Augustus, and is now naturalized in Provence, and particularly in the islands of HyŠres, where the berries are largely collected when ripe, and dried in the sun.

The trees average 25 feet in height and are covered with a rough, brown bark. They have many branches, with annual thorny branchlets bearing alternate, oval-oblong leaves of a clear green colour, with three to five strongly-marked, longitudinous veins. The small flowers are pale yellow and solitary. The fruit is a blood-red drupe, the size and shape of an olive, sweet, and mucilaginous in taste, slightly astringent. The pulp becomes softer and sweeter in drying, and the taste more like wine. They have pointed, oblong stones.

—Constituents—A full analysis has not yet been made, but the berries are valued for their mucilage and sugar.

—Medicinal Action and Uses—The Jujube is classed with the raisin, date, and fig as a pectoral fruit, being nutritive and demulcent. It is eaten both fresh and dried.

A syrup and a tisanewere formerly made from it, but the berries are now little used in medicine.

Jujube paste, or ‘Pâte de Jujubes,’ is made of gum-arabic and sugar. It may be dissolved in a decoction of jujubes and evaporated, but is considered as good a demulcentwithout their addition. It is frequently merely mixed with orange-flower water.

A decoction of the rootshas been used in fevers.

An astringent decoction of leaves and branchlets is made in large quantities in Algeria, and seems likely to replace the cachou.

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—Other Species—
Z. Lotos, sometimes also called Z. sativa, of Northern Africa and Z. Jujuba of the East Indies possess similar properties, and are used in their respective countries. Z. Lotos is thought to have been one of the sources of the famous sweet fruits from which the ancient Lotophagi took their name, the liqueur prepared from which caused those who partook of it to forget even their native countries in its enjoyment. The Arabs call it Seedra. In Arabia a kind of bread is made of them by exposing them to the sun for a few days and then pounding them in a wooden mortar to separate the stones. The meal is mixed with water and formed into cakes which after drying in the sun resemble sweet gingerbread.

Z. Bacleiis said to be used in the same way in Africa, and also for making a beverage.

Z. Jujubais largely cultivated by the Chinese, in many varieties as a dessert fruit, some being called Chinese Dates, and it is also one of the main sources of stick-lac.

Z. Cenopliaof India has edible fruits, and the bark is esteemed as a vulnerary.

In Cochin-China the berries of Z. agrestisare eaten.

In Senegal the fruits of Z. Bareleiare slightly styptic, and the negroes use the roots for gonorrhoea. It is probably the same species that is used there in venereal diseases.

A decoction of the dried leaves of Z. Napecais said to be used for washing ulcers in Arabia.

Z. spina Christi, or Rhamnus spina Christi, of Ethiopia, is said to be the source of the crown of thorns placed on the Saviour’s head. The Arabs call it Nabka.

General Daily Horoscopes for Monday, August 29, 2011

A day of harmonious lunar aspects can soften the lingering intensity from yesterday’s Sun-Pluto trine, enabling us to let go of any deep feelings that recently came to the surface. Taking practical action is advised as we move toward tomorrow’s lovely trine between pleasurable Venus and auspicious Jupiter in stable Taurus. Meanwhile, the cautious Virgo Moon forms an easy trine with Jupiter, indicating a positive outcome to current actions.

Aries Horoscope (Mar 21 – Apr 19)

You’re not interested in seeing both sides of an argument today, especially if you believe that your perspective is the correct one. However, you will enjoy yourself more and won’t sacrifice anything in the process if you remain open to someone else’s opinion, too. There’s no need to be so firm in your convictions that you arouse unnecessary conflict. Just remember that even if you listen to what others have to say, you can still remain true to your beliefs.

Taurus Horoscope (Apr 20 – May 20)

This could be a highly creative day for you, but you have to take advantage of the opportunities now presented to you. Although you may have serious obligations to fulfill, don’t let them prevent you from having fun. Make use of your determination; once you set your mind on something today, there’s a very good chance you’ll actually be able to reach your goal. Accomplishments may not come easily, but fortunately, your concentration should pay off.

Gemini Horoscope (May 21 – Jun 20)

You can be the champion of procrastination when an unpleasant task needs to be completed. Be careful now, for you may be able to get away with postponing a difficult conversation for another day or two. Just remember that the inevitable cannot be delayed forever. You’re better off jumping into the emotional abyss sooner than later. Take advantage of the current support you are receiving, for it could begin to fade tomorrow.

Cancer Horoscope (June 21 – Jul 22)

You may encounter circumstances beyond your control that give you good reason to fret today. Thankfully, you should be able to manage the emotional tension and channel it to increase your productivity. A powerful person may be surprised by your ability to maintain your composure under fire and your willingness to do whatever is necessary to succeed. Don’t bother attempting to impress anyone; just make sure you do what you need to do to thrive in the current storm.

Leo Horoscope (Jul 23 – Aug 22)

The unflappable strength of your convictions is your secret weapon today. Others may think that you’re overly eager to please, but actually you’re driven now by an overwhelming sense of practicality and you won’t let anyone pull you off course. Saving dramatic expressions of your feelings for another day heightens your efficiency. If negative emotions arise, it’s okay to temporarily hide your annoyance or anger until they pass.

Virgo Horoscope (Aug 23 – Sep 22)

You are in your own earthy element today and eager to start a project or just have some fun. But even if you have an overall sense of well-being, you are still sensitive enough to feel a tempest brewing. Although you want to be safe and sound if a storm hits, there’s no reason to cancel your social activities or postpone any scheduled plans. Enjoy yourself for the next few days while you still can.

Libra Horoscope (Sep 23 – Oct 22)

It’s a bit unsettling for you to feel so peaceful while others think you’re being ambivalent. However, you know when it’s wise to keep your emotions to yourself. Trust your hunches now; you’re probably more in touch with your intuition while the Moon is in your sign than you realize. But don’t worry if you say more than you intended because everything’s going to come out into the open soon enough. In the meantime, relax and enjoy the calm while it lasts.

Scorpio Horoscope (Oct 23 – Nov 21)

Your perceptions are quite keen today and it’s unlikely that anyone will be able to fool you. Still, you could have a difficult time focusing your attention on the present moment now because three planets in your 11th House of Long-Term Goals indicate that you are concentrating on the future. However, there aren’t any shortcuts and it will take time for you to reach your destination. Thankfully, your unrelenting determination may be just what you need to get you there.

Sagittarius Horoscope (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

You are all about getting ahead at work today and can make a lot of progress if you put your mind to it. Fortunately, this is a great time to organize your life, and it’s wise to start by reprioritizing your goals. Even if you already know where you want to go, stopping to redefine your objectives is the most useful thing you can do right now. Once you make a decision about your new direction, sit with it for a few days before doing anything about it to make sure that your optimism doesn’t get the best of you.

Capricorn Horoscope (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

You are feeling good enough today that you are tempted to take on too much, but five planets in practical Earth signs make it more likely that you’ll be guided by your common sense. Ultimately, you’re able to strike a comfortable balance between your need to get things done in a timely manner and your desire to kick back and relax. Luckily, the planets are supporting you now, making it easy to succeed, no matter what you decide to do.

Aquarius Horoscope (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

You seem to possess a magic bullet today that enables you to dissipate the stress as quickly as it continues to build. However, even though you can stay mellow, your problems won’t vanish just because you want them to go away. You’ll have to face the music sooner or later and, since you currently have excellent support from the cosmos, it might just as well be now.

Pisces Horoscope (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

Although your relationship troubles aren’t over, your positive attitude can go a long way today toward soothing a recent upset. Still, your pleasant disposition won’t diminish your emotional intensity. Others might see right through your calm veneer and understand how passionate you are about doing the right thing. Nevertheless, you must decide which path you’re going to follow, and that can stir up significant conflict along the way.

Money Drawing Powder (2)

This one also is said to Draw money to you..You Will Need:

1 oz powdered sandalwood
1/4 tsp powdered cinnamon
1 tbsp powdered five-finger grass
1 tsp yellow dock
1/2 dram frankincense oil
1/4 dram patchouli oil
1/4 dram myrrh oil
4 oz cornstarch or rice flour

[If you dont have a tool for this, Mix in a bowl, jar, Etc]

Your Daily Horoscopes for Thursday, August 25

Frustrations abound when assertive Mars runs into a dynamic square with restrictive Saturn. Although we are excited about pushing ahead, reaching our goals may be a lot tougher than we expect as we run into one obstacle after another. Thankfully, persistence pays off when a powerful Venus-Pluto trine facilitates deeper emotional connections. No longer are we confined by someone else’s judgments; we are emotionally engaged and playing for keeps.

Aries Horoscope (Mar 21 – Apr 19)

You intuitively believe that it’s a good idea to follow your feelings today, even if you don’t know where they are taking you. You may be uncomfortable with the idea of giving up some of your freedom, yet this seems to be a small price to pay for establishing a magical connection with a powerful person. Remember that narrowing your options to get something in return can actually feel good in the long run.

Taurus Horoscope (Apr 20 – May 20)

Being emotionally fulfilled isn’t only about feeling good today; it’s also about being aligned with a higher purpose. Luckily, it’s easier to accomplish your goals now that your head and your heart are in tune with each other. You know what to do to attract wealth and to express love, so don’t let self-doubt limit your options. Dream as big as you can and be ready to grab the brass ring when you get the chance.

Gemini Horoscope (May 21 – Jun 20)

It’s difficult for you to slow down enough to sink into your emotions, especially if you’re afraid of what you might discover. Once you let the distractions fade away, you could be pulled into the dark recesses of your imagination where a clever turn of phrase isn’t sufficient to bring you back into the light. If, however, you have the courage to be patient, negativity will dissipate and you will return with treasures from your journey within.

Cancer Horoscope (June 21 – Jul 22)

You are relieved that you get to handle the intensity of someone else’s fears today because you have already wrestled with your own inner demons. It’s not that you have all the answers; it’s just that you are now willing to witness the process for others without feeling threatened yourself. Don’t underestimate the commitment that is required; this is intense emotional work and your compassion will be greatly appreciated.

Leo Horoscope (Jul 23 – Aug 22)

It’s not easy to find an uplifting story in the midst of the gloom today, but your persistent search can uncover important realizations that change your day for the better. You are learning about maintaining your own emotional health now, yet your lesson may be an unexpected one. You haven’t chosen an easy journey, but investigating beneath the surface can change your perspective and give you a whole new point of view.

Virgo Horoscope (Aug 23 – Sep 22)

Your emotions are a source of power now and even the most challenging obstacle in your path won’t slow you down very much today. Of course, you want to concentrate your efforts on whatever issues arise, but at least you’ll do so with a positive and practical attitude. Luckily, this isn’t about being in denial; in fact, it’s your critical thinking that enables you to see through the camouflage and effectively cut to the chase.

Libra Horoscope (Sep 23 – Oct 22)

As hard as you try to avoid it, you are still pulled into a complex emotional drama today that raises an old familiar issue. Fortunately, there’s nothing threatening in the present circumstances, yet they still remind you of a previous power struggle when you weren’t as much in control of your feelings. Don’t look back, or your fears can prompt you to limit your current options. Instead, consider the possibilities; anything you put your mind to now has the potential of becoming real.

Scorpio Horoscope (Oct 23 – Nov 21)

Your power comes from your magical ability to undergo a surprising metamorphosis today. You are like the legendary phoenix that arises from the ashes as Pluto harmonizes with magnetic Venus. Others might be afraid of such dynamic change, but you instinctively know that it’s futile to resist these evolutionary waves. Being flexible enough to go with the emotional flow now is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Sagittarius Horoscope (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

Although you can disagree about the truth of a story, it’s pointless today to do battle over a simple difference of opinion. However, explaining your beliefs enables you to separate them from the hard facts. Making this distinction is quite helpful now, and lessens your chance of getting into an argument over a topic where there can never be a clear winner.

Capricorn Horoscope (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

You won’t likely be sweet-talked into capitulation today, yet you could perform some gentle persuasion yourself. You might try sheer stubbornness as a strategy now, but it’s only because you feel like you have too much to lose. Don’t waste energy trying to protect yourself; instead go out and do something creative in order to mix up the energy. Others will appreciate you making the first move.

Aquarius Horoscope (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

Anything you choose to keep to yourself now will carry even more weight than what you reveal. But this is not a permission slip to tell everything to everybody; there are many things that are best left unsaid. Just think through your motives for sharing and then select the best time to talk. If you have a purpose for expressing what’s in your heart, then your current communication will ideally bring an important feeling out into the open.

Pisces Horoscope (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

The sharpness of your practical analysis prompts you to make an important decision about your feelings today. But ironically, you might feel like you’re temporarily lost in the desert in search of an oasis. Although you exhibit strength of purpose in your current choices, a lack of commitment could be problematic. Deciding with your head is not as long-lasting as following your heart.

New Moon Report for Aug. 23 – Sun in Virgo

Sun in Virgo

Tuesday, August 23, 4:21 am PDT, 7:21 am EDT

Virgo is a sign of efficiency that’s more interested in getting the job done right than looking good or playing to the crowd. We can grow more conscious of ways to take care of our bodies and our obligations with less wasted time and effort. This sign’s penchant for perfectionism can lead to unreasonable expectations. Yet the purpose of setting high standards is to inspire us to work toward them and respect the progress we’re making even if there’s still a long way to go.

Lady A’s Spell of the Day for Aug. 21: Enlighten Yourself Spell

Enlighten Yourself Spell

The following ingredients are needed:

Symbols for the Elements

3 Sage Leaves

Put your mind and body back into balance

Enlighten Yourself Spell

From the Native Americans, this spiritual journey will help to put your mind and body back into balance.

Ideally this ritual should be preformed in open air at noon, with the four elements-earth,air,fire and water naturally present. If this is not possible,use substitute flowers or symbols;or a little soil from the earth;and incense stick for air;a yellow candle for fire;some spring water.

Place these in a circle and sit in the middle. Purify your face and hands by wiping them with sage,then clasp your hands,close your eyes,and let your thoughts drift away.

Open your ears and listen to the elements and nature around you. With your mind’s eye,become part of the water,and feel the warm earth in your hand and the soft breeze of the wind on your face. Feel the harmony and enjoy being at one with the world around you.

Use this ritual at any time to restore balance and harmony to your life.

What Do You Do When The You-Know-What Hits The Fan?

What Do You Do When The You-Know-What Hits The Fan?

Author: Dove

Well…I wish I knew the answer to that one. I’m an expert in needing to know the answer because lately, I really have been asking the question.

About a year ago I found out that my best friend had developed breast cancer. Not the kind where we take a little tumor out and you go home and all is well. No the kind where we give you chemo from hell and then cut you breast off and then burn up your skin with radiation leaving you with an opening in your chest which has not healed yet! This was the major train wreck of cancer with spots on the skull and spine now! The “let’s do some more testing and see” kind of cancer. The BIG one. The kind that only the very best in medical treatment and the hand of the Goddess can save you from.

At the time that we found out about the cancer I was working at a good job bringing in a nice paycheck. I was a trained professional working in a field that after many years of study I was finely comfortable in. I felt that I was an important part of the corporate structure and was really doing really good work for my employer. I had the world by the tail. I was the “go to person” in my department and knew all the answers. Man, was I dumb.

I wanted to do all I could for my best friend and spend as much time with her as I could but I couldn’t see how I could be of much help with my busy work schedule. I was the big important working woman with clients who needed me.

I asked the Goddess to help me with this problem. Well…the Goddess answered me in a way that rattled me to my core. My boss named one of our own to the job of “Office Manager” a title of far reaching power, earning much respect. One of the first things my new office god did was fire me.

Well…I was devastated!!!! I have been in the work force for over thirty years and have never missed a paycheck! I lived to be over fifty years old and now I’m fired!!! I cried and I have to admit that I thought about doing bad magic on my dear old work mate. Really bad!!! I didn’t. I know that some of you think I’m a wimp and I probably am but I just couldn’t waste any more energy on that job or the people I was working with. Then what was the Goddess thinking? I am the major “bread winner” for this family. How were we going to live on just my husband’s payday?

Then, my husband who was working at a job that we knew was shaky at best got fired the very next week! He has a medical condition which makes a lot of jobs something he just can’t do. We were lucky when he found the job he had and that he was able to stay there for over seven years. He was able to keep his medical insurance so that the two recent medical disasters he has been through didn’t send us into bankruptcy. That was a total blessing but man we were in a fix!

Thanks to the economy being down the tubes we went on unemployment and that with my cashed out 401K has gotten us through so far. Don’t get me wrong I am looking for a job and would love to go to work today! I started looking for employment the very day I was fired but haven’t had any luck. I know that you hear that the unemployed are just setting at home eating bon-bons but I want to work and am doing everything I can to get a job. I’m even starting back to college this fall in order to upgrade my skills for a better chance of employment.

Well… back to my best friend. Because of my sudden lack of employment guess who was able to go with her for her chemo treatments….stay with her during surgery…..go over to her house to pack her open chest wound twice a day. Me! Talk about the Goddess taking care of a situation! I guess you could even look to “the book” and reference the tale of the corner stone being the one the others threw away. I was so happy to be there for her!!! I know that I am not a trained health care professional but I was there and am still there when she needs me. I hope that the fact that she could and did call me at anytime and I’d be right there helped her get through this horror.

Well…. like I said I could really use the answer to the question. I am still not employed and still looking for a job but I have gotten over the “corporate ego” thing and hopefully will never have that sickness again. The time I spent with my buddy packing a gaping chest hole has caused me to think that I could do that for others, so, I have applied for nursing school at the local community college. I know that I am older that dirt but I still have some good years left in me and I’m not the kind of gal to call it quits just because I reach retirement age.

My best friend is getting better and our hope is that we have her with us for a very long time. She still has an open chest wound that the doctor just put a wound-vac on. That and daily visits to a hyperbolic chamber will hopefully clear up that part of her problem. The doctors will still be looking after her for a long time and I will too. The Goddess was no doubt listening in on my thoughts when this whole thing started and fixed it so that I could help my friend and like I said, teach me a lesson that I needed too.

And about the sh*t…Well…The best thing I can think of to do is dig a hole and plant roses. When the roses bloom I will give some to my husband who I love and cherish even through he is not in the best of health and not working, my best friend to brighten up her day and I will keep some for me. After all of this I deserve them.

P.S. I’ll dig more holes so that I’ll be ready for the next time the you- know-what hits the fan.

Hugs,
Dove

Charging Tools

Charging Tools

What you will need:
The item in which you wish to charge, whether it be some jewelry, your pentacle or some crystals.
Salt for the Earth element
A candle for the Fire element
Water or rose oil for the Water element
Incense for the element of AirHow to do the ritual:
This is a really simple charging ritual.
You may wish to elaborate on it once you have created your own ritual style!

Start by taking your item that you want to charge and place it in front of you. Shake or sprinkle a little salt over your item and say the following:

“Earth spirits from the North/South I ask you to charge this …..with the power of Earth. By the Goddess and/or God so mote it be.”

Imagine a green light filling the item and empowering the item with the qualities of Earth.

Dip or trickle some water over your item and say this:

“Water spirits from the East/West I ask you to charge this ….. with the power of Water. By the Goddess and/or God so mote it be.”

Imagine a blue ocean like colored light filling the item and empowering the item with the qualities and power of Water.

Pass the item through the smoke of the incense and say:

“Air spirits from the West/East I ask you to charge this ….. with the power of Air. By the Goddess and/or God so mote it be.”

Imagine a pale light filling the item and surrounding it. Empowering it with the powers of Air.

Move the item through the heat above the candle flame and say the following:

“Fire spirits from the South/North I ask you to charge this ….. with the power of Fire. By the Goddess and/or God so mote it be.”

Imagine a red or orange light filling the item and empowering it with the power and energy of Fire.

Once you have done this imagine a bright white/blue light surrounding the item charging it with your own energy.
After this the item will be charged with the elemental powers and your own.You can now use the item for whatever purpose you needed it.You can perform this ritual as often as possible.

The Old WOTC

Your Daily Horoscopes for Saturday, Aug. 13th

A quirky Aquarius Full Moon at 2:57 pm EDT sparks our awareness with ingenious solutions to an existing dilemma. The Moon opposes the heart-centered Leo Sun, reminding us that a bit of emotional distance can prevent over-personalizing a situation. But quick resolution may be elusive because the Sun, Moon and Venus all form anxious aspects with passionate Pluto. Although we can fix our problems in theory, our plans still may run into resistance.

Aries Horoscope (Mar 21 – Apr 19)

You want to tell others your opinion today, even if you think that it will stir up resistance. You may not be concerned about what anyone else thinks now because you’re pretty certain that your perspective is the right one. Although your plan could work just fine, your words might sound more belligerent than you actually feel. Gain the support you seek by toning down your message and acknowledging the validity of an alternate approach.

Taurus Horoscope (Apr 20 – May 20)

Your unwavering commitment to accomplish a task can prompt you to do things your own way at any cost, turning a positive attribute into a negative one. Your determination is admirable, but you can be so stubborn today that those closest to you wonder why you are sabotaging your own possible success. Unfortunately, your plan might be in jeopardy without the cooperation of your friends. Your blind optimism could prevent you from seeing things objectively, so be open to the advice others have to offer.

Gemini Horoscope (May 21 – Jun 20)

Maintaining an optimistic perspective about a current project is not easy now. You’re tempted to overinflate an idea which turns it into a less useful one. Today’s Aquarius Full Moon in your 9th House of Adventure inspires you to dream about the amazing possibilities ahead, rather than concentrating on the present moment. If you drift off into daydreams about the future, gently bring your thoughts back to the specific tasks at hand.

Cancer Horoscope (June 21 – Jul 22)

Today’s Full Moon overwhelms your 8th House of Shared Resources with brilliant ideas, raising issues around jointly held possessions or investments. Someone’s appeal to your egalitarian principles can provoke enough guilt so you lessen your demands. However, it’s healthier for you to be an equal partner now, rather than being subservient in any way. Don’t just say yes to make another person feel better, because your self-esteem may suffer if you do.

Leo Horoscope (Jul 23 – Aug 22)

Today’s Full Moon illuminates your 7th House of Others, possibly reactivating an unresolved relationship issue. If you are experiencing difficulties in love, this lunation’s cool logic can offer a powerful opportunity to heal. Reframing a past relationship in a new light changes your perspective and frees you to be more fully alive in every moment.

Virgo Horoscope (Aug 23 – Sep 22)

The conceptual Aquarius Full Moon falls in your 6th House of Details, tempting you to lean on your analytical skills to solve a current problem. However, you may be so logical that you cannot feel the emotional warmth coming your way now. Although you think you’re listening carefully, you might not be able to pick up other people’s messages unless they come in on your exact frequency. Opening your mind to new channels of communication today can teach you a very important lesson.

Libra Horoscope (Sep 23 – Oct 22)

Your creativity may be erratic today with the Full Moon brightening your 5th House of Self-Expression, yet you could put on a brilliant performance if you don’t try to control the process. A smart strategy is to have a variety of things to keep you busy while you’re waiting for the muse to visit. Meanwhile, stay open to riding a creative wave if it comes along, but don’t be hard on yourself if nothing extraordinary happens.

Scorpio Horoscope (Oct 23 – Nov 21)

Today’s Full Moon stretches you between your personal and professional goals. Although you may feel as if something could suddenly give way, your determination to restore balance to your life should override any emotional upset, even if the stress seems overwhelming at first. But denying your feelings isn’t wise either, for they can lead you to an important lesson. In the meantime, focus on the present and reestablish your priorities.

Sagittarius Horoscope (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

This is a rather intense Full Moon because it opposes the dramatic Leo Sun in your 9th House of Philosophy, reactivating a familiar theme in your life. You are aware that your wanderlust makes it difficult to follow through on existing commitments. Although you might be frustrated by your current limitations, you can improve your life by simply acknowledging your adventurous desires while simultaneously managing the circumstances of your immediate environment. Be creative in everything you do.

Capricorn Horoscope (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

Your current financial condition could be rather unstable, for today’s unconventional Aquarius Full Moon stresses your 2nd House of Money. Maybe you discover that your cash on hand is less than you thought or, perhaps, your bills are greater than previously calculated. Either way, don’t try to avoid an issue that arises now, because handling it intelligently is much better than putting it off, even if you don’t have a final solution.

Aquarius Horoscope (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

Today’s Full Moon in your sign indicates that sweeping changes are necessary to get your life back on track. However, you won’t need to put too much effort into solidifying your plans because unexpected events will likely require you to adapt to other people’s schedules anyway. It takes courage to be flexible now instead of rigidly sticking to an old agenda that no longer works. Although this might be an exercise in cooperation, don’t lose yourself in the process.

Pisces Horoscope (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

You yearn for more meaning to your life because events at work continue to require an increasing amount of your attention. Your friends and colleagues may not even notice that you’re struggling as you reassess your goals, and it’s probably better to leave them out of your current dilemma. But this isn’t about escaping from your routine; it’s about developing a more spiritual approach to everything you do.

Your Daily Horoscopes for Thursday, August 11th

The serious Capricorn Moon fills our minds with thoughts of success, yet today’s early morning Mars-Pluto opposition may still have us locked in a power struggle where no one will win. A conflict can escalate due to a misunderstanding because retrograde Mercury forms an argumentative semisquare with authoritative Saturn. Thankfully, original thinking can precipitate a sudden resolution, prompted by an intelligent Mercury-Uranus alignment.

Aries Horoscope (Mar 21 – Apr 19)

You may have to take a stand against a rather formidable person, but today it’s you who is the tougher cookie. Unfortunately, you might not be aware that you could hurt someone’s feelings because you are so determined to reach your goals. Nevertheless, you would be more effective if you didn’t push so hard. Soften your approach and consider how others may react before doing something you’ll regret.

Taurus Horoscope (Apr 20 – May 20)

Naturally, you want to follow through on your commitments, even if your schedule suddenly changes because of unforeseen circumstances. Unfortunately, other people don’t seem to have the same level of integrity and you may become angry with someone who falls short of their promises. Instead of adding to the drama today, be as compassionate as possible, shift your focus to finishing your own work and don’t be too judgmental of anyone else.

Gemini Horoscope (May 21 – Jun 20)

Your thoughts and emotions don’t mix well today. You may try to manage your desires in order to fit in socially, but you could grow resentful if you don’t say what you feel. Unfortunately, knowing what’s best doesn’t always mean that you will do the right thing. Instead of acting too quickly, think about the consequences of your actions before blindly following your impulses. You might feel differently tomorrow.

Cancer Horoscope (June 21 – Jul 22)

You may be upset today if someone promises one thing yet does another. However, you might withhold your feelings because you don’t fully understand what’s going on. It’s extra challenging if you cannot trust your senses, especially if others are sending mixed messages. Accept your dilemma as a temporary situation that will soon fade, for attempts to end a conflict now will only increase your frustration.

Leo Horoscope (Jul 23 – Aug 22)

You quickly tire of a melodrama that reignites today, but this time it’s different because the crisis has passed its peak and you feel strong enough to handle it. Nevertheless, you still must show up and combat the threat with a concerted effort or it could reappear again sometime soon. Respond to the current situation with compassion rather than animosity to help everything return to normal as quickly as possible.

Virgo Horoscope (Aug 23 – Sep 22)

You may be amazed by how fast you respond to a difficult situation today. Normally, you would prefer to gather facts and then take some time to think about your options before swinging into action. But there isn’t enough time for such a rational approach now, so you must immediately process what is happening and use your intuition to reach a conclusion. Don’t hesitate to react without your safety net of logic because any delay lessens your current chances of success.

Libra Horoscope (Sep 23 – Oct 22)

Family dynamics weigh on your mind today, possibly preventing you from doing what you want. You may be tempted to walk away from the domestic drama, but you might be under pressure to increase your involvement. Unfortunately, losing your temper is easy now, but won’t help your cause. Instead, consider what can be done to settle the tension. Your innate ability to understand both sides of an issue enables you to be gracious in how you handle this tricky situation.

Scorpio Horoscope (Oct 23 – Nov 21)

You are determined to stay on track today as you push to reach your goals, even if you would rather withdraw for some precious time alone. But solitude might not be in your immediate future, even if it’s high on your personal agenda. Being flexible is more important than sticking to your plan, since it’s impossible to know where an interaction with a colleague might lead as emotions heat up. It’s not necessary to win an argument now; it’s wiser to set a course based on compromise.

Sagittarius Horoscope (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

It’s frustrating if you crave something but can’t afford to buy it. Maybe you want your partner or friend to rescue you now. But instead of getting angry when others don’t come to your aid, try a radically different approach to find satisfaction. Letting go is your best bet today, but this tactic requires some real soul-searching to detach your happiness from the current object of your desire.

Capricorn Horoscope (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

Mars’ opposition to passionate Pluto in your sign dredges up intense feelings about someone or something standing in your way. Even if you are determined to reach your goals today, you need to be careful about riding roughshod over others to get what you want. The intensity of your current ambitions may create more problems than solutions now, and scaling them back just a bit might be the most sensible thing you can do.

Aquarius Horoscope (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

You might be unusually ambivalent when asked about your plans today. Whether you’re considering a new path at work or in a relationship, it’s hard to make a commitment now. It isn’t that you don’t care; to the contrary, you care so much that you want to be absolutely certain about your choice. Even if you’re feeling pressure to decide, take a few more days before letting others know.

Pisces Horoscope (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

You don’t mind the idea of working today, but your ideal is far from the reality, prompting you to start planning your secret escape. But you could get into a disagreement with a friend or lover if he or she tries to coerce you into some activity that you would rather skip. Don’t play the role of a martyr by agreeing to drop your plans for someone else’s. Take responsibility for what you want and don’t give in. Prevent problems later on by being very clear right from the start.

Daily Horoscopes for Wednesday, August 10th

This may be an emotionally turbulent day, even with the Moon in stabilizing Capricorn. We would be unwise to underestimate the intensity of the Moon’s square to unruly Uranus, opposition to warrior Mars and conjunction with passionate Pluto. A somber Moon-Saturn square later in the day would normally be sufficient to put a lid on the turmoil, but Mars is moving toward an opposition with Pluto which increases aggression and forceful resistance.

Aries Horoscope (Mar 21 – Apr 19)

There may be too much happening today to process everything, especially if you’re hearing conflicting stories. However, you’re not very receptive because you are afraid of being misled by someone else’s agenda, especially when you are on your own mission. It’s tempting to defend your right to maintain your individuality, but there isn’t as much at stake as you think, so pick your battles carefully before jumping into a fight.

Taurus Horoscope (Apr 20 – May 20)

You may feel as if you’re in the middle of someone else’s struggle today and you don’t want to be distracted by another melodrama. You might consider avoiding the conversation completely, but you realize that you can actually have a positive impact on the situation. You don’t need to come up with a solution and then sell your idea. In fact, all you have to do is listen to both sides of the argument. For now, sufficiently airing an issue could be enough to dissolve the tension.

Gemini Horoscope (May 21 – Jun 20)

You want to share your feelings with a trusted friend, but your harmless disclosure could inadvertently elicit an explosive reaction. You understand the necessity of exercising self-restraint today because you can sense the delicate balance of power. However, you’re still not interested in changing your mind now. Unfortunately, your current lack of flexibility might make a difficult situation worse. On the other hand, trying to meet another person halfway could produce mutual benefits.

Cancer Horoscope (June 21 – Jul 22)

You may be feeling an upwelling of anger today, yet it seems more intense than the situation would normally warrant. Although you want to express your frustration, you don’t want to deal with the emotional fallout. Play it cool and sidestep confrontation for now. Or ride your passion and say what’s in your heart no matter what. There’s no right or wrong answer; ultimately, it’s your decision to make.

Leo Horoscope (Jul 23 – Aug 22)

You might not show your feelings today in an attempt to avoid a possible meltdown, as your emotions pull you into the shadows. You are more accustomed to the light, making it challenging for you to figure out what’s currently happening. For now, don’t worry about making your point. It’s more important to concentrate on your emotions and to process them in real time, rather than wasting time explaining yourself to others.

Virgo Horoscope (Aug 23 – Sep 22)

You aren’t happy with the role that your friends have put you in now and you’re not sure how to get out of it. There are no quick and easy solutions to your dilemma, even if you are in touch with the group dynamics at play. You may be tempted to internalize another person’s struggle and treat it as if it were your own. However, it’s smarter to just steer clear of any melodrama that isn’t yours. Don’t worry about disappointing others; they’ll get over it sooner than you think.

Libra Horoscope (Sep 23 – Oct 22)

Others know that you excel in the department of negotiation, so it’s no surprise that they would call on you for assistance now. As much as you might want to help, you have your own decisions to make today. Nevertheless, there’s still time to practice a bit of shuttle diplomacy, shuffling back and forth between the disagreeing parties. Your success depends on not getting too attached to any of the messages that you deliver.

Scorpio Horoscope (Oct 23 – Nov 21)

Your two key planets, Mars and Pluto, are pulling in opposite directions, placing you in the middle of an intense tug-of-war. You cannot just express the anger of warrior Mars because unrelenting Pluto will quickly even the score. Unfortunately, you cannot just walk away from the conflict, either. Ultimately, you must be as flexible as you can to get you through this tricky time.

Sagittarius Horoscope (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

You don’t want to be drawn into an emotional squabble today yet it becomes more difficult to stay neutral, even if you try. You aren’t interested in choosing sides, for this tactic will only fuel an unnecessary conflict that wastes your time. Be an outspoken community member and talk about the pitfalls of supporting fearful negativity. Follow your own brand of spirituality and let your love light shine.

Capricorn Horoscope (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

A relationship may be a major source of stress now as battle lines are drawn, making it harder to remain civil. You might prefer sorting out your differences through cool and calm communication, yet you can easily slip back into engaging in the needless drama. Instead of being forthright and expressing all your feelings today, act judiciously. A little bit of discretion goes a long way to settle everyone’s frazzled nerves.

Aquarius Horoscope (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

It’s not easy to maintain objectivity today, even as you try to see the pros and cons of a co-worker’s plan. You think that you know what’s best and you aren’t afraid to tell everyone who asks. But rather than judging others, you are wiser to clean up your own act first. Making small improvements throughout the next several days is a better idea than wasting time blaming another person for your dilemma.

Pisces Horoscope (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

Your friends may think that they’re helping you today, but you believe that their behavior is too controlling. However, it feels awkward to come right out and tell them to back off because that would just alienate your most supportive allies. Still, it may be time to dig in your heels by setting clear personal boundaries that enable you to feel truly independent.

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QUARTZ

Zen and the Art of Berry Harvesting

by Amanda Silvers

article

A Summer Walk to Dream

by Jim Sun Weed

article

Getting Married One Chakra at a Time

by Freya Ray

Jujube Berries

Botanical: Zizyphus vulgaris (LAMK.) Family: N.O. Rhamnaceae

Sun in Virgo

Enlighten Yourself Spell

Botanical: Zizyphus vulgaris (LAMK.)
Family: N.O. Rhamnaceae