Cat’s Morning Bits for December 23, 2020

Cat’s Morning Bits for December 23, 2020

Good Morning Beautiful Souls, grab a cup of your favorite morning brew and start things off with “Today’s Inspirations”. I hope you find something here that will make you feel good or help you on your path today.

Stay healthy, Stay safe!

Blessings, Cat

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December’s Events

Dec. 7 Pearl Harbor Day

Dec, 10 Hanukkah

Dec. 14 New Moon at 8:16 am PST/ 9:16 am MST/ 11:16 am EST

Dec,15 National Cat Herders Day

Dec. 20 Ugly Sweater Day

Dec. 21 Winter Solstice/Winter Begins

Dec. 21 Moon 1st Qtr 3:41pm PST/ 4:41 pm MST/ 6:41 pm EST

Dec. 23 Festivus

Dec. 24 Christmas Eve

Dec. 24 Celtic Tree month of Birch begins

Dec. 25 Christmas Day

Dec. 26 Kwanzaa

Dec. 29 Full Moon at 7:28 pm PST/ 8:28 pm MST/ 10:28 pm EST

Dec. 31 New Years Eve

Dec. 31 Hogmanay

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Spirit Library: The Dawn of a New Era (a message from Kate Spreckley)

A new era is dawning indicating a turning point for all of humanity. A turning point that marks the beginning of a new way of living and being for us all.

Read more….

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Festivus is on December 23 and it’s perfect for those who don’t have a traditional holiday to celebrate. Although it sounds paradoxical, its purpose makes a lot of sense. Not everyone has a major holiday to celebrate like Christmas, Hanukkah, or Kwanzaa and they can feel left out. This holiday gives many people a non-denominational and non-commercial holiday to call their own. Festivus is for everybody!

Read more…..

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Spiritual Unite: SEAL SPIRIT ANIMAL MEANING – BEING HONEST WITH YOURSELF

Your seal spirit animal is a messenger, asking you to look within yourself and find the natural flows that govern your body.

It is also a reminder to pay attention to your imagination – and your dreams.

Read more….

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ThoughtCo: Full Moon Water Scrying Divination

The full moon has long been considered a symbol of wisdom and intuition. We feel its connection every month when it lights the night sky. Many of us feel more energetic and alert during the full phase of the moon.

Read more…..

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The Green Witch; Finishing a Chapter | Crafting Fire Cider Vinegar

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MBG: 10 Things To Do At Home To Make Way For An Abundant 2021

After the 2020 we’ve had, starting the new year with a clean slate feels even more meaningful. Here are 10 things I’m looking forward to doing at home in the coming weeks to set myself up for a bright year ahead:

Read more….

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Daily Good: The Land Has Memory

Injustices started when we began to lose our relationship to nature and treat it just as a resource to be commodified.

Cherrie Moraga –

The Land Has Memory

“The denial and fear of death makes possession, possessiveness, and overconsumption possible. If we would just pull back a bit, slow down, and ask the “why” of each of our actions, based on the utter assurance of death, we would all be better off environmentally.” Playwright, poet, and essayist Cherrie Moraga sees the world as a place where the body knows and “the land has memory.” “Her writings have shaped fundamental aspects of contemporary woman of color feminist thought, including debates on ethnic nationalism, indigeneity, sexuality, and social justice. In addition to her plays and essay collections, she was coeditor with Gloria Anzaldua of the landmark feminist collection This Bridge Called My Back: Writings by Radical Women of Color.” More in this interview.” { read more }

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Today’s DIY: How to Make a Yule Broom & Cinnamon Star Ornament for Winter Solstice & Yule Decor- Magical Crafting

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Treehugger: Are Birds the Reason You Feel Good in Nature?

There have been many studies that show being in nature is good for your health.1 Walking in the woods boosts your well-being. Living near trees can help you live longer.1 Being around water can improve your mood.

Read more….

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Patheos-Pagan: Simple Witchery: Health, Wealth and Wisdom in the New Year

There are as many ways to make a spell jar as there are witches to make them. It can be a tiny vial you carry with you or wear around your neck, or a gallon-size vessel in a place of prominence in your home. All of the magic in a spell jar comes from you, so anything goes.

Read more…..

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The Witch of Wanderlust: Dark Moon Protection Candle || Spellwork

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Inner Journey: ARE YOU AFRAID TO BE DIFFERENT?

On the path of evolution, we move from being a willing and obedient member of the group to wanting to take control over our own lives. This is a necessary but difficult transition.

Andrew Schneider says, “At this point we are afraid of being ourselves. We are afraid of being unique and different. We are afraid of being individually powerful, and even successful. For all of these things stand against the old ways that told us that conformity was right and individualism was wrong.”

“For as long as we possibly can, we make a compromise. We try to live both lives – the dependent tribal life and the independent personal life – as contradictory and opposite as they are.

“We want approval from others. We want to be accepted and popular. We seek this comfort to overcome our fear and feel more secure. …So, at times when we conform, we don’t feel the fear of living. But we might lose the new sense of adventure, discovery, daring and enthusiasm for life that the questioning and questing have brought us.”

“Nature never repeats herself, and the possibilities of one human soul will never be found in another.”
— Elizabeth Cady Stanton

higherawareness.com

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A Note from the Universe

No matter what your faith is or is not, no matter where in the world you are, I want you to know that during this special time of the year I’ll be with you…

In the eyes of every child and the melody of every song.

I’ll be the glimmer in the ice crystals, the rays in the sun, and the stars at night.

And with each smile you see, every hug you receive, and every laugh you hear, I’ll be there reaching out through another, with blessings and tidings to last you the year.

Because I love you, I always have, and I always will.

Duck – Snowball 🙂

The Universe

tut.com

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Today’s Recipe: Ginger and Turmeric Hot Cider

Warm apple cider is the perfect comfort drink. This special version combines two potent spices, ginger and turmeric for a unique flavor and nutrition profile. Fresh ginger, for example, contains a pungent substance called gingerol while turmeric gets it characteristic yellow hue from the class of cancer-fighting compounds, curcuminoids.

Read More….

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Magical Correspondences for Wednesday

Magickal Intentions: Communication, Divination, Writing, Knowledge, Business Transactions, Debt, Fear, Loss, Travel and Money Matters

Element: Air


Incense: Jasmine, Lavender, Sweet Pea
Planets: Mercury and Chiron (though this is a moon of Pluto)
Star Sign: Virgo
Angel: Raphael
Power Colors: Orange, Light Blue, Grey, Yellow and Violet
Herbs & Plants: Fern, Lavender, Hazel, Cherry, Periwinkle
Sacred Stones: Aventurine, Bloodstone, Hematite, Moss Agate and Sodalite
Oil: (Mercury) Benzoin, Clary Sage, Eucalyptus, Lavender

Deities include Athena, Hermes, Lugh, Mercury, Odin

Wednesday is ruled by Mercury. Wednesday’s vibration adds power to spell work involving inspiration, communication, writers, poets, the written and spoken word, and all matters of study, learning, and teaching. This day also provides a good time to begin efforts involving self-improvement or understanding.

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Daily Wisdom
December 23, 2020

Family
“The family. We were a strange little band of characters trudging through life sharing diseases and toothpaste, coveting one another’s desserts, hiding shampoo, borrowing money, locking each other out of our rooms, inflicting pain and kissing to heal it in the same instant, loving, laughing, defending, and trying to figure out the common thread that bound us all together.”

-Erma Bombeck, 1987


This is a good week to talk about family. I grew up reading Erma Bombeck’s columns – my mother could really relate to her. Erma had a great way of seeing the humor and light in the most absurd situations. This family, this group of people we’re somehow thrown together with, and with whom we share our tragedies and triumphs, is ultimately one of our greatest tools for learning in this lifetime. They challenge us, in ways no one else can, to grow.

-Lissa Coffey coffeytalk.com

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Daily Tarot: The Lovers

If you’re hesitant to do something or to make a decision, that’s OK. What urgently needs to be done will be done, so don’t worry about it. There may simply be too many options and too many conflicting requests coming up all at the same time. Sometimes hesitation can be a sign of prudence and a refreshing change from impulsiveness.

astrology.com

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About Cat’s Morning Bits: These daily post are reblogged from various email newsletters that I receive each day.

I invite you to check out my websites!

The Desert Path: The dusty ramblings of a desert pagan. https://thedesertpath.com/

Cat’s Treasure Trove …. an eclectic collection of jewelry & gifts! https://thedesertpath.com

Sacred Spirals (the place where all paths meet)
https://www.facebook.com/groups/SacredSpirals/

Thought For The Day: Dec.23, 2020 ” No Limits”

Happy Wednesday,

A new day is a new beginning. A chance to start over and do things differently. These opportunities should not be wasted by reliving the day before. That was yesterday. It is today that is important because it is filled with new ideas, new thoughts and unlimited possibilities!

I invite you to check out my websites!

The Desert Path: The dusty ramblings of a desert pagan. https://thedesertpath.com/

Cat’s Treasure Trove …. an eclectic collection of jewelry & gifts! https://thedesertpath.com
Sacred Spirals (the place where all paths meet)
https://www.facebook.com/groups/SacredSpirals/

Cat’s Morning Bits for December 22, 2020

Cat’s Morning Bits for December 22, 2020

Good Morning Beautiful Souls, grab a cup of your favorite morning brew and start things off with “Today’s Inspirations”. I hope you find something here that will make you feel good or help you on your path today.

Stay healthy, Stay safe!

Blessings, Cat

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December’s Events

Dec. 7 Pearl Harbor Day

Dec, 10 Hanukkah

Dec. 14 New Moon at 8:16 am PST/ 9:16 am MST/ 11:16 am EST

Dec,15 National Cat Herders Day

Dec. 20 Ugly Sweater Day

Dec. 21 Winter Solstice/Winter Begins

Dec. 21 Moon 1st Qtr 3:41pm PST/ 4:41 pm MST/ 6:41 pm EST

Dec. 23 Festivus

Dec. 24 Christmas Eve

Dec. 24 Celtic Tree month of Birch begins

Dec. 25 Christmas Day

Dec. 26 Kwanzaa

Dec. 29 Full Moon at 7:28 pm PST/ 8:28 pm MST/ 10:28 pm EST

Dec. 31 New Years Eve

Dec. 31 Hogmanay

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Spirit Library: Reignite Your Enthusiasm for Life (a message from Kate Spreckley)

This weekend we are being prepared for the upcoming Solstice. The Solstice is always a powerful time but this one is noticeably different as it coincides with the Great Jupiter Saturn Conjunction and marks the completion of a vast cycle of growth, learning and development.

Read more…..

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Cernunnos The Horned God of Celtic Mythology – (Celtic Mythology Explained)

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Spiritual Unite: MOUSE SPIRIT ANIMAL MEANING – SO MIGHTY

If you have the mouse spirit animal, you have the unique symbolism of the mouse as a way to help guide you.

Your spirit animal can offer insight into the areas of your life that need your attention.

Read more…..

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ThoughtCo: Ogham Symbol Gallery

The Celtic Ogham alphabet has long been shrouded in mystery, but many Pagans use these ancient symbols as tools of divination, although there’s no real documentation of how the symbols were used originally. You can make your own Ogham divination set by drawing the symbols on cards or notching them into straight sticks.

Read more…..

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Daily Good: Learning to Love Winter’s Night

Wait without thought, for you are not ready for thought: So the darkness shall be the light, and the stillness the dancing.

T.S. Eliot –

Learning to Love Winter’s Night

“I have put on good attitudes before and found ways of accepting situations –thankfully, I found ways out of some–while creating the semblance of normalcy. But for me, a change of attitude wasn’t enough. It didn’t go deep enough. It wasn’t always reliable. In order to live happily in Toronto, I needed to be able to love deeply, loving the people who live here and the place where I live. And especially, I needed to be able to know the dark, maybe even to love it.” Barbara Wright George shares more in this excerpt from her book, “Learning to Love: On the Way to Experience.” { read more }

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Patheos- New Visions: Loving the Gateways

What you have to attempt [is] to be yourself. What you have to
pray for [is] to become a mirror in which, according to the
degree of purity of heart you have attained, the greatness of life
will be reflected.

Read more….

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MBG: Capricorn Season Is All About Ambition: 7 Ways To Channel The Strong Sign

Every 30 days or so, the Sun visits a new zodiac sign. During this “season” you will feel this prevailing astrological energy—no matter what your Sun sign. Capricorn season 2020–2021 spans the holidays, beginning Monday, December 21, and ending Tuesday, January 19.

Read more…..

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Gratitude: The Short Film by Louie Schwartzberg

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Today’s DIY: Spice Painting: Turn Old Spices and Seasoning Into a Paint Project

Spice painting is a creative and zero-waste way to use expired spices and seasoning as a crafting project for the whole family. This low-cost DIY craft requires few materials and is a great option for sensory play. In a matter of minutes, past due spices can be transformed into an artist’s palette, full of scents, textures, and colors that stimulate all the senses.

Read more…..

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Treehugger: 11 Animals That Hibernate That Aren’t Bears

Hibernation is an amazing physiological feat that is necessary for animal survival. Bears are the animals most known for hibernating, but they aren’t the only ones. Turtles, snakes, wood frogs, and groundhogs are other animals that engage in some form of hibernation. Take a look at some of the animals that like to hide until spring arrives.

Read more…..

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EarthSky News: Moon, Mars, Uranus December 22-24

These next several nights – December 22, 23 and 24, 2020 – use the waxing gibbous moon to find the red planet Mars, and Mars as your guide “star” to the planet Uranus. Whereas Mars is bright and easy to see – outshining Uranus by nearly 300 times – you’re not likely to view dim Uranus in the moonlit glare. Even on a dark. moonless night, Uranus is barely perceptible to the unaided eye as a faint speck of light.

Read more….

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Patheos-Pagan: A Winter Solstice Reflection in 2020

Humans are social animals.

Our closest genetic relatives – the chimpanzees – live in extended family groups of as few as twenty or as many as a hundred individuals. Humans evolved living in similar sized groups.

Read more…..

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Pagan Playlist: Isolation – Nox Arcana

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Inner Journey: WHAT’S IMPORTANT?

“Where you are headed is more important than how fast you are going. Rather than always focusing on what’s urgent, learn to focus on what is really important.”
— Stephen Covey

Time management is all about making decisions. At each step of the way, we want to choose activities that best support what we want to do with our lives. To do this, we need to be clear about our short and long-term goals.

Here’s a general question to ask yourself often: “Is this the best use of my time in terms of meeting my goals?” Sometimes, of course, we don’t have any choice. But ask yourself honestly, “Could I take more control if I really wanted to?” Often, we play the victim because we don’t want to make the effort to change our behaviour.

“Time is a created thing. To say ‘I don’t have time,’ is like saying, ‘I don’t want to.'”
— Lao-Tzu

higherawareness.com

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A Note from the Universe

Young souls play hard to get.

Mature souls, play hard.

But old souls, just play…

La, la, la –

The Universe

tut.com

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Today’s Recipe: Mouth-Watering Stuffed Mushrooms

These delicious mushrooms taste just like restaurant-style stuffed mushrooms and are my guy’s absolute favorite.

Read more….

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Magical Correspondences for Tuesday

Magickal Intentions: Courage, Physical Strength, Revenge, Military Honors, Surgery and the Breaking of Negative Spells, Matrimony, War, Enemies, Prison, Vitality and Assertiveness

Element: Fire


Incense: Dragon’s Blood, Patchouli
Planet: Mars
Star Signs: Aries and Scorpio
Angel: Samuel
Power Colors: Red and Orange
Herbs & Plants: Red Rose, Cock’s Comb, Pine, Daisy, Thyme and Pepper
Sacred Stones: Carnelian, Bloodstone, Ruby, Garnet and Pink Tourmaline
Oil: (Mars) Basil, Coriander, Ginger

Deities include Ares, Lilith, The Morrigan, Tiwaz, Tyr

Tuesday is ruled by Mars. Today’s energies align with all things masculine such as conflict, physical endurance and strength, lust, hunting, sports, and all types of competition. It can also be used for rituals involving surgical procedures or political ventures.

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Daily Wisdom
December 22, 2020

Family
“The whole world is my family.”

-Pope John XXIII (1881-1963)


There is so much truth, and so much simplicity in this statement. The whole world really is our family. We are each connected to the other. When we can all see this, feel this, understand it and accept it in our hearts, then there will truly be peace on earth. For how then could there be anything less?

-Lissa Coffey coffeytalk.com

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Daily Tarot: The Chariot

No matter how routine and ordinary you may feel about today’s duties and demands, you can bolster your spirit by remembering what inspires you. There are role models, ideals, dreams, and aspirations that can inform and improve even the simplest and most modest of your activities. Act with integrity and pride, and instill everything you do with that integrity and pride. Hold your head high.

astrology.com

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About Cat’s Morning Bits: These daily post are reblogged from various email newsletters that I receive each day.

I invite you to check out my websites!

The Desert Path: The dusty ramblings of a desert pagan. https://thedesertpath.com/

Cat’s Treasure Trove …. an eclectic collection of jewelry & gifts! https://thedesertpath.com

Sacred Spirals (the place where all paths meet)
https://www.facebook.com/groups/SacredSpirals/

Thought For The Day: Dec. 22, 2020 “Speak From Experience”

Happy Tuesday,

Have you noticed that it’s easier to give advice to someone else than it is to use that advice yourself? We have all been there and done that. Before giving advice make sure that you are speaking from experience. Remember if you aren’t willing to take your own advice don’t offer it to someone else.

I invite you to check out my websites!

The Desert Path: The dusty ramblings of a desert pagan. https://thedesertpath.com/

Cat’s Treasure Trove …. an eclectic collection of jewelry & gifts! https://thedesertpath.com
Sacred Spirals (the place where all paths meet)
https://www.facebook.com/groups/SacredSpirals/

Thought For The Day: Dec. 21, 2020 “Yuletide Blessings!”

Happy Monday and Happy Winter Solstice!

A Yuletide Toast

See the Yule Log draped with holly, glossy green and scarlet hued;

Adorned with ribbons and with gifts that Mother Nature grew.

Shaped by hands Both large and small, a labor of love and joy;

To celebrate the Suns rebirth and a brand new season to enjoy.

So gather round and raise a cup to toast both log and coming light;

We’ll keep our vigil by the fire on this the longest night.

© CatSister/LBolotin

Bright blessings for a magickal celebration!

Graphic found on the internet.

I invite you to check out my websites!

The Desert Path: The dusty ramblings of a desert pagan. https://thedesertpath.com/

Cat’s Treasure Trove …. an eclectic collection of jewelry & gifts! https://thedesertpath.com
Sacred Spirals (the place where all paths meet)
https://www.facebook.com/groups/SacredSpirals/

Cat’s Morning Bits for December 21, 2020

Cat’s Morning Bits for December 21, 2020

Good Morning Beautiful Souls, grab a cup of your favorite morning brew and start things off with “Today’s Inspirations”. I hope you find something here that will make you feel good or help you on your path today.

Stay healthy, Stay safe!

Blessings, Cat

____________________

A Yuletide Toast

See the Yule log draped with holly, glossy green and scarlet hued;

Adorned with ribbons and with gifts that Mother Nature grew.

Shaped by hands both large and small, a labor of love and joy;

To celebrate the Suns rebirth and a brand new season to enjoy.

So gather round and raise a cup to toast both log and coming light;

We’ll keep our vigil by the fire on this the longest night.

© CatSister/LBolotin

_________________

December’s Events

Dec. 7 Pearl Harbor Day

Dec, 10 Hanukkah

Dec. 14 New Moon at 8:16 am PST/ 9:16 am MST/ 11:16 am EST

Dec,15 National Cat Herders Day

Dec. 20 Ugly Sweater Day

Dec. 21 Winter Solstice/Winter Begins

Dec. 21 Moon 1st Qtr 3:41pm PST/ 4:41 pm MST/ 6:41 pm EST

Dec. 23 Festivus

Dec. 24 Christmas Eve

Dec. 24 Celtic Tree month of Birch begins

Dec. 25 Christmas Day

Dec. 26 Kwanzaa

Dec. 29 Full Moon at 7:28 pm PST/ 8:28 pm MST/ 10:28 pm EST

Dec. 31 New Years Eve

Dec. 31 Hogmanay

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“The Holly King, represents the Death aspect of the God at this time of year; and the Oak King, represents the opposite aspect of Rebirth (these roles are reversed at Midsummer). This can be likened to the Divine Child’s birth. The myth of the Holly King/Oak King probably originated from the Druids to whom these two trees were highly sacred. The Oak King (God of the Waxing Year) kills the Holly King (God of the Waning Year) at Yule (the Winter Solstice). The Oak King then reigns supreme until Litha (the Summer Solstice) when the two battle again, this time with the Holly King victorious. Examples of the Holly King’s image can be seen in our modern Santa Claus.”

Yule and Its Lore

gardendigest.com

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Spirituality & Health: Elves and More: Embracing Enchantment
BY SARAH BOWEN


Look beyond Santa and enjoy inspiration from elves, the fae, and other not-so-hidden creatures.

“The Kingdom of Elves was inside of the Land of Ireland. It lived in its bosom, concealed in its own light, in its days and cycles.

Read more……

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crystal life: 8 Crystals for the Winter Solstice

The Winter Solstice has been a time of magic for millennia. Celebrated around the globe, the Winter Solstice is the shortest day of the year and the longest night. The Winter Solstice represents rebirth, a time of reflection, a time of celebrations, and rituals. For centuries, and still to this day, the celebration of Yule occurs during the Winter Solstice. Yule began with the Germanic people and celebrates the rebirth of the sun and welcomes the season of winter. The Winter Solstice marks the changes of seasons and is a perfect time to cleanse and smudge your spaces.

Read more…..

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ThoughtCo: Sacred Plants of the Winter Solstice

In most modern Pagan traditions, plants and their folklore are an integral part of belief and practice. In particular, many of the Sabbats are associated with the magical properties of different plants. Yule, the winter solstice,

Read more…

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Magical Firestarters for Yule – How to Make Fire starters, How to Celebrate Yule – Magical Crafting

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Patheos Pagan: A Simple Solstice Ritual For Anyone

There is something powerful in a simple ritual that you know many other people are also doing – even if you’re separated by time, place, and pandemic. It brings a sense of togetherness and the feel of participating in making a pattern.

Read more….

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MBG: How To Approach Wintertime If This Season Has You Feeling Down

Winter can be tough, especially if you live in a harsher climate. Days are short, nights are long, and the cold can get in the way of your typical pastimes.

Read more….

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Worts + Cunning Apothecary: Darkest Night : A Winter Solstice Tarot Spread

As we celebrate the longest night of the year we have an opportunity to learn more about ourselves and our desires as they are reflected back at us by the dark mirror of night. The following spread plays with image of the mirror as well as the promise of growing light, helping us to seed our dreams and plant promises for the months ahead.

Read more….

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Today’s DIY: Yule Goddess Ornaments! Pagan-Witchcraft-Wicca-witch-winter solstice

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Elephant Journal: 3 Ways to Create a Beautiful Winter Solstice Ritual & Find Light in the Darkness.

The winter solstice means “Rebirth of the Sun” or “New Beginnings,” and in the United States, it occurs on Monday, December 21, 2020.
The winter solstice is celebrated, not only as the year’s shortest day, but of the sun’s steady climb toward the long, warm days of summer.

Read more….

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DARIDEL – Yule (Official Video)

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Treehugger: Garden Cuttings for the Prettiest Winter Decor
The winter garden may seem quiet, but it’s filled with all-natural decorations.

Most of us like to bring some cheer into our homes over the festive season. For many, that involves a Christmas tree. But unless your tree is a living one, and your decorations are all-natural and plastic-free, this is not the most sustainable of choices.

Read more….

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EarthSky News: Solstice sun at southernmost point

You might think of the solstice as a day, but it’s really a moment. The December solstice happens at 10:02 UTC on December 21, 2020. That time – the moment of solstice – marks the sun’s southernmost point for this year.

Here in North America, the solstice happens on December 21 (5:02 a.m.EST, 4:02 a.m. p.m. CST, 3:02 a.m. MST, 2:02 a.m. PST, 1:02 a.m. Alaskan Time and 12:02 a.m. Hawaiian Time). When is the moment of solstice for your location? Translate December 21 at 10:02 UTC to your time zone, here.

Read more…..

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Patheos-Pagan: Working Magic: Yule/Winter Solstice Spells

We could all do with a little boost to our abundance and prosperity at this time of year. Here I share a couple of ideas to work magic with your festive decorations and bring positive energy into your home. I have used prosperity as the intent, but you could work magic with them for anything.

Read more….

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Pagan Playlist: Lisa Thiel – Yule (Winter Solstice Song)

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Inner Journey: THE GIFT OF JOY

“Joy is prayer – Joy is strength – Joy is love – Joy is a net of love by which you can catch souls. She gives most who gives with Joy.”
— Mother Teresa

Some people unconsciously believe it’s not okay to feel more joyful than the people around them. Out of a mistaken sense of caring, they squelch their joy and tune in to the sadness of the one they are with.

In truth, joy is one of the greatest gifts we can give to people around us. Those who are unhappy need our joy, not our sadness.

“Never miss a joy in this world of trouble … that’s my theory! … Happiness, like mercy, is twice blest: it blesses those most intimately associated with it and it blesses all those who see it, hear it, touch it orbreathe the same atmosphere.”
— Kate Douglas Wiggin

higherawareness.com

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“Yule, is when the dark half of the year relinquishes to the light half. Starting the next morning at sunrise, the sun climbs just a little higher and stays a little longer in the sky each day. Known as Solstice Night, or the longest night of the year, much celebration was to be had as the ancestors awaited the rebirth of the Oak King, the Sun King, the Giver of Life that warmed the frozen Earth and made her to bear forth from seeds protected through the fall and winter in her womb. Bonfires were lit in the fields, and crops and trees were “wassailed” with toasts of spiced cider.”

Yule Lore

gardendigest.com

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Today’s Recipe: Herbed Pomegranate Salsa

A delightfully different salsa for the true salsa lover, this bittersweet salsa is often found in Mexican cuisine as well as Persian.

Read more….

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Winter Solstice/Yule Correspondences

December 21 (approximately)

Colors: Red, Green, White, Gold, Silver

Sacred Stones: Quartz Crystal, Turquoise, Lemon Quartz, Peridot, Serpentine, Garnet, Bloodstone, Ruby, Black Onyx

Herbs: All evergreens, Bay, Blessed Thistle, Chamomile, Ash, Holly, Mistletoe, Ivy, Pine/Fir cones, Cinnamon, Frankincense, Myrrh

Symbols: Yule Log or Tree, evergreen wreaths, holly/mistletoe, Cinnamon sticks, Bells, Spinning Wheels

Dieties: The Holly King, Apollo, Dagda, Brigid, Odin. Osiris, Hathor, Ixchel, Hecate, the Norn’s, all Winter Fae

Food & Drink: Roast fowl, dried fruit, ham, apples, oranges, nuts, mulled cider/wine

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About Cat’s Morning Bits: These daily post are reblogged from various email newsletters that I receive each day.

I invite you to check out my websites!

The Desert Path: The dusty ramblings of a desert pagan. https://thedesertpath.com/

Cat’s Treasure Trove …. an eclectic collection of jewelry & gifts! https://thedesertpath.com

Sacred Spirals (the place where all paths meet)
https://www.facebook.com/groups/SacredSpirals/

Winter Solstice/Yule Correspondences

Winter Solstice/Yule Correspondences

December 21 (approximately)

Colors: Red, Green, White, Gold, Silver

Sacred Stones: Quartz Crystal, Turquoise, Lemon Quartz, Peridot, Serpentine, Garnet, Bloodstone, Ruby, Black Onyx,

Herbs: All evergreens, Bay, Blessed Thistle, Chamomile, Ash, Holly, Mistletoe, Ivy, Pine/Fir cones, Cinnamon, Frankincense, Myrrh

Symbols: Yule Log or Tree, evergreen wreaths, holly/mistletoe, Cinnamon sticks, Bells, Spinning Wheels

Deities: The Holly King, Apollo, Dagda, Brigid, Odin. Osiris, Hathor, Ixchel, Hecate, the Norn’s, all Winter Fae

Food & Drink: Roast fowl, dried fruit, ham, apples, oranges, nuts, mulled cider/wine

The Winter Solstice or Yule (ewe-elle/yool) is the shortest day and the longest night of the year and the time when pagans celebrate the rebirth of the Sun. The date of this tends to vary and falls sometime between Dec 21st or Dec 22nd. It is a fire festival and a quarter Sabbat. On this longest night of the year the now elderly Holly King makes way for the new born sun who will soon take his place as the Oak King. This holiday is celebrated worldwide and is know as Alban Arthan (druids), Mid Winter and Yuletide.

Before Christianity rose to power, the Winter Solstice was associated with the birth of a Divine King. The reason for celebrating the Winter Solstice has also remained the same: rebirth and renewal, the return of hope and that life will continue. Jesus is not the only deity said to be born at this time, he’s in the company of Pagan gods like Apollo. Mithras, and Horus. The church decided that it was easier to incorporate the pagan celebration into theirs than to change it altogether. As a result the pagan Sun God is born on the same day as the Christian Son of God, who is by the way also called “the light of the world”. Here is an interesting tidbit….Did you know that mistletoe was banned from churches due it’s pagan association?

Yule is also a festival of light and candles are a traditional item.. Candles were lit at midnight as a symbol of birth of the Sun God. In Ireland oil lamps were left lit all night long. Special Yule candles were also popular and would be lit every night throughout the Twelve Days of Christmas. As with any candle, blowing it out causes the accumulated luck that resides in the candle to blow away”. The purpose of the candle is to bless the house and family in the coming year.

Activities for Yule include, Making treats and feeding our feathered friends. If you have access to the forest you can find a yule log for your home and decorate it. Help those less fortunate by donating food or gifts to a good charity. Stay up all night and celebrate the rebirth of the sun at dawn. Create a special red Yule candle to burn, buying one is okay too! Decorate your candle with evergreens and holly. other activities include: Wasssailing, bell ringing, singing, kindling the new fire.

THE HOLLY AND THE IVY

The holly and the ivy, when they are both full grown,
Of all the trees that are in the wood, the holly bears the crown.

The rising of the sun, and the running of the deer,
The playing of the merry organ, sweet singing in the choir.

The holly bears a blossom, as white as lily flow’r,
And in our hearts we bear pure hope, and sing every hour.

The holly bears a berry, as red as any rose,
And in our hearts we bear a flame of life, and with hope it grows.

The holly bears a prickle, as sharp as any thorn,
And our skin bears the sun’s sharp rays, bringing life this Solstice morn.

(I don’t remember where I found this version of this song. But it is similar to Doreen Valiente ‘s The Pagan Carol )

Yule Blessings! Cat

I invite you 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 (the place where all paths meet)
https://www.facebook.com/groups/SacredSpirals/

Cat’s Morning Bits for December 18, 2020

Cat’s Morning Bits for December 18, 2020

Good Morning Beautiful Souls, grab a cup of your favorite morning brew and start things off with “Today’s Inspirations”. I hope you find something here that will make you feel good or help you on your path today.

Stay healthy, Stay safe!

Blessings, Cat

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December’s Events

Dec. 7 Pearl Harbor Day

Dec, 10 Hanukkah

Dec. 14 New Moon at 8:16 am PST/ 9:16 am MST/ 11:16 am EST

Dec,15 National Cat Herders Day

Dec. 20 Ugly Sweater Day

Dec. 21 Winter Solstice/Winter Begins

Dec. 21 Moon 1st Qtr 3:41pm PST/ 4:41 pm MST/ 6:41 pm EST

Dec. 23 Festivus

Dec. 24 Christmas Eve

Dec. 24 Celtic Tree month of Birch begins

Dec. 25 Christmas Day

Dec. 26 Kwanzaa

Dec. 29 Full Moon at 7:28 pm PST/ 8:28 pm MST/ 10:28 pm EST

Dec. 31 New Years Eve

Dec. 31 Hogmanay

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Spirit Library: Closing Ancient Cycles (a message from Kate Spreckley)

The intensity of the incoming energies is accelerating our awakening and healing journey. We are finishing off aspects of an old cycle and bringing to a close the ancient karmic entanglements that have kept us stuck in the past

Read more…..

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Spirituality & Health: Winter Solstice 2020 and the Golden Age of Aquarius

The threshold that comes with the winter solstice is the gift of the coming season, and waits for you to claim it. The gift is for all of us, independently and collectively.

Read more…..

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Spiritual Unite: MONKEY SPIRIT ANIMAL MEANING – ALLOW YOURSELF TO PLAY

Your monkey spirit animal appears when you need a little more energy in your life.

The inquisitiveness, sociability and childlike nature of the monkey spirit animal hold much guidance for you at this moment in your life.

Read more….

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ThoughtCo: Winter Customs Around the World

Whether you observe Yule, Christmas, Sol Invictus, or Hogmanay, the winter season is typically a time of celebration around the world. Traditions vary widely from one country to the next, but one thing they all have in common is the observance of customs around the time of the winter solstice. Here are some ways that residents of different countries observe the season.

Read more…..

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Patheos / New Visions: Listening to Sacred Stillness: Taking Time for Stillness

When will we begin taking time for stillness?

We value our time. Some of us believe time is money. We do not want anyone else to waste our time. It is almost as if we could hoard spare moments or days in boxes to use them later.

Read more….

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MBG: What Your Handwriting Says About You, According To A Graphologist

Have you ever wondered what your handwriting says about you? No, we’re not talking about “good” versus “bad” handwriting—we’re talking about graphology, or the analysis of handwriting as it relates to psychology.

Read more…..

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The Wisdom of Odin: Norse Pagan Symbols: The Vegvisir

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Today’s DIY: DIY YULE WINTER SOLSTICE HOLIDAY TREE ORNAMENTS

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Elephant Journal: This Winter Solstice, we become New Again.

A few decades ago, I didn’t give winter solstice the time of day.
Instead, I regularly attended or hosted summer solstice parties.

These celebrations involved dancing to ABBA and filling my cup with “solstice juice.”

Read more…..

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Treehugger: 8 Completely Unique Types of Bears

Bears are found in all corners of the world, from the icy sheets of the Arctic and the verdant forests of North America, to the mountain regions of South America and even throughout Europe and Asia. Varying greatly in size, bears are mammals who prefer a solitary lifestyle, with the exception of mothers who care for their cubs.

Read more…..

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EarthSky News: Longest days accompany December solstice

When we say the longest days of the year come each year around the December solstice, we’re talking about the day not as a period of daylight, but as the interval from one solar noon or midday to the next. In December, a day – one rotation of Earth relative to the noonday sun – is about 1/2 minute longer than the average 24 hours.

Read more…….

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Patheos-Pagan: Getting Things Moving With Frankincense and Myrrh

When you hear “frankincense and myrrh”, you may think of the mythology around the birth of Jesus. But these two resins have a history long before that poor old carpenter-rabbi-mystic, and far outside of the Jewish tradition. Still, the Christmas season provides a good excuse to talk about them.

Read more…..

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Pagan Playlist: Eve Goodman – Dacw ‘Nghariad [Welsh folk song]

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Inner Journey: DO YOU OWN YOUR LIFE?

“The meaning of life is to give life meaning.”
— Ken Hudgins

When we own our lives, we accept what we’ve inherited and the experiences we hold in our memories. We also claim our right to create new conditions if we’re not happy with what’s come before. We assume responsibility for changing what does not suit us. Weacknowledge our own special talents and skills, and truly comprehend our right to enjoy the journey. In short, we embrace the meaning and purpose, the mystery and the beauty of our lives.

Do you feel that you own your life at the moment?

“I think of life itself now as a wonderful play that I’ve written for myself… and so my purpose is to have the utmost fun playing my part.”
— Shirley MacLaine

“Life is too short to be little.”
— Benjamin Disraeli

“Every man dies, but not every man lives….”
— Garth Brooks

higherawareness.com

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A Note from the Universe

Forget would’ve, could’ve, or should’ve.

Because for all that you’ve already done, all of life’s elements have realigned to gain you an advantage, stack the deck, and prepare for legend making.

Yo! Ho! Ho!

The Universe

tut.com

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Today’s Recipe: 12 Luscious Fruit Desserts for Christmas

Christmas desserts are the holly jolliest desserts of the year, especially when they feature the bold colors and fresh flavors of the holiday season. Here are a dozen Christmas fruit desserts that showcase apples, pears, cranberries, and winter citrus in all their seasonal glory, perfect for your winter feasts.

Read more…..

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Magical Correspondences for Friday

Magickal Intentions: Love, Romance, Marriage, Sexual Matters, Physical Beauty, Friendship and Partnerships, Strangers and Matters of the Heart

Element: Earth


Incense: Strawberry, Sandalwood, Rose, Saffron and Vanilla
Planet: Venus
Star Signs: Libra and Taurus
Angel: Ariel
Power Colors: Green, Pink, Aqua
Herbs & Plants: Pink Rose, Ivy, Birch, Heather, Clematis, Sage, Violet and Water Lilly

Sacred Stones: Rose Quartz, Moonstone, Pink Tourmaline, Peridot, Emerald and Jade
Oil: (Venus) Cardamom, Palmarosa, Rose, Yarrow

Deities include Aphrodite, Eros, Freya, Venus


Friday is ruled by Venus. It’s energies are warm, sensuous, and fulfilling. Efforts that involve any type of pleasure, comfort, and luxury, as well as the arts, music, or aroma (incense and perfume) can be done on this day. As Venus lends its sensuous influences to the energies of this day, use it for any magical work that deals with matters of the heart.

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Daily Wisdom
December 18, 2020

Joy
“Joy is the holy fire that keeps our purpose warm and our intelligence aglow.”

-Helen Keller, 1905


We can find joy in anything we do. Joy is something that comes from within our selves, not from any other source. It fuels us, feeds us, nourishes us.

-Lissa Coffey coffeytalk.com

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Daily Tarot: The Chariot

No matter how routine and ordinary you may feel about today’s duties and demands, you can bolster your spirit by remembering what inspires you. There are role models, ideals, dreams, and aspirations that can inform and improve even the simplest and most modest of your activities. Act with integrity and pride, and instill everything you do with that integrity and pride. Hold your head high.

astrology.com

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About Cat’s Morning Bits: These daily post are reblogged from various email newsletters that I receive each day.

I invite you to check out my websites!

The Desert Path: The dusty ramblings of a desert pagan. https://thedesertpath.com/

Cat’s Treasure Trove …. an eclectic collection of jewelry & gifts! https://thedesertpath.com

Sacred Spirals (the place where all paths meet)
https://www.facebook.com/groups/SacredSpirals/

Thought For The Day: Dec. 18, 2020 “Do it For Yourself”

Happy Friday,

Our quote for today is about work however it refers to our lives as well. Having the life we want requires work as does making peace with ourselves. When things don’t look so great or are stressful remember that there are two sides to each coin. So take a chance, flip that coin and do the work necessary to turn the odds in your favor. Don’t be afraid of a little work on your own behalf.

I invite you to check out my websites!

The Desert Path: The dusty ramblings of a desert pagan. https://thedesertpath.com/

Cat’s Treasure Trove …. an eclectic collection of jewelry & gifts! https://thedesertpath.com
Sacred Spirals (the place where all paths meet)
https://www.facebook.com/groups/SacredSpirals/

Cat’s Morning Bits for December 17, 2020

Cat’s Morning Bits for December 17, 2020

Good Morning Beautiful Souls, grab a cup of your favorite morning brew and start things off with “Today’s Inspirations”. I hope you find something here that will make you feel good or help you on your path today.

Stay healthy, Stay safe!

Blessings, Cat

______________ _________________

December’s Events

Dec. 7 Pearl Harbor Day

Dec, 10 Hanukkah

Dec. 14 New Moon at 8:16 am PST/ 9:16 am MST/ 11:16 am EST

Dec,15 National Cat Herders Day

Dec. 20 Ugly Sweater Day

Dec. 21 Winter Solstice/Winter Begins

Dec. 21 Moon 1st Qtr 3:41pm PST/ 4:41 pm MST/ 6:41 pm EST

Dec. 23 Festivus

Dec. 24 Christmas Eve

Dec. 24 Celtic Tree month of Birch begins

Dec. 25 Christmas Day

Dec. 26 Kwanzaa

Dec. 29 Full Moon at 7:28 pm PST/ 8:28 pm MST/ 10:28 pm EST

Dec. 31 New Years Eve

Dec. 31 Hogmanay

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Spirit Library: Changing World (a message from Kate Spreckley)

This year has facilitated a powerful inner transformation. With so many difficult and challenging experiences we have been forced to face, process, release and realign our entire being.

Read more…..

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Worts + Cunning Apothecary Newsletter: Witchcraft + Weeds : Healing + Magickal Practices for Winter

The days grow shorter and the longest night of the year spreads its cloak of stars across the land. Known by many names including the Winter Solstice, Yule….

Read more….

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Spiritual Unite: TIGER SPIRIT ANIMAL MEANING – APEX ENERGY AVAILABLE

Having a tiger spirit animal speaks of your strength, courage and determination.

Tiger symbolism also relates to overcoming fears and obstacles, as well as maintaining a healthy appetite for life.

Read more…

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ThoughtCo: Deities of the Winter Solstice

While it may be mostly Pagans who celebrate the Yule holiday today, nearly all cultures and faiths have held some sort of winter solstice celebration or festival. Because of the theme of endless birth, life, death, and rebirth, the time of the solstice is often associated with deity and other legendary figures.

Read more….

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MBG: How Finding Your “Flow State” Can Strengthen Your Relationship With Others & Yourself

We are all spiritual creatures, even if we don’t fully realize it yet. Try thinking back to a time as a kid when you felt completely yourself, relaxed and comfortable, unconcerned with the expectations of others, and inspired.

Read more……

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: The Witch of Wanderlust: Winter Solstice Altar || Mini Vlog

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How to Make a Cinnamon Candle Holder – Yule Gift – Holiday gift & DIY Craft – Magical Crafting

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Elephant Journal: If the Sky could Talk. {Poem}

If the sky could talk,

it would tell us to just stop,

and look,

stop,

stop the madness,

Read more…..

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Treehugger: 8 Facts About the Wonderful Walrus

Walruses are probably best known for their oversized tusks. In fact, the species’ scientific name Odobenus rosmarus is Latin for “tooth walking sea horse.” There are two subspecies of these marine mammals,

Read more….

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EarthSky News: Look for the Northern Cross

Tonight, look for the Northern Cross. It isn’t as famous as its counterpart – the Southern Cross – visible from the Southern Hemisphere or the northern tropics. But the Northern Cross also looks like a cross, and it’s pretty easy to spot. It’s a large, noticeable star pattern.

Read more….

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Patheos-Pagan: Getting Into the Mood of Yule

Perhaps you have decorated to “get into the mood” of Yule. Shopped a little too, but something, still isn’t quite cutting it. Read on for some tips to enhance the reason for the season and celebration of Yule.

Read more….

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Pagan Playlist: Solstice Evergreen

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Inner Journey: SLOW DOWN AND ENJOY

“Adopt the pace of nature, her secret is patience.”
— Ralph Waldo Emerson

Racing through life is very stressful. If we stay in high gear too long, we lose our ability to shift down. And when we’re stressed, we can’t access happiness, appreciation, fun, compassion, generosity, awareness of beauty and other wonderful qualities. High stress also triggers negative emotions like frustration, impatience, anger and fear.

Life has so much to offer if we will slow down and truly experience it. We must always remember that we are the ones in control of the accelerator. We CAN choose to brake.

“Slow down and enjoy life. It’s not only the scenery you miss by going too fast — you also miss the sense of where you are going and why.”
— Eddie Cantor

higherawareness.com

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A Note from the Universe

What if the things you’re going through right now were custom designed to set you up for some really big dreams coming true? Huge big dreams?

And I see a thriving business and a steady income coming out of this, as well.

Tallyho,

The Universe

tut.com

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Today’s Recipe: Herbal Muse Press: Hawthorn Berry Homemade Cordial

Harvesting hawthorn (Crataegus spp.) berries in late fall can produce a basket of sweet red berries ideal for a vitamin-rich homemade cordial (Harford,2020). Blended with seasonal favorites, including apple, rosehip (Rosa spp.), and cinnamon (Cinnamomum spp.), this hawthorn berry homemade cordial is sure to delight and soothe.

Read more….

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Magical Correspondences for Thursday

Magickal Intentions: Luck, Happiness, Health, Legal Matters, Male Fertility, Treasure and Wealth, Honor, Riches, Desires, Leadership, Public Activity, Power and Success

Element: Earth

 Incense: Cinnamon, Musk, Nutmeg and Sage


Planet: Jupiter
Star Signs: Sagittarius and Pisces
Angel: Sachiel
Power Colors: Purple, Royal Blue and Indigo
Herbs & Plants: Cinnamon, Beech, Buttercup, Coltsfoot, Oak, Dill, Borage, Patchouli 
Sacred Stones: Sugilite, Amethyst, Turquoise, Lapis Lazuli and Sapphire
Oil: (Jupiter) Clove, Lemon Balm, Oakmoss, Star Anise

Deities include Juno, Jupiter,Thor, Zeus

Thursday is ruled by Jupiter. Today’s energies influence all matters involving material gain and spell work for general success, accomplishment, honors and awards, legal issues, luck, gambling, and prosperity.

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Daily Tarot: The Hermit

Be thoughtful and leave more room and time to gain a little fresh wisdom. Be observant, too, and look beyond those things that are being put under your nose. You don’t have to share your impressions and discoveries unless you think it’s wise. This doesn’t make you hesitant, doubtful, or skeptical. It makes you better able to see solutions and to avoid repeat mistakes

astrology.com

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About Cat’s Morning Bits: These daily post are reblogged from various email newsletters that I receive each day.

I invite you to check out my websites!

The Desert Path: The dusty ramblings of a desert pagan. https://thedesertpath.com/

Cat’s Treasure Trove …. an eclectic collection of jewelry & gifts! https://thedesertpath.com

Sacred Spirals (the place where all paths meet)
https://www.facebook.com/groups/SacredSpirals/