Monthly Archives: January 2019

It is important to remember that the Moon cycles through the signs of the zodiac every couple of days, and it’s important to check the time of day that it enters and leaves the sign, because that will vary depending on your geographical location. If in doubt, you can use this moon sign calculator.

Leo rules play, fine arts, for naming a child, theater, being a host/ess, parties and fun, celebrations, hobbies, games, lovers, love and romance, gambling and speculation, showing off, warm-hearted, cheering up, loyalty from others both giving and getting, chivalry, clowning around, amusements, doing it with style, risk taking, investing, stocks and bonds.

Leo is a fixed sign and projects begun when the moon is in this sign tend to last. Moon in Leo is good for anything having to do with children, creativity, good for casting love spells; romance, success in gambling, winning, attracting center stage, personal charisma, men in general, the father, hobbies, speculation, risk taking, investments, stocks and bonds, authority and spells for gaining positions of power and authority over others.

Magickal workings ruled by the Sun are successful at this time. This includes spells for:

  • Love, romance and dating
  • Children
  • Creativity
  • Fun
  • Self-expression
  • Play
  • Vacation and leisure
  • Investments and speculation
  • Selling a home at a good profit
  • Queens and Kings
  • Aristocracy
  • Big rituals
  • Awards and recognition
  • Pride and personal pride

Leo is a majestic and bright fire sign. The moon in Leo is favorable to shine in society, to gain fame, love, independence, to unleash creative potential. During this period, you can afford expensive purchases, noisy entertainment, big parties. It is a good time to organize celebrations, make active steps towards dreams.

Leo is considered a barren sign, so it is better not to plant fruit crops during the days of his lunar reign. You can plant lawn grass, ivy, ornamental plants. Even though Leo is considered to be a barren sign, astrologers claim that the moon in Leo helps couples to conceive a boy.

Note:

Do NOT have surgical procedures performed on the heart, spine, or back at this time.

Moon Phase Info
  • New Moon in Leo – the time to shine in society. Go to the theater, cinema, museum, make new acquaintances.
  • Waxing Moon in Leo – the best day to have a party.
  • Full Moon in Leo – time to speak very frankly with someone close.
  • Waning moon in Leo – an excellent period for career achievements.

Meditation For Moon In Leo

This is a simple candle meditation ritual to enhance creativity. You will need:

  • 1 orange candle (creativity, enthusiasm)
  • 1 yellow candle (creativity, imagination, and inspiration)
  • Amethyst, chrysocolla, black onyx, and turquoise

Creativity is more than just writing, painting, or music It can be about coming up with a great innovative concept for a business method, or something as mundane as redecorating your apartment. This ritual is flexible so feel free to adjust wording as you fit.

Cleanse and clear your space using White Sage , Palo Santo, or Florida water.

Light your altar candles and the incense. Anoint your candles using appropriate oils for creativity. Place the orange and yellow candles side by side and place a piece of black onyx behind the orange candle and the piece of turquoise in front of it.

With your yellow candle, place the Chrysocolla behind the candle, and the amethyst in the front. Light the candles, and think about the particular reason why you need creativity, you might wish to say aloud something along the lines as simple as:

The Universe is filled with endless ideas of creativity. I attract them to me like a magnet. My mind and dreams are open to these ideas. They flow in like a stream of clear water.

Sitting in silence breathe in the sign of Leo and place it into your heart center. Allow the color of Gold, radiating like the sun to surround your entire body and fill you with courage, strength, and fire. Recognize the power of yourself as an individual. A powerful Leo moon mantra for this meditation to remember is:

” My will is strong and my calling is to express and illuminate.”

After the meditation, it might be helpful to consider, or to journal your answers to the following questions:

  • What is it that I have been given to express?
  • How can I do that with an open and generous heart?

Sources:

Ethiopia follows the Ethiopian calendar, consequently Christmas falls on January 7th and Epiphany on January 19th.  Timkat, Ethiopia’s Epiphany celebration, is a celebration of the baptism of Jesus in the Jordan River. The festival lasts for three days and is at its most colorful in the capital, Addis Ababa, where everyone gets involved in the celebrations.

As part of the celebration, a ritual baptism is done. A stream or pool is blessed before dawn. The water is sprinkled on some participants, while other immerse themselves in the water to symbolically renew their baptismal vows.

Pilgrims come from far and wide to take part in the festival and witness the re-enactment of the baptism. All over the country large crowds assemble as the religious festivities commence, with spectacular processions, song, dance and prayer.

In Addis Ababa, the festival is particularly spectacular. The streets are adorned with green, red and yellow to represent the Ethiopian flag and priests walk through the streets holding colorful and richly decorated umbrellas.

The religious ceremony commences on the first day when the Tabot, a model of the Ark of the Covenant, which is present on every Ethiopian altar (somewhat like the Western altar stone), is reverently wrapped in rich cloth and borne in procession on the head of the priest.

The Tabots are then carried to the river in a procession led by the most senior priest of each church, who carry the arks on top of their heads. The Divine Liturgy is celebrated near a stream or pool early in the morning (around 2 a.m.). Then the nearby body of water is blessed towards dawn and sprinkled on the participants, some of whom jump in the water to renew their baptismal vows.

The second day of Timkat marks the main celebrations, with Orthodox Ethiopians from every segment of society merrily march through the streets in a riot of color, singing, dancing and feasting. All but one of the Tabots are returned to their respective churches.

On the third day of Timkat, known as the feast of St. Michael the Archangel, the Tabot of St. Michael’s Church  is escorted back to its church in colorful procession and festivities.

About the Tabot

The Tabot symbolizes the Ark of the Covenant and the tablets describing the Ten Commandments, which God gave to Moses on Mount Sinai to serve as the core principles of the moral behavior for humanity. The Tabot, which is otherwise rarely seen by the laity, represents the manifestation of Jesus as the Messiah when he came to the Jordan for baptism.

The original Ark of the Covenant is said to be under permanent guard in Northern Ethiopia, protected by priests who have sworn never to leave the sacred grounds.

Sources:

Dwynwen was Wales’ patron saint of lovers, and January 25th is the Welsh equivalent to St Valentine’s Day. However, it is a romantic country, and they also celebrate St Valentine’s day on 14 February!

She is also known as:

  • Dwyn
  • Donwen
  • Donwenna
  • Dunwen

Her most well known saying is “Nothing wins hearts like cheerfulness

The story of Dwynwen dates back to the 5th century. She was a beautiful Celtic princess, the prettiest of all the King of Wales’s 24 daughters (Brychan Brycheiniog of Brechon also had 11 sons!).

Dwynwen was in deeply in love with the handsome Maelon Dafodrill, but her father had already betrothed her to another, so he refused to give them his consent. On finding out, Maelon cruelly forced himself upon her and fled. With a broken heart, and grieved to have upset her father, Dwynwen ran to the woods and begged God to make her forget her love for Maelon.

Exhausted and aungished, Dwynwen eventually fell asleep. Whilst dreaming, an angel visited her and left a sweet smelling potion. This would erase all memories of Maelon, and his callous heart would also be cooled, but so much so that he turned to ice. Dwynwen was horrified to find her love frozen solid. She prayed again to God, who answered her prayers by granting her three wishes.

Her first wish was to have Maelon thawed and for him to forget her; her second, to have God look kindly on the hopes and dreams of true lovers whilst mending the broken hearts of the spurned; and her third was for her to never marry, but to devote the remainder of her life to God, as thanks for saving Maelon.

Dwynwen devoted the rest of life to God’s service. She became a nun and lived on Llanddwyn Island on the western coast of Ynys Mon (Anglesey), an area accessible only at low tide. She founded a church there, remains of which can still be seen today. After her death she was declared the Welsh Patron Saint of Lovers and ever since, Welsh lovers have looked to St Dwynwen for her help in courting their true love, or for forgetting a false one.

On the island there is a well where, according to legend, a sacred fish (an eel) swims. It is said that the eel can predict the happiness of relationships.

Her well, a fresh-water spring called Ffynnon Dwynwen, became a wishing well and place of pilgrimage, particularly for lovers because of the story above. The tradition grew that the eel in the well could foretell the future for lovers – ask questions and watch which way they turn. Women would scatter breadcrumbs on the surface, then lay her handkerchief on water’s surface; if the eel disturbed it, her lover would be faithful.

Visitors still go to the well today, hoping that the water will boil, meaning that love and good luck will follow them. Her well continues to be a place of pilgrimage; there’s a tradition that if the fish in the well are active when a couple visits, it’s the sign of a faithful husband.

Visitors would leave offerings at her shrine, and so popular was this place of pilgrimage that it became the richest in the area during Tudor times. This funded a substantial chapel that was built in the 16th century on the site of Dwynwen’s original chapel.

Prayer To St Dwynwen

Oh Blessed St. Dwynwen, you who knew pain and peace, division and reconciliation. You have promised to aid lovers and you watch over those whose hearts have been broken. As you received three boons from an Angel, intercede for me to receive 3 blessings to obtain my heart’s desire (state request) and if that is not God’s will, a speedy healing from my pain; your guidance and assistance that I may find love with the right person, at the right time, and in a right way; and an unshakeable faith in the boundless kindness and wisdom of God and this I ask in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

St. Dwynwen, we beseech thee, comfort lovers whose vision is unclear. Send mending to those with love lost. Protect companions. In your name we seek to do the same. In your name we choose love first. With the love of you, Mary and of Jesus Christ. Amen.

Sources:

It is important to remember that the Moon cycles through the signs of the zodiac every couple of days, and it’s important to check the time of day that it enters and leaves the sign, because that will vary depending on your geographical location. If in doubt, you can use this moon sign calculator.

Cancer rules security, myths and archetypes, nurturer, looking into the past, traditions, the family in general, cooking and eating, planting, fishing, home and hearth, restaurants, good for listening to others, helping others with problems, sentiment, keeping secrets, doing things at home or for the home, roots, integrity, graves, underground places, inherited traits, weather and climate, gentle self-effacing humor, psychic, land and real estate, fresh water, water in general, especially in lakes, rivers and streams, mines and mining.

Cancer presides over anything to do with the home, family, food, nurturing, the mother, women in general. Things tend to last, as Cancer is a clingy sign. Good for love spells, weather spells, altar consecration, blessing the home, mediumship, psychic endeavors, inciting over-emotionalism. Spells for the success in buying land, purchasing real estate, a decent place to live, and reconciling family members are best performed when the Moon is in this sign. With love relationships or marriages begun when the moon is in Cancer, if the parties break up, they often tend to reunite.

This is the sign the Moon rules, and here she is very strong. Magick corresponding to the Moon is successful when the Moon is in Cancer. This would include spellwork for the following:

  • Home
  • Mother, family, children
  • Food
  • Psychic abilities
  • Divination
  • Finding one’s roots
  • Past lives
  • Real estate
  • Altar consecration
  • Chalice consecration
  • Establishing a coven
  • Initiation
  • Finding or buying a home
  • Weather workings
  • Planting and raising food crops
  • Contacting Goddess
  • Starting a Tradition

Cancer is a very sensitive sign of the zodiac, and this is evident in its effect on people. The time of the Moon in Cancer is favorable for establishing personal affairs, family relations, and the development of intuitive abilities. During this period, it is easier to learn to understand people, it is also favorable for the development of the restaurant business and the sale of flowers.

These days we are more receptive and suggestible. No need to rush things. If someone in your environment is naughty and scandalous – he wants attention and warmth. Show sympathy, and the person will thank you for your loyalty in the future.

Cancer is a fertile zodiac sign, so it is the best time to plant fruit crops, or any other plants that you want. In addition, astrologers claim that the moon in Cancer helps couples to conceive a girl.

Note:

Do NOT have surgical procedures performed on the stomach at this time.

Moon Phase Info:
  • New Moon in Cancer–  the time to solve family matters and domestic issues.
  • Waxing Moon in Cancer–  the best period for frank conversations with your soulmate.
  • Full Moon in Cancer–  a day of charity, volunteering, help to the needy.
  • Waning Moon in Cancer–  a time of nostalgia, meetings with old friends.

Ritual Bath For Moon in Cancer

Creating a purifying salt bath (to purify your aura), filled with eucalyptus (to aid in healing emotional ailments), lavender (to help you relax), rose quartz (to mend your heart and confidence), amethyst (to revive and treat your emotional upsets), and moonstone (to evoke the Moon Goddess in balancing out your best emotions) will boost your auric field and attune your inner vibration, allowing you to release old sentiments by cleansing your body, mind, and sprit.

Moon Water Recipe
  • 6 drops of Eucalyptus Oil or Eucalyptus Leaves
  • 4 Lavender Oil or Fresh Lavender
  • Rose Quartz
  • Amethyst Crystal
  • Moonstone
  • Himalayan Sea Salt, Epson Salt, or Kosher Salt

Place rose quartz, amethyst, and moonstone in a cup of water. Charge a cup of water under the Moon’s glow during the day. You can leave the cup by the window sill to absorb the lunar energy.

The Bath

Run a warm bath. Put a cup of salt in the bath water. Place 6 drops of eucalyptus oil or leaves in bath (the number 2 is the numerological number of the Moon, therefore, we are using even numbers to honor the Moon Goddess). Place 4 drops of lavender oil or flowers in bath. Add the rose quartz, amethyst, and moonstone to water.

Enter bath and close your eyes, meditating on the stillness of your mind and the warmth of the water. Put on soothing music, lay in the bath. Let the water heal your mind, body, spirit, and heart by washing away the pain and frustrations you feel within.

Sources:

Tu Bishvat occurs on the 15th day of the Hebrew month of Shevat. In 2019, this date falls on January 20. Tu Bishvat (Tu B’Shevat), also called “Rosh HaShanah La’Ilanot” (New Year of the Trees) is kind of like a birthday for all trees. Trees planted before this day, even by one day, will turn a year older on Tu Bishvat. Traditionally fruit from trees may not be eaten for the first four years, so the age is important.

Here are some simple ways to celebrate The New Year of the Trees

  • Pick fresh fruits and vegetables at a local farm.
  • Plant trees, seeds, or start an herb garden.
  • Build a birdhouse to hang in a tree.
  • Eat the seven significant species of the land of Israel: wheat, grapes, barley, figs, pomegranates, olives, and dates.
  • Organize a park clean-up to collect litter.
  • Make something for your home with reclaimed wood.
  • Take some time to research your own ancestry and assemble your family tree.
  • Commit to recycling paper goods. If you don’t already have one, get a separate bin and you’re all set!
  • Host a Tu B’Shevat Seder.

In the 16th century, the kabbalist Rabbi Yitzchak Luria of Safed developed a Tu Bishvat seder. The fruits and trees of Israel were given symbolic meaning. Eating ten specific fruits and drinking four cups of wine in a specific order while reciting blessings would bring people and the world closer to spiritual perfection.

How to Lead a Tu Bishvat Seder

Set up your table as for Passover: white or other nice tablecloth, good dishes, flowers, wine, and juice. There is no requirement to light candles, but scented candles add a nice touch and a festive glow. Either one person can lead the seder, reciting each reading and making the blessings, or everyone can take turns.

The directions concerning which fruit to locate and the mix of the wines should be read aloud. As each piece of fruit and each cup of wine is being considered and blessed, that object is held by the reader. After each blessing, the participants taste the fruit or sip the wine.

Hand Washing

Fill a large bowl with flower-scented water and float a small cup in it. Carry the bowl from person to person or set up a washing station in a corner. Feel how nice it is to place your hands over the bowl and have someone pour warm water over your fingers. Have towels ready.

Say this blessing

Barukh ata Adonai,
Eloheinu Melekh ha-olam,
asher kidshanu b’mitzvotav,
v’tzivanu al netilat yadayim.

Blessed are You,
Source of all life,
Who commands us to ritually wash our hands.

Note:  Some may choose to forego this blessing, since it is traditionally recited upon washing the hands before eating bread, which is not eaten here.

First reading

Reader: And God said: Let the earth put forth grass, herb-yielding seed, and fruit-tree-bearing fruit after its own kind, wherein is the seed thereof, on the earth. (Genesis 1:11)

Reader: In the 16th century in northern Israel, in the spiritual town of Tzfat (Safed), the Jewish mystics created the Tu Bishvat seder. They recognized the many and varied dimensions of God’s creation and used the fruits of Israel to symbolize their existence.

The First Cup of Wine

This cup of white wine or grape juice symbolizes winter and the mystical dimension of atzilut, or emanation, at which God’s energy infused the creation process with initial life.

Barukh ata Adonai,
Eloheinu Melekh ha-olam borei peri ha-gafen.

Blessed are you,
Source of all life,
Creator of the fruit of the vine.

Reader: For Adonai your God is bringing you into a good land. A land of brooks of water, of fountains and depths springing forth in valleys and hills, a land of wheat and barley and vines and fig trees and pomegranates, a land of olive trees and honey, a land wherein you shall eat without scarceness, you shall not lack anything in it; a land whose stones are iron and out of whose hills you may dig brass. And you shall eat and be satisfied, and bless God for the good land, which is being given unto you (Deuteronomy 8:7-10).

The First Fruit

Fruit that is hard on the outside and soft on the inside, such as walnuts, coconuts or almonds. The hard shell symbolizes the protection that the earth gives us and reminds us to nourish the strength and healing power of our own bodies.

Barukh ata Adonai,
Eloheinu Melekh ha-olam,
borei peri ha-etz.

Blessed are You,
Source of all life,
Creator of the fruit of the tree.

The Second Cup of Wine

This cup of wine or grape juice is mostly white, with a little red mixed in, to symbolize the passing of the seasons and the mystical concept of formation and birth, often associated with water.

Barukh ata Adonai,
Eloheinu Melekh ha-olam,
borei peri ha-gafen.

Blessed are You,
Source of all life,
Creator of the fruit of the vine.

Reader: Blessed shall you be in the city, and blessed shall you be in the field. Blessed shall you be in the fruit of your body, and the fruit of your land, and the fruit of your cattle, and the young of your flock. Blessed shall you be in your basket and your kneading trough. Blessed shall you be when you come in and blessed shall you be when you go out (Deuteronomy 28:36).

The Second Fruit

This fruit is soft with a pit in the center — olives or dates [or peaches, apricots, etc.] — and symbolizes the life-sustaining power that emanates from the earth. It reminds us of the spiritual and emotional strength that is within each of us.

Barukh ata Adonai,
Eloheinu Melekh ha-olam,
borei peri ha-etz.

Blessed are You,
Source of all life,
Creator of the fruit of the tree.

The Third Cup of Wine

This cup of wine is mostly red with a little of white mixed in and symbolizes once again the change of seasons and the mystical concept of beriah, or creation.

Barukh ata Adonai,
Eloheinu Melekh ha-olam,
borei peri ha-gafen.

Blessed are You,
Source of all life,
Creator of the fruit of the vine.

Reader: Then God formed the human from the dust of the ground, and breathed into the nostrils the breath of life; and the human became a living soul (Genesis 2:7).

The Third Fruit

This fruit is soft throughout and is completely edible, such as figs, grapes, and raisins. This type symbolizes God’s omnipresence and our own inextricable ties with the earth.

Barukh ata Adonai,
Eloheinu Melekh ha-olam,
borei peri ha-etz.

Blessed are You,
Source of all life,
Creator of the fruit of the tree.

Serve a Vegetarian Dinner

A favorite is vegetarian lasagna and noodle kugel with fruit. Eat other exotic fruits that are placed around the table.

The Fourth Cup of Wine

This cup is all red, symbolizing the mystical concept of fire and the idea that within all living things dwells a spark of God.

Reader: And the angel of God appeared to him in a flame of fire out of the midst of a bush; and Moses looked, and behold, the bush burned with fire and the bush was not consumed (Exodus 3:2).

The Fourth Fruit

This has a tough skin on the outside but sweet fruit within–mangos, bananas, avocados, or sabra, a desert pear–and symbolizes the mystery of the world and our study of Torah. We are constantly seeking to uncover her secrets, and are continually nourished by her fruits.

Sources:

According to the book, 365 Goddess, January 19, is the day given to the Water Blessing Festival in Bulgaria. However, I think she must have been referring to the Anastenaria, a firewalking ritual performed primarily in May with a smaller one on an unspecified date in January, which culminates in a water blessing after the fire walking.

If you wish to celebrate today as a day of Water Blessings, here’s what you can do:

  • Themes: Joy; Health; Cleansing
  • Symbols: Water; Flowers; Fern; Birchwood
  • Presiding Goddess: Kupala
About Kupala.

The Slavic goddess of springs and water, Kupala, whose name literally means “to bathe,” washes us with happiness and longevity. Oddly enough, she has a fire aspect too, which likely alludes to purification, protection, and transformation. Wildflowers, birch trees, and ferns are sacred to her.

To do today:

To bring a year filled with joy, contentment, and health, leave a natural-fiber cloth outside today to gather dew. Use it tomorrow to bathe in Kupala’s magic.

Take some flower petals to any moving water source (even a hose) and toss them on the stream. As you do, make a wish for something that will make you really happy. Let Kupala, in the form of the water, carry your wish toward manifestation.

To rid yourself of sickness, negativity, or a bad habit before the year gets really rolling, find a safe fire source (such as a candle that’s self-contained in glass). Put this on the floor and jump over it. As you do, say:

Old burns away; only the good, the good shall stay.
Old to new, old to new, Kupala, my heart renew.

This symbolically leaves the old behind and invokes Kupala’s aid in your efforts for positive change.

Source:  365 Goddess

National Popcorn Day is celebrated at the end of January, although its exact date is a matter of debate. Various sources report it as January 19; others claim it takes place on whatever day the “big game” falls on.

Why not use this day for some popcorn magick?

Then he thought if he had some milk, he would have popcorn and milk.

You can fill a glass full to the brim with milk, and fill another glass of the same size brim full of popcorn, and then you can put all the popcorn kernel by kernel into the milk, and the milk will not run over.

~from Farmer Boy by Laura Ingalls Wilder 

Magickal Associations of Corn:
  • Gender: Feminine
  • Planet: Venus, Pluto
  • Element: Earth
  • Season: Lammas and Mabon
  • Deities: agriculture and solar deities
  • Correspondences: Protection, Luck, Divination, Blessing, Offering, Fertility, Abundance
Popcorn Offerings

I’m not sure if you are aware of it, but nature spirits like popcorn. I have it on authority from Chickadee who has had complex relationship with a number of nature spirits, that they almost all like popcorn, particularly the sea gull spirits. This is a great way to introduce children to the idea of a relationship with the land…however, because of the (practical) negative implications of feeding wildlife, it is important to not leave food out too much or too often and to change the area where offerings are left, so that wildlife do not become accustomed to it.

Popcorn Chains

At Yule, when we decorate our tree, we include a popcorn garland. Part of our tradition when we make it is to use what we add to say a thank you and a blessing for someone we love (not for every single piece, but for our “family strand” of garland that that goes on the top of the tree).

Stringing magic popcorn into edible jewelry is an easy way to add a bit of extra love or joy or healing blessings for the kids, and it even makes a great sibling or parent gift. A few months ago, when my daughter did something especially naughty, got it in her head to make a “sorry necklace” for her brother. After eating caramel popcorn on a string, he was in a better mood to forgive her…

Popcorn Fortune Balls

This should be pretty obvious–think fortune cookie in a popcorn ball. Or, if you are packing a lunch for a trip or a day at school, put in an encouraging note or positive thought. Put a popcorn fortune ball on the end of a straw, and add some pipe-cleaner petals for a edible bouquet gift from the kids. All you need are some small strips of paper with a message written on them, and a popcorn ball recipe–stuff the message in the center of the ball as you shape it.

Venus Popcorn Spell

Sharing a bowl of popcorn with someone you love is one of life’s simple pleasures. Adding a sprinkle of practical magic may be akin to “gild-ing the lily,” but who doesn’t like to stir up a little love magic now and then? Rent a favorite romantic movie tonight. Pop some fresh popcorn, add butter if desired, and season with love herbs and passionate spices as suggested below. Say as you do so: “Venus, bless us with love and beauty.”

  • Garlic salt, chili powder, and red pepper-to rekindle your love life.
  • Parmesan cheese and dried basil-for Italian style romance
  • Chili powder, garlic, and basil-fiery passion.
  • A touch of cinnamon, sugar, and vanilla powder-for comfort and warmth.
More Popcorn Day Activities
  • Guess the Amount: Fill a container with popcorn kernels and have everyone guess. The winner gets a nifty prize.
  • Popcorn Air Hockey: Can you “volley” the kernel back and forth 20 times without letting it fall? For this you will need: a flat surface (table), straw (to blow), coffee stirrers (as paddles) or hands (as paddles).
  • Popcorn Relay Race: Holding popped corn in a spoon, run relay races to see which team can keep the popped corn in the spoon longest without spilling it.
  • Popcorn Basketball: Can you flick a piece of popcorn into the basket? Muffin tins or small cups can be used for the basket.
  • Make a Popcorn Word Search: Use these words: popcorn, pop, kernel, explode, heat, moisture, grain, snack, crunchy, butter, oil, salt, fiber, bag, hull.
  • Write a Popcorn Haiku (5, 7, 5 syllable pattern poem): Like this!

Oil, kernels, heat, time
Many loud explosions heard
Pop, crunch, snack time. Yum!

  • How many words can you make from this phrase?
    “Fresh hot popcorn”, “Popcorn tastes good”, “I like popcorn”, “Hot buttered popcorn”

About Popcorn:

Popcorn has been around for 5,000 years. Archaeologists and researchers believe it to be the oldest of a group of five sweet corns. Popcorn originated in Mexico but quickly spread globally. Popcorn ears over 5,600 years old were found in New Mexico in 1948 and 1950, they are the oldest ears of popcorn known.

Popcorn was integral to early 16th century Aztec Indian ceremonies. Bernardino de Sahagun writes:

“And also a number of young women danced, having so vowed, a popcorn dance. As thick as tassels of maize were their popcorn garlands. And these they placed upon (the girls’) heads.”

In 1519, Cortes got his first sight of popcorn when he invaded Mexico and came into contact with the Aztecs. Popcorn was an important food for the Aztec Indians, who also used popcorn as decoration for ceremonial headdresses, necklaces and ornaments on statues of their gods, including Tlaloc, the god of rain and fertility.

An early Spanish account of a ceremony honoring the Aztec gods who watched over fishermen reads:

“They scattered before him parched corn, called momochitl, a kind of corn which bursts when parched and discloses its contents and makes itself look like a very white flower; they said these were hailstones given to the god of water.”

Writing of Peruvian Indians in 1650, the Spaniard Cobo says, “They toast a certain kind of corn until it bursts. They call it pisancalla, and they use it as a confection.”

In South America, kernels of popcorn found in burial grounds in the coastal deserts of North Chile were so well preserved they would still pop even though they were 1,000 years old.

Some Popcorn Trivia:
  • Popcorn is a subspecies of corn called Zea mays everta, and like all corn, it is part of the grass family
  • An 8 foot in diameter popcorn ball, weighing 3,415 lbs, created in 2006 in Lake Forest, IL is the largest popcorn ball on record
  • A popcorn kernel needs 14% moisture content to pop
  • The oldest popcorn popper was discovered in Peru dating back to 300 AD
  • October is National Popcorn Popping Month!
  • After bread, popcorn is one of the most popular foods that people feed waterfowl. Unfortunately, feeding waterfowl isn’t a good idea…
  • Popcorn is the official state snack food of the state of Illinois
  • Archaeological evidence of popcorn dates back to 4700 BC in Peru
  • During the Great Depression, popcorn became exceedingly popular due to its relatively low price and was one of a few businesses that did well.

The Science of Popping Corn:

Popcorn works because each individual kernel (thanks to the hard shell) becomes its own pressure cooker, which then explodes, turning itself inside out. Inside the shell is a starchy substance and water. As the kernel heats up, the water turns into steam and the steam cooks the starch into a super hot jelly-like substance that explodes. After exploding, the water evaporates and the starch dries out, leaving the kernel flipped inside out, in the shape we know as popcorn.

Sources:

It is important to remember that the Moon cycles through the signs of the zodiac every couple of days, and it’s important to check the time of day that it enters and leaves the sign, because that will vary depending on your geographical location. If in doubt, you can use this moon sign calculator.

Gemini rules things of a dual nature, words, cars, telephones, transportation, jack-of-all-trades, master of none, dual results, sleight-of-hand, thievery, basic education, low mysteries, storytelling, short trips, field trips, relatives in general, neighborhood and neighbors, rote learning, play it light, reading, radio, movement, trivia, flexible values, gossip and innuendo, mimicry, imitation, bridges and connections in general.

Communications, short distance travel, a Gemini Moon is dualistic in nature and rules over thievery, trickery, pulling a fast one, relatives, siblings and neighbors, and computers. Gemini lacks staying power and projects begun when moon is in this sign tend to change. Not a good sign for black magickal workings. More neutral in nature.

Magick ruled by Mercury has the best outcome at this time, this includes spells for the following:

  • Memory
  • Intelligence,
  • Ideas
  • Travel
  • Cars and transportation in general
  • Buying and selling
  • Commerce
  • Siblings
  • Writing
  • Teaching and learning
  • Adaptability
  • Computers
  • Communication
  • Networking
  • Tool consecration – especially wands, cards, pictures
  • Gay, bi or cross gender issues
  • Contacting the Goddess

Gemini is a sociable and intelligent air sign. Moon in Gemini is conducive to networking, bringing people together for a common purpose, communicating, sharing information, learning, and short trips. However, during this period it is often difficult to concentrate on one thing, everything at once seems fascinating. This provokes delays and schedule failures.

Gemini is considered a barren sign, so it is better not to plant fruit crops during the days of his lunar reign. You can plant lawn grass, ivy, ornamental plants. Inspite of the fact that it is considered a barren sign, astrologers claim that the moon in Gemini helps couples to conceive a boy.

Note:

Do NOT have surgical procedures performed on the shoulders, arms, hands, or nerves at this time.

Moon Phase Info:
  • New Moon in Gemini – a period of idleness, laziness, and carelessness.
  • Waxing moon in Gemini – not the best time for serious and responsible decisions.
  • Full Moon in Gemini – a time of chaos! Confusion and carelessness. You need to carefully consider the prioritization of tasks and perform the most important and urgent ones.
  • Waning moon in Gemini – a period of emotional instability. People do not understand each other well, it is better to listen to music or watch a movie.

Gemini Crystal Moon Meditation

Select a room that is quiet and softly illuminated. Clothing should be comfortable and shoes should not be worn.

Select your quartz crystal (a single or double terminated generator is suggested) about palm sized or larger and bless your crystal in advance. You may even place the crystal in the sunlight for an afternoon.

Once you are seated in a comfortable position, begin a rhythmic breathing sequence by inhaling deeply through the nose, holding the breath for three seconds and slowly exhaling from the mouth. As you inhale, visualize cleansing golden/white light vibrations entering your body through your nose, and traveling down your trachea and filling your lungs, chest cavity and heart center with warm, glowing sensations.

As you exhale, visualize discordant vibrations, tension, confusion, and stress leaving your body through your mouth in dark, cloudy swirls of energy. Bless yourself, and your discordant vibrations in the name of Spirit or any deity you deem fitting when you seek comfort, protection, and solace. Cast these discordant vibrations unto the ether to find peaceful resolution.

Pick up your clear quartz crystal with your left hand and begin to gaze upon it, observing the unique features it has to offer (rainbows, chlorite phantoms, healed fractures, mists, etc) allow your consciousness to merge with your crystal.
As you inhale, use both hands to hold your crystal. Feel the transmuted energy, peacefully flowing into your hands.

Let the crystal tell you about itself.

Your crystal may seem to come alive in your hand, you may experience warm, tingling sensations in your hands. For some these sensations may be calming giving you feelings that instantly make you feel at peace, or this may be a gradual process.

Gemini Moon Affirmation:

“I let go easily and quickly.
I communicate well and teach that skill to others.”

Meditating with the Gemini new moon and quartz crystal will offer much clarity to confusion, worry, or doubts in your mind. Making you feel weightless. Allow yourself to breathe deeply and be still. When you are ready to return from your meditation, count slowly from 10 to 1 and open your eyes.

Sources:

Alternatively known as ‘Tondo Matsuri’, ‘Sai No Kami’, ‘Sagicho’’ and Dondo Yaki’, Dōsojin Matsuri are special New Year Fire Festivals. They are held in shrines and public spaces to bless and then burn the previous year’s New Year’s decorations on a huge bonfire constructed of a wigwam of bamboo.

Shimekazari (sacred New Year decoration made from braided rice straw and good luck charms) and other New Year ornaments are taken down from homes and ceremoniously burned on the fire to secure good health and a fruitful harvest the following year. The calligraphic wishes or prayers of young children (called kakizome) are also placed onto the bonfire. As the children’s’ prayers are burnt, they are lifted up into the air towards the gods, bringing success to the children in the new year.

The loud crackling and popping sounds made by the burning bamboo is believed to tell listeners whether or not they will receive good fortune in the year to come.

Dōsojin is also the name for the Shinto guardian deities, which are closely associated with fertility in crops and people. At Dōsojin Matsuri, prayers are made to Dōsojin statues for successful births and bountiful harvests. One of the largest celebrations of Dōsojin Matsuri takes place at Nozowa Onsen in Nagana Prefecture.

Fire and snow always go well and the Nozawa Onsen Fire Festival, Nozawa Onsen Dosojin Matsuri exemplifies this as one of the three great fire festivals in Japan.

Taking place on January 15th every year, the festival is staged to celebrate the birth of a family’s first child, to dispel evil spirits and also to pray for happy marriage.

 

Each year crowds gather for the famous Dōsojin Matsuri, a kind of cleansing ritual for men aged 25 and 42 years, the so-called ‘unlucky ages’ in Japan. The 42-year-olds’ task is to defend a purpose-built two-story shrine, which they sit upon as it is besieged by fire at the hands of the 25-year-olds and onlookers.

It takes roughly one hundred villagers to build the shrine for the Nozawa Fire Festival. The trees are cut down in October and brought down from the mountain and through the village on January 13th prior to being made into a huge wooden structure or shaden. After the shaden has been constructed, the priest from Kosuge shrine performs a ceremony endowing it with a dosojin.

The highlight on January 15th is a “fire-setting battle” which ends up with the setting fire of the shaden with blazing torches by the offensive team and the offering of torches to the deity, making the festival truly spectacular and exciting.

The main spectacle involves a small group of 25 year old villagers guarding the base of the three story structure, and another group of very inebriated 25 year old men sitting atop the structure drinking and cheering on their teammates. Directly across from the structure, a massive bonfire is lit, which is flanked on both sides by excited visitors.

The villagers light their bamboo bundles on fire and walk in groups as large as 10 to the structure to do battle with the guards. The men at the base form human shields and use tree branches to extinguish the flames. The entire battle can last for over 2 hours and became very intense and violent at times with men shoving, jumping, slapping, and hitting each other with lit bundles of bamboo.

The entire festival is quite lengthy and can take up to four hours from the beginning to the end. Some observers gather just for the main attraction which is the battle between the guards and the torch bearing villagers. Add liberal servings of saké to all of the above and you’re sure to go home buzzing after seeing quite a spectacle – and maybe a bit scorched from the flames (don’t wear your new down jacket).

This famous Japanese festival is nationally designated as an important intangible folk cultural property. It originally began as an invocation for a good harvest, health and good fortune in the coming year, but has been expanded to include a good ski season as well.

Sources:

It is important to remember that the Moon cycles through the signs of the zodiac every couple of days, and it’s important to check the time of day that it enters and leaves the sign, because that will vary depending on your geographical location. If in doubt, you can use this moon sign calculator.

Taurus rules anything to do with money, sensuality, long-lasting love, devotion and steadfastness, dance, silence, Earth Mother, planting food crops, Earth matters, planting and farming in general, fertile and flat land, wealth, greed, careful and conservative things, soothing, solid, an immovable object, cuddling, discovering/explaining what you need in sex, unshockable, reliable, hard work, slow and steady progress, jewelry as wealth and possessions.

This is the sign when the Moon is strongest and most effective. Projects begun when the moon is in Taurus are usually permanent or long lasting, especially when performed in when the moon is in the first ten degrees of the sign. Money, finances, possessions, material things, sensuality, earth, greed, permanence, wealth, things that increase in value, loans, bankers, slow but lasting results, time delays.

Magick ruled by the Earth and Venus are more successful at this time. It is an optimum time for spells focused on:

  • Prosperity
  • Security
  • Love
  • Music and the arts
  • Business
  • Possessions
  • Self-esteem
  • Values and ethics
  • Bindings
  • Endurance
  • Patience
  • Fertility
  • Gaia
  • Consecration of an HPS
  • Consecrating a pentacle, altar or staff
  • Contacting the Goddess

Taurus is the earth sign, an adherent of stability and comfort. The moon in Taurus helps to resolve financial issues, increase wealth, search for resources, and capital formation. During this period, it is good to be engaged in home improvement, preparing delicious food, visiting exhibitions and concerts.

Taurus is considered to be a sign of average fertility, so you can plant various plants in your garden during the days of his lunar power. In addition, astrologers claim that the moon in Taurus helps couples to conceive a girl.

Note: 

Do NOT have surgical procedures performed on the neck or throat at this time.

Moon Phase Info
  • New Moon in Taurus – the right time to conceive the desired child, buying real estate, car.
  • Waxing Moon in Taurus – ideal days for household chores.
  • Full moon in Taurus – a time for reconciliation and forgiveness.
  • Waning Moon in Taurus – a good period for guests, holding parties, weddings.
Taurus Moon Mantra

Throughout this day I am mindful that I hold within me the sacred, powerful energies of illumination. My eye is opened and I choose to see the light , beauty, and harmony in everything around me. I breathe it into myself and breathe it out into the world.

A Ritual Bath for the Taurus Moon

This bath is used to sweeten your energy and magnetize your aura to your desires. You will need:

  • Fresh flower petals
  • A splash of rose water
  • A teaspoon of cinnamon
  • A teaspoon of honey
  • Your favorite perfume or oil

Burn some Palo Santo, or Sage to make the space sacred. Light candles, put on music, create an ambiance. Fill the tub and add the honey, rose water, cinnamon, perfume or oil, and lastly the flower petals. Hold your hands above the water and state your intention. Speak from your heart. Soak in this mixture for 25 minutes or longer. Absorb all of it’s beautiful energy. Relax and visualize your desires. See yourself with them now. Do not rinse off after. Air dry if possible.

Crystal Magick For the Taurus Moon

Rose Quartz is a powerful yet gentle stone. Working with it can assist you in attracting love, romance, emotional healing, and to activate your channels of receiving. It’s excellent at soothing the emotions, healing the heart after break ups, healing abandonment issues, and dealing with loneliness. Once we clear and heal our issues we can make space for the blessings to live within us and manifest in our outer reality. Keep rose quartz next to your bed to attract a lover or meditate with it on your chest for spiritual and emotional healing.

Sources:

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I think it's time to go shopping... maybe even buy some really cool stuff at my online shops!!

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