The Desert Path

The Dusty Ramblings of a Desert Pagan

Cat’s Morning Bits for December 24, 2020

Posted on December 24, 2020 by Cat

Cat’s Morning Bits for December 24, 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: Wisdom of the Earth & Stars (a message from Kate Spreckley)

With the Solstice and Great Conjunction, a massive shift occurred opening the doors to Creation. As a result, greater amounts of cosmic energy is flowing within us reconnecting us with the ancient wisdom of the Earth and the stars

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The Celtic Tree Month of Birch or Beith/Beth runs from 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.

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Spiritual Unite: WHICH ONE IS YOUR GODDESS SPIRIT ANIMAL?

Sure, you probably have more than a few crystals in your home, and you might know your star signs personality traits like the back of your hand.

But what you may not know much about is the concept of goddess animals.

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ThoughtCo: Full Moon Pagan Ritual for Releasing and Purging

New moon ceremonies have to do with creation, manifestation, birth, and rebirth. It is the full moon that completes the cycle. The full moon is the representative for marking a time for death or change. It is also a time for gathering up your wits and tying up loose ends. Basically, the full moon symbolizes the end chapter, shedding light on the things that we no longer need to hold on to.

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MBG: How To Work EFT Into Your Well-Being Routine—Morning, Noon, & Night

As we bid farewell to an unusually stressful year, all of us are looking forward to a fresh start in 2021. But with so much uncertainty still in the air, keeping up with a daily well-being routine will be essential in the coming months.

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The Anunnaki Gods: The Astronaut Gods of the Sumerians – Sumerian Mythology – See U in History

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New Year Eve Spell

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Elephant Journal: A Winter Ritual of Trust for Our Wounded Inner Child.

Somewhere in your past, someone broke your trust.
There might be many times that your trust has been broken since then, but there is a first time. It might have been a childhood best friend spilling your secrets to another. It might have been a parent telling you that Santa Claus doesn’t exist. It might have been a sibling locking you in the closet when they knew you were afraid.

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Treehugger: The Beautiful Icelandic Tradition of Giving Books on Christmas Eve
Book lovers will want to adopt this tradition, which melds literary and holiday pleasures into a single event.

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EarthSky News: How to catch the elusive green flash

It’s not hard to see a green flash with the eye alone, when sky conditions are right, and when you’re looking toward a very clear and very distant horizon. That’s why those who live near an ocean tend to report green flashes most often. A sea horizon is the best place to see them.

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Patheos-Pagan: Passing On The Magick To The Kids

When I wrote Psychic Witch, I dedicated it to the four largest influences in my life in chronological order that they influenced me: Silver Ravenwolf, Christopher Penczak, Laurie Cabot, and Devin Hunter with a note to each.

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Pagan Playlist: Andvevarljod – Song of the Spirit-weavers (Skaldic version)

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Inner Journey: STEP BY STEP

“The shortest way to do many things is to do only one thing at a time.”
— Sydney Smiles

When I get overwhelmed by the number of tasks on my to- do list, I remind myself that the only way to get anywhere is step by step. And I cover the most distance in the journey of my life when I take a moment to decide which step will bring the greatest rewards.

“Often he who does too much does too little.”
— Italian Proverb

“If you chase two rabbits, both will escape.”
— Source Unknown

higherawareness.com

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Today’s Recipe: Eggnog Cheesecake III

This is a delicious cheesecake for eggnog lovers. The secret to a smooth cheesecake is to cream the cream cheese in a food processor for several minutes.

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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 Wisdom
December 24, 2020

Family
“Family life! The United Nations is child’s play compared to the tugs and splits and need to understand and forgive in any family.”

-May Sarton, 1970

I’m sure we all have our stories! What would we do without our families? Good or bad or indifferent, the families we have somehow have helped us to become the people we are today. Through our family we can see our connection to the world. And as our family grows, with children and grandchildren, cousins and in-laws, we are presented with more opportunities for learning and growth. It’s interesting that there has been a rise in the popularity of genealogy and family tree research lately. Through these studies our connections throughout time become apparent. The world becomes smaller, and we don’t feel as isolated when we start looking at our roots.

-Lissa Coffey coffeytalk.com

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Daily Tarot: The Hanged Man

Things may not be going the way you like, but this is no time to give up. Whatever went wrong yesterday or last year is no excuse to stop trying to make things right. Be honest with yourself and do what you can to at least not make matters worse. There’s nothing that can’t be forgiven, repaired or replaced. Keep the faith and keep going

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/

Cat’s Morning Bits for December 23, 2020

Posted on December 23, 2020 by Cat

Cat’s Morning Bits for December 23, 2020

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.

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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!

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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.

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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.

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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:

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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.

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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.

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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.

Cat’s Morning Bits for December 22, 2020

Posted on December 22, 2020 by Cat

Cat’s Morning Bits for December 22, 2020

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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/

Cat’s Morning Bits for December 21, 2020

Posted on December 20, 2020 by Cat

Cat’s Morning Bits for December 21, 2020

Stay healthy, Stay safe!

Blessings, Cat

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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.

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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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“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.

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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.

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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,

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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

___________________

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/

Cat’s Morning Bits for December 18, 2020

Posted on December 18, 2020 by Cat

Cat’s Morning Bits for December 18, 2020

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

________________________

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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.”

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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.

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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.

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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

_______________________

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.

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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

astrology.com

____________________

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/

Cat’s Morning Bits for December 17, 2020

Posted on December 17, 2020 by Cat

Cat’s Morning Bits for December 17, 2020

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

__________________________

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.

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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….

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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,

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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,

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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.

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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.

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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

_______________________

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.

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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

Deities include Juno, Jupiter,Thor, Zeus

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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

____________________

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/

Cat’s Morning Bits for December 16, 2020

Posted on December 16, 2020 by Cat

Cat’s Morning Bits for December 16, 2020

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: Freedom & Renewal (a message from Kate Spreckley)

This is a life altering week through which we quantum leap into a new dimension of consciousness. With this leap we are shedding old skin and releasing the karmic entanglements which have kept us stuck in old structures and the beliefs about what is possible.

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The myth of Arachne – Iseult Gillespie

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Spiritual Unite: WHALE SPIRIT ANIMAL MEANING – COMMUNITY SPIRIT AND RESILIENCE ARE KEY

Having the whale spirit animal means that you have wells of emotional resilience, inner wisdom and value family above all else.

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ThoughtCo: Great Ways to Celebrate Yule With Kids

What does Yule, the winter Solstice, means to you and your family? Do you focus on the solar aspect of Yule, or do you see it as a transformation of the Goddess?

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Patheos / New Visions: Our Better Angels

The notion of “our better angels” was offered by Abraham Lincoln in 1861 in his first inaugural address:

We are not enemies, but friends. We must not be enemies. Though passion may have strained,

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MBG: How To Use The EFT/Tapping Technique To Ease Holiday Stress

The holidays are supposed to be a time of joy and cheer. However, this is far from reality for many of us. Feelings of stress, anxiety, sadness, anger, and guilt can all put a damper on the holiday season—especially this year.

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Pioneer Thinking: Homemade Christmas Gift Ideas

Whether you just want to save money or give a gift that feels more unique and personal, you are probably looking for some really creative homemade Christmas gift ideas. If that’s the case, then here are some great ideas to consider.

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Elephant Journal: 3 Toxic Attitudes I am Leaving Behind in 2021.

If 2020 has taught me anything, it is that life is unpredictable.
When circumstances get difficult, we either step up to the challenge and succeed, step up and fail, or back away knowing the challenge surpasses our comfort zone.

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Today’s DIY: How to Make Orange Pomanders for Yule, Orange & Clove Gift, Witchy Holiday Decor, Magical Crafting

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Treehugger: Rare Event, 90,000 Turtles Hatch on a Beach in Brazil

Tens of thousands of turtle hatchlings emerged from a sandy beach in Brazil in a rare event that occurs in only a few places worldwide.

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EarthSky News: Young moon, Jupiter, Saturn glorious December 15 to 18!

You might – or might not – catch the young whisker-thin moon below the planets Jupiter and Saturn on December 15, 2020. You’ll surely catch the moon and these glorious planets in the west after sunset on December 16, 17 and 18. Giant Jupiter and golden, ringed Saturn are now nearing their December 21 great conjunction. They will be a dazzling and exceedingly rare sight near the young moon in our evening sky. Don’t miss them!

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Patheos-Pagan: Yule: Candles Bring Light, Warmth, And Magick

In my family, I’m the person who truly loves the holidays. And candles play an important role in our Yule traditions (and have been part of our Christmas decorations as well since –forever). Candles have always played a prominent role in my witchcraft practice and life, which is one reason I light them every night during Yule.

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Pagan Playlist: Once Upon December- Blackmore’s Night

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Inner Journey: THE PAST IN THE PRESENT

“If you accept a limiting belief, then it will become a truth for you.”
— Louise Hay

Pick one aspect of your life, e.g. your health, your competence, your prosperity or relationships, and think back to when you were a child. What messages about this subject did you hear from adults at that time that are still playing on your subconscious tape recorder? Messages like: “Men can’t be trusted.” “Money doesn’t grow on trees.” “You’re not smart enough to succeed in business.”

How is your world reflecting your beliefs back to you, today?

“There are no limitations to the self except those you believe in.”
— Seth

higherawareness.com

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A Note from the Universe

Isn’t it a hoot? Of all the people in all the world who actually “get it,” few actually give it to themselves.

Whatever it is you want, start.

And remember to also give yourself compliments, praise, and presents… Time, permission, and love. Hugs, kisses, and smiles. Winks, laughs, and applause.

And I will give you even more.

Just start,

The Universe

tut.com

_______________________

Today’s Recipe: Gingerbread Cookies II

This is the BEST recipe for gingerbread cookies I have ever tasted. It looks complicated, but isn’t. I have used this recipe for many years and always get compliments on it.

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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

Deities include Athena, Hermes, Lugh, Mercury, Odin

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Daily Wisdom
December 16, 2020

Joy
“Joy is not in things; it is in us.”

Richard Wagner

Joy is always present, but do we choose to see it, feel it, experience it? Make that choice today… choose to let joy bubble up and express through you! How many times have we heard “have a good day!” and thought nothing of it? We can have a good day every day, it’s simply a matter of making that conscious decision. By recognizing love, peace, and joy, just by bringing it into our awareness, we lift the energy around us and make the world a better place.

-Lissa Coffey coffeytalk.com

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Daily Tarot: The Empress

Some big new opportunity could come your way today. Focus your attention on the one thing you want most to have happen and it won’t be able to resist you. You can be persuasive and graceful, smooth and strong all at the same time. Act with quiet confidence and be admired later. Today, enjoy having people listen and do almost everything you suggest.

astrology.com

____________________

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/

Cat’s Morning Bits for December 15, 2020

Posted on December 15, 2020 by Cat

Cat’s Morning Bits for December 15, 2020

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

_____________________________

Spirit Library: Embrace Where Life Has Taken You (a message from Kate Spreckley)

We are in a time of integration as we assimilate the upgrades, shifts and changes we have experienced over the past year. Anything that isn’t in alignment with our soul has been transformed, altered and or removed offering us the opportunity to connect more deeply with our intuitive nature.

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The myth of King Midas and his golden touch – Iseult Gillespie

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Spiritual Unite: PANDA SPIRIT ANIMAL MEANING – BALANCE NEED FOR PEACE WITH SOCIAL TIME

The panda spirit animal represents gentle strength, inner peace and emotional sensitivity.

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MBG: 21 Self-Love Microbreaks To Carry Into The New Year

It’s always important to ask for help from others—and in 2020 we’ve all needed that extra support. Yet your most consistent, reliable source of support comes from yourself. A little (or a lot) overwhelmed these days? Microbreaks are just the ticket to show up for yourself in powerful ways each day.

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Today’s DIY: Yuletide Simmering Potpourri Gift – Yule DIY Craft – Magical Crafting – Witchcraft, Winter Solstice

Hello my darlings, and welcome. In this video I share a magical simmering potpourri recipe that will make your home smell like the Yuletide season and we will make a magical gift as well. Let’s do some Magical Crafting.

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Elephant Journal: Sacral Chakra, Chakras in Body, Guide to the 7 Chakras and Meanings

Sacral Chakra, Svādhishthāna Chakra , Kundalini Chakra , Chakras in body, Guide to the 7 Chakra and Their Meanings, Seven Chakra

Svā = Self
Adhishthāna = seat, residence

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Treehugger: 8 Recipes to Bring Some Hygge to Your Holidays
Even if you have hygge fatigue, let the gløgg and smørrebrød prevail!

I know that hygge, the Danish cultural concept of cozy contentment, has gotten a lot of play lately. But things become a cliche for a reason, and usually, the reason is that there is ample merit in the first place.

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EarthSky News: Young moon near glorious Jupiter and Saturn December 15 to 18

You might – or might not – catch the young whisker-thin moon below the planets Jupiter and Saturn after sunset December 15, 2020. You’ll surely catch the young moon and these glorious planets – now nearing their December 21 great conjunction – on December 16, 17 and 18. They will be a dazzling and exceedingly rare sight in our night sky. Don’t miss them!

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Patheos-Pagan: Phoenix Rising: A Book for the Season – “Little Book of Yule”

I have a confession to make…Yule has never been my favorite sabbat. It’s not that I don’t like Yule, it’s just that it doesn’t have the same power and pull for me that Samhain does and it always seems to get eclipsed by the other holidays in the winter season. However, that has changed for me after reading Jason Mankey’s Little Book of Yule.

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Pagan Playlist: Loreena McKennitt – Santiago (Dancing Gypsy).

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Inner Journey: BIG MIND, LITTLE MIND

“It is the mind that makes one wise or ignorant, bound or emancipated.”
— Sri Ramakrishna

Zen distinguishes big mind from small mind. Big mind identifies with its process, is impersonal and participates universally. Big mind is unlimited possibilities, deeper understanding, forgiveness, acceptance, insight, connectedness, attention.

Small mind is self centred and focuses only on itself. It is compulsive, limited, reactive and mechanical. Small mind feeds on itself — fear reacts to fear, judgment reacts to judgment, anger sparks more anger.

Always seek higher perspectives and you will in time find freedom.

“If a pickpocket meets a Holy Man, he will see only his pockets.”
— Hari Dass

“Minds are like parachutes; they work best when open.”
— Lord Thomas Dewar

higherawareness.com

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A Note from the Universe

I’m sorry but concerning your dream job, did you want a salary, royalties, commissions… or all three?

How many weeks vacation are you expecting?

Are you willing to share the New York apartment?

Oh, and should your London assistant speak French? Or will your French be sufficient by then?

Helps to have a plan, ‘n’est pas’?

The Universe

tut.com

_______________________

Today’s Recipe: Impossible™ Stuffed Peppers

These beauties are loaded with goodness such as fresh spinach, black beans, rice, spices, and more. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for busy families.

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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

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

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 15, 2020

Joy
“Winning is important to me, but what brings me real joy is the experience of being fully engaged in whatever I’m doing.”

-Phil Jackson

Phil Jackson was the coach for the NBA Champion Lakers, and he obviously had a winning attitude. When you watch him on the court, you can see that he is fully engaged in coaching his team. He is focused, involved and very “in the moment.” Joy has a way of inherently bringing success with it! Where do you find your joy? Go there! Immerse yourself and reap the rewards.

-Lissa Coffey coffeytalk.com

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Daily Tarot: The Fool

You may have the best of intentions today but it won’t be easy to stick to any of them. There’s a lot of randomness in the air and you won’t have very much control over anything. Don’t let this lull you into becoming thoughtless or not caring about what you’re doing. Do what you can and save some energy for tomorrow when things might be smoother

astrology.com

____________________

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/

Cat’s Morning Bits for December 14, 2020

Posted on December 14, 2020 by Cat

Cat’s Morning Bits for December 14, 2020

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: Embrace Where Life Has Taken You (a message from Kate Spreckley)

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Spiritual Unite: LION SPIRIT ANIMAL MEANING – EMBODY COURAGE TO ROAR

The lion spirit animal appears to you when you need your strength and courage to overcome an obstacle.

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ThoughtCo: Who is the Norse God Odin?

In the Norse pantheon, Asgard is the home of the gods, and it is the place where one could find Odin, the supreme deity of them all. Connected to his Germanic ancestor Woden or Wodan, Odin is the god of kings and the mentor of young heroes, to whom he often gave magical gifts.

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Patheos / New Visions : December Intuition Check-In

We all have intuition, but sometimes needs an intuition check-in. Oracle or Tarot are a good way to listen. Here are 4 cards to help you find your balance. Take some deep breathes and ask your angels and guides what message you need to know to help you along your path, and choose a number.

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MBG: The Last New Moon Of The Year Is A Double Whammy Eclipse: Here’s What It Means

The Sagittarius new moon on Monday, December 14 (at 11:16 a.m. EST) is a total solar eclipse, expanding our horizons in unexpected ways.

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How To Celebrate Yule, Winter Solstice & 12 days of Christmas – Wheel of the Year – Magical Crafting

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Today’s DIY: Mini-Broom Tutorial

I was recently packing up the Samhain altar supplies from our CUUPs chapter’s online ritual to return to the people who loaned it. I found myself feeling nostalgic while holding my friend Mary’s mini broom wand. She and I have taught this craft to adults and children many times over the years.

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Elephant Journal: Dreams about Snakes, Snake Dream Meaning, Snake Bite Dream

Dreaming about snakes can be a frightful experience for many people. It is not uncommon to be afraid of snakes! This is why when we dream of snakes, it is very important to look at the context of the snake in the dream and how it relates to our waking life. Dreams about Snakes

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Treehugger: Sculptor Weaves Stones, Shells, and Leaves Into Spellbinding Patterns

For many of us, “art” is often thought of as something that hangs on the pristine, whitewashed walls of a gallery — something lofty and inaccessible. But art – as a creative practice – is always changing and evolving, much like the artists who seem to channel something new and fresh into existence with each passing epoch.

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EarthSky News: Geminid meteors best on December 13-14

The 2020 Geminid meteor shower is expected to produce the greatest number of meteors on the night of December 13-14 (Sunday night until dawn Monday). There’s never any certainty about meteor showers. They’re like fishing … you go, and sometimes you catch something.

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Patheos-Pagan: Sankta Lucia: The Survival of a Nordic Sun Goddess

December 13 is the feast day of Sankta Lucia, the patron saint of Sweden. Until the Pope Gregory XII made the Gregorian calendar official in AD 1582, the winter solstice fell on December 13-Lucia’s feast day. Lucia (Lucy) was actually an Italian, she is celebrated in certain parts of Italy, but she is most associated with the Nordic countries.

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Pagan Playlist: Yule

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Inner Journey: VALUE JUST BEING

“To do great work a man must be very idle as well as very industrious.”
— Samuel Butler

Many of us have been taught to believe that we are valued for what we do, not just for who we are. ‘Doing’ is important, but to keep life in balance, we also need time to just ‘be.’

Henry David Thoreau expressed this so well in Walden Pond:

“There were times when I could not afford to sacrifice the bloom of the present moment to any work, whether of the head or hand.

“Sometimes, on a summer morning, I sat in my sunny doorway from sunrise till noon, rapt in a revery, amidst the pines and hickories and sumacs, in undisturbed solitude and stillness, while the birds sang around or flitted noiseless through the house, untilby the sun falling in at my west window, or the noise of some traveller’s wagon on the distant highway, I was reminded of the lapse of time.

“I grew in those seasons like corn in the night, and they were far better than any work of the hands would have been.”

higherawareness.com

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A Note from the Universe

I’m sorry, but concerning your dream job, did you want a salary, royalties, commissions… or all three?

How many weeks vacation are you expecting?

Are you willing to share the New York apartment?

Oh, and should your London assistant speak French? Or will your French be sufficient by then?

Helps to have a plan, ‘n’est pas’?

The Universe

tut.com

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Today’s Recipe: Lamb Braised in Pomegranate

This pomegranate braised lamb shoulder is about as seasonally appropriate as it gets, and one of the best things I’ve tasted in a long time.

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Magical Correspondences for Monday

Magickal Intentions: Psychic Sensitivity, Women’s Mysteries, Tides, Waters, Emotional Issues, Agriculture, Animals, Female Fertility, Messages, Theft, Reconciliations, Voyages, Dreams and Merchandise

Element: Water

Incense: African Violet, Honeysuckle, Myrtle, Willow, Wormwood
Planet: Moon
Star Sign: Cancer
Angel: Gabriel
Power Colors: Silver, White and Gray
Herbs& Plants: Night Blooming Flowers, Willow Root, Orris Root, Birch, Motherwort, Vervain, White Rose and White Iris
Sacred Stones: Carnelian, Moonstone, Aquamarine, Pearl, Clear Quartz, Flourite, Geodes
Oil: (Moon) Jasmine, Lemon, Sandalwood

Deities include Artemis, Diana, Luna, Selene, Thoth

Monday is ruled the Moon. Today’s energy best align with spell work that deals with women, home and hearth, the family, the garden, travel, and medicine. It also boosts rituals involving psychic development and prophetic dreaming.

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Daily Wisdom
December 14, 2020

Joy
“Real joy comes not from ease or riches or from the praise of men, but from doing something worthwhile.”

-Sir Wilfred Grenfell

It is with true joy that we release this inaugural newsletter into the universe!
-Lissa Coffey

-Lissa Coffey coffeytalk.com

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Daily Tarot: The Fool

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/

Cat’s Morning Bits for December 11, 2020

Posted on December 11, 2020 by Cat

Cat’s Morning Bits for December 11, 2020

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: Embrace Where Life Has Taken You (a message from Kate Spreckley)

We are in a time of integration as we assimilate the upgrades, shifts and changes we have experienced over the past year. Anything that isn’t in alignment with our soul has been transformed,

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A Simple Way to Add Witchcraft to Your Everyday

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Spiritual Unite: SPIDER SPIRIT ANIMAL MEANING – CONTROL YOUR DARK SIDE

When your spider spirit animal appears in your life, it symbolizes your creativity, feminine energy, and patience.

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ThoughtCo: 7 Goddesses of Empowerment

Think you’d like to embrace the sacred feminine as part of your spiritual development? Here are seven goddesses from around the globe who embody female strength and empowerment in a number of different ways. See which one resonates with you the most!

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Elephant Journal: Confessions of the Feral: Deconstructing Myths for Wild Women.

For as long as I can remember, I have struggled with being a good girl.
I’m not very good at it.

I’ve got a rebel streak as wide, wild, and winding as the Yellowstone River, which I grew up next to, and my nature is much like the mountainous climate where I live—unpredictable. I like me this way.

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Treehugger: Why Does My Dog Stare at Me?

If you’ve ever had a dog, it’s likely that, at one time or another, you’ve taken part in a staring contest with your pet. Read more…..

Why Does My Cat Stare at Me?

One of the more disconcerting moments in the lives of cat owners is waking up to a pair (or worse, pairs) of wide, glowing eyes watching them in the dark. Read more…..

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EarthSky News: Geminid meteors best on December 13-14

The annual Geminid meteor shower is expected to produce the greatest number of meteors on the night of December 13-14 (Sunday night till dawn Monday). The peak morning is likely to be Monday, December 14, 2020. These colorful meteors tend to be bright.

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Patheos-Pagan: The Herbal Magick of Mistletoe : Kiss Me Twice

Yule means trees, fires, and mistletoe. The darkest night of the year is traditionally a time for magick and mystery. Mistletoe has always carried a high spiritual vibration. In nature, it grows attached to another plant, usually an oak or other hardwood tree.

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Pagan Playlist: Loreena McKennitt Full Circle

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Inner Journey: OPEN TO AWARENESS

“Mindfulness means moment-to-moment, non-judgmental awareness. It is cultivated by refining our capacity to pay attention, intentionally, in the present moment, and then sustaining that attention over time as best wecan. In the process, we become more in touch with our life as it is unfolding.”
— Myla & Jon Kabat-Zinn

Why do we want to become more aware?

If we remain unaware, we:
•repeat the past,
•remain stuck in relationships,
•live superficial, literal and one dimensional lives,
•lack experiences of love and beauty, and
•have limited connection to others and the universe.

With awareness, we are fully involved with life. Awareness is sensing deeply and sensitively for what really is. To do this, we need to approach the present as totally new. When we can be open and attentive in each moment, we begin to free ourselves fromthe conditioning of the past and the suffering that it so often brings.

“If moment by moment you can keep your mind clear then nothing will confuse you.”
— Sheng Yen

higherawareness.com

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A Note from the Universe

A thought on the “hows”:

Just because you’re not to mess with them doesn’t mean you’re not to get busy doing all you can, with what you’ve got, from where you are.

The difference is in how you see what you do: you don’t do all you can with an eye to hitting a home run, but with an understanding that for each door you knock upon and every stone you turn over, you’re pitching the ball to me.

The more balls you pitch, the greater my options, and the farther the balls will sail.

Batter up,

The Universe

tut.com

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Today’s Recipe: Salisbury Steak with Mushrooms

A great from-scratch salisbury steak and gravy recipe I found a long time ago. The mushroom and onion gravy is wonderful over mashed potatoes or rice. The gravy is still good without mushrooms. I’ve made it for my husband that way.

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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

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

Deities include Aphrodite, Eros, Freya, Venus

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Daily Wisdom
December 11, 2020

Morning
“It’s completely usual for me to get up in the morning, take a look around, and laugh out loud.”

-Barbara Kingsolver

Our attitude has everything to do with how the day goes for us. When we approach our activities with a sense of fun and light-heartedness, it affects our environment, and the people around us. Time passes by more quickly, and we enjoy ourselves so much more.

-Lissa Coffey coffeytalk.com

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Daily Tarot: Strength

Act with boldness, but not too much, and make this an easy and productive day. If something challenging or unexpected arises at work or with family, be receptive and stand your ground. Don’t push back until you know what it is you’re up against. Then if needed, give as well as you get. You can do this tactfully.

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/

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