SGC Admin Bits and Pieces

Your guide to Paganism/Wicca with Patti Wigington: Imbloc:

From Patti Wigington, your Guide to Paganism/Wicca

As we get ready to celebrate Imbolc in the northern hemisphere, for many Pagans, it’s a time to honor Brighid. She’s a Celtic goddess of the forge and the hearth, and has come to symbolize, for many people, the blessings of domestic life. She’s also the patroness of poets and bards, artisans and craftspeople, as well as those with healing gifts. Obviously, not all traditions celebrate Brighid this time year, but if yours does, this is a perfect opportunity to get to know her better.

For our southern hemisphere readers, it’s nearly Lammas, also called Lughnasadh. This harvest sabbat not only marks the season of the threshing of grain – in some traditions, it’s a season to honor Lugh, the Celtic craftsman god. Like Brighid, he is a patron of artisans and crafters. Be sure to read the links at the very bottom for some information on Lugh, and how you can honor him during this time of year.

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Who is Brighid?

In Irish mythological cycles, Brighid (or Brighit), whose name is derived from the Celtic brig or “exalted one”, is the daughter of the Dagda, and therefore one of the Tuatha de Dannan. Her two sisters were also called Brighid, and were associated with healing and crafts. Read more about Brighid here. 
Search Related Topics:  brighid  pagan goddesses  celtic paganism
Rituals to Honor Brighid

• Brighid’s Crossroads Divination

Not sure where you’re headed these days? In addition to being a goddess of hearth and home, Brighid is also representative of the crossroads. Let her guide you and inspire you with this simple divination ritual technique.

• Prayers to Brighid

While Brighid may be primarily honored at Imbolc, you can celebrate her magic and power any time of the year. Try these simple prayers honoring Brighid in her many aspects.

• Group Ritual to Honor Brighid

Imbolc is a time when the days suddenly seem to be getting longer, and the snow is beginning to melt, showing us small patches of earth and green. At this time of returning spring, our ancestors lit bonfires and candles to celebrate the rebirth of the land. Celebrate the many aspects of Brighid with this simple group rite.
The Legend of Brighid’s Mantle

According to legend, Brighid’s mantle, or cloak, was a magical piece of material indeed. Learn about the story of Brighid’s mantle, and how you can incorporate this aspect of her myth cycle into your magical practice. 
Search Related Topics:  imbolc  folkore  brighid
Crafts to Honor Brighid

For many of us, getting crafty and creative is a great way to honor our spirituality. Try some of these simple craft projects to celebrate Brighid during the Imbolc season.

• Brighid’s Cross

Brighid’s cross has a wide range of symbolism to many different people. While it figures prominently in many Christian legends, it is also a popular symbol in many Pagan religious paths. Here’s how you can make a Brighid’s cross of your own to decorate your home or altar. More »

Make a Brighid’s Bed

In many traditions, the goddess Brighid is welcomed into the home at Imbolc. In addition to making a Brighid doll, she is given a bed near the hearth fire. Make a Brighid’s bed to welcome this goddess into your own house.

Make a Brighid Corn Doll

In some magical traditions, a corn doll representing the goddess Brighid is placed in a position of honor in the home – usually in the kitchen or near the fireplace. Here’s how you can craft a simple corn doll to symbolize Brighid’s presence in your house.

Brighid’s Crown

Imbolc reminds us that spring is on the way, so why not make a floral crown to honor her? Use it on your Imbolc altar, or as a decoration in your home to bring spring’s colors indoors on a chilly day?

 

 
SGC Admin Astrology Info, Moon Phase: Current Sun Sign:

The Moon and Astrology: How it affects our daily life… Transiting Moon in Cancer… January 2015:

The Moon and Astrology

&

HOW IT AFFECTS OUR DAILY LIVES… 

In astrology, the moon is connected to our emotions and reactions… how we are feeling on a given day may well be influenced by the sign that is visiting the moon… Each sign stays with the moon for up to 2.5 days…. :) 

The Moon Void-off-Course: 

There are times throughout the month when the moon isn’t fully immersed in any sign… this is when we say the moon is Void off Course… and when this occurs, we may feel “foggy” and “unfocused” … We may not be sure how we are truly feeling about a situation or a person…. Therefore it is not recommended that we make long-term commitments or important decision’s while the moon is Void off Course…. However there are 4 signs in the zodiac which may prove positive during the Void-off-Course moon… 

Good for Void-Off-Course Moon:

These v/c signs may prove to be quite productive times.

  • Cancer
  • Taurus
  • Sagittarius
  • Pisces…

Opportunity Periods  (thanks to astrologer Jim Shawvan):

There are other periods throughout the month that are known as opportunity periods, when it can prove to be a positive time for most people, however if you have challenging aspects happening within your own chart you may not be able to make use of opportunity periods. 

Thanks to Jim Shawvan present day astrologer, William Lilly 17th century astrologer and Llewellyn’s Daily Planetary Guide for opportunity periods.

Present Moon Sign/Phase/House:

Cartoon crab Stock Vector - 9106697
http://www.123rf.com: Yael Weiss
  • Date: January 30/31 2015 to February 2 2015
  • Moon Sign: Cancer at 2:09 am (ET) January 31: 11:09 pm (PT) January 30 2015
  • Moon Phase: 2nd
  • Void-off-Course: Yes 8:37 am (ET) 5:37 am (PT) 02/01/2015 to 12:41 pm (ET) 9:41 am (PT) 02/02/2015
  • House: 10th: This is our work, career, vocational house and our standing within the community.  
  • Opportunity Period: Yes: 5:43 am(ET) 2:43 am (PT) 02/01/2015 to 12:41 pm (ET) 9:41 am (PT) 02/02/2015: Turn on the charm and perform random acts of kindness… :) 

What does it all mean?

  • The moon is happy in the sign of Cancer because she rules here. Being sympathetic towards the worries of others is easier, we are more empathetic now. 
  • We can be more nurturing when there is a cancer moon
  • Domestic chores and responsibilities may be easier to do now, in fact some of us may be very happy making our home comfortable and safe
  • Cooking may be fun to do now,  so go ahead and try out that new recipe
  • The more emotionally sensitive of us, may take offense or feel slighted or more vulnerable during the Cancer moon… Caution is advised though, check your facts before you “accuse”. 
  • Some of us may feel needy, while others of us are happy to be the cuddler, helping our loved ones feel secure and in deed needed. Caution is advised that some of us can go over board on the needy thing during this moon period, so be careful if you don’t want to “scare” someone off… 
  • It’s a time for cuddles, caring, good food and just plain old lovings… :) Enjoy..
  • With the Transiting moon in the 10th house, we may be more inclined towards domestic work or issues relating to our domestic routine. We may find we are also more co-operative with others and they with us, when it comes to work related matters. 
  • This moon sign will have more of an effect on those who have the following in their charts.
  • Moon in Cancer:
  • Ascendant in Cancer:
  • Sun in Cancer:
  • Moon in the 4th house:
  • Moon in the 10th house:
  • Aspects to the Moon: 

 

 

Greta McKenzie Astrology 12/30/2015
SGC Admin Uncategorized

Reducing Chemical Use – Make Your Own DIY Deodorant Spray Recipe

Gosh this sounds pretty easy to do… let SGC or sunnysleevez know how yours turns out should you try it… :) Thanks to sunnysleevez for sharing … :)

sunnysleevez's avatarSunny Sleevez

DIY DEODORANT RECIPEI haven’t been overly concerned about the safety of store bought deodorant, but knowing that skin is highly porous and what goes on it, goes through it, I’d rather not add more chemicals to my system.

Add to that the number of plastic casings consigned to the recycle bin I have wondered about an alternative but never put a whole lot of research into it.

Yesterday, I was stopped in my tracks by the dreaded “End of the deodorant” panic.

Not usually a big deal but I was running late for a meeting, no time to drive to Trader Joes for the one brand of deodorant that both works and doesn’t irritate my skin, and I really didn’t want to risk spending the next 2 hours in a stuffy office smelling like a dead ferret!

A quick search turned up lots of recipes here is the recipe that I used…

View original post 400 more words

SGC Admin Links and Connections

Kalina Naturals welcomes you to their blog… :)

Kalina Naturals brings you natural soap and body care products… Now you can learn more about Marta the founder of Kalina Naturals; by visiting & interacting via comments with the brand new blog section on the Kalina Naturals Website…

Marta is really excited about this new venture and is eager to share her experiences with us, in the hopes she can pass on some inspiration and encouragement for us all to enjoy life to the fullest… :)

0d4f67_07d0e595f96249a4aa851446901ce461.jpg_srz_p_896_597_75_22_0.50_1.20_0.00_jpg_srz

Please Click Here to visit the blog…. :)

SGC Admin Astrology Info, Moon Phase: Current Sun Sign:

The Moon and Astrology: How it affects our daily life…Transiting Moon in Gemini January 2015

The Moon and Astrology

&

HOW IT AFFECTS OUR DAILY LIVES… 

In astrology, the moon is connected to our emotions and reactions… how we are feeling on a given day may well be influenced by the sign that is visiting the moon… Each sign stays with the moon for up to 2.5 days…. :) 

The Moon Void-off-Course: 

There are times throughout the month when the moon isn’t fully immersed in any sign… this is when we say the moon is Void off Course… and when this occurs, we may feel “foggy” and “unfocused” … We may not be sure how we are truly feeling about a situation or a person…. Therefore it is not recommended that we make long-term commitments or important decision’s while the moon is Void off Course…. However there are 4 signs in the zodiac which may prove positive during the Void-off-Course moon… 

Good for Void-Off-Course Moon:

These v/c signs may prove to be quite productive times.

  • Cancer
  • Taurus
  • Sagittarius
  • Pisces…

Opportunity Periods  (thanks to astrologer Jim Shawvan):

There are other periods throughout the month that are known as opportunity periods, when it can prove to be a positive time for most people, however if you have challenging aspects happening within your own chart you may not be able to make use of opportunity periods. 

Thanks to Jim Shawvan present day astrologer, William Lilly 17th century astrologer and Llewellyn’s Daily Planetary Guide for opportunity periods.

Present Moon Sign/Phase/House:

Manga style illustration of zodiac symbol, Gemini Stock Illustration - 16341896
http://www.123rf.com: Copyright : rudall30
  • Date: January 28 to January 30/31 2015
  • Moon Sign: Gemini: 5:36 pm (ET) 2:36 pm (PT)
  • Moon Phase: 2nd Quarter
  • Void-off-Course: 4:24 am (ET) 1:24 am (PT) January 30 to 11:09 pm (PT) January 30: 2:09 am (ET) January 31 2015
  • House: 8th: House of secrets, research, death, regeneration, shared money matters and mergers: 
  • Opportunity Period: Yes: 7:13 pm (ET) 4:13 pm (PT) January 29 to 3:23 am (ET) 12:23 am (PT) January 30. This is a good time for mental work, as we should be able to think a little bit more clearly during this OP.

What does it all mean?

  • Gemini is an air sign and needs lots of stimuli. She is ruled by Mercury. Mercury’s storm and retrograde periods are from January 17 until February 19 2015. Try not to start any new projects now, instead write down any new ideas, include the date and time too. 
  • We may find we are trying to do multiple things at once, which may not go exactly as we may have planned. 
  • Could be lots of chit chatting going on, and some of us may have to make a concerted effort to listen instead of chat.
  • Caution is advised when doing up letters, emails and relaying messages, as much as we may think we have it right, it’s better to check one more time
  • In the 8th house: Watch out for being possessive or jealous when dealing with personal relationships. Our emotions can be more intense now indicating we may feel more than is really going on. Use any excess energy for sorting through items you no longer need, set up your donation pile and your garbage pile and set to it… :) 
  • It’s a good time to get those lists and notes made up… we can feel good about putting pen to paper now.
  • Boredom may be at our door step and we may feel more restless than usual. 
  • This moon sign will have more of an effect on those who have the following in their charts. 
  • Moon in Gemini,
  • Sun in Gemini
  • Sun in Scorpio
  • Moon in Scorpio
  • Moon in the 8th house
  • Any aspects to the Moon or Mercury

 

copyright: Greta McKenzie Astrology:12/30/2014