Magical Leap – Astrology of Leap Year

A Magical Leap

Leap Year Day Lore and Legends

February 29

By Dikki-Jo Mullen

　

Keep time with a leap now and then was among the humor, art and poetry that celebrated this unique day in another leap year nearly two centuries ago. It came from the 1820 (a Leap Year) edition of The Farmers Almanac. 2012, in addition to being the subject of speculation about being an important turning point in time by The Mayan Calendar and other sources, is also Leap Year. February 29, Leap Day, the rarest of days, is tacked on to the end of Valentines month. It makes some hearts will rise and others sink, confused and disoriented. Perhaps youve not seen it coming when out and about away from your calendar and date book. Yesterday was February 28 and tomorrow is March 1, but whats in between? Many electronic calendars and perpetual date books miss it totally. This complicates the issue further.

Some of us might arrive for an appointment a day early. Those who are scrambling to meet a March 1 deadline can suddenly be gifted with an extra day. The 24 hour grace period can be used to tie up loose ends or just to rest and procrastinate before the onset of the new month. Of all the delights and frustrations the 29th of February can bring perhaps the souls born on February 29 can experience the most extreme feelings. This is the most infrequent of birthdays. Perhaps thats why a mystical, nonconformist kind of life path is often followed. Mother Ann Lee, who founded the Shakers, was a leaper or leapling, as leap year babies are called; but then so was Aileen Wuornos, Floridas notorious serial killer. Leapers must cherish each birthday, remembering that less is more, for they can only celebrate once every four years. That why they borrow February 28 or March 1 as a birthday once in a while.

The fixed star Skaat in Pisces is close enough to impact Leap Day astrologically. A 4th magnitude star in the leg of the Water Bearer, its keywords are intuitive, nervous, visionary and illusionary. In the first decanate of Pisces, this shows a double Neptune, a strong water rulership.

The relevant Sabian symbol for Leap Day is An aviator in the clouds, the keyword is observation and brings the gift of superior perspective. An exploratory and otherworldly quality is present. In the Tarot The High Priestess is linked to Leap Day, further indicating depth, mysterious wisdom and hidden messages.

To keep the calendar in synch an entire day every four years is just a bit too much, so occasionally Leap Year is skipped. In 1700, 1800 and 1900 there were no Leap Days added to the calendar in order to keep the record straight. However in 2000 the 29th of February appeared again. Leap Day is unique, it just cant be anything other than an extraordinary day.

In antique shops sometimes vintage postcards greeting Leap Days from the early 20th Century can be found. There was also a Leap Year Waltz written. A popular film Leap Year, starring Amy Adams was released in 2010. Set in Ireland, the plot revolved around the longtime custom of celebrating Leap Day as Bachelors Day. It was the only time when a lady could rightfully propose marriage to a gentleman. In earlier times it was considered a very fortunate day to agree to a proposal for singles of either gender. However if a bachelor did want to refuse he had to gift the rejected lady with a new silk dress to get off the hook.

Plan to savor and celebrate this Leap Day. An intercalculatory calendar day, it was gifted to the mini month of February. Do you welcome it or tend to trip over it? Either way its there if there is hesitation take a leap of faith and accept it as a gift.

With all of this hassle cant we skip Leap Day? The answer is absolutely not! Except for the Chinese Calendar and a few other alternatives such as the Hebrew Calendar, or Native American Medicine Wheels, the calendar used by most of the world today is solar based. It is oriented toward Earths trek around the Sun. There is a glitch. We have a neat and tidy 365 day calendar, but the Earths orbital time is actually 365 days, 5 hours, 48 minutes and 45.51 seconds. Almost 6 hours over 4 years adds up to nearly a whole day. Thats why we must include an extra day sometimes to stay in synch with the solar system. The road to this realization has been a surprisingly bumpy one. The arrangement of days that make up our familiar and beloved calendars came about after centuries of valiant and off target attempts to keep track of time.

The ancient Egyptians managed with 12 months of 30 days followed by 5 feast days, a vacation, at the end of the year when everyone celebrated. By 238 BC, in the time of Ptolemy III, it became obvious that an extra feast day would have to be added every 4th year. This wasnt acceptable, since the Egyptians worked according to the seasons of agriculture. If the calendar wasnt adjusted it could be midsummer and a freeze would arrive. Romulus, the first King of Rome, devised a system of 10 lunar months in the 8th Century BC. Since the Moons cycle isnt consistent, the 10 month calendar would need even more time for feasting allowed to keep up.

Another Roman, Numa Pompilus, shortened some months and used the left over days to create January and February. This year was too short so he added an intercalendary 27 day cycle called Mercedonious. This leap month was supposed to be added in every other year. However, the criminal minds of the officials in charge of things misused it. The bad guys extended terms of political office or changed debt collection dates among other sleazy activities, until eventually Mercedonius just vanished.

When Julius Caesar came to power in 47 BC the calendar said it was January, but Mother Nature indicated autumn harvest season. Caesar did a really bright thing, he called in a top notch astrologer for help. A 90 day fix was added. Ever since 46 BC has been called The Year Of Confusion. It had 445 days. However the calendar was back in tune with the seasons. The next year a nice, neat 365 day calendar with a leap day added every 4th year was implemented. This is the famous Julian Calendar. For a long time this seemed fine. However do you remember that extra 1/4 or so day? By 1582 it added up to 15 days and the seasons were getting askew again. A great Italian astrologer, Aloysius Lilius, came to the rescue. He designed a new calendar, the one we use today. Since this happened when Pope Gregory was in power, it was named the Gregorian calendar. We call it the New Style Calendar and it is the one we use today. The Julian Calendar is The Old Style Calendar. The Julian Calendar was still in used in some places through the early 20th Century.

To keep the calendar accurate every time the year ends in 00 we skip Leap Year. Thats unless the 00 year is divisible by 4 with no remainder. Thats why 2000 was a Leap Year, but 1900 wasnt. So why is this called Leap Year? Thats another story. In a normal year, the day of the week aligned with a date moves forward one day each year. If your birthday was on Tuesday this year, it will be on Wednesday next year. That is unless its Leap Year; then the spare day moves forward or leaps the weekly sequence ahead.

Leap Day is now becoming a popular modern holiday. Dont let it fall into a chasm, smile at its checkered past and celebrate with good humor. Most February 29 babies do. They can take any time they please for a birthday celebration, except during the rare years when the gift of the extra day rolls around.

More Leap Year information is available on line at

www.leapzine.com.

#

(Thank you to The Witches’ Almanac, where this feature was originally published, for permission to reprint )

The Year of the Water Dragon – 2012

Chinese Astrology and Feng Shui

Year of the Water Dragon

Year 4710

January 23, 2012 – February 9, 2013

By Dikki-Jo Mullen

The Dragon is the only mythological creature among the twelve animals in the Asian zodiac. Linked to the highest of celestial energies, it is imposing and magnificent. An emblem of authority and power, Dragon always holds a magical pearl in his mouth. This precious jewel represents both the Moon and Sun as well as the spiritual essence of the universe. Among Dragons attributes is a wisdom exceeding that of other animals. He can transform himself into a myriad of shapes, from a tiny dragonfly to a huge and fiery serpentine creature covering the entire sky. The various species of Dragons are described by the five elements used in Chinese astrology. Metal Dragons guard treasures, Water Dragons make the winds blow and produce life giving rains. Earth Dragons mark the courses of mountains and streams, Wood Dragons guard the homes of the Gods against collapse while Fire Dragons are special protectors. Their fiery breath symbolizes the great cosmic life force.

Ambitious and daring projects are favored during a Dragon Year. The grandiose and colossal have a universal appeal. Businesses expand. It can be easier to get a loan or find other ways to move upward and acquire desired purchases. The benevolent Dragon favors marriages, the birth of children and beginning a career or financial venture. At the same time the wise will heed a word of caution when considering gambles. Dragons electrical atmosphere can generate folly through impulsive moves and over extension. Look ahead at the consequences before taking a significant risk. The mighty Dragon ushers in numerous surprises and encourages progressive revolts against the status quo.

The Dragon Personality

Chinese astrology describes those born in a Dragon year as regal, magnetic, intelligent, good managers and leaders. Noble hearted and clever, both sentimental and magnanimous, a healthy curiosity facilitates an adventurous and exciting life.

Years of The Dragon

Those born in a Dragon year, as listed below can anticipate a new cycle of luck and accomplishment now!

. 1904 1916 1928 1940 1952 1964 1976 1988 2000 2012 2024

Note: The Asian New Year begins at the second New Moon following the winter solstice. This takes place in late January to mid February. Aquarians must check to see whether their birthdays fell before or after this date, as it varies from year to year. January Capricorns will always be of the animal sign belonging to the previous year in the Chinese calendar.

#

Feng Shui Guidelines For Everyone!

Gong Hoy Fot Choy! Improve Your Fortunes!

Oriental astrology uses many omens and portents. Incorporating these into your environment this year is an integral part of using Feng Shui effectively, to enhance wealth and happiness.

Colors: gold, magenta, deep red, reddish brown

Music: clarinet and other sweet woodwinds.

Crystals: Ruby (for banishment of grief and to draw friends)

Drink: Bloody Mary or Virgin Mary

Fragrance: grassy, earthy also green tea

Tree: large evergreens

Flavor: pungent

Lucky Number: 2

Flower: Rose

Food: peppery dishes

Spice: cardamom

Herb: dill

Motto: I am always a surprise and dramatic

Western Astrology Correspondence: Aries

Direction: East to South East

Season: April, early spring

Lucky Hours: 7am – 9am

Animals: monkeys, also chameleons, gators, crocodiles and other dragon- like creatures.

#

The Escape Artist In Your Horoscope – Mutual Receptions!

Mutual Receptions – Second Chances, Escape And Freedom in Your Horoscope -

“Play Astrological Monopoly With A Get Out Of Jail Free Card!”

By Dikki-Jo Mullen

Oh! If only there might be a way out of the dreadful trouble weve gotten ourselves into! We all have regrets concerning an unwise choice or missed opportunity at times. The idea of getting a second chance with the benefit of hind sight, which is always a clear 20-20, is irresistible. The prospect of if only and would have, could have, should have haunts most of us occasionally. Usually all that can be done is to learn from our follies and foibles and move on. Hopefully this is done while keeping a sense of humor, dismissing the past and looking toward the future. However, sometimes the planetary patterns do fall in such a way that it is really possible to facilitate an escape from old traps and traumas. The secret lies in knowing how and when to act, making the most of these special circumstances.

The patterns are called mutual receptions. Properly applied, a mutual reception shows how a poor decision can be cast aside for a grasp at that elusive Holy Grail; a second chance to make everything better. With the glee that a Monopoly player has while clutching a Get Out Of Jail Free Card, astrologers will seek to apply the promise of a favorable mutual reception.

Mutual receptions occur when planets are in each others ruling signs.

The placements will take on each others attributes, they strengthen and support each other. In a natal birth chart mutual receptions will give a knack for changing places, for eluding problems and maximizing potentials. By transit, mutual receptions usually fling open wonderful doors of opportunity. If there are major aspects between the planets involved the energies are magnified. When the aspects are negative, very rarely, a mutual reception by transit can turn evil, bringing about the worst case scenario. Then its like going out of the frying pan into the fire. Mutual receptions have been used by astrologers since medieval times. Most contemporary astrologers cite only the rulerships but in classical texts the signs of exaltation were used as well.

Some common examples of mutual receptions using the signs of rulership are:

The Sun in Cancer with the Moon in Leo (no major aspect)

Mercury in Libra with Venus in Virgo (no major aspect)

Mercury in Taurus with Venus in Gemini (no major aspect)

Mars in Leo with the Sun in Aries (possible trine aspect)

Jupiter in Gemini with Mercury in Sagittarius (possible opposition aspect)

From March, 2003 – March, 2011 Uranus in Pisces was in mutual reception with Neptune in Aquarius. Although there wasn’t a major aspect involved, this extremely rare mutual reception did emphasize the higher potentials of these outer planets through technological as well as spiritual advances for many.

Neptunes Angel Hiding In The Hearts Of Those Two Ol Devils

Saturn and Pluto Will Be In Mutual Reception – October 5, 2012 – December 23, 2014 and June 15, 2015 – September 17, 2015

Another very rare mutual reception, involving Saturn in Scorpio with Pluto in Capricorn, is on the way. It promises to bring very important events and positive opportunities from 2012- 2014. This mutual reception is supported by a favorable sextile aspect between the transits of these two cosmic heavy weights. Begin to prepare now to make the most of this unique and positive influence by examining how it will bless your own birth chart.

Saturn appears in early astrological illustrations as Father New Year. Traditionally the greater malefic, Saturn is personified as an Angel of Discipline, the Old Devil or Grim Reaper. This is the planet of time, limitations, the rewards of hard work and a needed reality check. Pluto, linked to Hades, the God of the Underworld, was the son of Saturn (Cronus) in mythology and also wears a demonic mask hiding a benign face. Pluto is the planet of redemption after a dark night of annihilation, of rebirth and mass karma. Pluto rules ecology and sources of power. As the natural ruler of the 8th house Pluto has a direct tie with wealth and economics too. In mythology Pluto is hailed as the giver of wealth. Astrologers often read Pluto as a higher octave of Mars, the planet of competition and war. Saturn is the natural ruler of the 10th house of recognition, fulfillment and achievement. The signs involved in the Saturn -Pluto mutual reception are Scorpio and Capricorn, ruled by the elements water and earth, respectively. The purging of restraints and negative secrets while finding both economic and emotional security are the highest potentials of this meaningful transit. Its bound to be a cycle of pivotal turning points.

The last time Saturn was in mutual reception with Pluto was from September 3, 1777 – January 27, 1788 (NS). At that time Pluto was transiting toward the end of Capricorn and the orb of the sextile aspect was really too wide for the full impact of Saturn, which was just entering Scorpio, to manifest. Still, it did augur much good. It was a time in world history when economic and scientific improvements began and the rise of democracy improved the lives of many.

Saturn will be in Scorpio from October 5, 2012 until December 23, 2014 with Pluto in Capricorn the entire time. The sextile, a 60 degree aspect of advantage, harmony and pleasantness, will be in orb (allowing 3 degrees) from November, 2012 – October, 2013. The sextile aspect will be exact three times; on December 26, 2012 (at 9 degrees 09), on March 8, 2013 (at 11 degrees 16) and a final time on September 21, 2013 (at 8 degrees 59). The final passage of a transit is always the most significant, while the earlier two passages will give a hint of what the end result will be.

These zodiacal degrees are in the first and second decanates of Scorpio and Capricorn. Pluto – Pluto and Saturn -Saturn (first decanate) influences combine with Pluto-Neptune and Saturn-Venus (the second decanate co- rulers). This suggests that heeding dreams, following instincts and intuition, creative expression, appreciation of music, color, love and beauty will draw out the highest potentials of this pattern.

The fixed star Acrux at about 11 degrees Scorpio favorably colors the March 8, 2013 sextile. Acrux has a pure Jupiter nature, its a bright triple star in the Southern Cross. Religious observances, the use of ritual, employing magical means, upholding justice and showing respect for oneself and others will bring rewards at that time.

The fixed star Facies, at about 8 degrees Capricorn, comes into play with the final culmination of the sextile between Saturn and Pluto on September 21, 2013. Facies has a Sun-Mars nature, the proper use of righteous anger to address problematic situations is essential. Facies is a bright nebula shining in the face of the Archer. It emphasizes the importance of facing in the right direction, resting and caring for the eyes as well as using keen powers of observation. During the week of the autumn equinox of 2013, when the sextile will be exact for the final time, remember that the eyes are the windows of the soul. A glance into the eyes of another might be most revealing. Heed the impression the expression in the eyes leaves.

It is significant that the specific aspect involved in the Saturn -Pluto mutual reception is an approaching sextile. (an aspect is approaching when the faster planet, Saturn in this case, is moving towards the slower planet, which is Pluto.) The approaching sextile has an eleventh house quality. The eleventh house is the natural home of Aquarius. To reap the most benefit from this mutual reception focus on eleventh house matters such as science, metaphysics and occultism, as well as new technologies, universal and humanitarian concerns. The combined efforts of groups and cooperative efforts, will bring about the fulfillment of individual cherished wishes and long term goals.

In personal horoscopes, pay close attention to any natal planets placed at

7 to 14 degrees, especially if they are in cardinal or fixed signs. The house position and the promise of the natal aspects are likely to be triggered by the mutual reception. The choices and decisions made can be life changing.

Sun and Rising Sign Guide To The Saturn-Pluto Phenomenon

The zodiacal houses involved with your Sun sign or ascendant indicate how this significant pattern is likely to affect you.

Aries

Your 8th and 10th houses will be highlighted. Power through or over others must be handled wisely. Great ambition motivates you, secret or inside information can lead to financial opportunity. Spirit communication, exploring reincarnation and the serious analysis of fundamental energy sources can all be emphasized.

Taurus

The 7th and 9th houses are your focus. Progressive and talented associates come your way. Partnerships can change you. Allow relationships to evolve. Its essential to accept that people can come and go in your life dramatically as part of the process. Higher education, a life changing journey abroad and new insight into religious observances can be catalysts.

Gemini

Your 6th and 8th houses will come into play. Health and fitness factors to facilitate a healthy mind-body connection are important. The companionship of a precious pet can be very meaningful. Cultivate a wholesome routine, and work environment. An overhaul of insurance coverage adds to peace of mind. A tax return or insurance settlement can bring needed funds.

Cancer

Your 5th and 7th houses are of importance. Commitment in partnerships is a focus. Be aware of how others are affecting you. Cultivate only nurturing and uplifting relationships. Express your imagination and devote time to a creative idea. A hobby or avocation adds new meaning to your life. The accomplishments of a talented or unusual child are a delight.

Leo

The 4th and 6th houses emphasize your residence. Seek to establish the perfect home and living situation as a foundation for fulfillment. Exploring the influences of heredity and heritage can facilitate deeper self understanding. Planting an edible landscape or container garden to provide fresh herbs and vegetables would be a productive hobby. Get organized.

Virgo

Consider the 3rd and 5th houses. Your ability to concentrate and analyze, and communicate about deep and meaningful issues will be enhanced. Teaching and writing can be a part of this. Finding alternative forms of transportation and experiencing the transcendent and transformative qualities of love, perhaps through a soul mate connection, can impact you.

Libra

Look at the 2nd and 4th houses. Rewards come through the prudent use of resources and money, hard work and ingenuity. A family business or home office can be an asset. Family members are changing, home life enters a new cycle. A residential move could be involved. Prepare scrap books, photo albums and other memorabilia. Archives will be treasured in the future.

Scorpio

The 1st and 3rd houses are active. Self reliance promises success. Unusual circumstances in your surroundings deeply change you. Synchronicities, coincidences and mystical or metaphysical events can be involved. Be receptive to a changes in your appearance. Youll interact with others in new ways. A sibling or neighbor offers different perceptions.

Sagittarius

The 12th and 2nd houses are especially significant to you. Medicine and psychology can be pivotal. Use care if trying to help those who are hospitalized or incarcerated. Make sure that all available resources, both financial and in terms of advice and guidance, are used wisely. Time spent in solitary reflection brings wisdom and personal healing.

Capricorn

For you the 11th and 1st houses are accented. Honor your inherent gifts and true nature. Select suitable goals, analyze what is genuinely rewarding and worthwhile. Let go of associates or group affiliations which no longer serve you. Keep good company. You impact others. Assuming more of a leadership position, becoming an advisor or role model can be entailed.

Aquarius

Your 10th and 12th houses are significant. The need for positive thinking is underscored. A healthy mindset can significantly bolster the fulfillment of career goals and other ambitions. Record your dreams, sleep on important issues. Dreams are likely to be vivid and meaningful, offering wisdom from past lives or assistance from spirit guides and angels.

Pisces

9th and 11th

Journeys to faraway places and advanced studies can be truly transformative. A total revamping of your spiritual beliefs and philosophy of life is likely to occur through travels of the mind and body. This will change the direction of cherished wishes. Constantly ask yourself what it is you really want. Keep focused. Its not the time to drift aimlessly.

As Saturn and Pluto trade places from Scorpio to Capricorn in mutual reception profound experiences will be experienced by many. Intensity touches fresh starts with great rewards as a potential finale. These two planets have always been viewed as testing the mettle of humanity with demands and challenges. They kick things up a notch. Hope always plays a large role in the timeless appeal of astrology forecasts. Hope is traditionally linked to the planet Neptune. So are angels. Fortunately, throughout the entire Saturn-Pluto mutual reception Neptune will be transiting its own ruling sign of Pisces while favorably aspecting both planets. Neptune will sextile Pluto and trine Saturn. This combination suggests faith and inspiration coming from higher planes of consciousness and the unleashing of inner reserves of talent yet to be discovered. During these times of personal and planetary change this outstanding star pattern will illuminate new pathways. This triple planetary combination involving Saturn, Neptune and Pluto brings a really important universal message of hope and guidance concerning how to make the best of the long predicted times of planetary change which are manifesting daily.

The Pomegranate Blessing Ritual and Spiritual Astrology

Mutual receptions are the shape shifters in astrology. There is a magical quality prevailing. Astrologers who are drawn toward the spiritual and esoteric might find a bit of ritual and meditation is in order while preparing to welcome and honor this unique Saturn, Neptune and Pluto transit.

An easy and effective ceremony can be fashioned by purchasing a pomegranate, a traditional food of the dead.

The deep ruby-blood colored pomegranate fruit has appeared throughout history in myths related to rebirth. The most well known of these involves Pluto, who kept Persephone in the underworld for six months of the year because she had eaten six pomegranate seeds. The pomegranate has also been identified as the original forbidden fruit from the Garden of Eden, with its many seeds being an emblem of wealth and bounty. Venus also lays claim to the pomegranate, a source of passion, healing and hope. Neptune is interpreted as a higher octave of Venus and Venus is exalted in Pisces, sign of Neptunes supportive transit. Early Christian art also uses the pomegranate to represent hope. In Persian Zoroasterism the use of the pomegranate branches to fashion brooms as a charm against witchcraft is mentioned. In Sicily divining rods are made of the green shoots.

Hold your pomegranate while reflecting upon the traditional associations it has with all that the Saturn-Pluto mutual reception with the supportive Neptune transit symbolize in your own life. The fruit can then be eaten or juiced. It is exceptionally wholesome. Pomegranate is known to be one of the strongest of antioxidants, rich in potassium, vitamin C, fiber and B complex. Here is an easy recipe for a pomegranate – strawberry jelly. Its a delightful comfort food to enjoy with toast or a muffin while contemplating how this special transit will affect you. Strawberries and apples are both ruled by Venus.

Pomegranate-Strawberry Jelly

Ingredients

1 pomegranate

2 pints of crushed strawberries

Juice of 1 lemon

2 cups water

3 cups sugar

1 large red apple – diced

Jam jars with lids

Cut the pomegranate in half and remove the seeds. Mix the pomegranate seeds with the crushed strawberries, lemon juice and diced apple. In a sauce pan bring the water and sugar to a boil, mix in the fruit mixture, turn down the heat and simmer until the mixture thickens (about 20 minutes). Stir it frequently meanwhile.

The jam jars and lids should be pre-sterilized in hot water and kept warm. Pour the jelly into the jars, seal the lids, place the jars upside down until cool. Store the jelly in the refrigerator, enjoy within 4 weeks or so.

Retrogrades and Eclipses in 2012

Retrogrades and Eclipses in 2012

By Dikki-Jo Mullen, Astrologer

Celestial patterns contain keys which will open the deep mysteries that explain life on Earth. Among the most dramatic messages are those of the eclipses. From very first astrological records, dating back thousands of years, eclipses have been linked to surprises and transformations. Eclipses occur when the shadow of one heavenly body falls across the lighted face of another. The transitory blockage of illumination is called an eclipse. The most influential of the eclipses will involve the Sun or Moon. Rarely Mercury or another planet can be observed in an eclipse. The eclipse of a planet isn’t as dramatic in appearance or significance as an eclipse of the Sun or Moon. An exact alignment with the Earth is involved in solar and lunar eclipses. Potent aspects, in the form of exact conjunctions or oppositions, bring turning points at the time of an eclipse. When the glow of the Sun or Moon is shadowed or (in the case of a total eclipse completely extinguished) the temporary time of darkness fosters growth. A perfect key word for an eclipse is changes. With an eclipse the times are unsettled, even uncomfortable. However eventually all will be improved as the eclipse passes. That is because that which has outgrown its form is replaced and updated. Progress results. The path of an eclipse relates to the two nodes of the Moon. The nodes are points where there are intersections between the Moons orbit and the plane of the ecliptic or Earths orbit. The distance from the zodiacal degree of a New or Full Moon to the degree of the nodes indicates whether there will be an eclipse and also whether it will be a partial or a more powerful total eclipse.

Those eclipses which are at the North Node of the Moon are thought to be more favorable than the eclipses conjunct the South Node. Take note if the degree of an eclipse is within three degrees of a planet in the birth chart. It will amplify the inherent promise of that planet by house, sign and natal aspects. An eclipse taking place within three days of the birthday augers an interesting year. Because it is in conjunction with the natal Sun, a birthday week eclipse can mean a move or job change or new cycle in personal life. The Solar eclipse will always occur when the New Moon is new, with the Sun and Moon in the same sign. A Full Moon eclipse is when the Sun and Moon are in opposition. The two great heavenly lights will confront each other exactly, facing from opposite sides of the zodiac.

It is prudent not to force issues during an eclipse. Instead, first observe how all is going, then respond. The disappearance of the luminary has been associated with its symbolic passage through the mouth of a monster in earlier times. Today we realize that an eclipse still shows a walk into a shadow realm. When the light returns different perspectives can be expected. This will lead to a new slant on things. Eclipses figure prominently in esoteric and spiritual astrology. Three months before an eclipse be alert. There is a hint of whats to come. Changes are in the air. For a year or so afterward, the specifics unfold.

Eclipses in 2012

Eclipses generate changes and surprises. A birthday within three days of an eclipse augurs a time of growth. Check your horoscope for planets within 3 degrees of an eclipse. They will be activated in new and dynamic ways. There will be four eclipses this year, one total and the others partial.

May 20, 2012 New Moon Solar in Gemini, south node partial

June 4, 2012 Full Moon Lunar in Sagittarius, north node partial

November 13, 2012 New Moon Solar in Scorpio, north node total

November 28, 2012 Full Moon Lunar in Gemini, south node partial

A total eclipse is more influential than a partial.

North Node eclipses are thought to be more positive than South Node.

Retrograde Planetary Motion

The ideal way to understand retrograde motion is simply to think of words starting with the prefix re. Retake, reevaluate retrace or revamp are some of many examples. To make a retrograde cycle beneficial, it is important to make the best of that re repeating energy. When moving retrograde, a planet seems to turn in reverse and go backwards. Of course, this is an optical illusion created by the planets speed of travel relative to the Earths rate of motion. Nevertheless, the impact of a retrograde is very significant. It promises a shift in established situations. There can be a chance to overcome a mistake or to turn a disappointment around to become an advantage. The past resurfaces to influence the present course of action. All that is ruled by the retrograde planet will be most impacted.

The illusion of apparent backward planetary motion is created by the Earths speed relative to the other planets. Astrologically it assures a change of pace.

Mercury Retrograde

Three or four times yearly, retrograde Mercury affects technology, travel and communication. Those who have been out of touch return. Complete old projects, revise, review, and tread familiar paths. Gemini and Virgo will be affected.

March 13 – April 5, 2012 in Aries and Pisces

July 15- August 9, 2012 in Leo

November 7- 27, 2012 in Sagittarius and Scorpio

Venus Retrograde

Venus retrograde influences art, finances, and love. Taurus and Libra will be affected.

May 16 -June 28, 2012 in Gemini

Mars Retrograde

The military, sports, and heavy industry are impacted. Aries will be affected.

January 24- April 14, 2012 in Virgo

Jupiter Retrograde

Large animals, speculation, education, and religion are impacted. Sagittarius is affected

October 5, 2012 – January 31, 2013 in Gemini

Saturn Retrograde

Elderly people, the disadvantaged, employment and natural resources are linked to Saturn. Capricorn will be affected.

February 7, 2012 – June 26, 2012 in Libra

Uranus Retrograde

Inventions, science, electronics, revolutionaries, and extreme weather relate to Uranus retrograde. Aquarius is impacted. July 14 -December 14, 2012 in Aries

Neptune Retrograde

Water, aquatic creatures, chemicals, and psychic phenomena are impacted by Neptune retrograde. Pisces will be affected.

June 5- November 12, 2012 in Pisces

Pluto Retrograde

Ecology, espionage, birth and death rates, nuclear power, past lives and mysteries relate to Pluto retrograde. Scorpio will be influenced.

April 11 – September 19, 2012 in Capricorn

(Thank you to The Witches’Almanac  for their gracious permission to reprint this feature.)

Funeral Pie – A Dessert For Ghost Hunters!

Funeral Pie

A Delicious Civil War Era Spiritualist Recipe

Researched by Dikki-Jo Mullen, Paranormal Investigator

During the mid 19th Century, when Spiritualism began to sweep the Nation, Funeral Pie was a popular dessert. I discovered this recipe and its unique history while ghost hunting in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania during the summer of 2010. A few generations back refrigerators, coolers and ice packs were not available to preserve food while traveling. When a journey to pay respects to the deceased was undertaken, mourners would want to bring a contribution for the wake. Funeral Pie was a favorite choice because it is delicious and not perishable, it also uses non- seasonal ingredients and can be prepared at any time of the year to be carried over many miles to the destination. Various Funeral Pie recipes can also be found in Amish cookery, it is actually a raisin pie.

First make an easy pie crust.

2 cups all purpose flour (I like King Arthur’s flour)

1 tsp salt, 2/3 cup Crisco , 5 tbs cold water, 2tbs butter, melted, 1tbs vinegar.

Blend the flour and salt, cut in Crisco and butter to make coarse crums, add water and vinegar, mix with a fork until smooth, form into a ball and chill. Roll out the dough.  Makes a 9 inch double crust.

Then make the filling

½ cup granulated sugar

2 cups water

2 ½ cups raisins

½ cup light brown sugar

3 Tbs corn starch

1 ½ Tsps cinnamon

¼ tsp allspice

Pinch of salt

1 Tbs cider vinegar

3 Tbs butter

Preheat oven to 400 degrees, cook raisins in 2/3 cup of water for 5 minutes. Combine sugars, spices, salt, cornstarch in bowl, add remaining water and stir constantly. Slowly add to heating raisins. Stir until the mixture bubbles, add vinegar and butter, heat until melted. Pour into crust in pie pan, top with second piecrust. Poke holes in the top, perhaps making a fanciful design. Bake for 25 minutes in a 400 degree oven.

All Souls’ Eve – American Gothic Astrology Study

All Souls’ Eve Fantasy Horoscope

Cotton Mather and The Return For Witches

America’s Witch Hunter

By Dikki-Jo Mullen

The magical lives and exceptional talents of various celebrities who have added to the rich heritage of witchcraft have been honored over the years in featured horoscopes. Anne Rice, Dan Brown, Sybil Leek, Nicholas Culpepper and Charles Godfrey Leland are among those whose birth charts have provided a wealth of information and inspiration to encourage and inform those who embrace The Old Ways. However traveling the path of the mystic does involve honoring the balance of light and dark, of good and evil. “Within all evil is good and within all good is evil”, a traditional saying reminds us.

It’s the gloom time of year, as this feature flows from my quill pen, the days are growing colder and shorter and the atmosphere of shadows calls to mind the notable nativity of a villain. Cotton Mather, the Puritan minister who formulated The Return, the infamous reply in 1692 which encouraged the persecution of witches in Salem and throughout New England, following a query sent by the Governor and Counsel of Massachusetts to the Boston clergy. Reverend Cotton Mather is an unforgettable example of how much pure evil can be generated by a brilliant, sincere and religious person who succumbed to fanaticism when facing the eternal battle between right and wrong. He earned the dubious distinction of being as the most active witch hunter in America.

Born on February 12, 1663 in Dorchester, Massachusetts, Cotton Mather was just 29 years old in 1692 when he wrote;

“So horrid and hellish is the crime of witchcraft, that were Gods thoughts as our thoughts, or Gods way as our ways, it could be no other but unpardonable.”

These inflammatory words are credited with fanning the witchcraft hysteria which led to the loss of so many lives in 17th Century New England.

Cotton Mather had his Sun, Venus and Mercury exactly conjunct at 24 degrees Aquarius. His Chiron, Uranus and Mars are also in Aquarius, forming a six planet stellium in that sign. Tremendously charismatic and eloquent, he had unusual energy and originality. The strong Mercury aspects, in Mercury’s sign of exaltation (Aquatius), indicates great persuasive skills. At the execution of accused witch Reverend George Burrows spectators in the crowd in Wells, Maine sought an acquittal. However Judge Samuel Sewells account tells that Mather spoke out and persuaded them of Burrows’ guilt. (It was Sewell who, realizing that his own participation in the trials was a mistake, eventually used his influence to discredit Mather for initiating the witchcraft allegations.)

The six Aquarius placements in Cotton Mather’s horoscope are strengthened by a trine to Pluto in Gemini. This shows his ability to have a far reaching impact upon masses of people throughout the ages. The potent air sign emphasis reveals illustrious scholarship. Young Cotton (named for his maternal grandfather, John Cotton) entered Harvard at age 12. By age 25 he replaced his father, Reverend Increase Mather, as pastor of Boston’s North Church when Increase went to England to represent colonial interests. Cotton’s leadership seemed natural, for he had already authored popular religious treatises, including Memorable Providences Related To Witchcrafts And Possessions (1689) in which he hoped to guide readers to work out salvation in fear and trembling, showing that witchcraft had both a God and devil.

His Moon was in Aries, waxing in the crescent phase. This promises an extroverted self confidence and further underscores a competitive spirit of leadership as well as a family background which encouraged standing up for one’s beliefs. The well aspected Moon describes the childhood of privilege he enjoyed as the oldest son of an influential family. The Aries Moon is trine both Saturn and Jupiter, which are conjunct in Sagittarius. The Saturn-Jupiter conjunction is often present in the charts of those who are pillars in the community and who are politically inclined, upholding law and order. In Sagittarius, this important conjunction draws a focus on international contacts, philosophy, religion and higher education. The Sagittarius planets oppose Pluto, showing great conflict and intensity involving masses of people. Also subterfuge and ulterior motives are hinted at with the Pluto negative influence. During The Salem Trials, the accused witches were often those who were considered odd or difficult, or who had assets others wished to confiscate.

The horoscope shows an Aries Moon square Neptune in Capricorn. This suggests emotionally induced frenzy, fantasy and confusion. Since cardinal signs are involved, there is a tendency to act immediately, without taking time to weigh all of the facts and consequences involved. The North Moon Node in Virgo shows a desire for precision and a natural grasp of detail. Cotton Mather meticulously investigated numerous claims of sorcery, using his network of contacts to extract information.

By 1693, when the witchcraft hysteria was beginning to run its course, Cotton was called upon to justify his role in the trials. He wrote Wonders Of The Invisible World. This volume reveals the steadfast fixed sign influence in Reverend Mather’s natal chart. His writings continued to support his claims, even in the face of overwhelming public opinion and hard evidence to the contrary.

“Witchcraft is the most nefarious high treason against the Majesty on high. A witch is not to be endured in heaven or on earth”, he penned.

It’s worth considering that, except for the weak South Node placement in Pisces, Cotton Mather had no water signs in his birth chart. An absence of water signs leaves a void. It can point to a real lack of concern, emotion, empathy and genuine compassion for others.

Some might justify the atrocities committed by Cotton Mather as reflecting the prejudices and limitations of the times in which he lived. However, that’s really not an excuse. History shows him to be less of a leader than those who spoke out against the delusions he perpetrated. As religious tolerance and reason grew, and liberal tendencies mounted, he was passed over numerous times for a position he coveted, the Presidency of Harvard University.

Embittered, ignored and repudiated by many, Cotton’s cleverness and connections continued to impress a few. He did persuade a London merchant named Elijah Yale to found a Calvinist University in New Haven, Connecticut of which he became the first President. Mather’s later years, before his death in 1728, were marked by a variety of personal tragedies and misfortunes. His diaries hint at a growing paranoia which we might recognize as mental illness today. It appears that the persecuted witches were vindicated in the end.

Birth Data Table

Reverend Cotton Mather

Born February 12, 1663, NS, in Dorchester, Massachusetts

(No birth time is recorded, so a Noon style chart was erected using Local Mean Time. There is some conflicting data that his year of birth was 1662, but most historians support the date in early 1663. The chart is presented in the NS (New Style) calendar format using Tropical Placidus houses.)

Sun – 24 Aquarius 04  (10th house)

Moon – 21 Aries 47  (11th house) – waxing Moon in the crescent phase

Mercury – 24 Aquarius 56  (10th house)

Venus – 24 Aquarius 21  (10th house)

Mars – 14 Aquarius 39  (9th house)

Jupiter – 11 Sagittarius 41  (6th house)

Saturn – 15 Sagittarius 07  (6th house)

Uranus – 9 Aquarius 04  (9th house)

Neptune – 14 Capricorn 32  (9th house)

Pluto – 22 Gemini 22  (1st house) – retrograde

N. Moon Node 10 Virgo 41  (4th house) – mean node position used

Chiron – 6 Aquarius 05  (9th house)

Ascendant or Rising Sign is 16 Gemini 18

#

Star Crystals of the Zodiac

Crystal Colors and Gemstones
By Dikki-Jo Mullen
(excerpt from Dikki-Jos book, Koo Hollie and the Corn Goddess Chronicle) The science of the stars has an omni quality. The heavens above are omnipresent. They watch over and reflect every aspect of daily life. The healing potential inherent in colors and gems is one of the most ancient as well as the most pleasant ways to direct celestial messages. Almost all of us have found a special stone to carry for good luck at sometime. The happiness of wearing new clothing in a favorite color can carry its own healing vibration. Use this guideline to select the crystals and colors suggested by your birth chart to bring astrologys brightest and best promises to fruition in your life.
Aries
Colors- red, bold and abstract prints, gas blue, hot pink
Gems- tigers eye agate (to win a battle), lodestone (for strength), clear crystals and diamonds (for truth, the future, energy and glory), fire agate (progressive).
Taurus
Colors- green, powder blue, cream, dusty rose
Gems- emerald (for true spiritual love and clear vision), moss agate and tree agate (to connect with the forests and gardens), Connemara marble (for a comfortable environment), chrysocolla (Mother Earth energy).

Gemini
Colors- light yellow and pale peach, also stripes, dots, mixed and iridescent hues.
Gems – citrine ( for mental clarity and eloquence), alexandrite (to function on a high level), various agates (adaptability, versatility), rhodochrosite (transmutes, the rainbow bridge stone).
Cancer
Colors- sea green, marine blue, dove gray, ivory, bronze.
Gems- ruby (to banish grief and draw friends), pearl (for emotional expression) and moonstone (intuition and lunar attunement).
Leo
Colors – sunshine hues such as coral, orange, bright yellow and gold. Gems- peridot (for contentment with ones lot in life) and amber (cools anger), sunstone (health and success).
Virgo
Colors – mauve, navy, leaf green, lime, beige and medium gray. Gems – sapphire (white magic, protects love), carnelian (guards health), apatite (clears confusion), fluorite (stress releaser).
Libra
Colors- bright blue, rose pink, lavender
Gems- rose quartz (draws love, beauty, good manners), jade (riches and longevity), labradorite (channels in extra terrestrials, balances the kidneys), tourmaline (protects from negative people).
Scorpio
Colors – teal, brick red, black, brown, midnight blue.
Gems- topaz (rapport with animals and inspiration), opal (psychic ability and guidance), petrified wood (past life recall), bloodstone (guards health), blue obsidian (inner and hidden power, comes from inside a volcano).
Sagittarius
Colors – royal blue, burgundy, deep purple
Gems- turquoise (Native American wealth and love talisman), zircon (for honor), jasper (guards freedom and independence), malachite (education, adventure).
Capricorn
Colors- maroon, darkest brown, charcoal, forest green, indigo blue Gems – garnet (friendship and virtue, a Victorian energy), onyx (grounding), snowflake obsidian (avoid disaster), jet (luck and long life, protective), kunzite (practical wisdom and grounding).

 Aquarius
Colors- electric blue, purple, day-glow colors, silver, stark white. Gems – amethyst (spirituality, freedom from addictions), lapis-lazuli (healing, higher purposes), clear quartz (future, untaps potentials), moldavite (wisdom from aliens).
Pisces
Colors- palest pastel shades of pink, green, blue and lavender, also red-violet.
Gems- aquamarine (safe passage and inspiration), larimar (Atlantis connection and ocean mysticism), celestite (angelic influences), coral ( promotes love), smoky quartz (protective).
#
Note: All of the signs of the zodiac appear somewhere in each persons horoscope. When you desire to activate a certain planet or house or draw in the qualities of a zodiac sign, use the appropriate stone to do so.

Special Note: Here are three especially easy to obtain, popular, useful and inexpensive crystals!
Amethyst Medicine Stone Crystal
The amethyst, a purple quartz, is one of the most universally beloved of gem stones. The purple color relates to wine, and Bacchus the God of revelry is thought to have created it long ago by pouring wine over a clear crystal. The name amethyst actually means not drunk. Purple is the color of psychic and spiritual growth. This stone represents truth, spirituality and a clear head. Because it has white in it, it is a cape amethyst and has special healing energy. The amethyst is a valuable talisman to all who would investigate the paranormal and interact with spirits.

Cats Eye Crystal
From the agate family, this stone is thought to enhance intuition and protect from any negative entity attachments. Its vibration is very helpful and benevolent. Keep it with you while investigating hauntings and doing other spiritual work. Combine with a cedar berry, moon stone, lapis or amethyst for effective additional potency.

Smokey Topaz Crystal
This member of the very powerful quartz family of crystals is often given to children to carry in school to keep any negative influences at bay. As a ghost hunter it is a very valuable desirable stone. It will help to contain any negative imprints or distractions. This stone enables you to perform a focused and unbiased investigation of paranormal influences. It is usuallymined in Brazil, a country famed for healers and spiritualists.

Astrology and Dreams

The World of Dreams

Your Guide To Inner Space

By Dikki-Jo Mullen

Excerpt from Koo Hollie and The Corn Goddess Chronicle , an allegorical novel.

Weve all wandered there. The bizarre and mysterious world of dreams has tantalized and mystified people for thousands of years. References to messages received in dreams are found in early religious texts as well as poems and stories. Even the hieroglyphic records of the Ancient Egyptians contain accounts of dreams. Dreams are a key to inner space. The inner universe we access each time we sleep is where we spend about a third of our lives.

Dreams are vital to our physical and emotional well being. Experiments show that dream deprivation leads to the development of many undesirable symptoms such as depression and paranoia. Psychologists Sigmund Freud and Carl Jung are credited with overcoming the deceptively casual attitudes people had toward dreams at the end of the 19th and in the early part of the 20th Centuries. In early times witches and shamans once deliberately guided dream themes to aid in the evolution of those on the spiritual path. Incense burned upon retiring for the night as well as the use of herb stuffed dream pillows were techniques used to enhance and magnify the dreamscape. Today, we have come full circle in dream work. Once again recording dreams for future reference and dwelling upon a theme in hopes of exploring it in the dream state are common practices. Recurring dreams, shared dreams, precognitive dreams, communication with the spirit world and nightmares are all variations on the dream experience.

A 2nd Century AD writer, Artemidoras, compiled the very first dream book. He wrote that Dreams are infused into people for their advantage and instruction. Eastern European mysticism refers to a doppelganger, a German word meaning body double which was the shadow self, the animal nature which we control by day goes wild at night. This gave rise to tales of werewolves and Jekyll and Hyde legends linked to the dream state. A focus on dreams opens a whole new perception of the self.

The study of dreams is both practical and informative. Some guidelines to start with involve being aware of common themes experienced in dreams. These are: 1) Food theme dreams. These relate to desires and appetites which seek to be satisfied. Food dreams can be a metaphor for money and power as well as fulfillment in love. 2) Flying. Flight in dreams can show an urge to escape, to get ahead or to move on a spiritual quest to a higher level. 3) Prophetic and preparatory dreams. These describe events to come and are the minds way of getting ready for the future.

A dream uninterpreted is like a letter unread. Theres a tremendous reservoir of comfort and healing to be found in working with dreams. Begin by keeping a journal, either in writing or on tape. In time, it will be easier to recall more detail, as you become accustomed to recording dreams each day. Even for those who say they dont dream or recall dreams ever, just writing down a single word or emotion will soon bring about a whole new level of insight. Its important to make a record of dreams immediately upon waking. Once the feet touch the floor we are grounded in the everyday waking world and the dreams fade. Its best to do dream work while still lying in bed.

Astrology can be helpful in dream analysis. The Sun sign, the basic birth sign nearly everyone knows, is descriptive of the ego and sense of identity. In spiritual or esoteric astrology the Sun becomes the soul itself. As a dream exercise find your birth sign listed below. While falling asleep, dwell on the keys it provides. Let your birth sign unlock the potentials of your own inner space experience. It might take a couple of attempts, but as you reflect upon the message of your birth sign while falling asleep, in time, your dreams will expand upon it.

Aries

Focus on achievement and leadership needs. You have a pioneer instinct.

Taurus

Sustenance and security are at the heart of your dream themes.

Gemini Association of ideas and the need to communicate will guide your dreams.

Cancer

Protection, preservation and historical themes will affect your dreams.

Leo

Creativity as well as leadership and adulation open your dream keys.

Virgo

Order and analysis as well as health care are your dream work assignments.

Libra

Balance, justice and relationships are your dream time focal points.

Scorpio

Probing mysteries, working through passions and possessiveness are part of your dream experience.

Sagittarius

Aspirations, challenges or interaction with animals will be at the heart of your journey through dream land.

Capricorn

Attainment, executive duties, and the force of tradition will guide your dream work.

Aquarius

Inventiveness, the spirit of the gypsy and rebel, comes alive through your dream reverie.

Pisces

A yearning for more love and the reduction of suffering through service will be at the heart of your dream time.

#

Herbs Of Dream And Spirit

Mugwort (Artemisia Vulgaris) and Sandalwood (Santalam Album)

For centuries herbs have been beloved for their healing and aromatic properties. Two especially marvelous ones for you to try are Mugwort and sandalwood. The Mugwort is a wonderful smudge. It can be combined with cedar, sage, etc. for purifying and calming. It brings dreams, a clear perspective, peace and relief from torment. The Indians used it as a flu tonic. Burn it, drink it as a tea or put it into a sachet bag to carry and enjoy. The Sandalwood incense rejuvenates and uplifts. It will open your crown chakra and elevate you spiritually. For centuries it has been burned to draw in the favor of the Gods.

Remember to sleep on it if you have a question or problem. Think about the issue as you fall asleep. Within a few nights you will either awaken with an aha moment and just will know what to do or a dream will offer insight and guidance. A lucid dream is a waking dream where the dreamer has some conscious control over the adventures and actions experienced. This can be very good for overcoming anger and disappointment about life experiences. Visualize a train, let it journey backwards as you hop aboard while falling asleep. Let the ride take you back to a past life. Keep track of the past life train rides and you can have an actual regression to your past lifetimes. This helps in understanding present life situations.

#

Sky Star Myths – The Cosmic Insights of the Zodiac

Sky Star Myths -By Dikki-Jo Mullen

excerpt from Dikki-Jo’s book “Koo Hollie and the Spirit of Prism Rosa”

Have you ever wondered what the mysterious and beautiful symbols of the zodiac signs really mean and where they came from? Their ancient symbolism offers a wealth of cosmic insight into the deeper meaning of your life.

Aries -March 20 – April 19

As the celestial trailblazer you, Aries, are springs herald. You lead the twelve signs as each new cycle of the zodiac commences. All that is fresh and fiery and progressive is in harmony with the Ram. Gifted with great energy from ruling planet Mars, Aries is a restless pacesetter. The brave heroic figures of legend such as Ulysses, Tiiwa and Hercules are all linked to Aries. Courage is one of your defining traits. So is an ardent desire for progress and a forward leap. Directing these energies wisely brings the real challenge. Wild and impetuous, it is essential that you make time for reflection and self examination. Then, upon combining thought and preparation with inherent enthusiasm, the Aries born builds a future with enterprises unfolding into greatest long term potentials.

The word zodiac, taken from the Greek, means circle of animals. Circles supposedly have neither an end nor a beginning, yet Aries is considered always as the leader of the parade of celestial creatures which symbolize the astrology signs. The name of this first sign of spring, can be traced to an Assyrian text. Aries means prince, hinting at an ancient role as a leader. A child like sense of wonder, curiosity and a competitive streak give you a spark of creativity that combines in natural leadership tendencies. Governed by fiery Mars you are self confident and will pursue that which you believe in regardless of the consequences. To those who dont understand you, you can appear selfish. To this day the temple of Amun in Thebes is approached by an avenue lined with ram-headed sphinx like beasts carved of stone. Amun was considered a creator of the universe. At one time Egyptians worshipped him as the greatest deity, a leader among the gods.

Taurus April 20 – May 20

The Bull favors good investments and quality purchases. A child of Venus, you can be observed decked out in the best garments in surroundings marked by comfort and beauty. Linked to the material world, sensual Taureans need stability and security. Persistence and permanence can become bullish inflexibility and stubbornness though. Recognizing when change is needed and making adaptations is also an important part of reaching your ultimate potential. Bent upon charming Europa, Jupiter took the form of a white bull, Taurus. He lured her into mounting him, then rushed her away to Crete. Taurus has a way of getting what it wants.

Strong of will yet affectionate with tremendous persistence, the Bull represents this premier Earth energy. Natural beauty and creature comforts are the delight of Venus ruled Taurus. Green growing things respond with love to the touch of this birth sign, which belongs to some of the zodiacs best gardeners. In Egypt the black and white bull was named Apis and honored with offerings of coins and fragrant oils in order to procure a vision of the future. Uncanny insight and intuition is often a Taurus trait. In Eire of old Beltane would find magnificent cattle paraded and then sacrificed in a Celtic welcome for Taras new king. An emblem of art, wealth and music, Taurus the celestial Bull, accepts only the best of earthly goods. Instinctively you know that those who refuse to accept less than the best will often receive it.

Gemini

May 21 – June 20

Quicksilver Mercury is your ruler. You are forever vibrant and mobile. Journeys of the mind as well as the body are an integral part of your life always. Respected for your bright wit and variety of knowledge, you are a gifted writer, speaker and teacher. Symbolized by the archetype of the Twins, Gemini finds identity through contact and interaction with others. There is an ability to adapt, becoming a different person when circumstances require change. One medieval zodiac ignores the human figures to show Gemini represented by just a pair of clasping hands. This illustrates the idea of reaching out and blending pairs of opposites to combine sources of perception and information into a greater whole. Sometimes the Twins appear as innocent children, evoking the mood of open childlike curiosity in search of experience. One image from the Albumasar, a 15th Century Arabian astrology text, offers a provocative interpretation of Gemini. It shows a woodcut portraying one Twin as mortal, the other as a ghost or spirit.

The scepter carried by the winged divine messenger, Mercury, planetary ruler of Gemini, is formed from two intertwined serpents. Called the caduceus, this celestial walking staff blends all of the duality in nature and places it in a useful harmony. Male and female, light and dark, ascending and descending, the Twins are walkers on the wind. Always a bridge of communication, Gemini is concerned with channeling words, thoughts and ideas. Conversation, teaching and media coverage are all linked to the zodiacal twins. The Twins came to Europe through Asian legends about brothers named Gorgos ( Mad George) and Myakka (Knight Michael). George the jester and yeoman, Michael, the good soldier, dragon slayer and healer eventually changed roles, became saints and had their symbols incorporated into Britains banner, the Union Jack.

Cancer June 21 – July 22

Kindly, sympathetic and oh-so sensitive, the Crab is always responsive. This second of the cardinal and first of the water signs will offers emotional support to others. Driven by moods and feelings, you have a special affinity with the ever changing Moon and tides. Mother legends from around the world have a link to this gentle and nurturing birth sign. One of the most intriguing of these tales originates on the South Pacific Island of Malekula in the New Hebrides. A Crab Goddess legend has been shared there since prehistoric times. The islands crab-woman, Le-hev, reflects the power of the Moon. Le-hev personifies the birth mysteries and wears two lunar crescents, suggesting the Crabs claws. Her sacred labyrinth is thought to lead to the depths of the sea. Tortoise and snail as well as crab shells are her sacred symbols. The shells represent the lunar orb as it moves perpetually from light to darkness, then back again. In Egypt Cancer appears as two turtles, called the Stars of the Waters. These water turtles suggest the waxing and waning of the Moon and show its influence upon the tides.

There is a touch of the loner or hermit suggested by the symbol of the vulnerable cosmic crab. A impenetrable shell guards the soft internal self just as a quiet and reserved nature disguises great determination and dedication. Often the crab wins a point by sheer staying power. The crabs claws hold on, no matter what. The sensitive and home loving Cancer often becomes surprisingly successful in a chosen profession due by virtue of this determination. The sign of Cancer contains a greater number of fixed stars within its span than any other sign. Early portrayals of the Crab will show one claw pointing heavenward and the other downward. This illustrates the higher and lower potentials of the fixed stars as well as the swinging of moods, reflecting the lunar cycle. The up and down claws show that Cancers are capable of great changeability and creativity which can amount to genuine eccentricity.

A 13th Century zodiac, Sacra di San Michele, Val di Susa portrays the Crab as a scarab like sacred beetle. The Egyptian name for Cancer is Pagerhedj, the equivalent of scarabaeus. The scarab, as an emblem of eternal life, illustrates Cancers link to the mother and processes of birth.

Leo

July 23 – August 22

Identified with the great luminary, the Sun, Leo is synonymous with royalty. Extremes of both generosity and largesse can be expected. Combining confidence with affection, the Lion shines with genuine charisma. An invisible flame burns within, just as the Sun glows steadily in the sky. In Egypt the Lion was worshipped as Sekhmet, a fire goddess who offered passage to the underworld. In Babylon the divine Ishtar rode in a divine chariot drawn by seven lions. Alchemists in medieval times used lion emblems to illustrate the powerful potentials in chemical processes. A similar alchemy is in evidence when a Leo is encouraged by sincere compliments. Great things tend to happen.

With the clarity of bright sunlight this Sun ruled second fixed sign of fire radiates poise and magnetism. Warmth as well as courage, faith and affection envelope the magnanimous Lion. Confidence, dignity and a nobility of spirit are associated with Leo. A dramatic and colorful approach to life gives you an affinity with the theater and entertainment industry. Generous and benevolent by nature you easily establish a special rapport with the very young. In Mycenae a famous Lion Gate stands before the ruins of a great palace, the lions gaze at remote mountain peaks with fore paws atop a stone column. These great felines are primordial symbols of divinity and deity linked to the heavenly lion motif. In Babylon the Goddess Ishtar was depicted driving a chariot drawn by seven lions. Ishtar is a love goddess. Her lions illustrate Leos rulership over the heart. They serve as a cosmic reminder of the transcendent power of pure love.

Virgo

August 23 – September 22

Discriminating, meticulous and scholarly describe you, Virgo. As the second mutable and second of the earth signs, you dwell upon accuracy as well as perfection. Ruled by clever Mercury, Virgo is the alchemist. You refine raw materials, combining intellect with craftsmanship. This results in the unleashing of useful potentials. Cleanliness, service and health are values sacred to the Virgin. The image of the maiden goddess cradling a sheaf of wheat reveals that health and nourishment, the baking and distribution of the bread of life, are a focus. The aura of the earth which is forever present in her image hints at an empathy with animals. In Greece the Goddess Artemis, a sister of Apollo, appears as Virgo, the bow maiden. Her character was whimsical, mercurial and dual. Artemis could order either recovery or death to those who fell ill. Known as a Lady of Wild Things, Artemis paradoxically was legendary for her relentless hunting. She destroyed those creatures who were less than strong and perfect.

The lovely maiden holding a sheaf of newly harvested grain shows at first glance Virgos link with the Earth and the tangible rewards of service. However a closer inspection often reveals she is also depicted with hints of wings and a halo. The purity and agility of winged Mercury as ruling planet elevates Virgo to combine some of the air with earth. This interesting alchemy becomes discriminating, meticulous, and analytical, Virgos identifying traits. The tie between the physical and the mental aspects of life directly illustrate that the health of the body is impacted by the mind set. The maiden is the Greek goddess Hygeia, who has given her name to the science of hygiene. She appears again as Vesta, the Roman goddess of purity, a sister who patiently tends the everlasting flame.

Libra

September 23 – October 23

The balance really illustrates turning points. Poised gracefully at the beginning of the harvest season and the gateway to winter, Libra suggests transitions and is all about measuring relationships. Transpersonal concepts rise above the individual focus. Art, partnerships and justice are linked to this sign and show that sharing in the most desirable ways means everything to Librans. Thoth held the scales to weigh the human heart against the feather of Maat. The heart must be light enough in order to enter heaven, yet not overly light.

Personable, well balanced and charming, this Venus ruled sign excels as a mediator or diplomat. You have a strong sense of fair play and derive pleasure from contact with others. A good listener and a very loyal friend, Libras have a gregarious side. The Venus connection often brings inherent talent in the arts. An early Egyptian hierglyph for Libra shows the Scales with a setting Sun, in tribute to the autumnal equinox which marks the onset of Libra. The signs name originates from an early Sicilian-Greek word translating weight. Libra was especially important to early Romans, as the city was supposedly founded on 4 October, 754 BC. In the 15th Century a woodcut was created which showed Libras Scales in the claws of the Scorpio. This suggested that Libra and Scorpio might have been part of a single sign in early zodiacs. Milton had a vision of God creating Libra, the golden scales, to draw a line between the good and the rebellious or evil angels. That metaphor hints at this signs traditional affinity with justice.

Scorpio

October 24 – November 21

Subtle and discerning, Scorpio is linked to rebirth and eternal life as well as death. Pluto, planet of deep space and the unfathomable, rules this water sign. To achieve happiness Scorpios must first resolve extremes of emotion. Eventually, from the immense and impassioned depths of feeling, grows peace and acceptance. There recognition of the power wielded by silence and secrecy. This creates a innate talent for all kinds of magical work. In spiritual manuscripts from the 12th century the scorpion appears as a serpent which can cleverly disguise itself with a pleasant countenance. Selket of ancient Egypt was a Scorpion goddess who governed intimacy, passions, bliss and ecstasy. On his quest for immortality, Gilgamesh, hero of the great Sumerian epic, met scorpion- men guarding mountain gates.

Determined, driven always by a sense of purpose, Scorpio is both intense and subtle. The second of the water signs and third among the fixed signs, Scorpio has a traditional association with all that is mysterious. This especially accents passion, death and birth metaphors. You protect your deepest thoughts and needs in order to not easily reveal vulnerability. Others are not easily admitted to the innermost sanctum of your being. Your trust must be cultivated respectfully first. In the Ancren Riwle , a spiritual manuscript written during the 1300s, the tremendous extremes of good and evil contained within this sign are illustrated by a scorpion with a sinister serpents body wearing a pleasant, angelic countenance. In Egypt the heavenly Scorpion goddess called Selquet was invoked to bless the wedding bed. A statue of her also stands watch with winged arms protectively guarding the eternal rest of one of the pharaohs. More ancient images present Selquet as a daughter of Ra with a ladys head atop a completely formed scorpion.

Sagittarius

November 22 – December 21

Your independent spirit and love of freedom can make experience be your best and only real teacher. The Centuar, the man-animal, is your emblem. On one level this symbol reveals how close Sagittarians are to animal companions, especially horses and dogs. There is another message, though. The human torso atop the animal body shows how the higher nature can rise above the animal instincts to attain higher consciousness. The arrow speeding, meteor- like, toward a target beautifully illustrates the energy of this final fire sign of winter. Brilliant and ephemeral the fiery arrow calls to mind the transient beauty of the Aurora Borealis, the northern lights. Chiron, the kindly Centuar, was a beloved teacher and respected healer. He understood, advised and guided young, wayward Centaurs.

Optimistic, adventurous and out spoken, Sagittarius is the third sign of both the fire and mutable categories. Symbolized by the bold Archer, you are a wanderer content to aim at only the most distant stars. As a restless idealist, new horizons forever beckon you. Freedom and challenges have great appeal. You will not tolerate boundaries or restrictions in pursuing your quest for truth. The legendary centaur Chiron, a noble emblem of the human self in full control of animal desires, is your symbol. In Chinese lore the Excellent Archer appears as the husband of Heng-o, a Moon Goddess. The Excellent Archer saved the Earth from destruction by fire when he shot down nine extra Suns on the fateful morning when ten Suns rose. He wisely allowed one Sun to remain. The gods rewarded him with immortality. However, Heng-o feared her husband. She fled to hide on the Moon. There the hare who lives in the Moon befriended Heng-o. Hare persuaded the Excellent Archer to abandon his wife. Heng-o happily found peace forevermore in exile.

Capricorn

December 22 – January 19

Step by step, the Goat perseveres. Ambitious, prudent, solemn and reliable he respectfully greets the winter solstice atop the sacred mountain. This earth sign of deep winter has a special link with time. One of Capricorns emblems is Father Time. Always feeling that the best is yet to come, Saturns children are serious, seeming most content when studying and working. Paradoxically there is a light hearted, even jolly mood projected by older Capricorns. The famous quote from C.S. Lewis about the stupidest children being the most childish and the stupidest grown ups being the most grown up is apropos to Capricorns of all generations. Ea, a Babylonian god whose name means palace of waters was a fish-tailed goat. Min, another face of Pan, carried a thunder bolt as a totem. This Egyptian goat god was honored as a bringer of harvest and reward following the season of labor and storms.

Saturn, the celestial timekeeper, rules this, the third earth sign and fourth cardinal sign. The Goat makes a long climb before perching triumphantly atop the mountain. Capricorns tend to have a rather difficult early life. However their later years often are truly golden. Saturn has always favored the not so very youthful. Ambitious and practical, you instinctively know how to consolidate. The Greeks related the constellation of Capricorn to the Gate of the Gods. It marked the long, steep ascent toward heaven. The early Romans saw Capricorn in the goat god Consentes. He was revered with devotion as the spirit of the land and a giver of life. His time began at the winter solstice with the returning light. The Sun animated Consentes bright facial features which were framed by horns, symbolizing solar rays. A star was always featured prominently over his heart to disclose his spiritual nature. A body with shaggy legs and hoofs showed the simultaneous link to all that is earthy.

Aquarius

January 20 – February 18

Symbolized by the human figure pouring generously, Aquarius is concerned with large issues. The direction society is taking, humanity and advocating needed changes are of importance. A pure impulse of dynamic creation is present with this birth sign. Inert matter is stirred into the substance of growth and evolution. The inventor, original, unpredictable and an individualist shows a fixed stubborn side. Aquarius, the water cup bearer for Jupiter, was a young and beautiful Trojan who was carried to Mount Olympus by an eagle.

As the zodiacs free thinking inventor, you are sociable yet original. Those who dont understand that you cant bear to be limited by the ideas of others can perceive you as rather bohemian. Activities and occupations with a solitary bent, such as scientific research or literature can be the best outlet for you. You will shine once your powerful intellect and creativity are allowed free range. The Egyptian god of the Nile, Hapi, is often portrayed as Aquarius, the water pourer, balancing a vase from which two streams flow. The duality reminds us that the life forces can be used for involutionary as well as for evolutionary purposes.

Pisces

February 19 – March 20

There is always a haunting and other worldly atmosphere blurring this fourth of the mutable and third of the water signs. Ruled by elusive Neptune, your world is a subtle one; a universe with many illusions. Receptive and very emotional, changeable and sympathetic, you often feel tugged in different directions by both external conflict and inner turmoil. The Fish, bound by a shining cord as they struggle to swim apart, symbolize your dual nature. In Babylonia astrologers recognized Pisces as the two fish goddesses, Anunitum and Simmah. They were linked by a silver leash among the stars. In Syria three sacred pools were the homes of temple fish who were tamed and pampered. When the goddess Atargatis descended from heaven into the waters of one pool she took two of the fishes back with her. They can be seen in the sky as the constellation Pisces.

With a nature that combines romance with intuition, you are sensitive to the point of being genuinely psychic. Guided more by emotion than intellect, you can seem unreliable or impulsive to those who dont understand you. Still, your loving and caring nature exudes a compassion that captivates others. Pisces has been compared to the chameleon of the zodiac, hiding in a garden of flowers. You long to avoid conflict and will seek to blend into the most pleasant options available. The Fish are linked by a silver cord symbolizing the line of pale blue and green fixed stars known to Arabian astrologers as the Al Risha. The cord is recognized in esoteric occultism as the line attaching the spirit to the soul. Forever tied together, the spirit and soul become the zodiacs pair of Fish. They struggle to remain together while swimming in opposite directions. The struggling Fish symbolize this complex birth sign which marks both the end and the beginning of the zodiacal wheel.

Astrological Money Blessing

Astrological Floor Wash

Money Blessing From the Stars To Ease Economic Woes

By Dikki-Jo Mullen

One of the earliest forms of popular consultation involved astrologically favorable herbs. Plants were gathered, using astrological guidelines, to minister to the ills of the body and soul. Today, as shadows of concern about global economic security impact so many of us, this return to a longtime tradition can offer solace. Wise counsel from the heavens above can be implemented to create a celestial blessing. A subtle yet potent herbal blessing based on the zodiac can be created to ease the situation. This famous recipe for a kind of holy water, used to sprinkle or wash the home or work place, comes from the folk wisdom of the Louisiana bayou country. For maximum effectiveness prepare and apply the Money Draw Floor Wash on a Sunday, Monday, Thursday or Friday during the planetary hours of the Sun, Moon, Jupiter or Venus, while the Moon is waxing Moon. Reports are that this combination usually works surprisingly well when employment or extra money is needed!

　

Money Draw

Famous Recipe Spiritual Floor Wash

Ingredients:

cinnamon – ruled by the Sun and Jupiter

allspice – ruled by Jupiter and Venus

sugar – ruled by Venus and Jupiter

bay leaf – ruled by the Sun

fresh drinking water – ruled by the Moon

Take equal parts of the four dry ingredients, ¼ cup of each works well. Stir into boiling water ( a half gallon is a good choice). Remove from the heat. Let steep (brew) overnight. Strain. Sprinkle the herbal water around the home or work place or add it to soapy wash water and apply as a floor scrub. Traditionally the 23rd Psalm or another prayer is said aloud three or more times as this is done. A favorite prosperity affirmation can be substituted for the prayer according to individual preference.

The fragrance alone is heavenly and evokes a feeling of happiness and well being. The Sun ruled ingredients assure confidence and draw positive attention from influential people. The Venus influences relate to favor and comfort, while the Jupiter ruled ingredients assure affluence, well being and growth. The Moon ruled water is a catalyst to combine and unleash the various benevolent potentials; then deposit them into the familiar environment where they can do the most good.

#