The Desert Path

The Dusty Ramblings of a Desert Pagan

Cat’s Morning Bits for January 3, 2019

Posted on January 3, 2019 by Cat

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Cat’s Morning Bits for January 3, 2019

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.

Blessings, Cat

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January is here,
With eyes that keenly glow-
A frost-mailed warrior striding
A shadowy steed of snow.
-Edgar Fawcett (1847-1904)

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MBG: The Best Guided Journals For 2019 Organized By Personality Type

Ever open a fresh notebook you bought specifically for the purpose of journaling for the new year and feel completely overwhelmed by the sight of a honking blank page? Same here. Making the first mark in a new journal feels like a big deal, and it’s because most of us are hard-wired to follow some kind of structure. Without a container for our thoughts and words and doodles, knowing where to begin can be disorienting. Last year’s inaugural list of guided journals was a huge hit, so we wanted to serve you some newness for 2019, plus a bonus at the end. Happy journaling!

https://www.mindbodygreen.com/articles/best-guided-journals-for-2019

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Daily Good: The Gift of Presence and the Perils of Advice

Parker Palmer is the founder and senior partner of the Center for Courage and Renewal. His work teaches us to connect with others through our authentic self. His courses help to develop courageous leadership and collectively evolve our spirits for social change. With humor and heart, Parker shares his perspectives on advice giving vs the gift of our presence. Leading us into presence with unconditional listening and loving.

http://www.dailygood.org/story/2152/the-gift-of-presence-and-the-perils-of-advice-parker-j-palmer/

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Elephant Journal: 8 Reminders for how to be a Real Ass, Heart-on-your-Sleeve Human in 2019.

I don’t know about anyone else, but in my life, 2018 was one hell of a year.
Those 365 days were filled with an incredible combination of wonderful and devastating events. And while I cherish the wonders of 2018, I’m feeling ready to learn my lessons from the devastation.

https://www.elephantjournal.com/2018/12/8-reminders-for-how-to-be-a-real-ass-heart-on-your-sleeve-human-in-2019/

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MNN: Meet India’s beautiful technicolor squirrels

We’re used to squirrels that are gray or a coppery red and relatively small. Sure, we may come across a squirrel that has had a few too many acorns, but that’s about it.
This isn’t the case in India, however. The country is home to a very colorful and large squirrel species, Ratufa indica, otherwise known as the Indian giant squirrel or the Malabar giant squirrel.
Just take a look!

https://www.mnn.com/earth-matters/animals/blogs/indias-beautiful-giant-colorful-squirrels

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EarthSky News: Latest sunrises (north) and sunsets (south) in early January

So you like to sleep late, but don’t want to miss the sunrise? If you’re in the Northern Hemisphere, this time of year is for you. Sleep on! The latest sunrises of 2019 are happening around now for mid-latitudes in the Northern Hemisphere. For example, sunrise time in the central U.S. – say, around Wichita, Kansas – for the next several days will be around 7:45 a.m.

https://earthsky.org/tonight/latest-sunrises-for-midnorthern-latitudes-in-early-january

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DailyOM: Taking a Snow Day by Madisyn Taylor
Feed your soul, and briefly separate yourself from life’s frenetic pace, by taking a snow day.
With so much to do all the time, it can be difficult to find time to simply breathe, think, and explore our inner landscapes. It is still possible, however, to feed your soul and to briefly separate yourself from life’s frenetic pace by taking a snow day. Personal snow days are best taken when you feel like you are running on empty with no chance of respite in sight or when you begin to resent the life you once loved.

https://www.dailyom.com/cgi-bin/display/articledisplay.cgi?aid=66400

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Patheos-Pagan: New Year, Witches: Do the Work

Last year was a challenge for many. It doesn’t matter what year it was, each year has challenges, although lately they seem to multiply as the years whirl by. At the start of a new year, one tends to make resolutions, new plans, new goals. To this I add my bit of advice: do the work.

https://www.patheos.com/blogs/witchindeed/2019/01/new-year-witches-do-the-work/

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Inner Journey:

LIVE NOW

“How we spend our days is, of course, how we spend our lives.”
— Annie Dillard

We lose the power of the moment because we’re so rarely in it. We’re reliving the past or speculating about the future. We continue to believe that tomorrow’s the day when I’ll be more capable, more wealthy, more fit and more loving. Meanwhile, I’m just putting in time, dreaming of better things but not making any concrete move to realize them.

When you find yourself thinking of the future or the past, bring your awareness into the present moment. Really experience how you feel and what’s happening around you, without judgment. If we can treasure each moment, our lives will be rich, no matter what we have accomplished.

“Lost, yesterday, somewhere between sunrise and sunset, two golden hours, each set with sixty diamond minutes. No reward is offered for they are gone forever.”
— Horace Mann

“If, before going to bed every night, you will tear a page from the calendar, and remark, ‘there goes another day of my life, never to return,’ you will become time conscious.”
— A. B. Zu Tavern

higherawareness.com
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A Note from the Universe

The questions you have to answer pertain to what, where, when, and why.

Mine pertain to how and with whom.

Fair?

The Universe

tut.com

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Magical Correspondences for Thursday

Intentions: Luck, Happiness, Health/ Healing, Religion, Legal Matters, Male Fertility, Treasure and Wealth, Honor, Riches, Clothing Desires, Leadership, Public Activity, Power and Success, Trade and Employment

Incense: Cinnamon,Henbane Nutmeg and Sage

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

Goddesses: Juno, Hera, Kwan Yin, Mary, Cybele, Tara, Mawu, Mlaba Mwana Waresa, Ishtar, Nuit

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Daily Wisdom
January 3, 2019

Authenticity

“This above all: to thine own self be true.”

-William Shakespeare
I love the word authentic. Authentic means genuine, real, true – and when applied to people it means being true to yourself, being your TRUE self, expressing yourself, and nothing less. We sense when people are authentic, just as we can tell when they are imitating, or role playing. When we are authentic, our light shines through, and our path is illuminated. “This above all…” Shakespeare says. It is important to be authentic, important for our well-being and for our spiritual growth.

-Lissa Coffey

coffeytalk.com

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Beliefnet: 8 Facts to Remember When Life is Unbearable

A friend stepped over the smoldering debris of where her house once stood. Tripping over melted photo frames, broken pieces of furniture, the sound of broken glass being crushed beneath her feet added to the misery

Cat’s Morning Bits for December 26, 2018

Posted on December 27, 2018 by Cat

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Cat’s Morning Bits for December 26, 2018

Blessings, Cat

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“ The door of opportunity won’t open unless you do some pushing. ”

– Anonymous

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Thought.co: 14 Magical Tools for Pagan Practice

Often, when people first discover Wicca or some other form of Paganism, they rush to go buy every single magical tool they can find. After all, the books tell us to buy this, that, and the kitchen sink, so you better hustle on over to Ye Local Wytchy Shoppe and get stuff. Remember, though, magical tools have an actual purpose. Let’s take a look at some of the magical and ritual items that many Wiccan and Pagan traditions use in some capacity. Remember, not all traditions use all of these tools, and they don’t always use them in the same way.

https://www.thoughtco.com/magical-tools-for-pagan-practice-4064607

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MBG: How To Clear Negative Energy At Home Using Grocery Store Staples (Yes, Really)

Feng shui is based on the idea that when you clear away negative energy at home, you create more room for flow or “chi”—something we can’t necessarily see, but we can feel.

https://www.mindbodygreen.com/articles/how-to-clear-negative-energy-at-home-quickly-and-easily

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Daily Good: Grateful Changemakers: Karma Kitchen

The first Karma Kitchen opened in Berkley, CA in 2007. It began as an experiment of a “gift economy”. An economic system where goods and services are gifted – with no strings attached!
What a culture shift!! This model puts people in the position to receive kindness from strangers, inviting us to see from a different perspective. This is such a beautiful exploration of change in our behavior of consumption to one of contribution, from our perception of lack to one of abundance and community.

http://www.dailygood.org/story/2151/grateful-changemakers-karma-kitchen-the-gratefulness-team/

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Elephant Journal: Eclipse Season Kicks off 2019 with a Bang: Here’s how to Make the Most of It.

I always get excited about a fresh new year.
So many potential energy shifts. Pushing away the labors of the past year in exchange for something shiny and (as of yet) untouched, seems mysterious and appealing. I mean, we can hope, right? Astrologically speaking, January’s a brand-new month in a brand-new year and yet, we’re still going to be working on the same themes we’ve worked on throughout 2018.

https://www.elephantjournal.com/2018/12/eclipse-season-kicks-off-2019-with-a-bang-heres-how-to-make-the-most-of-it/

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MNN: How chicken soup makes you feel better, according to science
Revealed: The secret to chicken soup’s medicinal properties

When you’re sick, there are few things more nourishing than a warm, savory bowl of chicken soup. Though soup recipes vary, chicken broth is a remedy for cold and flu symptoms utilized around the world; its magic is recognized almost ubiquitously.

https://www.mnn.com/food/healthy-eating/stories/how-chicken-soup-makes-you-feel-better-according-science

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EarthSky News: Northern Cross upright in west now

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.

https://earthsky.org/tonight/northern-cross-stands-upright-on-december-evenings

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Patheos-Pagan: Witchy Resolution & Resolve, or How I Will Support my Magickal Practice in the New Year

I’m not necessarily a resolution sort of person. And yet, every year, I make some.
Every year.
But if this year’s messages and encounters have taught me anything, it’s that I can do more to support my magick

https://www.patheos.com/blogs/chargedbythegoddess/2018/12/witchy-resolution-resolve-or-how-i-will-support-my-magickal-practice-in-the-new-year/

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Inner Journey:

THE FACE IN THE MIRROR

“Our inability to see beauty doesn’t suggest in the slightest that beauty is not there. Rather, it suggests that we are not looking carefully enough or with broad enough perspective to see the beauty.”
— Rabbi Harold Kushner

Who are you? You can gaze at your reflection in a mirror but you’re not likely to see your true likeness. You are beautiful, unique, perfect. Do you see that?

The world needs you to see how whole and complete you are — now. Can you begin to own your divinity? The world needs you to know who you really are so you can be the mirror for others.

“The sun shines not on us but in us. The rivers flow not past, but through us, thrilling, tingling, vibrating every fiber and cell of the substance of our bodies, making them glide and sing.”
— John Muir

higherawareness.com
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Today’s Recipe: Garlic and Herb Snowflake Bread

This is a cute snowflake shaped pull-apart bread for the holidays. It’s filled with garlic and herbs. Serve by itself or with marinara sauce.

https://www.thriftyfun.com/Garlic-and-Herb-Snowflake-Bread.html

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Magical Correspondences for Thursday

Incense: Cinnamon,Henbane Nutmeg and Sage

Goddesses: Juno, Hera, Kwan Yin, Mary, Cybele, Tara, Mawu, Mlaba Mwana Waresa, Ishtar, Nuit

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Daily Wisdom
December 27, 2018

Blessings

“Just to be is a blessing. Just to live is holy.”

-Abraham Heschel
Think of the odds, think of what it took to get us here, in this particular body, at this particular time. So many events had to occur exactly the way that they did for us to exist right now. What if your mother hadn’t met your father? The “what ifs” are endless! But somehow everything fell into place miraculously to create this life that you’re living. So now we’re here – and what we gain from this experience, how we learn and grow and make this blessing really count, is all up to us!

-Lissa Coffey

coffeytalk.com

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Beliefnet: 6 Things to Remember When You’re Struggling to Forgive

Forgiveness is difficult, especially when we’ve been hurt deeply by someone. We all struggle with forgiveness at some point in our lives, but handing on to anger, resentment and thoughts of revenge only cause self-imposed suffering.

Cat’s Morning Bits for December 13, 2018

Posted on December 13, 2018 by Cat

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Cat’s Morning Bits for December 13, 2018

Blessings, Cat

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As many mince pies as you taste at Christmas,
so many happy months will you have.

-Old English saying

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Tetraktys: 10 Ways to Celebrate Yule Without a Coven

Hello witches! If you didn’t know already, Yule is the pagan and Wiccan celebration of the winter solstice. This year, it will happen on December 21st. Did you know that a lot of Christmas traditions have pagan roots? For this reason, it’s very easy to celebrate the winter solstice and the holidays from a pagan point of view. This article contains my top 10 ideas to celebrate Yule. You don’t even need to be in a coven to do them!

https://www.thetetraktys.com/2018/10-ways-yule/

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MBG: Beware: Mercury Retrograde Vibes Won’t Wear Off Until This Day

Emerge from the depths and clear away confusion! On Wednesday, December 6, 2018, messenger planet Mercury snaps out of a befuddling three-week retrograde backspin through outspoken Sagittarius and then Scorpio’s chamber of secrets

https://www.mindbodygreen.com/articles/mercury-retrograde-december-2018

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Daily Good: Eight Ways to Stand Up to Hate
There’s no denying it anymore: Hatred is erupting all over the United States, after having long simmered beneath the social surface. In less than one week, the Southern Poverty Law Center has tallied more than 400 incidents of “hateful intimidation and harassment”—and millions of Americans now fear becoming victims of verbal and physical assaults, possibly thanks to some very threatening and violent language coming from the very top of our society.

http://www.dailygood.org/story/1532/eight-ways-to-stand-up-to-hate-elizabeth-svoboda/

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Elephant Journal: Making Space for Grief During the Holidays.

Grief caught me by surprise this Thanksgiving.
Like holidays sometimes do, the day of gratitude fell short of my expectations. Our house was messy, the kids were restless and spending too much time in front of screens, and my husband and I kept snapping at each other.

https://www.elephantjournal.com/2018/12/making-space-for-grief-during-the-holidays/

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MNN: ‘Sesame Street’ takes on homelessness

In its nearly 50 years of teaching children (and, let’s be honest, a whole lot of adults) about the world, “Sesame Street” hasn’t shied away from addressing tough issues. Characters on or associated with the program have grappled with death, HIV, bullying, racism, LGBTQ+ rights, autism, immigration and parental incarceration over the years.

https://www.mnn.com/lifestyle/responsible-living/stories/sesame-street-takes-homelessness

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EarthSky News: Christmas Bird Count starts December 14

The Audubon Society’s Christmas Bird Count is one of the longest-running citizen science projects in existence- it was started on Christmas Day in 1900 and is still going strong. During the event, people venture outdoors to designated areas and count the types and numbers of birds that they see and hear over the course of one day. The data are used to keep track of the health of bird populations in North America. This year’s count runs from December 14, 2018 through January 5, 2019.

https://earthsky.org/earth/audubon-annual-christmas-bird-count-starts-december-14

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Patheos-Pagan: 6 Easy Ways to Bring More Magick to Your Yule

Samhain is often considered “The Witch” holiday, but I disagree! Yule is packed with Magick. But are you looking for a few new things to add? See below for easy ways to bring even more Magick to this special time.

https://www.patheos.com/blogs/doubletoilandresist/2018/12/yule/

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Inner Journey:

LOVE LIFE AND YOURSELF

“Being deeply loved by someone gives you strength while loving someone deeply gives you courage.”
— Lao Tzu

There are two basic motivating forces: fear and love. When we are afraid, we pull back from life. When we are in love, we open to all that life has to offer with passion, excitement, and acceptance.

We need to learn to love ourselves first, in all our glory and our imperfections. If we cannot love ourselves, we cannot fully open to our ability to love others or our potential to create. Evolution and all hopes for a better world rest in the fearlessness and open-hearted vision of people who embrace life.

“It matters not Who you love, Where you love, Why you love, When you love, Or how you love, It matters only that you love.”
— John Lennon

“Why not go out on a limb? Isn’t that where the fruit is?”
— Frank Scully

higherawareness.com
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A Note from the Universe

Living in time and space, Cat, just might be the scariest, most heartbreaking, and lonely path an angel could ever choose.

Until, of course, they realize that being scared doesn’t mean they can’t make a difference, broken hearts can still love just fine, and that feeling lonely doesn’t mean they’re actually alone.

Then they’ll laugh an angel laugh, fluff their wings, and dare a new dare all over again.

Love your halo,

The Universe

tut.com

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Today’s Recipe: Almond Crescent Cookies

A twist on the classic sugar cookie recipe, these almond horns are perfect for a Christmas tea or enjoyed alongside hot cocoa on a snowy afternoon.

https://www.thriftyfun.com/Almond-Crescent-Cookies.html

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Magical Correspondences for Thursday

Incense: Cinnamon,Henbane Nutmeg and Sage

Goddesses: Juno, Hera, Kwan Yin, Mary, Cybele, Tara, Mawu, Mlaba Mwana Waresa, Ishtar, Nuit

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Daily Wisdom
December 13, 2018

Service

“All altruism springs from putting yourself in the other person’s place.”

-Harry Emerson Fosdick
It’s all about empathy. We are all one. We share so much that we can understand another person’s heartache or sorrow. We can relate to each other. We want to do what we can to alleviate pain. This is how service begins.

-Lissa Coffey

coffeytalk.com

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Beliefnet: 10 Commandments for a Smart and Simple Life
Once your priorities are firmly in place you can stay focused on living as simply and effectively as possible. Here are ten commandments for living a smart and simple life.
Read more…………………

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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 6, 2018

Posted on December 6, 2018 by Cat

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Cat’s Morning Bits for December 6, 2018

Blessings, Cat

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Heart-warm against the stormy white,
The Rose of Joy burns warmer yet.

-Thomas Gold Appleton (1812-84)

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CoffeyTalk: Numerology of Number 7

Today we continue with our series on numerology with the number 7.

For those born on day 7, 16, or 25, your ruling entity is Ketu. Ketu is one of the nodes of the moon, the other being Rahu. Ketu is commonly known as the dragon’s tail. Ketu bestows spiritual tendencies, and also non-attachment to worldly desires. People under the influence of Ketu have an aversion toward material success, and they are uninterested in life’s dramas. They prefer instead to pursue enlightenment and they can be powerful healers and wise teachers. 7 people are talkative, imaginative, spiritual and intuitive. They also have a restless nature, their minds are constantly busy.

7’s are good speakers and often end up in fields where they use those talents. They are popular because they are equally friendly and supportive – they don’t see any difference between rich and poor or any status in life. They love change, and mystery and travel. They tend to do well in foreign countries because this is where they can learn new things, and also make money in business. 7’s tend to be unconventional; they have their own way of thinking. They give good advice, and they bring good luck to those close to them.

7’s work best independently. They should be careful not to get carried away with their fantasies, or to overextend themselves.

January and February are weak periods for 7’s – and June and July are favorable months. Sunday, Monday and Wednesday are good days, especially when they fall on 7 days, or 1 days. Best colors are light green, light blue and white. Black should be avoided. The cat’s eye gem is a good stone for 7’s, especially the white and green varieties.

Number 7 has been known to be a lucky number, and it’s also a spiritual number. When you see multiple 7’s it is a reminder to look at the spiritual part of yourself. Many times when you see 7’s it’s a signal that an opportunity is in front of you. Take a look around and see what this opportunity might be, and see if you are bold enough to embrace it!

Katy Perry was born on a 7 day, and so was I!

coffeytalk.com

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MBG: Well Read: 5 Books You Won’t Want To Put Down This December

Reading is undeniably a key wellness practice—and one that many of us have ignored for far too long. It’s proven to build empathy, reduce stress, and even lessen sugar cravings (yes, really!). With that in mind, we’re excited to share Well Read, a column that curates the absolute best fiction and narrative nonfiction picks of the month.

https://www.mindbodygreen.com/articles/the-best-books-to-buy-in-december-2018-dave-asprey-ann-hood-jen-sincero

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Daily Good: Farewell Badger

We cross many thresholds of partings in life; sometimes as the one leaving and sometimes as the one staying behind. Often, the farewell that must be expressed is to some emotion or aspect of ourselves we need to release in order to move forward. Pause for a moment and consider a farewell you are facing. Then open your heart and experience this soulful many-layered story of how to approach partings with grace and gratitude.

http://www.dailygood.org/story/2114/farewell-badger-tesa-silvestre/

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Elephant Journal: The Hidden Side of the High Vibe Tribe & 3 Ways to Avoid It

The high vibe tribes are on the rise right now.
In spiritual circles and social media groups, there’s talk of “raising your vibe,” short for vibration, which is the invisible energy that comes from a person, place, or thing.
In these circles, keeping your vibe high is considered a sure ticket to a better life. It’ll supposedly have you moving toward an ascended way of being, where you rise above the struggle and the pain of the world, headed to the land of good karma.

https://www.elephantjournal.com/2018/12/the-hidden-side-of-the-high-vibe-tribe-3-ways-to-avoid-it/

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MNN: Why do we want to squeeze cute things?
Whether it’s adorable kittens or chubby baby cheeks, we just can’t help ourselves.

For some it’s adorable puppies and kittens; for others, it’s chubby baby cheeks. But when faced with something so ridiculously cute, we can’t help ourselves. We have an oddly aggressive urge to squeeze it.

https://www.mnn.com/earth-matters/animals/stories/why-do-we-want-squeeze-cute-things

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EarthSky News: Orion the Hunter and the Milky Way

Tonight – or any December evening – find the famous constellations Orion the Hunter, and see the Milky Way running behind it. Orion is bright and can be seen from inside smaller cities. For the Milky Way, you’ll need a dark sky!

https://earthsky.org/tonight/orion-the-hunter-your-ticket-to-the-milky-way

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Patheos-Pagan: Dealing With Doubts as an Experienced Pagan

Whether you like it or not, if you take on leadership roles, people will look at you as a leader. Rightly or wrongly, if you write blogs and books or if you create music or visual arts, people will look at you as an authority. Even if you’re completely solitary, if you practice diligently you will develop certain expectations for your own skills and commitment.

https://www.patheos.com/blogs/johnbeckett/2018/12/dealing-with-doubts-as-an-experienced-pagan.html

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Inner Journey:

HOPE AND DISAPPOINTMENT

“It’s precisely the disappointing stories, which have no proper ending and therefore no proper meaning, that sound true to life.”
— Max Frisch

“Don’t get your hopes up!”

Were you warned of this as a child? What does this say? It says that life is bound to disappoint you. It says, don’t aim high because you’re not likely to get what you want. It says that we can’t expect good things to happen to us.

As our thinking creates our reality, this kind of thinking dooms us to a mundane existence. It’s time to change our stories. Why not focus the immense power of our hearts and minds on bringing to fruition the very best life has to offer? Allow yourself tohope and believe in all possibilities.

“Hope is the companion of power, and the mother of success; for who so hopes has within him the gift of miracles.”
— Samuel Smiles

“The very least you can do in your life is to figure out what you hope for. And the most you can do is live inside that hope. Not admire it from a distance but live right in it, under its roof.”
— Barbara Kingsolver

higherawareness.com
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A Note from the Universe

Ever wonder when looking back at your life, why it’s easier to remember the good than the bad, the pleasant than the unpleasant, the laughs than the cries?

It’s simply because there’s always a lot more of the former.

In every life.

Mega more,

The Universe

tut.com

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Today’s Recipe: Double Chocolate Toffee Cookies

Melt in your mouth goodness – perfect for the holidays.

https://www.thriftyfun.com/Double-Chocolate-Toffee-Cookies.html

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Magical Correspondences for Thursday

Incense: Cinnamon,Henbane Nutmeg and Sage

Goddesses: Juno, Hera, Kwan Yin, Mary, Cybele, Tara, Mawu, Mlaba Mwana Waresa, Ishtar, Nuit

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Daily Wisdom
December 6, 2018

Change

“Things do not change; we change.” -Henry David Thoreau (1817-1862)

When we change our perspective, things look differently to us. We may think that they have changed, but it is really our point of view that has changed. We tend to put our own labels and definitions on things, yet those change when we see things a different way. The value that we put on things changes, too. And isn’t it all just this subjective, arbitrary notion? Different people will have different opinions, that’s just the way it is… and yet, the “thing,” whatever it is, is what it is. Opening up our minds to other people’s perspectives allows us to change and grow and become more accepting and understanding.

-Lissa Coffey

coffeytalk.com

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Beliefnet: 6 Nice Things to Say to Mean Rude People
Don’t let the mean ones get you down.
Mean people can sometimes sabotage your entire day. It has happened to all of us. You are minding your own business ready to conquer the world and suddenly a toxic, angry person crosses your path
Read more at https://www.beliefnet.com/wellness/6-nice-things-to-say-to-mean-rude-people.aspx#l9784F8iObQB0wKH.99

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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 November 29, 2018

Posted on November 29, 2018 by Cat

CMB canva sm

Cat’s Morning Bits for November 29, 2018

Blessings, Cat

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Fall, falling, fallen. That’s the way the season
Changes its tense in the long-haired maples
That dot the road; the veiny hand-shaped leaves
Redden on their branches (in a fiery competition
With the final remaining cardinals) and then
Begin to sidle and float through the air, at last
Settling into colorful layers carpeting the ground.
-Edward Hirsch (b. 1950)

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CoffeyTalk: Numerology of the Number 6
Our vedic numerology series continues today with the number 6.

If you are born on day 6, 15, or 24 of any month, then Venus is your ruling planet. Venus, known as “Shukra” in Sanskrit, influences the sensuous side of humanity: beauty, passion, romance, and art. 6 people are artists – they’re creative and inventive, sensitive and emotional, lively, loving, and playful. 6 people tend to be lucky, and those born on the 24th are the most fortunate. 6 people like luxury and have good taste. They easily attract people to them and are very busy and social. 6’s are very concerned about their physical appearance and usually dress to impress.

6 people run from confrontation. They prefer harmonious environments and avoid arguments at all costs. They are deliberate in their actions and take their time. They’re very good at keeping secrets, they make good friends and family members. They like to have company around them and are popular and well-liked, but they have just a few close friends. They love their homes and can often be home-bodies.

When 6 people work slowly they are at their best. Don’t rush them. 6 people need to forgive people and not spend their time or energy brooding over bad things that have happened to them in the past as that can be detrimental to the nervous system.

Wednesdays and Fridays are the best days for 6’s, especially when they fall on a day that can be divided by 3. Since white is the color for Venus it is also a great color for 6 people. Pastel blue, pink and yellow are also good. Pink is especially good for 6 women. Diamonds are the stone for Venus, and those, as well as other white stones, like white sapphire or white tourmaline, are great for 6’s.

Many people think that when three 6’s are repeated that this is a bad or evil number, but it’s not. It is the number of perfection, and it is associated with beauty and relationships. When you see the number 6 repeated, look around and see what the message is – where can you find beauty, and harmony?

Paul Giamatti, Sylvester Stallone and Marlee Matlin were all born on 6 days.

coffeytalk.com

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MBG: Natural Cold Remedies: 10 Fast & Healthy Options To Keep On Hand

Ah, the dreaded common cold. With all the advances in medicine, you would think we would have figured out how to prevent this. Alas, we haven’t. And many of us deal with the nagging symptoms of the common cold once or more per year.

https://www.mindbodygreen.com/articles/natural-cold-remedies-fast-and-healthy-options

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Daily Good: The Abundance of Less

In “The Abundance of Less” Andy Couturier profiles the lives of ten pioneering Japanese artist-activists living lives of extraordinary grace and purpose outside the bounds of mainstream society. As author David Abram puts it,”Reading this magic book is like drinking from a fresh wellspring deep in the mountains: it slowly returns one to sanity. In an era when the allure of ten thousand digital screens eclipses the inner radiance of a stone lying among the reeds, how clarifying to encounter the eloquence and humility of these well-lived lives.” What follows is Couturier’s introduction to a book that reads like a touchstone for these troubled times.

http://www.dailygood.org/story/2148/the-abundance-of-less-andy-couturier/

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Elephant Journal: Curing the “Winter Blues”—the Ayurvedic Way.

We had our first snowfall in Michigan today.
And, though the nights are already darker and the weather much colder, the snowfall felt like our official initiation into the change of seasons.
During this time of the year, a lot of people (myself included) can become a little depressed and a little too tired. It’s cold, and all we want to do is relax in the comfort of our home with our heat on and our Netflix ready. Our Western lifestyle is based on convenience, and in winter we find ourselves wanting nothing but convenience, which can lead to a disconnect with Mother Nature.

https://www.elephantjournal.com/2018/11/winter-blues-2/

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MNN: Puppies bring smiles to seniors with dementia

Ross Smith and his grandma have a big social media following. Their fun-filled YouTube channel has more than 20 million views, and they have 4.8 million followers on Facebook as Ross and Granny play pranks, give relationship advice or just have fun. But Smith decided he wanted to do something more than make people laugh.

https://www.mnn.com/family/pets/videos/puppies-bring-smiles-seniors-dementia

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EarthSky News: Moon and Regulus late night to dawn November 28 and 29

On November 28 and 29, 2018, you’ll have to stay up late, or get up before dawn, to see the waning moon coupling up with Regulus, brightest star in the constellation Leo the Lion. The two luminaries will be highest up for the night at or near dawn

https://earthsky.org/tonight/moon-regulus-from-late-night-till-dawn

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Patheos-Pagan: Getting grounded…

If you have been working a lot with energy or you have had a particularly spiritual ritual or experience you may find yourself feeling a bit lightheaded or even with a headache. This usually means you need to ground. This is important and not just when in ritual, you can ground and centre whenever you need to and in fact it is a useful trick to do during your day.

https://www.patheos.com/blogs/beneaththemoon/2018/11/grounding/

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Inner Journey:

OPEN TO POSSIBILITIES

“Become a possibilitarian. No matter how dark things seem to be or actually are, raise your sights and see possibilities — always see them, for they’re always there.”
— Dr. Norman Vincent Peale

“One of the saddest lines in the world is, ‘Oh come now – be realistic.’ The best parts of this world were not fashioned by those who were realistic. They were fashioned by those who dared to look hard at their wishes and gave them horses to ride.”
— Richard Nelson Bolles

“The world would have you agree with its dismal dream of limitation. But the light would have you soar like the eagle of your sacred visions.”
— Alan Cohen

“It’s kind of fun to do the impossible.”
— Walt Disney

higherawareness.com
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A Note from the Universe

Of course, the human anatomy has countless built-in performance enhancement mechanisms: You sweat when you’re hot, you smile when vulnerable, and you know when you’re being watched.

But, I bet you didn’t know you have the instinctual ability to instantly acclimate to miraculous life changes, avalanches of abundance, amazing new friendships, and your “star” suddenly blasting off.

This is by design. It’s in your genes. Perfectly natural.

Just didn’t want you to be caught off guard by your own adaptability. You’d look remarkably out of place with your mouth agog while on some red carpet, tanning in St. Tropez, or driving along the coast in your hot new solar powered convertible.

Lovin’ you,

The Universe

tut.com

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Today’s Recipe: Chocolate Ricotta Muffins

Every Christmas I make a lasagne. Every Christmas I have leftover ricotta and look for recipes to use it up. These muffins are low carb and low sugar. They should be stored in the refrigerator in a covered container. They can be frozen. Defrost overnight in the refrigerator. They can be warmed up a few seconds in the microwave.

https://www.thriftyfun.com/Chocolate-Ricotta-Muffins-1.html

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Magical Correspondences for Thursday

Incense: Cinnamon,Henbane Nutmeg and Sage

Goddesses: Juno, Hera, Kwan Yin, Mary, Cybele, Tara, Mawu, Mlaba Mwana Waresa, Ishtar, Nuit

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Daily Wisdom
November 29, 2018

Time

“As every thread of gold is valuable, so is every moment of time.” -John Mason (1706-1773)
Some might joke that John Mason was a lawyer, but he was actually part of the clergy. Lawyers tend to bill by the fraction of the hour, and literally, their time is money. If you think about time that way, you get a different perspective. Every moment that we spend here on earth is precious. Not so much for the money that we can make, but for the lessons and experiences that we go through which help us to grow. It is important to be respectful of people and their time, to arrive promptly for meetings and not keep someone waiting. This is just part of being a responsible spiritual citizen. And, if we are the ones who are kept waiting, we know that we can use that time and not waste it. We can take a few moments to notice things, to breathe, to feel gratitude. No moment is ever wasted when we are living in the now.

-Lissa Coffey

coffeytalk.com

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Beliefnet: 10 Ways to Fight Guilt and Condemnation

It’s time to let go of the past. No more guilt and condemning thoughts that keep you chained to what could’ve been. Give life to the future instead with these 10 tips that will help you overcome…
Read more at https://www.beliefnet.com/wellness/galleries/10-ways-to-fight-guilt-and-condemnation.aspx#wvzXOtjZB29bSlZw.99

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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 November 22, 2018

Posted on November 22, 2018 by Cat

CMB canva sm

Cat’s Morning Bits for November 22, 2018

Blessings, Cat

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Bring forth the harp, and let us sweep its fullest, loudest string.
The bee below, the bird above, are teaching us to sing
A song for merry harvest; and the one who will not bear
His grateful part partakes a boon he ill deserves to share.

-Eliza Cook (1818-89)

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Coffey Talk: Numerology of Number 5

Our series on vedic numerology continues with the number 5 today.

Those who are born on days 5, 14, or 23 are ruled by the planet Mercury. Mercury is restless, and changeable, and these attributes are reflected in 5 people. 5’s are often risk-takers. They are witty and funny and good with words. They also have a passion for travel and adventure, and often live in foreign countries. They are curious people, and they want to learn about themselves and others. They study psychology, astrology and other sciences. They are scholarly, and they also love anything to do with art, especially poetry, as they can be quite poetic themselves. 5’s are independent thinkers and love to associate with both educated and wise people as well as young people who challenge them.

Mercury has a dual nature, and a mixed temperament. They can be hard to read, and indecisive as they are always weighing the pros and cons. However they can also be impulsive. They love change and are often impatient, avoiding long-term planning. They’re also set in their ways at home, and don’t like other people touching their stuff. 5’s tend to be intuitive and can read people easily. They can also use this trait to manipulate people.

The times when Mercury is in retrograde can be difficult on 5 people as they feel more vulnerable and sad. Wednesdays and Fridays are best for 5’s. Green, turquoise, light brown, grey, and white are all good colors for them.

When the number 5 is repeated it is usually a signal for change. When you see these numbers look around and see where you are, and think about where you want to be, and what you can do to get there.

Jewel, Chris Brown, and Laura Linney were all born on 5 days.

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MBG: 3 Simple Practices For More Gratitude & Compassion

Thanksgiving is a time to reflect on what we are grateful for—family, friends, food, or health. Although we may have the intention to give thanks for things in our life, it can be difficult to know how to act on our intentions. How can we find gratitude even when we are not feeling so grateful?

https://www.mindbodygreen.com/articles/3-practices-for-more-gratitude-and-compassion-this-thanksgiving

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Daily Good: The Meadow Across the Creek

At age twelve, Thomas Berry became acquainted with a meadow. That magic moment came to be normative for his thinking: that which preserves and enhances the meadow is good and that which opposes or negates the meadow is not good. He applies this life orientation to economic, political, educational, religious, etc. endeavors. He believes it is by experiencing lilies blooming in a meadow that we remember to coordinate our meaning with the meaning of our surroundings, orient our children to the center of the universe so they can orient themselves to their own centers, give voice to the mysteries of existence, become universe-referent, celebrate the universe, and ultimately, join the symphony called to heal the planet

http://www.dailygood.org/story/2143/the-meadow-across-the-creek-thomas-berry/

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Elephant Journal: 5 Mindful, Intimate Ways to Reconnect with our Spouse.

For the past 15 years, I’ve been in the most peaceful, reliable, and fun relationship of my life.
But our once-close connection has eroded.
It’s my second marriage. We’ve brought two children into the world. We’ve traveled the world.

And in some ways, we’ve grown worlds apart. The constant change and upheaval of raising a family has formed gulfs between us.

https://www.elephantjournal.com/2018/11/5-mindful-intimate-ways-to-reconnect-with-our-spouse/

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MNN: 5 ways being thankful can improve your life
Gratitude is the cornerstone of Thanksgiving, but research suggests it’s also an important building block for mental and physical health.

Some Thanksgiving traditions are best in small doses, like pie binges, chair naps and televised parade coverage. But thanks to a group of scientists at the University of California-Berkeley, the holiday’s namesake spirit of gratitude is quickly outgrowing its November context, fed by research that points to wide-ranging health benefits from a steady diet of thankfulness.

https://www.mnn.com/health/fitness-well-being/blogs/5-ways-being-thankful-can-improve-your-life

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EarthSky News: Full moon in Taurus on November 22

On November 22, 2018, despite the glare from the full or nearly full moon, you might be able to spot two major signposts in the constellation Taurus the Bull. Look first for the bright star Aldebaran, part of the V-shaped face of the Bull. Then look for the dipper-shaped Pleiades star cluster, in the Bull’s shoulder.

https://earthsky.org/tonight/beaver-moon-in-taurus-on-november-22

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Patheos-Pagan: Turning Towards Darkness During the Holidays

As Thanksgiving approaches, the Jolly Meter starts rising. The Jolly Meter is artificial, as the retail industry begins pushing holiday sales with increasing levels of excitement, and like clockwork, people soon follow suit. It’s only the third week of November, and I have already lost count of how many people have mentioned the holidays and “all they have to do”. Bah humbug to that.

https://www.patheos.com/blogs/witchindeed/2018/11/turning-towards-darkness-during-the-holidays/

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Inner Journey:

Look for the gifts

“In school you get the lesson and then take the test…In life you take the test and then get the lesson.”
— Unknown Source

How is a problem in your life really an opportunity?

Problems invite us to go inside to recognize a bigger picture of ourselves and of life. This bigger picture brings meaning to what is unfolding.

When you feel trapped in a problem, see if you can shift your perspective. Ask yourself, “What am I being invited to learn from this situation?” The answer will always revolve around a quality or value, like gratitude, freedom, compassion, love, will, humour or acceptance. The answer will also always promote union rather than separation.

As soon as we find the meaning in our challenge, our resistance to it melts away. Often, awareness of the lesson is all that is needed to resolve the problem. If not, the awareness brings us courage and ways to work through it.

“The period of greatest gain in knowledge and experience is the most difficult period in one’s life.”
— Dalai Lama

higherawareness.com
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A Note from the Universe

Wow, was that you?!

I was just playing around with some time-space elements, inventing and stuff, when I thought I heard a familiar voice say, “Holy @#$%, Universe! Thank you so much for this day and every second of it! Exactly as it is, exactly as I am…”

Almost dropped my chocolate into my peanut butter.

You’re welcome, you are so welcome –

The Universe

tut.com

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Today’s Recipe: Pinenut Encrusted Green Beans

This wonderful aromatic dish is easy to prepare and a nice change from your family’s normal vegetable routine. Perfect for holiday dinners as well.

https://www.thriftyfun.com/tf33617048.tip.html

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Magical Correspondences for Thursday

Incense: Cinnamon,Henbane Nutmeg and Sage

Goddesses: Juno, Hera, Kwan Yin, Mary, Cybele, Tara, Mawu, Mlaba Mwana Waresa, Ishtar, Nuit

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Daily Wisdom
November 22, 2018

Passion

“How little do they know human nature, who think they can say to passion, so far shalt thou go, and no farther!”

-Sarah Scott (1750)

It’s probably a very good thing that we can’t stop our true passions! Passion is exactly what drove Einstein, Madame Curie, Mother Teresa, and many more people who have had a positive impact on our world! Passion helps us to progress; it keeps us going despite the invariable obstacles. Every great achievement began with someone’s passion, and was carried forward by that momentum.

-Lissa Coffey

coffeytalk.com

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Beliefnet: Unusual Depression Triggers

You will be surprised what can trigger depression.

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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 November 15, 2018

Posted on November 15, 2018 by Cat

CMB canva sm

Cat’s Morning Bits for November 15, 2018

Blessings, Cat

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Shorter and shorter now the twilight clips
The days, as though the sunset gates they crowd.
-Alice Cary (1820-71)

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MBG: The One Ritual I Swear By When I’m Stressed, Anxious & Uncertainty Prevails

Let me preface this by saying that tarot is something I’ve only dabbled in—I’m certainly not an expert nor am I claiming to be! Tarot has been presented to me by healers in one-on-one sessions, my own research, and, of course, Instagram. I’d written about tarot in my book, the Spirit Almanac, but didn’t practice it regularly on my own. I’d be remiss not to mention that this is about finding my own groove with tarot, a method that fits with my lifestyle, and that’s what I’m sharing here, not an official method of any kind.

https://www.mindbodygreen.com/articles/tarot-a-ritual-for-uncertain-times

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Herbal Muse Press: Herbal Dream Pillows

Herb and spice-filled pillows are a delightful way to induce relaxation and sleep by natural means. They’re fun to assemble and they make wonderful gifts!

For centuries, the fragrance of herbs have been captured in pillows and sweet bags to purify and scent the home. They were known by European mothers anxious to lure their offspring into tranquil sleep, by those seeking relief from headache or depression, and by the solitary who yearned to find true love.

https://www.herbalmusings.com/herbal-dream-pillows

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Elephant Journal: Mercury Retrograde: 7 Good Things that Can Happen to You. {November 16 to December 6}

For those who are a bit hazy about what happens during Mercury retrograde, here’s what you need to know:
The world seems to go haywire with miscommunications of all types during this period—which happens again from November 16 to December 6, 2018.

https://www.elephantjournal.com/2018/11/mercury-retrograde-7-good-things-that-can-happen-to-you-november-16-to-december-6/

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MNN: Who needs small talk? Not the Finnish (or me)

When I was single and dating, my friends made fun of me for jumping into deep conversations with guys I just met.
I’ve never been interested in small talk, or its cousin, flirting. I’m genuinely curious to get to know people, and I’d rather not talk if it’s going to be about nonsense. Turns out, I have something in common with the “silent Finns” who are also known for not talking small, but diving into meaningful conversation — or none at all.

https://www.mnn.com/health/fitness-well-being/blogs/who-needs-small-talk-not-finnish

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EarthSky News: Could consciousness come down to the way things vibrate?

What’s the relationship between mind and matter? A new psychological theory suggests that synchronized vibrations lie at the heart of human consciousness, and – indeed – of all physical reality.

https://earthsky.org/human-world/consciousness-what-is-theory-vibration

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Patheos-Pagan: Witchin’ in the Kitchen: Recipes and Blessings for Thanksgiving Feasts

As the Thanksgiving feast day approaches, it’s time to get down to meal-planning. I feed folks of all dietary needs at my table, so over the years I’ve adapted recipes to suit all sorts of palettes; carnivores to vegans, traditional to exotic, and many of them gluten-free. As much as I love the traditional foods I grew up with in the southeast, I like to put an international twist on ’em, just to keep folks guessing.

https://www.patheos.com/blogs/witchonfire/2018/11/witchin-kitchen-recipes-blessings-thanksgiving-feasts/

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Inner Journey:

LEARN FROM EXPERIENCE

“Experience is not what happens to a man; it is what a man does with what happens to him.”
— Aldous Huxley

What was your peak experience of this past week? What was your most challenging experience?

Stepping back to review your week can offer many insights. Normally we can’t see the forest for the trees. Now back away and see the whole forest. Review your week. Now write a short summary — whatever comes to mind for you. If action is required, plan how you will accomplish it in the next week.

“Ask the experienced rather than the learned.”
— Arabic proverb

“Experience is that marvellous thing that enables you to recognize a mistake when you make it again.”
— Franklin P. Jones

higherawareness.com
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A Note from the Universe

You don’t even have to know what you want. I’ll take care of that.

Just enjoy that you received another day, and the 10,000 miracles within it.

It’s on me,

The Universe

tut.com

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Today’s Recipe: Crescent and Feta Cheese Triangle Appetizer

Here is another simple appetizer recipe using crescent rolls and feta cheese to make tasty pastry triangles.

https://www.thriftyfun.com/Crescent-and-Feta-Cheese-Triangle-Appetizer-1.html

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Magical Correspondences for Thursday

Incense: Cinnamon,Henbane Nutmeg and Sage

Goddesses: Juno, Hera, Kwan Yin, Mary, Cybele, Tara, Mawu, Mlaba Mwana Waresa, Ishtar, Nuit

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Daily Wisdom
November 15, 2018

Laughter

“A good laugh is as good as a prayer sometimes.” -L.M. Montgomery

Laughter heightens our senses so that we feel joy. And when we feel joy, we feel our connection with God. Having that feeling of oneness is like a prayer, it’s comforting, it’s cleansing. Laugh, and share the joy.

-Lissa Coffey

coffeytalk.com

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Beliefnet: 5 Ways to Feel Less Lonely
Everyone craves and needs social engagement. Personal interactions are good for the mind, heart, and soul. You don’t have to be a social butterfly to feel less lonely though. There are simple ways…

Cat’s Morning Bits for November 8, 2018

Posted on November 8, 2018 by Cat

CMB canva sm

Cat’s Morning Bits for November 8, 2018

Blessings, Cat

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The geese honked overhead
I ran to catch the skein
To watch them as they fled
In a long wavering line.

-May Sarton (1912-95)

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MBG: Well Read: 5 Books You Won’t Be Able To Put Down This November

https://www.mindbodygreen.com/articles/best-books-november-2018

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Daily Good: The Art and Discipline of Seeing Compassionately

“Prophets and sages throughout the generations have all agreed on this one point: how you see determines what you see and don’t see. So if we want to heal the divisions in our country and our homes, we have to learn a new way of seeing.” In this excerpt from his book “Practice Makes PURPOSE: Six Spiritual Practices That Will Change Your Life and Transform Your Community”, Paul Schroeder offers insight on how to develop compassionate seeing

http://www.dailygood.org/story/2031/the-art-and-discipline-of-seeing-compassionately-c-paul-schroeder/

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Elephant Journal: How we Clean Up Toxic Masculinity.

There is no question that masculinity is caught in a tumultuous tempest. But I believe the social and psychological storm we endure now will be the catalyst for a sea-change, transforming yesterday’s man into something rich and strange.

https://www.elephantjournal.com/2018/11/how-we-clean-up-toxic-masculinity/

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MNN: These stores will be closed on Thanksgiving

Six years ago, big-box giant Walmart surprised the country by announcing that its Black Friday sales would start on Thanksgiving night. Die-hard Black Friday shoppers cheered the decision, while die-hard turkey day enthusiasts claimed the move destroyed the meaning of the Thanksgiving holiday and forced both employees and customers to abandon their families.

https://www.mnn.com/money/green-workplace/blogs/more-stores-close-thanksgiving-online-shopping

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EarthSky News: Go young moon hunting November 8-10

Today – November 8 – you might (or might not) spot the young moon in your western sky after sunset. Generally, it’s difficult to catch a pale, whisker-thin waxing crescent moon that’s less than 24 hours old (24 hours past new moon). If you miss the young moon at dusk November 8, try again on November 9 or 10. Day after day, a wider crescent moon will stay out later after sunset and will be easier to catch at early evening.

https://earthsky.org/tonight/go-young-moon-hunting-november-8-10

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Patheos-Pagan: The Mists of Avalon

I didn’t know what else to name this entry – it had to be “Mists of Avalon” because that is exactly what I would like to share with you all today. This is not an article about the book with the same name in which a fictional account of the King Arthur story from the perspective of the women in it is recounted-

https://www.patheos.com/blogs/adamantinemuse/2018/11/the-mists-of-avalon/

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Inner Journey:

EGO’S TRICKS

“One of the great dangers of transformational work is that the ego attempts to sidestep deep psychological work by leaping into the transcendent too soon. This is because the ego always fancies itself much more ‘advanced’ than it actually is.”
— Don Richard Riso and Russ Hudson

The Tibetan teacher, Chogyam Trungpa, warned of the trap of spiritual materialism. He says we must be ever diligent to spot the ego’s use of the spiritual journey to further its own ends.

We may think it’s spiritual to yearn for divine connection. And yet, if the longing is to fill an emptiness inside, just how does this differ from the one who yearns for money or possessions to fill the inner void? Do we look to our spiritual practices asproof of our evolved consciousness or as protection against fears?

Any time we use spiritual disciplines to maintain our identity and security, we are not yet on the path of genuine spiritual development.

“Enlightenment is ego’s ultimate disappointment.”
— Chögyam Trungpa

higherawareness.com
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A Note from the Universe

At first we thought it would be really cool if only your “positive” thoughts became the things and events of your life.

But then we couldn’t think of any things or events that wouldn’t eventually be considered “positive,” so we decided to just leave you “turned on” all the time.

B-z-z-z-z-z-z-z-z…

The Universe

tut.com

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Today’s Recipe: Spinach and Cheese Appetizers

Well, I have spent this weekend trying out some new recipes for my upcoming holiday get togethers. This one I found and of course tweaked it here and there to my own liking and I have to say, they came out pretty tasty!

https://www.thriftyfun.com/Spinach-and-Cheese-Appetizers.html

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Magical Correspondences for Thursday

Incense: Cinnamon,Henbane Nutmeg and Sage

Goddesses: Juno, Hera, Kwan Yin, Mary, Cybele, Tara, Mawu, Mlaba Mwana Waresa, Ishtar, Nuit

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Daily Wisdom
November 8, 2018

Beauty

“Never lose an opportunity of seeing anything that is beautiful; for beauty is God’s handwriting – a wayside sacrament. Welcome it in every fair face, in every fair sky, in every fair flower, and thank God for it as a cup of blessing.”

-Ralph Waldo Emerson

Beauty is everywhere, all around an in each one of us. Yet where do we put our attention? On what we have decided is “wrong?” On what we think needs to be “fixed?” There is beauty in these things, too – if we would only look for it. There is a lesson, a gift, a treasure to be found in every situation and circumstance. We can acknowledge it or turn away from it – but it is there nonetheless.

-Lissa Coffey

coffeytalk.com

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Beliefnet: 10 Things That Steal Your Joy

Here are ten habits that start off small but grow to choke the joy out of your life. Avoid these and regain your strength…
Read more at https://www.beliefnet.com/wellness/galleries/10-things-that-steal-your-joy.aspx#cjPJxFOERWUmLweA.99

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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 November 1, 2018

Posted on November 1, 2018 by Cat

Cat’s Morning Bits for November 1, 2018

Blessings, Cat

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The hosts of lovers, young in death,
Go seeking down the world to-night,
Remembering faces, warmth and breath-
And they shall seek till it is light.

-Hortense King Flexner (1885-1973)

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Spiritual Unite: Waking Up At 4am: The Chinese Medicine Clock

A common problem we hear a lot about is waking up at 4 am every morning. There are numerous ways we can get to the root of this problem, and the first is the Chinese Medicine Clock.
Waking up at 4 am every morning wreaks havoc on your life and leaves you tired, irritable and can affect your work and personal life.

https://www.spiritualunite.com/articles/waking-up-at-4am-the-chinese-medicine-clock/

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Daily Good: Say Grace

” I am deeply delighted to live on a planet that is so big and varied that I can confidently say that right this very minute somewhere in the world a crossword puzzle is being completed, a fortune cookie is being snapped open and a song just brought someone to tears. I love knowing that while I am fast asleep in California, a crowd is gathered around the Rosetta Stone at the British Museum, a marriage proposal is taking place and a leaf-cutter ant somewhere in Costa Rica is carrying a leaf piece back to its nest.” In this brief, beautiful piece artist Lea Redmond conjures up a sense of the world of marvels we wake up in each day.

http://www.conversations.org/story.php?sid=544

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Elephant Journal: The Miracle that happens when we Show Up Naked

Bare naked: a soul investigation.
Scary thought, isn’t it? To show up in the world with no armor on.

That armor can be anything: power suits, high heels, hair gel, breast implants, a Mercedes, lipstick, social media, money, kids, strong bodies, sexy struts, fake smiles, politics, religion, dogma…anything.
Consider this: Just you. Just me. Nothing and no one else. Naked as the day we were born.

https://www.elephantjournal.com/2018/10/the-miracle-that-happens-when-we-show-up-naked/

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MNN: You need more eustress in your life
Stress isn’t all bad, really.

No one likes stress. It can feel like a weight dragging you down. Whether it’s lots of little things at work or just one big thing at home, stress can lead to health problems like high blood pressure or a hard time focusing.

https://www.mnn.com/health/fitness-well-being/stories/you-need-more-eustress-your-life

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EarthSky News: Sky Bear comes to Earth in November

Tonight … a constellation you might or might not see, depending on your latitude. In the Northern Hemisphere, the Big Dipper is probably the sky’s best known asterism. In other words, it’s a recognizable pattern of stars – not an official constellation. The Big Dipper is part of the constellation Ursa Major, otherwise known as the Great Bear.

https://earthsky.org/tonight/big-dipper-aka-sky-bear-comes-to-earth-on-november-evenings

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Patheos-Pagan: Hekate & November: The Underworld, Crossroads, Death Walking & Initiation

November is Hekate’s month. There are two nights honoring her, Night of Hekate of the Underworld and Night of Hekate of the Crossroads. The long nights provide her witches’ with much darkness in which we can work our magick and honor our queen.

https://www.patheos.com/blogs/keepingherkeys/2018/10/hekate-november-the-underworld-crossroads-death-walking-initiation/

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Inner Journey:

IT’S A MATTER OF BALANCE.

“My soul is the bridge between spirit and body and, as such, is a uniter of opposites. …Without soul at center, I would either transcend into spirit or become mired in matter.”
— Marion Woodman

Ram Dass talks of how his first spiritual goal was to be rid of his physical existence. He came to understand, though, that our spirituality lies in bringing higher consciousness to our world of form. When we can do so, we can delight in all aspects of creation.

Soul exists in the balance of spirit and matter. For a soulful life, we pay attention to both, seeing spiritual qualities in material forms. As our awareness grows, we begin to use consciousness to influence and create form. It’s through form that our spirit expresses.

“Walk in balance with one foot in your spiritual understanding and one foot in your physical world of accomplishment.”
— Lynn V. Andrews

higherawareness.com
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A Note from the Universe

You can change a great many things.

Or you can change.

Same-same,

The Universe

tut.com

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Today’s Recipe: Walnut Potato Bread

By Jean Genie

I received a book last Christmas called “Whole Grain Vegan Baking” and have recently have had a lot of fun making the recipes in it. The jist of these recipes is they replace the egg and dairy with potatoes, squash, and other vegetables. Also oils and vegan yogurt.

https://www.thriftyfun.com/Walnut-Potato-Bread.html

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Magical Correspondences for Thursday

Incense: Cinnamon,Henbane Nutmeg and Sage

Goddesses: Juno, Hera, Kwan Yin, Mary, Cybele, Tara, Mawu, Mlaba Mwana Waresa, Ishtar, Nuit

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Daily Wisdom
November 1, 2018

Self-Knowledge

“A single event can awaken within us a stranger totally unknown to us.”

-Antoine de Saint-Exupery

Sometimes one single event is all it takes to totally wake us up to the Truth that is here all the time. But for most of us, it is a process that gradually unfolds, giving us clues, hints, and glimpses of Reality in small doses so that we can assimilate them into our lives. We become familiar with who we are, we get to know ourselves day by day, as we come to understand and accept that we are much more than the roles we play.

-Lissa Coffey

coffeytalk.com

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Beliefnet: 5 Reasons to Enjoy the Lazy Days
Nothing to do. No one to see. No commitments and no communication; no rules. Here’s why you should enjoy the lazy days and take them more often.
Read more…………………

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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 October 25, 2018

Posted on October 25, 2018 by Cat

CMB canva sm

Cat’s Morning Bits for October 25, 2018

Blessings, Cat

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One wading a Fall meadow finds on all sides
The Queen Anne’s Lace lying like lilies
On water; it glides
So from the walker, it turns
Dry grass to a lake, as the slightest shade of you
Valleys my mind in fabulous blue Lucernes.

-Richard Wilbur (1921-2017)

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Spiritual Unite: Golden Tabby Cat Description – Bold And Adventurous

There’s no denying that cats have a special place in our hearts, but did you know that the cat is the only animal whose fur colour is attached to its metaphysical meaning? The golden tabby cat has orange and white fur in a tabby pattern, with the orange being slightly fairer so that it appears golden.

https://www.spiritualunite.com/articles/golden-tabby-cat-description-bold-and-adventurous/

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Elephant Journal: What it means to have Spiritual Grit.

Have you ever taken a good look at the hands of a lifelong farmer or manual laborer?
Have you ever felt the rough edges of their callouses scratch against the tender flesh of your palm as you pull back from an embrace?
There are stories that live inside those cracked and dirty fingernails that are so rarely understood and yet so often romanticized.

https://www.elephantjournal.com/2018/10/what-it-means-to-have-spiritual-grit/

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MNN: 10 healing plants you can find in your garden

Since ancient times, people have used plants to heal themselves. Frescos dating to 1500 or 1600 B.C. found on a Greek island are said to depict a goddess cultivating saffron for medicinal use. Today, using plants to treat disease is widespread in most cultures. And did you know that many herbal remedies can be found in your garden? Check out our list of common remedies that may have you reconsidering what’s a weed.

https://www.mnn.com/your-home/organic-farming-gardening/stories/10-healing-plants-you-can-find-your-garden

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EarthSky News: Watch after sunrise for a daytime moon

The Northern Hemisphere’s full Hunter’s Moon has passed. The moon is now in a waning gibbous phase, rising in the east later and later each evening. That means you can catch the moon over your western horizon after sunrise in the coming days. Sylvia asked:

https://earthsky.org/tonight/see-daytime-moon-after-sunrise

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Patheos-Pagan: Relationships With Spirits And Deities Is Part of Success In Magic
Developing relationships with spirits, daimons, and/or deities who are relevant to your life are a major key to magic. I owe a good portion of my own success on cultivating connections with deities such as Hekate and Hermes, and obviously maintaining existing strong ones are always of benefit, too

http://www.patheos.com/blogs/teaaddictedwitch/2018/10/relationships-daimons-deities-magic/

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Inner Journey:

REMEMBER YOUR SPIRITUAL SIDE

“The function of prayer is not to influence God, but rather to change the nature of the one who prays.”
— Soren Kierkegaard

Reminding ourselves often of our spiritual natures truly changes the quality of our lives. It helps us relax, slow down, lighten up, and generally find more space and joy in life.

When we get down on ourselves or life, we can pull back and ask, “How might my soul regard this situation? What am I being invited to experience?”

This shift in perspective helps us let go of the resistance that always comes with negativity. As energy once again begins to flow, our outlook brightens.

“Spirituality is the sacred center out of which all life comes, including Mondays and Tuesdays and rainy Saturday afternoons in all their mundane and glorious detail. … The spiritual journey is the soul’s life comminglingwith ordinary life.”
— Christina Baldwin

“It is not my business to think about myself. My business is to think about God. It is for God to think about me.”
— Simone Weil

higherawareness.com
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A Note from the Universe

About the ground rules… You know, “paying your dues,” “opportunity only knocking once,” and “early birds getting the worms.”

Well, they were all made up by loving parents who wanted more for their kids than they ever had, yet who knew absolutely nothing of life’s magic, conspiring elements, and other sundry woo-woo.

Yeah, let’s blow their loving minds.

Whooohooooooo!

The Universe

tut.com

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Today’s Recipe: Apple Spice Muffins

I make these apple muffins so chock full of apples, they should be called apples with a little muffin. *Yummy* I love apple season.

https://www.thriftyfun.com/Apple-Spice-Muffins.html

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Magical Correspondences for Thursday

Incense: Cinnamon,Henbane Nutmeg and Sage

Goddesses: Juno, Hera, Kwan Yin, Mary, Cybele, Tara, Mawu, Mlaba Mwana Waresa, Ishtar, Nuit

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Daily Wisdom
October 25, 2018

Forgiveness

“Dream of your brother’s kindnesses instead of dwelling in your dreams on his mistakes. Select his thoughtfulness to dream about instead of counting up the hurts he gave.”

-A Course in Miracles

Whatever we turn our attention to increases. So focusing on the good increases the good. Our “reality” is just a perception of things as they are – so choose to look at what we want more of. There is always more than one way of seeing, or thinking about someone or someone’s behavior.

-Lissa Coffey

coffeytalk.com

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Beliefnet: 6 Body Positive Moments that Inspired Us
People are taking a stand against the unrealistic expectations of our beauty culture.

We can remember as little girls flipping through fashion magazines and viewing all the skinny models and actresses on the glossy pages. Looking in wonder and wanting to emulate these false images, many young girls erroneously believed that all women need to be skinny or something must be wrong with them.
Read more at https://www.beliefnet.com/wellness/galleries/6-body-positive-moments-that-inspired-us.aspx#r2uvuRtIC3ymFOSp.99

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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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