The Desert Path

The Dusty Ramblings of a Desert Pagan

Cat’s Bits & Pieces for the New Moon July 20, 2020

Posted on July 19, 2020 by Cat

magickal graphics moon phases

Cat’s Bits & Pieces for the New Moon July 20, 2020

New Moon blessings 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.

Blessings, Cat

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New Moon at 10:32 am PST/ 11:32 am MST/ 1:32pm EST

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The Witchipedia: New Moon

The new moon is the first phase of the moon. Traditionally, it occurs when the first waxing crescent of the moon in visible in the sky. Astronomically, it occurs when the moon is the closest to the sun as seen from the Earth. This takes place right in the middle of the dark moon period so the moon is not visible at this time unless there is a solar eclipse when its shadow is visible against the sun.

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MBG: Monday’s New Moon In Cancer Is Prime Time To Tap Into Your Intuitive Side

This Monday, July 20, at 1:32 p.m. EDT, the second in a rare, consecutive pair of new moons in Cancer follows up on initiatives that began during the June 21 solar eclipse. In the zodiac’s sign of home, family, and nurturing, now’s the time to repair fractured bonds and refresh your nest.

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Astrology.com: JULY’S CANCER NEW MOON GIVES YOUR A SECOND CHANCE TO GET IT RIGHT

With last month’s new moon/solar eclipse at the first degree and this one in the second-to-last degree, there’s a sense of coming full-circle. Whatever intentions we set around the solstice, this new moon presents a second chance to dive even more deeply into Cancerian themes.

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New Moon Abundance Checks

New Moon Abundance check writing is a ritual for
manifesting, using the energy of the New Moon each
month along with Astrology and the house
the new moon touches on for you!

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EarthSky News: New moon is July 20, 2020

When the moon is new, it’s most nearly between the Earth and sun for any particular month. There’s a new moon about once a month, because the moon takes about a month to orbit Earth. Most of the time, the new moon passes not in front of the sun, but simply near it in our sky. That’s why, in most months, there’s no solar eclipse. In June 2020, however, the moon will pass dead-on in front of the sun, causing an annular – or ring – solar eclipse

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Astrology Answers: CRYSTAL HEALING & CLEANSING FOR THE NEW MOON

The New Moon is always a powerful time of the month for a variety of reasons. Moon phases are an interesting thing; each one possesses its own special magic, and the New Moon is one of the most powerful phases of all.

About Cat’s Bits & Pieces: These posts are reblogged from various email newsletters that I receive each day and various online resources.

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/

Celtic Tree Month of Willow (Saille (Sail) April 15- May 12.

Posted on April 15, 2018 by Cat

Celtic Tree Month of Willow (Saille (Sail) April 15- May 12.

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“The willow tree plays the water like a harp.”
Ramon Gomez de la Serna (Spanish Writer, 1888-1963)

The Tree:

The willow tree is associated with the element of water and they grow best in or near damp or wet areas. They love growing on or near riverbanks and actually help to stop soil erosion. They are impressive trees that can grow up to 80 feet in height. There are many varieties of willows throughout Europe and North America, including globe, white and weeping and they make excellent shade trees. All willows produce long fuzzy catkins in the spring before the leaves appear. They have thick, ridged bark and long thin leaves. As anyone with willow trees can attest to they are messy trees and are what is called “self pruning” as they tend to drop copious amounts of branches when it’s windy. Willow can also be a shrub which can be found growing along creeks and in marshy areas.

Healing:

In healing willow is used as an all around pain reliever and is the main ingredient in aspirin. It is also used to treat fever, chills, bursitis, menstrual cramps, chronic dysentery, worms and edema just to name a few. It is an anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and an antiseptic. It has also recently been shown to delay the formation of cataracts and lower the risk of male heart disease. It can also be used as a wash to treat poison-ivy, corns and cuts. For more information on the healing properties of willow visit: https://www.homeremediesweb.com/willow-bark-health-benefits.php

In Myth & Magic

Willow is a symbols of new journeys, and of contact with the otherworld. The Celts have a creation myth that involves this tree. It is said that in the beginning there were two scarlet colored sea serpent eggs that held the sun and the earth. These eggs were hidden among the branches of a great willow tree to keep them safe. When the eggs hatched, they brought forth all life.

Willow is also the embodiment of female and lunar energy. She is the ebb and flow of water and governs the cycles of both woman and earth. The month of willow brings the wonder and enchantment of spring, moon related magic, strengthening of intuition and new wisdom. Her connection to the moon can bring visions and the understanding of dreams. To dream of a willow tree is said to mean that a rival will take your lover.

In Northern European folklore willow was associated with death and the words “wicked and witch” are said to be derived from it’s name, however if you place the branches in your home those within will be protected from evil. Other associated folklore includes knocking on this tree to avert evil and yes this where the saying “Knock on wood” originated. If you carry a piece of willow on your person it will instill bravery and remove the fear of death. If there is a willow growing near your home it will protect you, and if you need to get something off your chest, tell it to a willow tree and your secret will be held fast. Talismans of willow twigs and leaves can be made for love, friendship and loyalty.

As a magical name Willow is one of emotion. It is also a flowing and loving name for a serious moon worshiper!

Willow People

People born in the month of willow tend to be empathic and intuitive and are said to be able to access ancient memories easier than most other people. They have a deep love for beautiful things and can be honest to a fault. Willows also accept change easily and are quick to grab opportunities that come their way. On the down side willow people are subject to mood swings and can have trouble reasoning things out. They can be hard to get to know and demanding which makes them hard to live with at times.

Correspondences:

Folk Names: Pussy Willow, Saille, Saugh Tree, Tree of Enchantment, Withe, Withy

Magic: love, fertility, protection, intuition, healing, contact with fairies and elementals, moon magic.

Deities: Artemis, Hecate, Aradia, Sarasvati, Ishtar, Dana, Diana, Ceridwen, the Morrigan, Belil, Poseidon, Arawen, Brigid, Mercury

Sacred Stones: Moonstone, Opal, Pearl, Mother of Pearl

written by Cat from the following sources:
Cunningham’s Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs by Scott Cunningham
The New Book of Magical Names by Phoenix McFarland
Whispers from the Woods by Sandra Kynes
crystal-forest.com
dutchie.org

Photo from freeimages.com

Celtic Tree Month of Alder March 18th to April 14th

Posted on March 18, 2018 by Cat

old-tree-1-1315209

Celtic Tree Month of Alder ( Ffearn (FAIR-n) runs from March 18th to April 14th.

Alder is a member of the Birch family and is native to the British Isles, Europe and North America. These trees require a great quantity of water and can reach 65 feet or more if left to grow undisturbed. The tree itself grows in a rough cone shape with branches that are evenly spaced down its long trunk, The leaves are roundish and finely toothed and in the spring it produces flowers and catkins. The wood from this sacred tree comes in a number of colors. When an alder is cut down the wood changes from white to reddish-yellow that bears a remarkable resemblance to blood. This caused our ancestors to believe that the tree bled when cut and therefore it was considered unlucky to cut one down. The wood is oily and water resistant and in past times was used for shields, the foundations for houses and is still used today in cabinetry and door making.

In healing alder has been used as a substitute for quinine. It has also been used to treat parasites, inflammation coughs, poison ivy, toothache, sprains and strains. On an interesting side note the inner bark is a great natural pesticide.

In Myth & Magick

The time surrounding the Vernal Equinox is and was important in the wheel of the Celtic year. The alder represents free will and liberty. In some places today it is still a crime to cut down this sacred tree. The person who is dumb enough to cut one down is seen as the cause of any trouble that happens in his neighborhood. The alder tree is also associated with courage and the evolution of spirit. This tree spirit can be called upon for help during disputes, where you need to see clearly to make the right decision or when you simply need to draw and bring forward you own inner strength.

Alder is associated with all four elements ( earth, air, water, fire) and is great for elemental magick. Flutes can be made from the wood and whistles from young alder shoots can be made to summon air elementals. It is also considered sacred to the Fae and as such is good for fairy magick. The leaves and twigs can be used in charms and talismans for protection. Dyes can be made from the bark, flowers and twigs to dye ritual robes. Red: Bark/ Green: Flowers/ Brown: twigs.

Alder People:

People born in the month of Alder make excellent oracles, they can tell you like it is and manage to do it gently. However, alder people must remember not to abuse their power, and just like the tree itself they tend to mature slowly. Alders are powerful and make steadfast allies, they are trailblazers who set the pace for others to follow. If you are an alder person, just remember to slow down once in awhile and take a good look around you.

As a magickal name Alder works well for people who tend to be secretive and changeable or for those with fire signs. Choosing this name can bring out sensitivity in people who have trouble letting it show.

Other Correspondences:
Names: Tree of Fire

Deity: Bran, Proteus, Branwyn, Freya, Cailleach, Teutates and Ares.
Animals: Snake,Fox, Hawk, Gull, Raven

Use in Spells for: Weather, Spiritual growth, Teaching, Banishing, Protection, Healing

Written by L Bolotin from the following sources: dutchie.org crystal-forest.com Flower and Tree Magic, Richard Webster Whispers from the Woods, Sandra Kynes Old Tree Photo from stock-xchng.com

Cat’s Bit’s & Pieces: Celtic Tree Month of Ash – February 18 – March 17

Posted on February 17, 2018 by Cat

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Celtic Tree Month of Ash – February 18 – March 17

“The Ash Tree is thought to contain the key to Universal knowledge and understanding within it’s winged seeds.” (author unknown to me)

Tree Information:

The mighty ash tree can grow up to 130 feet in height, it can be found in Europe and North America and is a member of the Olive family. This tree will stop growing when it reaches approximately 60 years old. It’s believed that by that time the tree has obtained its full growth potential. Ash trees are easily recognized by their black buds, small springtime flower clusters and the inch long winged seeds that stay on the tree until autumn when they fly off like tiny helicopters. The leaves of this tree grow in multiple oval leaflets and provide some nice orange to purple fall color.

Ash is a hardwood tree and it’s wood is strong, flexible and shock resistant. It for these reasons that it is used for making oars for boats, ax handles, sports equipment and wagon wheels. Ash was also a favorite of the ancient Celts who used it for spear shafts.

Ash spears were considered a powerful magical tool of Celtic Shamans, even more so than the wand. It was a symbol of the Shamans strength of will and personal power.

The ancient Egyptians also used ash wood for bows and arrows, and had great quantities of it imported. Wiccans and Pagans traditionally use it for making Besom handles.

Ash Lore:

The Celts associated the ash tree with sea and the underwater kingdom of Tethys. It is also associated with the underworld and sacrificial deities, representing leading the soul into the afterlife. Celtic myth calls Ash the tree of enchantment and it is said the the Welsh Magus Gwydion made his wands from its wood. Druid wands were made of ash as are the pipestems of the sacred Lakota pipes.

This tree also appears in Norse myth as the world tree Yggdrasil, World Tree or Cosmic Ash. This tree spans the the universe. Roots deep into the earth and the heavens supported by its mighty branches. The ash tree was seen as spanning the world and the world within each person. The ancient Druid phrase ” Know yourself and you will know the world” pretty well sums it up. It also shows us how we are linked with the world around us.

In Magic

In magic the ash tree (wood, leaves, seeds) can be used in the following spells (charms etc.), creative endeavors, protection, attracting things, love, healing, fertility and transitions.

Charms of ash wood were used for protection against storms and drowning. It was also used as a love charm. You were to place an ash leaf in your left shoe and then you would be sure sure to meet your future spouse. Double leaves were lucky as were leaves with equal sections on both sides of the center leaf vein. However you would be unlucky in love if the ash tree on your land didn’t grow seeds every year.

As a magical name Ash is perfect for a true warrior and leader, one who is comfortable with themselves and their abilities. It is generally thought of as a mans name but could also be used for a strong woman.

Born in the Month of Ash

People born in the month of Ash tend to be ambitious but with an egotistical side. They also tend to overachievers and need to be the best in everything they do. They do not care for criticism earned or not which makes them highly sensitive. On the upside they are reliable, intelligent with artistic talent, and make faithful lovers. Ash people also seem to have a dual personality which makes it hard for others to understand their true nature and motives behind their actions.

Correspondences for Ash:

Names: Venus of the Woods, Tree of Water, Hoop Ash, Rowan
Deities: Eostre, Frigg, Frey, Dagda, Odin, Hel, Llyr, Poseidon
Sacred Stones: Quartz Crystal, Coral
Animals: Butterfly, Snipe, Crane, White Hound, Snake.
Element: All
Spells: Strength, Protection, Prosperity, Healing
Color: Green, pale blue

compiled by Cat from the following sources: the crystal forest
The New Book of Magical Names, Phoenix McFarland
Cunninghams Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs, Scott Cunningham
Flower and Tree Magic, Richard Webster
Tree Totem.com

Photo by Karolina Michalak/freeimages.com

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 a “clowder” cats. 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 L.Bolotin/Cat 2007-2018

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Please feel free to check out my websites!

Cat’s Treasure Trove: An Eclectic Collection of Jewelry and Gifts! See Our Products!

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/

Cat’s Bits & Pieces: Imbolc Is The Time For Strong Roots

Posted on February 1, 2018 by Cat

CBP February

Cat’s Bits & Pieces: Imbolc Is The Time For Strong Roots

Traditionally the ancient Celtic festival of Imbolc is celebrated from the evening of February 1st until evening on February 2nd The purpose behind Imbolc was to celebrate the first early signs of spring. One of which was when the sheep give birth and begin nursing their new lambs. Imbolc is also mentioned in early Irish literature and was a pagan festival dedicated to the goddess Brigid. Later when it became a Christianized observance called St. Brigid’s Day. It was also called Candlemas by the ancient Greeks. There are celebrations of spring all over the world, each one similar as well as different. If you look closely at the Pagan traditions you will find a mix and match of traditions. It’s what makes it interesting.

The truth is that we don’t really know how it was celebrated by our ancestors, but for those of us who follow the Earth Based Traditions Imbolc celebrates new beginnings and growth. Growth meaning not only the coming planting season but personal and spiritual growth as well. One common ritual involves dedicating or re-dedicating yourself to both your craft and your patron goddess, a new project or simply making yourself the best you can be. It would be fair to point out that, in case anyone is interested, that “choreographed rituals” are not my thing. I prefer to keep things on a much simpler scale, candles, prayer and planting a few Thought Seeds.

KODAK Digital Still Camera

I start my observance a few days ahead by checking my outdoor plants. My chrysanthemums, hyacinths and a few tulips are pushing away the mulch and reaching for the light. This exploration of spring wouldn’t be complete without a trip out to the desert. Grandmother Desert hold her secrets close to her dry, stony breast. There are no visible signs of spring but it’s. At this time of the year her energy is heavy and building toward a slow emergence of new life. but now it’s quiet, so quiet that you can hear voice of the breeze. That same breeze carries with it the scent of wet earth and it’s here that the first “sign” of spring can be found. It’s one of the few times that the desert smells “green”. As you look around you see there is no green, it’s simply a promise of the new things to come. A promise of new things, a dedication of continued growth, a taking stock of what you have to work with.

KODAK Digital Still Camera

This what we do at Imbolc. We’ve had time since the Winter Solstice to decide where we want to go and what we need to do. We have gathered the seeds that will be planted today and the time has come to bless each one and surround them with intent and loving energy. Care for these tiny seeds as if they were children. They need your attention and focus to flourish. Take your time. Don’t force or struggle. Nurture your Imbolc seeds with care and as they grow so shall you. Strong roots make a strong foundation for which all else can built upon.

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Imbolc Correspondences

Other Names

Candlemas, St. Bridget’s Day, Lupercus (strega) Candelaria (mexican), The Snowdrop Festival, Festival of Lights, Oimealg, Imbolg

Deities of Imbolc
All Virgin/Child Goddesses, Brighid, Aradia, Athena, Inanna, Gaia, and Februa, and young Gods of Love and Fertility, Aengus Og, Eros, and Februus.Imbolc Symbolism
Growth and renewal, reunion of the Goddess and the God, fertility, dispensing of the old and making way for the new.Symbols of Imbolc
Bride Dolls, burrowing animals, ewes, besoms, white flowers, candle wheels, Brigid’s crosses and ploughs.

Herbs for Imbolc
Angelica, Basil, Bay Laurel, Blackberry, Coltsfoot, Heather, Iris, Myrrh,Violets, and all white or yellow flowers.

Foods of Imbolc
Pumpkin & Sunflower seeds, poppyseed cakes, muffins, scones, and breads, all dairy products, raisins, spiced wine and herbal tea.
Incense of Imbolc
Basil, Bay, Wisteria, Cinnamon, Violet, Vanilla, Myrrh.

Colors of Imbolc
White, light yellow, silver

Sacred Stones of Imbolc

Amethyst, Bloodstone, Garnet, Ruby, Onyx, Turquoise.

Bright Blessings for a Magickal Week!

Cat

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Please feel free to check out my websites!

The Desert Path: The Dusty Ramblings of a Desert Pagan.

Cat’s Treasure Trove: An Eclectic Collection of Jewelry & Gifts!

Sacred Spirals on Facebook: The Place Where All Paths Meet

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

Cat’s Bit’s & Pieces: Celtic Month of Rowan

Posted on January 22, 2018 by Cat

Celtic Month of Rowan January 21 – February 17

TREE INFORMATION

The Rowan tree is also known as the Mountain Ash and are members of the rose family. They can be found growing among ancient settlements and ruins in Europe where they grow “like weeds”, although many of these trees were planted there as well. Rowans can grow almost anywhere and do well in poor soil, which would explain their growth in many areas. It grows well in high altitude and can grow up to 40 ft in height and produces flowers in May, after which come the red berries. The berries are said to be sacred food of the gods which were jealously guarded and kept away from man. The tree itself has a round , open top crown and the leaves which turn red in the fall are 4-8 inches in length and oblong with serrated edges along the point. The berries grow in clusters and each berry has a small design that resembles a pentagram on it. It was this pentagram “design” that linked this tree to witchcraft during the 15th and 16th centuries, it’s reputation became so negative that herbalist’s stopped using it for fear of being labeled as a witch.

The bark from the Rowan tree is used for tanning and making dye and the berries are edible and make great jams and jellies. The berries are also still used in herbal medicine as a tea for treating diarrhea and they are very high in vitamin C which make them useful for treating colds.

ROWAN IN MYTH & MAGICK

Rowan is also known as a fairy tree and as such it is not advisable to cut branches from the tree itself. If you need to cut branches from one you should always leave the Fae a gift of yourself, like hair or fingernail clippings. By using this tree it is said that you will be protected by the Fae themselves. However, fallen branches are the best if you are going to use the wood. Rowan is thought to be one of the sacred druid trees and can be found growing near many of the ancient stone circles and it played a main role in some of their ceremonies.

In popular folklore Rowan trees could be planted next to your home as protection against lightning and to promote good luck while sprigs of Rowan could also be hung over doors in the home to ward off the evil eye or if you wore one, it kept the fairies from kidnapping you. They were even planted in churchyards to watch over the dead and protect the living from ghosts. One very popular European custom that was still being used approximately 100 years ago was the construction of rowan wood crosses. These “ornaments” of protection were made from twigs and tied with red thread. Every home had one over the front door as did seedbeds, barns and pigsty’s. They were also given to babies before they could be baptized. At Beltane the berries were sewn into a circle, and hung over windows to prevent lightning strikes or strung into necklaces to ward off the evil eye. The berries were also added to healing charms to help the patient to recover faster.

Runestaves were at one time made from Rowan wood simply because of it’s protective powers as are wands and dowsing rods.

Use Rowan in spells for blessings, grounding & centering, protection, warding against psychic attack, protection against enchantment.

ROWAN PEOPLE

People born in the Month of Rowan are visionaries and strong humanitarians. They are very passionate in what they believe in and can lean toward over-zealous at times. New Moon Rowan people (born in the 1st two weeks of the month) are easily frustrated with others who fail to see or help with the greater awareness of issues like racism, bigotry and gereal ignorance. Full Moon Rowan People (born in the last 2 weeks of the month) tend to make big promises, which are usually more than they can handle. They come through to an extent but are unable to completely follow through.

CORRESPONDENCES

Rowan is also known by these names: Delight of the Eye, Quickbeam, Ran Tree, Sorb Apple, Wicken Tree, Witchtree, Thor’s Helper

Deities: Dagda, Brigid, Hecate, Thor, Cerridwen, Vulcan, Pan, Herne, Brigantia

Animals: Ducks, quail

Sacred Stones: Peridot, Smoky Quartz, Diamond

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
Tree Totem.com

Photo Rowan Glory freeimages.com

Cat’s Bits for Dec. 31- Jan 6, 2018: January’s Full “Wolf” Moon

Posted on December 31, 2017 by Cat

Cat’s Bits for Dec. 31- Jan 6, 2018

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January Events:

Jan. 1: Happy New Year!

Jan. 1: Full “Cold” Moon at 9:24 pm EST

Jan.15: Martin Luther King Day

Jan. 16: New Moon at 9:17 pm EST

Jan. 19: Sun Enters Aquarius 10:09 pm EST

Jan. 21: Celtic Tree Month of Rowan begins

Jan. 31: Blue Moon and Lunar Eclipse at 8:27 am EST

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January Correspondences:

Nature Spirits: Brownies and Gnomes

Sacred Herbs: Cones, Nuts, Holy Thistle, Marjoram

Colors: Blue-Violet, Black, White

Flowers: Crocus and Snowdrop

Tree: Birch

Animals: Coyote and Fox

Birds: Blue Jay and Pheasant

Power Flow: Sluggish, below the surface, beginning and conceiving. Protection and reversing spells. Conserving energy by working on personal problems that involve no one else. Getting your various bodies to work smoothly together for the same goals.

(Moon Magick, DJ Conway)

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January’s Full “Wolf” Moon

Monday, January 1, 2018 at

6;24 pm PST

7:24 pm MST

9:24 p.m. EDT

Welcome to January, the first month of the new year. On Monday, January 1st we celebrate the Wolf Moon. The Native Americans named this moon the Wolf Moon because during the long dark nights the wolves were hungry and would often howl outside the lodges of the people. Other names for this full moon include the Cold Moon, Winter Moon (Colonial), Holiday Moon (China), Quiet Moon (Celtic), Ice Moon (neo Pagan), Disting Moon, Moon of Little Winter and the Chaste Moon.

This year our January moon is in Cancer. This may be an emotional time since Cancer deals with things on the emotional level. One of the keys to this moon lies in listening. If you can be a good listener you may learn some things about yourself and your own inner workings as well as helping someone else. We may also feel the need to stay close to home or if we are away from home become homesick. House blessings, comfort foods, comfy pajamas may also be on the docket. This is also a wonderful time for introspection so don’t be afraid to get to know yourself or your Goddess a little better! This moon is a good time for magical workings involving hearth and home, as well as inner exploration, spiritual advancement and developing closer relations with your chosen deities.

The January moon traditionally honored the Chinese deity Ch’ang-O, who was the goddess of the bedchamber and the protector of children. Other goddesses for January include Freya, Inanna, Hera, Sinn and Sarasvati. To honor this moon try wearing the colors white, black and silver and adorning yourself with hematite, garnet, jet, onyx or chrysoprase.

The Full Moon itself offers powerful energy for rituals of prophecy, divination and protection. Any spell-work that requires extra energy, such as finding a new job or healing serious conditions, is best begun during the full moon. Also for love, gaining sacred knowledge, legal matters, attracting money and prophetic dreams.

Bright Blessings for a Magickal Week!

Cat

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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

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

Posted on December 24, 2017 by Cat

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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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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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

Posted on November 25, 2017 by Cat

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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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

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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

Posted on November 22, 2017 by Cat

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

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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/

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