Category Archives: Cat’s Bits and Pieces

Cat’s Bits for Dec. 24-30:  The Celtic Tree Month of Birch: December 24th – January 20th.

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CBP Snowy BC

Cat’s Bits for Dec. 24-30:  The Celtic Tree Month of Birch: December 24th – January 20th.

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December Events:

Dec. 24 Christmas Eve and Celtic Tree Month of Birch begins

Dec. 25 Christmas Day

Dec. 26 – Jan. 1 Kwanzaa

Dec. 31 New Years Eve

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“In the bleak mid-winter
Frosty wind made moan,
Earth stood hard as iron,
Water like a stone;
Snow had fallen, snow on snow,
Snow on snow,
In the bleak mid-winter,
Long ago.”
 –   Christmas Carol

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forest-grove-1-1382093

The Celtic Tree Month of Birch: December 24th – January 20th.
BIRCH LORE

Birch is the beginning of all things (life) and it is opposite of last months tree Elder (death). This month is symbolized by the unconscious self and raw wild force of the natural world. The tree itself is a symbol of birth, initiation and sacrifice. It is also associated with horned animals like goats and stags as well as the Horned Gods like Cernunnos, Dagda and Pan. Other names for this tree are Tree of Birth, Lady of the Woods. The Irish Gaelic word for this tree is “Beith”, which is derived from “Achadhbeith” meaning “the field of birch trees.

TREE INFORMATION

This tree is very common in Europe where it is known as the Silver Birch, it is also grown in North America under the name “weeping birch”. The leaves are long and egg shaped with notched edges. The slender trees have silvery white bark which is close to the color of poplar and aspen and to the untrained eye these trees may look the same. Birch can grow up to 100 feet in height and will do so unless they can take over their favorite soil which tends to be sandy, in which case they like to spread out in low clumps. In fact birch trees grow so well that they are the first new trees to sprout up in cut areas. This may be the reason that they are associated with rebirth and birth.

BIRCH IN HEALING

This tree does have a few healing properties. The inner bark is said to be a good pain reliever as are the leaves which as tea, can be used for rheumatism. The sap produces syrup and from the bark comes flour and beer.

BIRCH IN MAGIC & MYTH

Birch is particularly useful for spells involving healing, fertility, new beginnings, blessings, protection, growth, love, and creative inspiration. It is also one of the nine sacred woods used in the sabbat fire and is a representation of the Goddess. Charms made of birch twigs were given to newlyweds to promote fertility and cattle were lightly struck with birch rods for the same reason. Brooms were traditionally made from birch, the twigs were called “Besom twigs” and love spells can be written on strips of birch bark that have been gathered during the new moon. This tree also plays an important role in the pagan tradition of jumping the broomstick which is part of the handfasting ceremony.

The birch can be found in folklore as well. Baby cradles were made from birch wood because it was thought to protect the innocent. On the Isle of Man criminals and lunatics were “birched” in a serious effort to drive out evil.

In Wales during the 13th-14th Centuries lovers were said to meet under these trees in the “house of leaves”. As a token a remembrance for these occasions wreaths would be made from the leaves of the tree. There is also and English/ Irish custom that took place on December 26th called “the huntin gof the wren.” The old year or the “wren” was hunted down by the new year which was symbolized by the robin, and was said to carry a birch twig in it’s claws.

To choose Birch as a magical name is cleansing and promotes your inner light. It would be a good name for a caregiver or for someone who seeks to make positive changes in politics for social issues.

ABOUT BIRCH PEOPLE

Birch people have a marvelous ability to be uplifting to others. They do not care for excess in any areas of their lives and like to promote a calm and content atmosphere where ever they go.

CORRESPONDENCES

Deities: All Horned Gods, Pan, the Dagda, Cerrnunos, Thor, Freya, Frigg, Cewrridwen
Sacred Stones: Quartz Crystal, Fluorite
Colors: White and Dark Green

Bright Blessings for a Magickal Week!

Cat

sources:

the dutchie.org, The New Book of Magical Names, Phoenix McFarland
Cunninghams Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs, Scott Cunningham
Flower and Tree Magic, Richard Webster
crystal forest.com
treetotem.com

Forest Grove photo: Benjamin Earwicker/ freeimages.com

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(C) L Bolotin/Cat

Laura (Cat) Bolotin has been following an eclectic pagan/spiritual path for over 25 years. She currently lives in Western Colorado where she enjoys communing with nature, desert crawling, belly dancing, nature photography, jewelry crafting and writing stuff she hopes will help others along their path. She is married and owned by a “clowder” of cats.

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Please feel free to check out my websites!

The Desert Path: The Dusty Ramblings of a Desert Pagan. https://catsister.wordpress.com

Sacred Spirals on Facebook: The Place Where All Paths Meet  https://www.facebook.com/groups/sacredSpirals/

This page may be shared with others as long as no changes are made, and ALL credits, links, photos and copyrights remain intact.

Cat’s Bits for Nov. 25 – Dec. 2 The Celtic Tree Month of Elder

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CBP November

Cat’s Bits for Nov. 25 – Dec. 2 The Celtic Tree Month of Elder

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November Events:

Nov. 25 Celtic Tree Month of Elder begins

December Events:

Dec. 3 Full Long Night’s Moon at 10:47 am EST

Dec. 3 Mercury is Retrograde at 2:34 am EST until Dec. 22

Dec. 13 -20 Hanukkah

Dec. 21 Winter Solstice / Yule and Sun enters Capricorn at 11:28 am EST

Dec. 24 Christmas Eve and Celtic Tree Month of Birch begins

Dec. 25 Christmas Day

Dec. 26 – Jan. 1 Kwanzaa

Dec. 31 New Years Eve

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 elder-1318099
The Celtic Tree Month of Elder: November 25 – December 22nd




The theme for this month is death, rebirth and the return of light. The month begins with the dark time of the year and ends with the birth of the sun at the Winter Solstice. Other names for this tree are Frau Holle (German), Eldrum, Ellhorn, Boure Tree, Lady Ellhorn. The word Elder comes from the anglo-saxon word “aeld” meaning fire. Evidently the young branches have hollow stems which make them useful in making a fire.TREE INFORMATION


The elder tree is both a tree and a shrub and are members of the honeysuckle family. The shrub grows to about 30 ft. while the tree grows to around 50 ft. Both varieties like damp places along the woods edge. Elder has incredible regenerative power and can quickly regrow branches and roots. The tree has beautiful white flowers in the spring, growing in formations that resemble a bridal wreath. The flowers become reddish-black berries and make the most wonderful jellies, jams and syrups. The branches of the elder tree have a strong resemblance to bones when peeled of their bark. In the middle of the branches is a spongy center that looks similar to marrow. An unsuspecting person might actually believe the bare branches to be human bones!


ELDER IN HEALING


Elder is also a medicinal plant, the berries and flowers have many uses. However, it’s good to point out that the on the whole elder is considered poisonous. The dried berries and flowers make wonderful tea which is high in vitamins A, C, iron, Calcium and Potassium. This makes it beneficial for colds and sore throats. A distilled version of the flowers is good for treating cuts, burns and scrapes. Please keep in mind that if you pick elder berries make darn sure that they are ripe. Unripe elder berries cause severe diarrhea.


ELDER IN MAGIC & MYTH


The Elder has long been associated with Witches but it appears in Christian myths as the tree of doom. Judas was said to have hung himself from one and the cross of Jesus was made of Elder wood.


The Celts believed that these trees were homes to the Sidhe and treated them with respect, when cut the tree produces a reddish sap that made people believe that the spirit within the tree had been hurt. It is considered very bad luck to harm one but if you must cut or prune an elder tree one should always ask permission first. It is also bad luck to make a cradle for a baby out of elder, this is because of the trees association with death. Planting an elder tree near your home will create good relations with the fae as well as bringing prosperity to the home and it’s inhabitants. Even today there remain some taboos against burning the wood. Placing elder wood on your windowsill will keep vampires away, you can also wear it to the same effect. The folk lore about vampires is said to be much older than the the use of garlic.


Use elder for spells of banishing, faery magic, healing, protection and prosperity. Elder wood is also good for making magical tools, but remember to ask first!


As a magical name Elder is good for the person who is serious about magic. It also invokes mystery, luck and a sturdiness of character.


ABOUT ELDER PEOPLE


People born in the Month of Elder can be wonderful healers and seers as well as gifted musicians. They are slow to mature and waste time and energy on things not worth while. They can be very curious about profound subjects and study these things intensely. As healers or seers, elder people must choose their words carefully as they can be very persuasive with their speech. They must be careful not to sway the thinking of others and let them make their own decisions.


Correspondences:


Deities: The White Goddess, Danu, Cailleach, Boann, Hel, Frey, Vulcan, Venus

Animals: All white animals, raven, pheasant

Sacred Stones: Red Jasper, jet, bloodstone








Bright Blessings for a Magickal Week!


Cat


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Elder Tree picture by Michael & Christa Richert/freeimages.com


Compiled and written by Cat from the following sources:

the crystal forest

controversical.com

dutchie.org

The New Book of Magical Names, Phoenix McFarland

Cunninghams Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs, Scott Cunningham

Flower and Tree Magic, Richard Webster


Laura (Cat) Bolotin has been following an eclectic pagan/spiritual path for over 25 years. She currently lives in Western Colorado where she enjoys communing with nature, desert crawling, belly dancing, nature photography, jewelry crafting and writing stuff she hopes will help others along their path. She is married and owned by a “clowder” of cats.


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Please feel free to check out my websites!


The Desert Path: The Dusty Ramblings of a Desert Pagan. https://catsister.wordpress.com


Sacred Spirals on Facebook: The Place Where All Paths Meet  https://www.facebook.com/groups/sacredSpirals/


This page may be shared with others as long as no changes are made, and ALL credits, links, photos and copyrights remain intact. All written work and are created by and copyrighted to LBolotin/Cat 2007-2017

					

		
		
	


				
					
	

		

						
Cat’s Bits for Nov. 23, 2017 A Thought For Thanksgiving

			
						

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CBP November


Cat’s Bits for November 23, 2017: A Thought For Thanksgiving


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November Events:


Nov. 23 Thanksgiving Day USA


Nov. 25 Celtic Tree Month of Elder begins


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“The year has turned its circle,


The seasons come and go.


The harvest all is gathered in 


And chilly north winds blow. 


Orchards have shared their treasures, 


The fields, their yellow grain, 


So open wide the doorway- 


Thanksgiving comes again!”


~author unknown


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A Thought For Thanksgiving


Gratitude FB cover sm


Thanksgiving originally began as a harvest festival and has been celebrated off and on since around 1789. It became an acknowledged federal holiday around 1863 thanks to President Abraham Lincoln. Unfortunately somewhere along the way it has become  one of those muddled holidays that seems to have lost it’s true purpose.


The sentiment behind Thanksgiving is gratitude. Being grateful for what you have and have accomplished in the past year. sharing old memories and creating new ones that culminate in reuniting and solidifying relationships with family and friends.  Being grateful for the chance to spend another holiday together, as my mother always adds to the meal blessing. The following “Thought” is what I’m Thankful for. It’s an old one and if you have been following me for awhile it will be familiar to you. So the question is….. What are you thankful for?


On this day I Am Thankful.


I am thankful for being able to rise and greet the day when there are those who cannot.


I am thankful for my health and the health of my family when so many others are sick.


I am thankful for having a home when so many are homeless.


I am thankful for my family, friends and pets when so many spend their lives alone.


I am thankful for having a loving spouse when many live with abuse.


I am thankful for the food on my table when so many are starving.


I am thankful that my husband has a job when so many are out of work.


I am thankful to be able to take part in the adventure called life.


On this day I remember the importance of being thankful even when it seems like I have nothing to be thankful for.


On this day I give thanks for all that I have, for every tiny miracle.


On this day I acknowledge how blessed I really am and I give thanks to the people and events, both past and present, that have helped me to be the person I am today.


I am thankful.


Bright Blessings for a Magickal Week!


Cat


(C) LBolotin 2017


Laura (Cat) Bolotin has been following an eclectic pagan/spiritual path for over 25 years. She currently lives in Western Colorado where she enjoys communing with nature, desert crawling, belly dancing, nature photography, jewelry crafting and writing stuff she hopes will help others along their path. She is married and owned by 6 cats.


 


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Please feel free to check out my websites!


The Desert Path: The Dusty Ramblings of a Desert Pagan. https://catsister.wordpress.com


Sacred Spirals on Facebook: The Place Where All Paths Meet  https://www.facebook.com/groups/sacredSpirals/


This page may be shared with others as long as no changes are made, and ALL credits, links, photos and copyrights remain intact. All written work and are created by and copyrighted to LBolotin/Cat 2007-2017

					

		
		
	


				
					
	

		

						
Cat’s Bits for November 11-18 A Trip Down The Salt Road

			
						

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CBP November


Cat’s Bits for November 11-18  A Trip Down The Salt Road


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November Events:


Nov. 11 Veteran’s Day


Nov. 18 New Moon at 6:42 am EST


Nov. 21 Sun enters Sagittarius at 10:05 pm EST


Nov. 23 Thanksgiving Day USA


Nov. 25 Celtic Tree Month of Elder begins


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A Trip Down The Salt Road


Most people tend to view salt as a common household item. It can be found lurking in cupboards everywhere. But in ages past salt was viewed quite differently. For thousands of years was an important  but difficult to obtain commodity. It contributed to civilization as we know it. By using salt our ancestors were able to preserve seasonal foods and made it possible to ship food over great distances. By the Bronze Age specially constructed roads called “salt roads had been established which helped make salt more accessible. One of these roads can still be seen in Germany and runs from Luneburg to the German Baltic coast.


This mineral that we take for granted now was a highly valued trade item and was used as a form of currency. Salt could be used to obtain other goods including slaves. The phrase “not worth his salt” is said to have come from ancient Greece, where one could trade salt for slaves. During the Middle Ages only the very rich could afford to have salt at their table. It was during this period that “master salt cellars” became the in thing. The master salt cellar would be prominently placed at the head of the table as  a symbol of status. People knew how they were ranked by their position to the master salt cellar. If you were important you sat “above the salt” and if you were not you “sat below the salt.” Because of it’s value the sharing of salt was a symbol of trust and friendship. Woe to he , or she, who spilled salt as it was seen as a grievous insult as can be seen by this German proverb, “whoever spills salt arouses enmity”.


One thing that has remained constant through the centuries is the use of salt in religious practices. It can be found on altars as a symbol of purity. References to salt appear 30 times within the Bible in both Old and New Testament. it is used in the Jewish faith as a remembrance of sacrifice and in the Catholic church it is used in a variety of purification rituals and for exorcisms. For Pagans and Wiccans  it is an altar staple that represents the element of earth or sometimes water depending on your tradition. It is also used for purification, cleansing and protection spells. According  to Buddhist tradition, salt repels evil spirits and in the Shinto religion salt is used for purification. This can be seen during sumo matches when a handful of salt is thrown into the ring to drive away evil spirits. In the American Southwest there is a Hopi legend about the Warrior Twins punishing man by making it hard work to extract the salt they needed. The Zuni people honor Salt Woman ( Ma’l Oyattsik’i) who lives in the Zuni Salt Lake. This is  a sacred site for many of the southwest tribes who collect the salt during summer when the water evaporates for ceremonies.


Finally, salt has it’s place in superstition as well. In European lore spilling salt is an evil omen. One theory for this is that during the last supper Judas Iscariot spilled the salt. In fact you can see this in da Vinci’s painting “The Last Supper”. ( I had to look at it myself) If you actually spill salt you can avert bad luck by tossing a pinch over your left shoulder. This remedy is of Christian origin and has to do with the Devil. By throwing a pinch of salt over your left shoulder you are throwing it in the Devil’s eye. It’s supposed to blind him and fend off the bad luck he has in store for you. There are other superstitions about salt and if you are interested you can read about them here: http://superstitiondictionary.com/superstitions-about-salt/


I hope that you have enjoyed our little journey down the “salt road”




 




Bright Blessings for a Magickal Week!


Cat


 


Laura (Cat) Bolotin has been following an eclectic pagan/spiritual path for over 25 years. She currently lives in Western Colorado where she enjoys communing with nature, desert crawling, belly dancing, nature photography, jewelry crafting and writing stuff she hopes will help others along their path. She is married and owned by 6 cats.


 


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Please feel free to check out my websites!


The Desert Path: The Dusty Ramblings of a Desert Pagan. https://catsister.wordpress.com


Sacred Spirals on Facebook: The Place Where All Paths Meet  https://www.facebook.com/groups/sacredSpirals/


This page may be shared with others as long as no changes are made, and ALL credits, links, photos and copyrights remain intact. All written work and are created by and copyrighted to LBolotin/Cat 2007-2017

					

		
		
	


				
					
	

		

						
Cat’s Bits for October 29 – Nov.4 Thinning

			
						

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CBP October


Cat’s Bits for October 29 – Nov.4 Thinning


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October Events:


Oct. 31 Samhain / Halloween


November Events:


Nov. 1 All Saints Day


Nov. 4 Full Mourning Moon at 1:23 am EST


Nov. 5 Daylight saving Time ends at 2:00 am EST


Nov. 7 Samhain crossquarter day


Nov. 11 Veteran’s Day


Nov. 18 New Moon at 6:42 am EST


Nov. 21 Sun enters Sagittarius at 10:05 pm EST


Nov. 23 Thanksgiving Day USA


Nov. 25 Celtic Tree Month of Elder begins


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Summer has come and gone and with the passing of Mabon the Wheel of the Year turns to Samhain, the mid point between the Autumn Equinox and the Winter Solstice. This is a special time.  You can feel the energy stretching and becoming thin as the earth draws her life essence back within as she prepares  for the dark half of the year. For those who are energy sensitive it can be a buzzing or tingling sensation. I personally enjoy this time of year and the unique energy aspect that it creates.


Thinning


The veil thins and the season thins as well………


Rising energy draws the life force from all of nature;


Leaving behind the drained and withered shells of what was…..




Today, the spirits of nature are dying…………


Receding within before sucumbing to the dark sleep;


Lending their energy to the Otherworld as the veil thins……




Tomorrow, the door to the Hall of Ancestors opens…..


Voices born upon the wind, spectral yet reassuring;


Drifting gently like leaves upon the currents……




Power shimmers from heaven and earth……….


The veil thins further…growing, stretching and becomes taut;


Almost to breaking, the time of high magick is here..don’t blink…




As with all things, nothing is permanent………..


The moment passes, soundlessly sliding back into shape;


Thickening, spiraling out like ripples on a pond………




With a silent sigh, all of nature relaxes…….


Easing into dark slumber, to flow upon it’s natural course;


Resting, gaining strength, contemplating the coming cycle…




© CatSister/LBolotin










Bright Blessings for a Magickal Week!


Cat


 


Laura (Cat) Bolotin has been following an eclectic pagan/spiritual path for over 25 years. She currently lives in Western Colorado where she enjoys communing with nature, desert crawling, belly dancing, nature photography, jewelry crafting and writing stuff she hopes will help others along their path. She is married and owned by 6 cats.


 


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Please feel free to check out my websites!


The Desert Path: The Dusty Ramblings of a Desert Pagan and Cat’s Treasure Trove: An eclectic collection of jewelry & gifts! https://thedesertpath.com/


Sacred Spirals on Facebook: The Place Where All Paths Meet  https://www.facebook.com/groups/sacredSpirals/


This page may be shared with others as long as no changes are made, and ALL credits,






 


 


 


 


 

					

		
		
	


				
					
	

		

						
Cat’s Bits for October 1-7 :  The Celtic Tree Month of Ivy

			
						

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Cat’s Bits for October 1-7 :  The Celtic Month of Ivy, Sept 30- Oct 27


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October Events:


October 5: Full Harvest/Blood Moon at 2:40 pm EST


October 9: Indigenous Peoples’ Day


October 19: New Moon at 3:12 pm EST


October 23: Sun enters Scorpio at 1:27 am EST


October 28: Celtic Tree Month of Reed begins


October 31: Samhain / Halloween


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ivy-leaves-1368326






Celtic Month of Ivy


“Oh, a dainty plant is the Ivy green,

That creepeth o’er ruins old!

Of right choice food are his meals, I ween,

In his cell so lone and cold.

The wall must be crumbled, the stone decayed,

To pleasure his dainty whim:

And the mouldering dust that years have made

Is a merry meal for him.

Creeping where no life is seen,

A rare old plant is the Ivy green.”


Charles Dickens: The Ivy Green


IVY LORE


The Celtic Month of Ivy / Gort/ Gwinwydden runs from Sept 30- Oct 27


The ancient Celts and in particular the Druids, held ivy in high regard. In Wales ivy was related to the goddess Arianrhod, and was used in her ritual of opening a portal into the Otherworld, also known as the dark side of the moon and the Realm of Faery. This realm is symbolized by the butterfly and gives ivy a mysterious and mystical aspect. (If you look closely, ivy leaves resemble butterfly wings) Persephone is also associated with this month, this begins the time when she departs for the underworld for the dark half of the year. This month is time of settlement and reconciliation as it relates to karma. This month also corresponds to the Hunters Moon (aka Harvest or Blood Moon) which is this month’s full moon. It relates to female hunting animals wolf (Brigid), boar (Garbh Ogh), Lioness (Sekhemet)


Ivy is associated with the Goddess because it grows in a spiral. It is also sacred to the God Dionysus and during the Bacchanal people would run around waving the thyrsus which was actually fir branches that were wrapped with ivy, and the ancient Greeks would give a wreath of ivy to newlyweds as a symbol of fidelity.


PLANT INFORMATION


This “super vine” has great strength because of it’s ability to force it’s way into solid rock and it was powerful enough to kill a full grown oak tree. Ivy is another “Celtic tree” that is not a tree, and depends upon a real tree to give it support. It is a member of the Ginseng family although it is considered an evergreen. It also represents the ever blooming aspect of the human psyche. It develops yellowish flowers in October and then black berries.


Ivy is a POISONOUS plant and while it is said to have been used for medicinal purposes (like curing hangovers and cleansing wounds) I would highly recommend AGAINST it , as all parts of this plant are poisonous.


IVY IN MAGIC


In it’s magical role ivy protects against evil spirits negativity and all forms of disaster, it is used in healing rituals and is a symbol of loyalty and longtime friendships. It can be used in love charms to promote fidelity. As a magical name Ivy denotes strength and to give someone ivy as a gift state’s “attachment” and be mine forever.


IVY PEOPLE


People born in this month have great stamina and talents that can bring them great public honors. Ivy people also tend to radiate success even when they are not so fortunate. They are colorful and unique individuals who can be manipulative and use their power ruthlessly to get what they want. The key for Ivy people is not to abuse this power.


Deities: Dionysus, Artemis, Ariadne, Bacchus, Osiris, Arianrhod, Danu, Hel, Persephone, Rhea, Frey, Ogma, Cerrunos


Sacred Stones: Opal, Chrysoberyl, Alexandrite


Colors: Blue and light brown/tan


Animals: Butterfly, swallow, mute swan, lark


written by CatSister 2010 sources:

The New Book of Magical Names by Phoenix McFarland

Cunningham’s Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs

Whispers from the Woods by Sandra Kynes

dutchie.org

controverscial.com

crystalforest.com










Bright Blessings for a Magickal Week!


Cat


(C) LBolotin 2017


Laura (Cat) Bolotin has been following an eclectic pagan/spiritual path for over 25 years. She currently lives in Western Colorado where she enjoys communing with nature, desert crawling, belly dancing, nature photography, jewelry crafting and writing stuff she hopes will help others along their path. She is married and owned by 6 cats.


 


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Please feel free to check out my websites!


The Desert Path: The Dusty Ramblings of a Desert Pagan. https://catsister.wordpress.com


Sacred Spirals on Facebook: The Place Where All Paths Meet  https://www.facebook.com/groups/sacredSpirals/


This page may be shared with others as long as no changes are made, and ALL credits, links, photos and copyrights remain intact. All written work and are created by and copyrighted to LBolotin/Cat 2007-2017

					

		
		
	


				
					
	

		

						
Cat’s Bits for September 24-30:  “Burning Autumn Leaves”

			
						

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Cat’s Bits for September 24-30:  “Burning Autumn Leaves”


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September Events:


Sept 30: Celtic Tree Month of Ivy begins


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Burning Autumn Leaves

By Dennis Siluk Dr.h.c.


Burning Autumn Leaves


[1950s in St. Paul, Minnesota]


My long steel pointed rake punctured


And twisted through tons of autumn leaves


(back in the ’50s);


And there’s a hill yet, I didn’t rake, I see


Behind it, two embankments


Leaves I didn’t rake a day ago;


The essence of fall sleeps on the ground.


I love the scent of burning leaves:


I seem to dream of them nowadays.


I cannot shake the excitement I get


From the sight and smells of burning leaves.


Now the city will not allow the burning,


Not sure what can take its place–:


Only wishful thinking and dreaming, I think.


But every leaf that now appears, in autumn


I keep hearing the cracking of the fire; see


The flickering-flames of burning leaves; I


Can even smell—the autumn leaves of long ago.


I have had too much of raking leaves, I do believe–.


I’m now old and tired, too tired to rake those hills;


Yet raking I still desire, not sure why.


There were a thousand days I raked, back then


Held in hand, the rake that struck the earth–


Spiked, into its dirt–capturing those critters (leaves)


Like thieves–: thieves sleeping.


This tiredness of mine will never go away, I fear


It’s called aging, or something, so I will have to find


Another place, to smell the burning autumn leaves;


And perhaps, perchance, do just a ting of raking:


Before the long, long, very long sleep.


#771 7/24/05 Poet Dennis Siluk http://dennissiluk.tripod.com


 


Bright Blessings for a Magickal Week!


Cat


(C) LBolotin 2017


Laura (Cat) Bolotin has been following an eclectic pagan/spiritual path for over 25 years. She currently lives in Western Colorado where she enjoys communing with nature, desert crawling, belly dancing, nature photography, jewelry crafting and writing stuff she hopes will help others along their path. She is married and owned by 6 cats.


Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Burning-Autumn-Leaves–[a-poem-in-Spanish-and-English]&id=53812] Burning Autumn Leaves [a poem in Spanish and English]


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Please feel free to check out my websites!


The Desert Path: The Dusty Ramblings of a Desert Pagan. https://catsister.wordpress.com


Sacred Spirals on Facebook: The Place Where All Paths Meet  https://www.facebook.com/groups/sacredSpirals/


This page may be shared with others as long as no changes are made, and ALL credits, links, photos and copyrights remain intact. All written work and are created by and copyrighted to LBolotin/Cat 2007-2017

					

		
		
	


				
					
	

		

						
Cat’s Bits for September 17-23 : Autumn Equinox and Opening Your Heart

			
						

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Cat’s Bits for September 17-23 : Autumn Equinox and Opening Your Heart


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“Nature holds her breath …………….. and Summer slides into Autumn. ~ Cat”


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September Events:


Sept 20: New Moon at 1:30 am EST


Sept 21: International Day of Peace


Sept 22: Fall Equinox/ Mabon and Sun enters Libra at 4:02 pm EST


Sept 30: Celtic Tree Month of Ivy begins


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Harvest home, Harvest home!


We’ve plowed, we’ve sowed.


We’ve reaped, we’ve mowed and brought safe home, every load.


Harvest Home Song


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Autumn Equinox / Mabon / Harvest Home: On or around September 21st


This year Mabon is on Friday, September 22


This is the second harvest festival and like the Vernal Equinox night and day are equal. It is a time to honor the changing season and to give thanks for the bounty and abundance in our lives.


Symbols and Decorations: Fall leaves, apples, gourds, vines, flowers, acorns grapes, berries, indian corn and grains.


Colors: Wine, Rust, Brown, Autumn Orange and Gold


Deities: Pomona, Demeter, Persephone, Bacchus, Dionysus, Green Man, Tezcatzontecatl, Osiris


Herbs: Marigold, Milkweed, Fern, Benzoin, Honeysuckle, Passionflower, Rose Sage, Solomon’s Seal, Thistle (A Druid’s Herbal)


Incense: Pine, Myrrh, Sage, Sweetgrass


Trees: Maple, Magnolia, Locust, Hickory, Hackberry, Aspen. (Whispers from the Woods)


Sacred Stones: Green Aventurine, Dendritic Agate, Chrysoprase for goal setting and planning /Sunstone , Moonstone for balance. (Hibiscus Moon)


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Autumn Equinox and Opening Your Heart

By Tammi Baliszewski, Ph.D.


The Autumn Equinox signals the end of the summer months and the beginning of winter. From the Equinox forward, the nights become longer and the days become shorter. The word “equinox” comes from the Latin term that simply means “equal night.” The Fall Equinox arrives on the cusp of Virgo/Libra with astrology using the scales as a symbol of this season. Not only does this represent the balance of light and dark but also an important time to cultivate personal balance and inner harmony.


When the Fall Equinox occurs, the universal energy on our planet shifts, and all of life begins to turn inward. Accompanying the Fall Equinox is a shift from the more “Yang” masculine, action oriented self, to a more “Yin” feminine, intuitive, receptive self. We are being invited into the realms of our inner-worlds, perhaps giving ourselves permission to sleep a little more and delve more fully into our subconscious worlds of dreaming, meditation, contemplation, prayer and creativity.


Autumn is Earth’s designated time to turn inward and surrender. As the nights lengthen and cool, the trees change into their warm and varied colors we are reminded of the cycles mirrored in our lives. As we witness the trees begin to surrender their warm, bright and varied colored leaves, we may be inspired to surrender and relinquish those things that are a burden or no longer serving us. All religious traditions pay tribute to such acts of relinquishment. Fall is the time to practice getting out of the way and invite Spirit to take greater charge of our lives.


The beginning of the Fall season can be a powerful time to take personal inventory and reflect on the seeds you have planted and if those seeds have grown into fruition. It is an opportunity to acknowledge how far you have come and where you may want to go next. This is a potentially a transformational time, where you have the opportunity to take greater responsibility and refocus your attention on what you truly want to manifest and then set the intention to create it.


As we go deeper into the Fall, we celebrate the season of grace, gratitude and thanksgiving. The time of the abundant harvest is symbolized by cornucopias and horn of plenty, overflowing with great bounty. This is joyously accompanied by huge feasts, celebration, music and dance. This is the perfect occasion to consciously open your heart more fully in generosity and celebrate both your divine connection and human relationships. This is a beautiful season to begin a tithing practice or give more fully of your heart, energy, resources, talents and time.


Our time here on Earth is temporary and to meet the seasons with an open and vulnerable heart helps us experience a deeper and more soulful life. To venture forward courageously, with intentionality, while taking responsibility, can support each of us in becoming more empowered and more fulfilled. It can also help us cultivate greater affection and reverence for ourselves for each other and for the world.


Dr. Tammi Baliszewski is a holistic life counselor, author, artist and sacred art facilitator. To learn more about Tammi and her services, or to receive your free Manifesting Report and MP3 guided meditation, please visit her website at http://www.tammibphd.com/ Tammi also hosts a weekly radio show Called Journey to Center http://www.empoweradio.com/home/


Bright Blessings for a Magickal Week!


Cat


Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Autumn-Equinox-and-Opening-Your-Heart&id=7297570] Autumn Equinox and Opening Your Heart


Laura (Cat) Bolotin has been following an eclectic pagan/spiritual path for over 25 years. She currently lives in Western Colorado where she enjoys communing with nature, desert crawling, belly dancing, nature photography, jewelry crafting and writing stuff she hopes will help others along their path. She is married and owned by 6 cats.


 


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Please feel free to check out my websites!


The Desert Path: The Dusty Ramblings of a Desert Pagan. https://catsister.wordpress.com


Sacred Spirals on Facebook: The Place Where All Paths Meet  https://www.facebook.com/groups/sacredSpirals/


This page may be shared with others as long as no changes are made, and ALL credits, links, photos and copyrights remain intact. All written work and are created by and copyrighted to LBolotin/Cat 2007-2017

					

		
		
	


				
					
	

		

						
Cat’s Bits for September 10-16: Autumn Reflections

			
						

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Cat’s Bits for September 10-16: Autumn Reflections


Note: This week’s offering is an older one that I happened across the other day. Since it struck a cord and seemed relevant to my thoughts, I decided to share it with you! Cat


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September Events:


Sept 20: New Moon at 1:30 am EST


Sept 21: International Day of Peace


Sept 22: Fall Equinox/ Mabon and Sun enters Libra at 4:02 pm EST


Sept 30: Celtic Tree Month of Ivy begins


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The Canvas




The canvas of the summer is made of shades green;


Emerald, jade and serpentine with many in between.






When the harvesttime begins the Lady takes up her brush;


She starts to add new colors, vibrant, bold and lush.






Carnelian, garnet, amber dots the forest floor;


She lets it dry a day or so, before she adds a little more.






She works with slow precision as she paints each leaf with care;


Ash, oak and aspen glow; with gemstone hues everywhere.






When the landscape is complete she adds a turquoise sky;


Wild geese and soft white clouds gently sail on by.






To the lady we give thanks for the beauty that she brings;


Each season is a masterpiece that helps our spirit sing.






© LBolotin/Cat 9-3-07


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ KODAK Digital Still Camera




Autumn Reflections


by Cat Bolotin 2006






This year the change of seasons has put me in a reflective mood, leaving me with the conclusion that autumn is an odd season. Some years the change happens slowly, while other times it happens over night. There are times that it arrives early and other times when summer seems to have no end and autumn is a long time coming. Maybe I notice these things because autumn is a dramatic season………………












This year autumn is early, as I write this, the month of August isn’t even over with and already the autumn faeries have been busy. There are splashes of yellow in the aspen groves and small patches of red in the ground cover. The pine trees are dropping their cones and the black tailed squirrels are busy harvesting the fallen treasure. Only the scrub oak remains unaffected, while they are loaded with acorns, they will be the last to decorated by the faeries. Yesterday, my husband and I were hiking to our hunting spot with our friend John. As we were walking through a pocket of pine and aspen John said “Look! This is my favorite part of fall!” He was holding a beautiful red and gold aspen leaf, about the size of a quarter, almost reverently in his fingers. “Aren’t they amazing? Hey! Did you ever press them in wax paper when you were a kid?” I nodded and smiled “Yep, sure did!”




Like spring, there is something about autumn that brings out the joy in people. These seasons are also in between times. Hot and cold, light and dark, life and death. Spring brings the miracle of rebirth, while autumn reminds us that nothing is permanent and everything passes away. The wheel of the seasons turns……….. The Great Wheel also corresponds with the Sabbats, of which there are greater and lesser. It has occurred to me that there are greater and lesser seasons as well. To me spring and autumn are greater seasons because they ultimately bring about the greatest changes in the form of rebirth and dying off. Summer and winter are times when things slow down and level out. They flow into the more dramatic seasons of spring and autumn. This theory may be obvious to some and debatable by others. Either way, it’s something to think about.




During this time of magick and beauty, I hope that you too will reflect on the coming seasons as well. As humans we tend to “ignore” the subtle things. While we dutifully honor the Sabbats we miss the miracles of nature that lead up to them. By slowing down and observing the subtleties of change that each day brings, we can connect more fully to the natural world. It is my belief that the Goddess asks this of each of us and whether we do it or not is up to the individual. Each season should be enjoyed in it’s time and the connection to the other seasons acknowledged. For it is through awareness, the beauty and miracles that surround us are more easily seen and enjoyed.




The wheel of the seasons turns in a seamless flow, each blending with the next and containing it’s own unique magick……………………….Can you feel it?


© CatSister/LBolotin 2006








Bright Blessings for a Magickal Week!


Cat


Laura (Cat) Bolotin has been following an eclectic pagan/spiritual path for over 25 years. She currently lives in Western Colorado where she enjoys communing with nature, desert crawling, belly dancing, nature photography, jewelry crafting and writing stuff she hopes will help others along their path. She is married and owned by 5 cats.


 


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Please feel free to check out my websites!


The Desert Path: The Dusty Ramblings of a Desert Pagan. https://catsister.wordpress.com


Sacred Spirals on Facebook: The Place Where All Paths Meet  https://www.facebook.com/groups/sacredSpirals/


This page may be shared with others as long as no changes are made, and ALL credits, links, photos and copyrights remain intact. All written work and are created by and copyrighted to LBolotin/Cat 2007-2017

					

		
		
	


				
					
	

		

						
Cat’s Bits for September 3- 9 “Celtic Tree Month of Vine”

			
						

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Cat’s Bits for September 3- 9 “Celtic Tree Month of Vine”


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September Events:


Sept 2: Celtic Tree Month of Vine begins


Sept 4: Labor Day


Sept 6: Full  Harvest Moon at 3:03 am EST


Sept 20: New Moon at 1:30 am EST


Sept 21: International Day of Peace


Sept 22: Fall Equinox/ Mabon and Sun enters Libra at 4:02 pm EST


Sept 30: Celtic Tree Month of Ivy begins


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The Celtic Tree Month of Vine




I dreamed this mortal part of mine

Was metamorphosed to a vine,

Which, crawling one and every way…

from Robert Herrick’s “The Vine”VINE LORE






The Celtic month of Vine or Muin runs from September 2nd to September 29th.


The month of Vine is the bridge between the Autumn Equinox and the dark time of the year that begins at Samhain. Muin is an Ogham word that means highest of beauty and strongest of effort and the Irish word Muine means thicket.


Vine symbolizes emotion and sensuality and represents the clinging aspirations of artists and of poets. Vine refers to specifically to the Grape Vines. In mythology, the grape vine is personified in the God Dionysus or Bacchus, who brought the art of wine making to mankind. Carvings of this god show him with an ivy wreath upon his head and his body covered with grapes and leaves. As such he resembles the GreenMan of the celtic traditions. In Pagan/Wiccan traditions the five pointed leaves are sacred to the Goddess as is the spiral growing pattern of thevines themselves.


PLANT INFORMATION


This is not a tree but more like a shrub and is probably the oldest cultivated plant in the world. It is a long lived plant and scientists have found fossilized grape leaves that date back 40 million years! These vines have large lobed leaves and produce small whitish flowers, that in turn produce grapes. Vine can grow up to 115 feet in length and live to a recorded life span of 600 years. The stem of very old grape vines have been know to produce “planks” 15 inches wide when cut. This vine has no uses other than wine making.


In healing, vine is known for it’s restorative and regenerative powers. It can help with fever, the leaves and seeds were used to stop hemmoraging, bleeding and inflamation. Grapes are rich in iron, and vitamins and provide an excellent source of instant energy. They are also a laxative and a diuretic. Blackberries were used by the ancient Greeks to treat gout. In England the leaves were used to treat burns while berries were used to treat bug bites, loose teeth and sore throats. The bark and roots are known for their astringent properties and are still used today.


VINE IN MAGICK


Vine is female and is ruled by the moon. It can be used to promote prosperity, fertility, mental powers and can be used in garden magick. Ritual uses include celebrations, grounding and faery magick. Use the leaves of this plant to enhance your own goals and ambitions. Vine is also one of the nine sacred woods burned at Beltane as a symbol of joy.


Vines properties are as follows:


Thistle: Protection, strength, exorcism, hex breaking

Blueberry: Spirituality, protection and dream magick

Grape: Garden magick fertility, prosperity/money and binding

Blackberry: Protection, healing and properity


To dream of grapes/blackberries is a sign of abundance, if the leaves are green then success is coming your way and if you are harvesting the berries your income will be a good one. To dream of walking through a vinyard fortells of prosperity.


Here is a recipe for Vine Moon Tea (good for use in Earth magic, sex magic, overcoming difficulties):

1 part blackberry

1 part dandelion

splash of currant wine or Grape juice

pinch of hibiscus

(dutchie.org)


VINE PEOPLE


Vine people have high personal standards and tend to be natural socializers and well organized. They also have well developed insticts and an eye for detail however this can become an issue as they can be highly self critical. They are also secretly romantic and sensitive. Vine people have a dual personality and can be happy one minute and down the next. It is important for Vine people to learn the importance of balance between giving and receiving.


To choose Vine as a magickal name can indicate that you are a climber and have great potential. You are willing to work hard to achieve what you want.


Deities: Dionysus, Osirus, Branwen,Brigid, Danu, Freya , Hathor, Bacchus, Dagd, Etain.

Animals: White swan, eagle, lizard, hound

Sacred Stones: Blue beryl and emerald


written by CatSister 2010

sources:

The New Book of Magical Names by Phoenix McFarland

Cunninghams Encyclopedia of Magickal Herbs

Whispers from the Woods by Sandra Kynes

dutchie.org

controverscial.com






Grapes on the Vine photo: freeimages.com




Bright Blessings for a Magickal Week!


Cat


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Laura (Cat) Bolotin has been following an eclectic pagan/spiritual path for over 25 years. She currently lives in Western Colorado where she enjoys communing with nature, desert crawling, belly dancing, nature photography, jewelry crafting and writing stuff she hopes will help others along their path. She is married and owned by 5 cats.


 


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~


Please feel free to check out my websites!


The Desert Path: The Dusty Ramblings of a Desert Pagan. https://catsister.wordpress.com


Sacred Spirals on Facebook: The Place Where All Paths Meet  https://www.facebook.com/groups/sacredSpirals/


This page may be shared with others as long as no changes are made, and ALL credits, links, photos and copyrights remain intact. All written work and are created by and copyrighted to LBolotin/Cat 2007-2017