GrannyMoon’s Weekly Feast 12-19 July 2020! Thanks for reading!

                                                            The Waning Moon

Blessed be my little witch. To those who came before and those who will come after, know that the Goddess is with you always. Thank you all my dear readers…be blessed. ~GrannyMoon
Remember dear humans, fresh air, sunshine, and communing with nature is the best medicine. It is good for our immune system. It also lifts the spirits and it breaks up the monotony of “social distancing!” How are you doing?

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The NEW MOON always rises at sunrise
And the FIRST QUARTER at noon.
The FULL MOON always rises at sunset
And the LAST QUARTER at midnight.
~The New Orleans Mistic

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Dark Moon – Time to Rest
New Moon – Time to Begin New Projects; Birth; Attraction
Waxing Moon – Time to Grow; Increase
Full Moon – Time to be Fulfilled; Abundance
Waning Moon – Time to Banish; Decrease
Last Sliver of Moon – Time to Die; Letting Go
Dark Moon – Time to Rest Again
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Light A Candle Today! In many different traditions lighting a candle is a sacred action. It expresses more than words can express. It has to do with gratefulness. From time immemorial, people have lit candles in sacred places. You may want to begin or end your day by the sacred ritual of lighting a candle on this gratefulness. Or you may want to light a birthday candle for a friend. One single guideline is all you need: Slow down and do it with full attention.

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Dates of this calendar were devised by Robert Graves, 1895 – 1985

Goddess Month of Kerea begins 7/11 – 8/8
Celtic Tree Calendar Month of Tinne (Holly) July 8 to August 4

July
12th Mercury becomes Progressive
14th Bastille Day, the National French holiday.
15th St. Swithin’s Day. Is it raining where you are?
17th National Peach Ice Cream Day
20th New Moon
22nd Zodiac Period of Cancer ends
23rd Zodiac Period of Leo begins

Flower of the Month Larkspur: Each blossom color has a different meaning: pink means fickleness, white conveys a happy nature, and purple represents a first love.

July is National Blueberry Month, National Ice Cream Month

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The Moon Phase: WANING MOON

Time: From Full Moon to Dark Moon (approx.14 days)

Goddess Aspect: Crone

Associated Goddesses: Cailleach, Banshee, Hecate, Kali, Morrigan

Magickal Attributes: Banishing Releasing the old, removing unwanted negative energies, wisdom, psychic ability, scrying, reversing circumstances. Workings on this day are for banishing magick, for ridding oneself of addictions, illness or negativity, physical and psychic cleansings.

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Remain Flexible and Master Improvement
CoventryCreations.com
July 13, 2020 – July 19, 2020

In typical type A behavior, the cosmos is packing all the energy this week into two days. On Tuesday, the Sun will oppose Jupiter and on Wednesday, the Sun will oppose Pluto. To play Jupiter correctly, avoid going overboard or act in ways that offend other people. Then you can count on Jupiter to be a protective father figure. When the Sun opposes Pluto, power struggles, especially in your professional relationships start surfacing. Difficulties with authority figures happen like spontaneous combustion. For your own safety avoid problematic situations. Peaceful protests will be stretched beyond their limit. You can count on Jupiter to amplify the energy. Any areas of your life that have become a ‘hot mess’ need to be repaired sooner rather than later. Code Red.

Coventry Candles to the rescue are, Blessed Herbal Inner Balance, Protection, and Needed Change, Wicked Witch Out of My Way.

Can you make friends with the new normal?
Ordinarily, Cancer season is the time of the year where our focus is on emotional security, and can be the balm we need, especially pertinent during the COVID-19 pandemic. As we begin to understand what our ‘new normal’ is for the short-term future, our need to feel connected to others on the emotional level is going to be important.

Plan + action = magic
Work the plan…

Work the plan and trust the process. We will be riding the rollercoaster ride of retrogrades, eclipses, and cultural disruption all summer long. It will be easy to get distracted by the changing crisis of the day, but if you stay focused on your plan and the actions it involves you will create needed stability.

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BIDDY TAROT CARD OF THE WEEK
Biddy Tarot <brigit@biddytarot.com>

The card drawn for this week is The Emperor.

You have the knowledge and experience that you’ve gained throughout your life, and can use that to lead and guide others.

The Emperor represents a powerful leader who demands respect and authority. Status, power, and recognition are essential to you.

You are most comfortable in a leadership role where you can command and direct others. Claim your authority as a leader and influencer and don’t let others put you down.

If things seem a bit chaotic, consider how you can create calm out of it. Break down any challenges or problems into its parts and then map out the actions you need to take to resolve it.

This is the time to be systematic, strategic, and highly organized in your approach. Be sure to stick to your plans and see them through until the end.

Ask the Tarot: How can I step into my power?

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Mercury Retrograde Is Over — But Retroshade Is Here
by Elizabeth Gulino

The second Mercury retrograde of 2020 comes to a close on July 12 — phew. And the next one doesn’t start until October 13. While having a break from the miscommunications and travel mishaps, and other mayhem a Mercury retrograde can bring is surely a relief, astrologers are warning that it’s not time to totally relax just yet.
This past Mercury retrograde was in the emotional sign of Cancer, and it may feel like you’ve been put through a rollercoaster of feelings. “During this transit, our intuition and feelings have been amplified, driving us to act first and think later,” explains Narayana Montúfar, senior astrologer at Astrology.com and Horoscope.com. “Once Mercury ends its retrograde transit in Cancer, this overall feeling of nostalgia will begin to mellow out a bit as interactions become more fluid.”

But we’re not totally free and clear until July 26. “The phase after retrograde is called retroshade,” astrologer Lisa Stardust tells Refinery29. “During this time communications and information starts to move forward again. But it’s still a bit wonky because Mercury isn’t moving around the same speed as usual.”

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Heartwings Love Notes 939
How Is Everyone Doing?

Heartwings says, “As the old normal dissolves, what will the new normal look like?”

Some are eager to get back to “normal,” as they think of pre Covid19 times. What that means for some is one thing, for another, something different. Yet whatever the old normal was, it’s definitely different from whatever is happening now. Perhaps we have been given an opportunity to look more closely at what has been and make a decision as to whether or not we want to return—assuming we can, or whether we wish to create something new and different with our lives.

The old normal for Stephen and me held trips to the library, now of course closed. It held occasional visits to a movie theater, Dinners, or other meals at a variety of restaurants, checking out discount stores, time spent in a favorite thrift store, and Saturday yard sales. Most likely we will resume some if not all of these activities, but it may be that we will not do so with the same frequency. For us, it has been rather nice just being home. It’s peaceful. In addition, we have saved a lot of money on gas, as well as on restaurant meals and the acquisition of fun but superfluous items.

Staying out of stores unless we are buying necessities does not seem to me to be difficult to continue doing. If I really wanted to, I could shop online although I don’t. Shopping has never been important for me unless it is for something I really need or want. For many people, it is a form of entertainment. I’d rather read a book or watch a funny DVD from our collection. Too, creative writing—poetry and prose forms an important part of how Stephen and I like to spend our time. That is not going to change, nor is the fun we have cooking together.

As everyone knows, how we as a people spend our time has changed as a result of COVID 19. Many will have discovered the joy of hobbies, of passing time together as a family, and of course, being outdoors in nature. These are healthier pursuits than shopping. Sedentary activities like watching sports are not as good for us as playing them. It is said that it takes forty days to change a habit. We’ve had more time than that to make changes in our daily lives. May that have been enough.

May you find new inspiration and change old bad habits in your daily life.

Blessings and best regards, Tasha Halpert

PS How has COVID 19 affected your habits? Have you made any discoveries about your preferences? I’d love to hear what you have learned. Write to tashahal@gmail.com and for more love notes and other tidbits, visit http://www.heartwingsandfriends.com    @tashahal

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Llewellyn’s Spell-A-Day

Shielding Spell During Sun in Cancer
July 12, 2020 By Devin Hunter

With both Mercury and the sun in Cancer now, you may be feeling a little emotional. Cast this spell to strengthen your empathic shields and to help keep your energy stable and grounded during this time. All you need is a small piece of black tourmaline (or your favorite protection stone).

Hold the tourmaline in your dominant hand and make a fist. Lift your fist to your third eye, then move it down to your chest, your belly, and finally both feet. As you do this, imagine a line of white light connecting each of the points on your body, and say:

Stone of strength, lend your might,
shield me from all but light.
Fortify me as I block and defend,
and when I crack, my energy mend!

Keep the stone in your pocket for as long as you need it.
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Seventh Wave Spell
July 11, 2020 By Laura Tempest Zakroff

There is much maritime lore about the seventh wave, particularly about it being the largest wave in a group, and the one that hits the shore directly. The next time you find yourself by a body of water, watch the waves as they come in, and you’ll start to see the seventh-wave pattern.

Use the power and directness of the wave to call something to you as you watch it come in. Visualizing your goal, say to the waves:

One and two, three and four,
waves crashing upon the shore.
Five and six and seventh wave,
to my door bring what I crave.

Leave a token or drawn symbol of thanks at the shoreline before you go.
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Invisibility Spell
July 10, 2020 By Thuri Calafia

Sometimes we just don’t want to be seen! While this spell won’t work like Harry Potter’s invisibility cloak, it can serve well to divert attention away so the person you’re avoiding will be, well, avoidable!

For this spell, gather together a pinch of amaranth ( love-lies-bleeding), lemon peel, mugwort, and mistletoe. Mix well while chanting:

I am a whisper, like the wind.
I am a spark in earth so deep.
I am flowing, sliding, gossamer silent,
Never to be seen!

When the power peaks, visualize yourself completely invisible wherever you go. Cover the herbs with olive oil and simmer in a double boiler for three and a half hours or in a slow cooker for thirteen hours. Strain off the oil and anoint yourself whenever you wish to be hidden, repeating the chant as needed.
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To Banish What Is No Longer Useful
July 09, 2020 By Charlie Rainbow Wolf

It doesn’t matter whether this is clutter that’s messing up your home, emotional baggage that’s messing up your life, or a belief system you’ve outgrown: if it has outlived its purpose, it has to go. You can’t open the doors to abundance if they’re cluttered with things that are in the way! You’ll need a pen and paper, a black candle on a heatproof surface, something to light the candle with, and tweezers.

Write down what you want to be rid of on the paper. Light the candle, and carefully set fire to the paper in the flame. When it has burned down so that it’s hard to hold, grab the end of the paper with the tweezers. You have to burn every last scrap of the paper. Pinch out the candle. Sweep up the remains of the paper, and dispose of them off your property.
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Magnetic Travel Spell
July 08, 2020 By Ari Mankey

Take two magnets and bless them, saying:

These two magnets together are bound,
May all return to me safe and sound.

Keep one magnet in your pocket and place the other one in your travel bag. They will continually attract each other and ensure that your luggage won’t be lost or stolen and will return safely to you while traveling. Alternatively, you can travel with one magnet and leave the other at home, ensuring a safe return.
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Salt of the Earth
July 07, 2020 By Melissa Tipton

For this spell, you’ll need two tablespoons of Epsom salt and a gallon of water. Place your hands over the salt and say:

I call on the spirit of salt to bring
nourishment and balance to my
garden. Thank you, salt!

Keep your hands over the salt, allowing energy to flow for a few moments. Then place your hands over the water and say:

I call on the element of water to
bring health and blessings to my
garden. Thank you, water!

Allow energy to flow from your hands for a few moments, then add the salt to the water and shake or stir to dissolve.

Use the mixture to water your plants. It’s especially good for flowering plants, such as roses and rhododendrons, and fruits and vegetables, such as tomatoes, peppers, and citrus trees, boosting flavor, output, and overall plant health.
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Seashell Secrets
July 06, 2020 By Kate Freuler

There’s a superstition that if you hold a conch shell to your ear, you will hear the ocean. Some even say it can help you hear the voice of divinity or receive guidance from water spirits.

Make this charm if you feel lost and in need of direction. This spell can be done with any fresh or saltwater shell that appeals to you. It doesn’t have to be an actual conch shell. It just needs to be small enough to carry with you.

After dark, place your shell in a jar of water. Water represents intuition and psychic awareness. Let the shell absorb the intuitive energy of the water overnight. In the morning, gaze at the shell in the water and say:

Intuition in my ear,
Tell me what I need to hear.

Carry the shell with you until you receive the guidance or omen you desire. Keep your ears, eyes, and other senses open

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Chronic Lateness
By Madisyn Taylor

When people are chronically late, they are in essence saying that their time is more important than yours.

Being late for an appointment or a date can seem like a small thing that really doesn’t matter, but it communicates volumes, whether we mean it to or not. Being kept waiting is an experience that almost no one enjoys, because at best, it wastes their time, and at worst, it indicates a lack of regard. It’s as if we’re saying that our time is more important than their time, so we don’t need to honor them by showing up when we said we would. When we are running late, it means a lot if we call and let the person know, especially if it’s going to be more than ten minutes. However, if we are chronically late, it may take more than a phone call to properly address the issue.

If it’s become a habit of ours not to be on time, we may want to look inside ourselves and see what’s going on. It’s easy enough to make excuses about our behavior, or to project responsibility on the other person, perceiving them to be uptight if they are irritated by our tardiness. What’s more difficult, and more meaningful, is looking at ourselves and asking why it is that we always, or often, show up late. Sometimes this happens out of a lack of self-regard, as if we aren’t really important anyway, so why will anyone care if we’re late, or don’t show up at all. Chronic lateness can also stem from being disorganized, or simply trying to do too much in one day. Another possible reason for being late to a particular appointment, or date, is that we don’t really want to be there. We communicate our disinterest or boredom by not showing up on time.

Whatever our reasons, if we raise them to the conscious level, we have an opportunity to live a more conscious life. As we begin to understand the deeper reasons behind our inability to show up on time, we have the option to communicate clearly and consciously about how we really feel, rather than communicating unconsciously by being late.

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Why Catnip Drives Cats Wild
Analysis by Dr. Karen Shaw Becker

Catnip is a somewhat mysterious plant in terms of its attractiveness to cats; a substance called nepetalactone in catnip is what drives kitties wild
Researchers have recently learned that catmint evolved to make nepetalactone not once, but twice; ancestors of the catmint plant stopped making nepetalactone at some point, then evolved to create the substance a second time
Nepetalactone is produced in a unique two-step process from microscopic glands on the underside of catnip leaves
Nepetalactone seems to act on regions of the feline brain related to play, hunger, and predatory and sexual behavior, triggering the uninhibited behaviors characteristic of kitties under the influence of catnip
Not all cats are affected by catnip; for non-responders, there are other herbs to consider, including silver vine
Catnip, aka catmint, has a rather remarkable effect on many cats, and now scientists may have unlocked the mystery of what causes catnip to drive kitties crazy.1 The catmint plant contains a substance called nepetalactone, a volatile iridoid. Unlike other types of plants in the mint family, including basil, oregano, rosemary, lemon balm and mint, which over time have lost the ability to produce iridoids, catnip still does.2 According to ScienceDaily:

“An international team of researchers has now found through genome analysis that the ability to produce iridoids had already been lost in ancestors of catmint in the course of evolution. Hence, nepetalactone biosynthesis is the result of ‘repeated evolution.’

Nevertheless, this particular iridoid differs considerably from other compounds in this group of natural products with regards to its chemical structure and properties, and most likely its ecological functions.”3

A Case of ‘Double Evolution’
The research team set out to learn how and why catnip makes nepetalactone and how the biosynthetic pathways for the formation of this unique chemical molecule have evolved. To do this, they sequenced the genome of catmint.

“We discovered a suite of unusual enzymes which generate nepetalactone molecules,” lead study author Benjamin Lichman from the University of York said in a news release. “These enzymes are not found in any related plant species and have evolved uniquely in catmint.

When we first saw the genome sequence of catmint we realized that the important genes that we hypothesized were active in the formation of nepetalactone were next to each other in the genome. This allowed us to solve the problem more easily.”4

So, what’s the deal with cats and catnip? According to online publication Inverse, it has something to do with the plant’s “double evolution.”5 Catmint evolved to make nepetalactone not once, but twice. The ancestors of the plant stopped making nepetalactone at some point, then evolved to create the substance a second time.

Nepetalactone is Produced in an Unusual Two-Step Process
Nepetalactone is a type of chemical called a terpene, and in 2018, researchers at the John Innes Centre in the U.K. learned how catnip plants produce it:

“This simple, small molecule is part of an unusual chain of events, not previously seen by chemists,” according to a John Innes Centre press release.

“Usually in plants, for example peppermint, terpenes are formed by a single enzyme. … [T]he researchers report that in catnip terpenes are formed in a two-step process; an enzyme activates a precursor compound which is then grabbed by a second enzyme to produce the substance of interest.

This two-step process has previously never been observed, and the researchers also expect something similar is occurring in the synthesis of anti-cancer drugs vincristine and vinblastine from Madagascan periwinkle, Catharanthus roseus, and elsewhere in olive and snapdragon.”6

In their 2018 study, published in the journal Nature Chemical Biology, the researchers describe how nepetalactone is produced in microscopic glands on the underside of the leaves of catnip plants.7 In addition, the study identified three newly discovered enzymes with unusual activity. The researchers hope a better understanding of how nepetalactones are produced can help them learn how plants synthesize other chemicals as well.

Behaviors people have witnessed after offering catnip to kitties include nosing, chewing, and batting the catnip container while drooling buckets; shaking their heads; rolling around and rubbing their bodies on the floor; losing their balance, falling and stumbling around; repetitively kicking their hind legs; and showing excitement and chasing behavior.

Dodman offers a few possible explanations for all this exaggerated feline activity. He believes that since some of the behaviors are playful in nature, catnip puts kitties in the mood to have fun. Chewing and drooling seem to be associated with getting food, while rolling and rubbing appear to be sexual behaviors. Tandem hind leg kicking could be a predatory behavior, along with chasing.

Ultimately, it seems catnip may inspire overt expressions of several natural feline behaviors, almost as if it allows kitties to temporarily let go of their inhibitions.

“This implies a general excitatory effect on areas of the brain, particularly those centered in and around the hypothalamus, the region that controls appetitive, predatory and sexual behavior,” Dodman writes.

Research suggests nepetalactone has an opium-like action — it stimulates opioid receptors in the brain in the same way morphine does. When a susceptible kitty gets hold of catnip and absorbs the nepetalactone, his pleasure centers (opioid receptors) in the brain are activated. But although catnip appears to make some cats “high,” it is an entirely harmless and non-addictive herb.

It may even help smooth the way in multi-cat households, for example, with feuding felines. Kitties who don’t get along may view each other in a friendlier light while under the influence of catnip — and the cease-fire has been known to hold after the effects of the nepetalactone wear off.

In addition, catnip has pain-relieving properties that may be helpful for some kitties, similar to the effects of marijuana in some people.

An Alternative to Catnip: Silver Vine
In a recent study, researchers exposed 100 domestic cats to powdered or ground silver vine, Tatarian honeysuckle, valerian root, and catnip to observe their reaction.

The plants were presented to the cats in their own living environment a minimum of five times in random order. There was at least a 5-minute washout period between scents to allow the kitties to clear each scent from their noses before moving on to the next.

The researchers were looking for reactions similar to those seen in cats susceptible to catnip, and found that the cats responded positively to all four plants:

79% responded to silver vine
68% responded to catnip
53% responded to Tatarian honeysuckle
47% responded to valerian root

There was no difference in response rates between male and female cats, but younger kitties had more intense reactions. The four plants were also analyzed to determine levels of five known or suspected active compounds that cause the behaviors and were found to have significantly varying levels of the five tested compounds. Additional observations:

It was the fruit galls of the silver vine plant that drew the most intense response, though some of the cats also responded to the wood of the plant
Almost 75 percent of the catnip non-responders responded to silver vine, and about 33 percent responded to Tatarian honeysuckle
The level of nepetalactone was highest in the catnip and only present at negligible levels in the other plants
Silver vine contained the highest concentrations of all other compounds tested
The researchers concluded that olfactory enrichment for cats may have great potential. They noted that silver vine powder from dried fruit galls and catnip were most appealing, and silver vine and Tatarian honeysuckle appear to be good alternatives for kitties who don’t respond to catnip.

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23 Items Under $5 That Can Save Your Life!
by Jill Nystul, July 22, 2016

I grew up in sunny California, and even though I have now lived in Utah for nearly 20 years, I still get this unsettled feeling whenever winter starts to settle in. When I think of how COLD it gets and the things that could potentially go wrong while on the road, or even at home should the power go out, I am reminded of how woefully UNprepared I am for such emergencies.

I recently came across this article on OutdoorLife.com about $2 items that can save your life and it was just the nudge I needed to at least get SOMETHING together for an emergency kit. Whether it’s a winter survival kit, or just a survival kit in general….you don’t have to spend a fortune to get started. When you think about it, sometimes the most valuable things in an emergency are also the cheapest things you can buy.

Iodine Tincture
This can be used to disinfect wounds, gear and even drinking water! Just add 5-10 drops of 2% iodine to 1 quart of suspect drinking water. Use 5 drops if the water is warm and clear, use 10 drops of the water is ice cold or cloudy. Shake it up for a moment and wait one hour before drinking.

Candle Can
Seasoned wilderness travelers always carry an empty soup can and a supply of at least a dozen long-burning votive candles. Put the candle into the can, light it, and it will supply just enough heat to keep you from freezing to death in a closed vehicle after you’ve run out of gas.

Small Bottle Of Bleach
In an emergency, you can use tiny amounts of bleach to purify water. A small bottle of bleach can disinfect hundreds of gallons of drinking water. It can also be used to sterilize equipment and food preparation areas, as well as for general cleaning. For drinking water, add 2 to 4 drops of plain Clorox per quart of water (2 drops if clear, 4 drops if cold or muddy).

A Lighter
A $1.39 lighter is worth its weight in gold, no matter how injured you are – if you have a working thumb and a lighter, you have fire. And at that low price, you can afford to stock up.

Stick Matches
Lighters should be carried as well for redundancy, but don’t forget about matches for a real emergency kit. A case of 10 or a dozen boxes of stick match will usually run you less than $2, and provide you with 300 or more matches.

Fire Starter
A mini fire log could be used in its entirety to start one fire in horrible condition, or cut into pieces to start many fires under other conditions.

Duct Tape
Make emergency repairs on, tents, gear, bags, tarps, packs, sleeping bags, clothing, rain gear, etc. It can also be used for wrapping sprained ankles in an emergency.

Super Glue
It is essentially liquid duct tape and can fix many things you’ll inevitably break that you won’t be able to easily purchase again.

Bandanas
There are literally dozens of uses for these versatile pieces of cloth. Bandage for a wound, fire starter (soak it in oil or Vaseline), trail marker (rip pieces to show where you’ve been), neck and head covering to prevent heatstroke or sunburn, sling for an injured arm, tourniquet for snake bites or wounds where you need to cut circulation.

Box of Bandages
If you can keep the dirt out of all your wounds, you can keep infections minimized. You can even use the bandages to “tape” things together in a pinch.

Bread In A Can
This rodent-proof, bug-proof, waterproof metal can of bread with a three-year shelf life might not be the most delicious carbs you’ll ever eat, but it only costs about $2.50 and packs 1,040 calories per loaf/can!

Hand Sanitizer
When you don’t have easy access to soap and water, you can fight infection by using an alcohol-based sanitizer to clean your hands before and after treating injuries. In addition to its normal use, hand sanitizer can also be used as a flame accelerant thanks to its high alcohol content.

Sports Tape
This first-aid box staple is great at keeping your dressings and bandages in place. It’s also strong and sticky enough to be used to hold things together, or to make improvised butterfly sutures.

Pencil Sharpener
Take a twig roughly the diameter of a pencil and use the sharpener to make shavings (or tinder) to get a fire started! Simple and SUPER cheap!

Activated Charcoal
If your digestive system is turned upside-down while stranded, without access to a store, pharmacy or medical facility, activated charcoal can be your best friend. Activated charcoal is used in hospitals worldwide for patients who ingest drugs or chemicals and has saved countless lives.

Mini Flashlights
Little lightweight LED flashlights are super long-lasting, surprisingly bright for their size, and frequently on sale. They’re a great value for the money and you can stash them in all the different places you might need them.

A Compass
If you know how to use a compass, it is an invaluable tool. It is a good idea for everyone to learn at least the basics of using a compass, and to have a good idea of basic directional orientation.

A Mirror
A signaling mirror is great for signaling at long distances or to passing ships or aircraft. It can also be used for checking wounds, rashes, etc in places you would not otherwise be able to see.

Survival Blanket
A reflective emergency blanket could be the best $2 you ever spend if you’re lost in the wild. It will help keep you warm (if reflects body heat back to you,) and it’s also great for signaling, as it will reflect a lot of sunlight. This can also be used to waterproof your shelter, and to collect rainwater.

Loud Whistle
When you are lost, injured or stranded, your ability to signal for help is the number one factor in being rescued. Carrying a rescue whistle on your person is an inexpensive and easy way to identify yourself as being in need of rescue. While you’re waiting to be rescued, make lots of noise.

Heavy Cord or Light Rope
Use it for shelter, whether for tying frame pieces together, or for stringing up a tarp between trees. Also use it for splints, traps, etc.

Dental Floss
Aside from dental hygiene, it is incredibly strong and can be used to sew buttons or any material. It is sterile so you can stitch a wound. You can tie down a tent or tarp as long as you don’t wrap it over a sharp edge. You can even fish with it.

Drop Cloth
Plastic drop cloths can be used for sealing windows and doors when there is concern of pandemics, and they also have a myriad of camping uses. You can make a hole in it and use it as a Poncho, it also makes a good tent to sleep under. Avoid the very thin plastic drop cloths, they should be at least a couple mils thickness.

Of course these are just a few of the myriad of supplies that might be necessary should you find yourself in a true emergency, but at least it’s a START! Which is much more than I had going on previously! Now I just need to work on stockpiling insulin and pump supplies for my son. THEN I will REALLY feel prepared. 🙂

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Summer is for Healthy-ish Margaritas! Alcohol is Optional!

This post was provided by our friends at NuNaturals.

These margaritas are exactly what you need this summer (or any time of year!). Nutritionist Alix Turoff created these delicious margaritas to be guilt-free. Not only are they sugar-free, but each margarita is only around 160 calories!

Spicy Grapefruit Margarita

INGREDIENTS:
For spicy salt: 1/2 tablespoon kosher salt, ½ tablespoon chili powder
Lime wedge
Ice
4 ounces tequila
3 ounces fresh squeezed lime juice
2 ounces freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
1 jalapeño pepper, cut into thin slices
½ teaspoon NuStevia simple syrup
2 ounces seltzer
Optional garnish: lime wedges, jalapeño slices

INSTRUCTIONS:

To make your salt, combine kosher salt and chili powder in a small bowl (choose a bowl that will fit the rim of your glass).
To salt the rim of your glass, take a lime wedge and coat the rim. Dip in spicy salt and rotate glass until coated.
Fill your glass with ice and set aside.
Fill a cocktail shaker with additional ice and add tequila, lime juice, grapefruit juice, jalapeño and simple syrup.
Close shaker and shake for about 30 seconds. Strain into rimmed glass with ice.
Top with seltzer.
Garnish with lime wedges and jalapeño slices.

Strawberry Basil Margarita

INGREDIENTS:
½ tablespoon kosher salt
Lime wedge
Ice
1 cup fresh strawberries
5 basil leaves
1 teaspoon NuStevia simple syrup
2 ounces tequila
2.5 ounces freshly squeezed lime juice
2 ounces freshly squeezed orange juice
Optional garnish: Fresh strawberry or lime wedge

INSTRUCTIONS:

Put kosher salt in a small bowl (choose a bowl that will fit the rim of your glass).
To salt the rim of your glass, take a lime wedge and coat the rim. Dip in salt mixture and rotate glass until coated.
Fill your glass with ice and set aside.
Remove the stems from your strawberries and place in a blender with fresh basil leaves and simple syrup. Pulse the blender until you have a liquid with small bits of strawberries.
Add strawberry mixture to a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Add tequila, lime juice and orange juice.
Close shaker and shake for about 30 seconds. Strain into rimmed glass with ice.
Garnish with a fresh strawberry and/or lime wedge.

Ginger Margarita

INGREDIENTS:

For salt: ½ tablespoon kosher salt, ¼ teaspoon freshly grated ginger
Lime wedge
Ice
4 ounces tequila
3 ounces freshly squeezed lime juice
2 ounces freshly squeezed orange juice
1 teaspoon NuStevia ginger syrup
1 ounce seltzer
Optional garnish: Lime wedges and/or candied ginger

INSTRUCTIONS:

To make your salt, combine kosher salt and freshly grated ginger in a small bowl (choose a bowl that will fit the rim of your glass).
To salt the rim of your glass, take a lime wedge and coat the rim. Dip in salt mixture and rotate glass until coated.
Fill your glass with ice and set aside.
Fill a cocktail shaker with additional ice and add tequila, lime juice, orange juice and ginger syrup.
Close shaker and shake for about seconds. Strain into rimmed glass with ice.
Top with seltzer.
Garnish with lime wedges and/or candied ginger.

)0(

Weekly Horoscope: Sunday, July 12, 2020
by Georgia Nicols
https://www.georgianicols.com

Pluto, Jupiter and Saturn are still lined up in Capricorn, the sign that represents the status quo — anything from a government that “has always done things this way” to a Norman Rockwell idea of family: mom, dad, a white picket fence, 2.5 kids, dog and cat. Starting now and for the rest of the year, Mars will challenge these planets and create static. What is certain however, is by the end of this year, Jupiter and Saturn will move into Aquarius, the sign of revolution and change! Aquarius will unite like-minded individuals who want to make the world a better place. The power of “group” movements will grow! Hmmm, this reminds me of Grouch Marx, a man with standards. “I refuse to join any club that will have me as a member!” He also said, “Who are you going to believe, me or your own eyes?”

Aries (March 21-April 19)
This week you continue to be focused on home, family and DIY projects or repairs. You might also be involved with a parent more than usual. Be careful about ego battles midweek. After all, you are coming on super strong now because your ruler fiery Mars is in your own sign where it will stay for the rest of year! The way you see it is you’re just acting normal. But from the point of view of others, you’re coming on like gangbusters! Time to eat a little humble pie. Admit that you might be a tad aggressive. You might even apologize or ask for forgiveness? (Wait a minute. You’re right, that’s going too far, especially with their attitude?)

Taurus (April 20-May 20)
Be careful because this is an accident-prone week for your sign. Of course, an accident doesn’t have to happen but what can easily happen is arguments and conflicts with siblings, relatives and neighbours (or anyone else) about political, racial and religious issues are enough to throw off your good judgment. All it takes is an emotional distraction – three seconds – and you might be in a situation that you regret. Therefore, be mindful and aware. Be conscious of trying to keep your cool. Having said that, you have something to announce and to tell the world because you want to enlighten others about something. (Caution against someone in the background who does not have your best interests at heart.)

Gemini (May 21-June 20)
This is a lovely week to buy wardrobe treasures for yourself. Timing is everything! Meanwhile, you are focused on cash flow, earnings and moneymaking ideas. You might also want to move forward with plans for something that you own because Mercury retrograde was taking place in your Money House and now that is over! Nevertheless, midweek you might be in a power struggle with someone about shared property, wills, inheritances, taxes, debt or even about shared responsibilities. Be cool. Don’t have a knee-jerk reaction. Give yourself a chance to give this situation some sober reflection. A competition or even an argument with a friend or a group could happen.

Cancer (June 21-July 22)
Both the Sun and Mercury are still in your sign; and fiery Mars is still at the top of your chart arousing your ambition! However, they are fighting each other, which means your ideas and plans might be thwarted by a boss, teacher, parent or someone in a position of authority, including the government. Meanwhile, back at the ranch, you will have power struggles with someone close to you midweek. Yikes! (This is obviously the time to send out for dark chocolate.) Fear not, this is still a strong, powerful time for you because the Sun is in your sign – and this happens only once a year. Be gracious. Show noblesse oblige.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22)
It is still totally appropriate for you to play things low-key and stay behind the scenes. You are not yet ready to step out centre stage! (That won’t happen until Wed., July 22. Make a note of that.) Until then, contemplate profundity. Enjoy schmoozing with friends and groups, because you will like this, especially if they are creative, artistic people. You will also welcome any chance to break free from your daily routine and do something different, perhaps travel or explore new places, especially places that offer you an experience of learning something new. Midweek might bring a clash with someone at work or about something that is health related.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)
This continues to be a popular time for you! Not only are you enjoying seeing others, especially younger people, this is the perfect time for you to set some goals for the future because that will keep you on track. (Who makes lists more than you?) Eisenhower said, “Plans are worthless but planning is indispensable.” (You get that.) Parents might have difficulty with their kids this week, especially midweek. Patience is your best friend to deal with this because anger serves no purpose except to make everyone miserable. Fortunately, your relations with parents, bosses and people in authority are excellent this week. Caution about going overboard at a social occasion. (You know who you are.)

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)
Because the Sun is still at high noon in your chart, you look fabulous to others, especially bosses, parents and VIPs. While you have this advantage, make your pitch! Ask and ye shall receive. Nevertheless, midweek you might find yourself at odds with a parent or boss or someone at home because you’re trying to make major changes. Expect resistance! And of course, now and for the rest of the year, Mars is opposite your sign, which will tend to encourage tension with those who are closest to you. Consider this a fabulous opportunity to learn how to practice patience – daily.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)
This is an accident-prone week for you so slow down and take it easy. Pay attention to everything you say and do. Guard against hasty impulses. Steer clear of arguments with others, especially about controversial subjects because you are better off with a calmer mind. You can get more done with a calmer mind. You will be happier with a calmer mind. You will be more effective with a calmer mind. (You get the picture.) Fortunately, you have lots of energy to work, and others are generous to you. Favours from others plus gifts as well as the necessary equipment for a job will come your way. Major bonus!

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)
Disputes about money, property or shared assets, banking, debt, wills or insurance issues might arise this week. It might even just be a showy argument that is a clash of wills? (You need this like a fish needs a bicycle.) Fortunately, you will handle this with grace and aplomb because fair Venus is opposite your sign. Not only that, fiery Mars is energizing you to work hard with vigour! Your energy will be high! Whatever you do, you will be more effective and more competent than usual! Not only is this an increased physical energy, it is an increased mental energy as well. This lovely blessing is yours for the rest of the year! (Admittedly it gets a bit complicated when Mars is retrograde for 10 weeks from Sept. to mid-Nov.)

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)
This week the Sun and Mercury are still opposite your sign, which means certain things are coming to a climax now or reaching a point of culmination. And yes, you will encounter opposition from others, which makes it tougher to make everything work out right. Sometimes this kind of opposition can feel like a failure because things didn’t work out as you had planned. Instead, look at it as a “life experiment” that will allow you to launch a whole new enterprise and avoid the pitfalls that you just experienced. You have built structures and organized your life in certain ways — and now you are experiencing the consequences of these structures. How will they re-create you?

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)
You’re still thinking about how you should manage your life. What duties and responsibilities are most important to you? You want to be organized. You want to be efficient. You want to be effective. In fact, you want to strive to make every action count so that you get the most bang for your buck! Having said that, you cannot deny that you have to work on behalf of someone else right now. Not exclusively — but you do have to do something according to somebody else’s wishes or needs. This is where you might have a clash of wills this week. Fortunately, romance, the arts and socializing are promising! Kiss, kiss; hug, hug.

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20)
It’s play city for you! Accept all invitations to party. Enjoy romance, games, schmoozing, sports and fun activities with kids. Admittedly, lovers’ quarrels and problems with kids might take place midweek but your sensitive patience and finesse will help you do some damage control. Many of you will enjoy redecorating your digs and making where you live look more attractive. Some might even make money from their home or from a real-estate situation. (This makes sense because you’re pro-active about boosting your earnings now and will be for the rest of the year.) Ka-ching! This is a good time for you! Your energy level is high. Examine what is not working and cut your losses. Prepare for a new start!

)0(

Weekly Horoscopes Beginning Sunday, 12 July 2020

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If you`re born within cusp period (16 to 26 of any month); you`re advised to read horoscopes of both signs covered by that period. You`re in the border; you may have influences from houses within those signs.

Outlines are longer versions; consists of every possible detail of everyday and based on three parts of each sign: 1st, 2nd & 3rd Decan; that is, any of three divisions of 10° within a sign of the zodiac. Even if you know or don`t know your Decan; I recommend, please read all three Decan.

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Aries
Personal theme: I am!!
Fire & cardinal sign: March 21 — April 19

Your horoscope for this week:

True, your ruler Mars has just begun a lengthy stay in Aries, making you bold and even more impatient than usual. However, you`re facing a range of obstacles, many frustrating. Tempting as it is to try to figure out the fastest way around them, each is about learning something, from an idea to a skill. Once you begin, you`ll not only learn a lot, you`ll enjoy it enormously.

Someone close is making mountains out of molehills. Although you will try to calm them, they will only become tetchy and may even misunderstand everything you do and say. Tension will be eased but only if you are able to keep your cool. You have an important business decision to make. If anyone starts grumbling about the time you are taking to make up your mind, tell them to take themselves off elsewhere and leave you alone. Don`t let others rush you and avoid extravagant impulses.

Imagine a major tug-of-war with your ruling planet Mars, acting as referee. These aren`t easy times for anyone. We have one group of planets in Capricorn, the Sun and Mercury at the other side of the Zodiac, and Mars in the middle. The pressure on you to ensure everyone plays safely and fairly looks considerable. Yours is arguably one of the most competitive signs of the Zodiac too. Fighting for what is right, fair and proper whilst making decisions about property and asset management will surely prove exhausting. Yet it`s probable that steps need to be taken and that you will be faced with negotiating closure.. Given how pressured things could be at work, it might be as well to arrange something special for next Sunday when you relax, are fed, and feel the warmth and support of friends.

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Taurus
Personal theme: I have!!
Earth & fixed sign: April 20 — May 20

Your horoscope for this week:

Ordinarily you`d focus on finding ways to remedy the range of irritating issues, major and minor, currently complicating your life. However, there`s a faster solution, one that will seem strange if not pointless; and that`s to ignore them. Don`t discuss them or even complain. Slowly, but gradually, they`ll bother you less; and next, miraculously, a solution will pop up. Illogical? Yes. Still, it`s worth trying.

Be sure to show plenty of affection and attention to someone special.. Recently your mind has been on other things and you haven`t spent a lot of time together. They`ve been wondering whether they have done something to upset you. If they have, be honest about it. If they haven`t let them see the more easy-going side of your nature. You`re starting to realise you`re going to have to move with the times if you are to conquer those nagging doubts about your ability to succeed.

2020 has proved a challenging year – and it`s not finished. This week the Sun and Mercury are at one end of the sky whilst Jupiter, Saturn and Pluto are at the other. Between the two groups Mars is in your neighbouring sign of Aries. It would be understandable if you were preoccupied by what you think might be going on in the background (and so beyond your control). There is a danger however that you might succumb to an over-active imagination. The questions you ask over 14th and 15th are important however. It may be that you become involved in moving a business away from the rocks. Don`t underestimate your ability here. True, you might wonder if you`ve been grounded by rules and regulations and that the cost of implementing plans will be considerable. Nevertheless, it should be clear by next weekend that there is no going back and that even if your career ship is `holed`, that there are those around with the expertise and willingness to help you achieve `ea worthiness` once more.

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Gemini
Personal theme: I think!!
Air sign: May 21 — June 20

Your horoscope for this week:

No sign is better equipped to deal with the twists and turns triggered by your ruler Mercury`s retrograde cycle, which ends today. However, you`ll probably spend the next week or so untangling errors and the resulting misunderstandings. Ironically, what you learn in the process won`t just help clear up that confusion, certain intriguing insights will launch you onto your next project or, possibly, personal passion.

Anything connected with your world of work might seem dull. A study course isn`t as inspiring or motivational as you expected. Resist the temptation to allow a restless spirit to lead you away from tried and tested methods. It`s important to keep your mind on what you are doing. Don`t be rushed and pushed into making financial decisions and if you`re upgrading your appliances don`t let anyone persuade you into accepting the first item or price that`s on offer.

Yours is one of the Air signs: the implication being that you enjoy discussion. Developing contacts and options is your style. So, in one sense, cosmic activity this week should suit you: several planets are grouped at one end of the sky with another grouped at the other as Mars `referee` between the two groups. Recall too, that your ruling planet, Mercury, has now turned direct; and yes, this is arguably `make your mind up` time. The choices are to stay with what`s familiar or to move to what looks as though it would offer more security. You might also feel you are stuck between a rock and a hard place. One way or another courage (Mars action) will be required; but yes, either way you might need to adjust to rules and regulations and yes, adopting thrift management techniques that at first seem both threatening and limiting. Don`t underestimate your ability to be flexible and negotiate.

———— ———– ———- ——— ——– ——- —— —– —- — — –

Cancer
Personal theme: I feel!!
Water & cardinal sign: June 21 — July 22

Your horoscope for this week:

The changes you`re facing can`t be dealt with swiftly. These began with the shake-ups triggered by the Cancer eclipsed New Moon on 21 June. Since then, you`ve been exploring your options. However, the ideas and offers ushered in the rare, second Cancer New Moon, on 20 July, introduce a new excitement and, a timely fresh perspective on both existing plans and your rapidly changing priorities.

Sometimes life feels overwhelming and the pressure of it all makes you anxious. When you feel this way, you withdraw from the crowd. You could do with some time alone. Those who care about you understand what you need and they will go out of their way to make certain you get a little peace and quiet. A difficult work assignment will become increasingly easier thanks to the help of a talented newcomer. As the week ends there will be a greater amount of cooperation in the workplace.

Mercury has now turned direct in your sign. Hopefully within days you will feel stronger. Yet there is a difficulty: the Sun and Mercury are at one end of the sky as Jupiter, Saturn and Pluto are grouped at the other, whilst Mars takes up position between. Think of Mars as the referee. The fact that Mars is passing over your solar-career point, suggests decisions will need to be taken if you`re to push forward with your aims and objectives; but yet, at one level you could be disappointed: restraints could appear daunting; but if anyone can do this, you can. The danger however, is that colleagues and those working close to you (indicated by all that activity in your opposite sign), could wear you down – demanding more than you are able to give. Take care that you don`t accept too much responsibility. For now, the focus must be on pushing ahead with some of the ideas you`ve been incubating. Now that the nodal axis has moved out of your sign, it`s time to explore the many options available.

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Leo
Personal theme: I will!!
Fire & fixed sign: July 23 — August 22

Your horoscope for this week:

Leaving pivotal decisions up to others may be out of character, but with your ruler the Sun in the most strategic portion of your chart, for now, you`re better off keeping a low profile. What`s more, this gives you time to rethink certain longstanding but increasingly unworkable arrangements. The timing is perfect, because you`ll be ready to act swiftly when the Sun moves into Leo on 22 July.

An unpredictable schedule at the start of the week will be challenging but ultimately good for you. Be flexible when there is a need to make some adjustments. You should find it easier to get into the swing of things around Wednesday, no matter what chores or tasks might await you. You will continue to enjoy strong links with those around you at home and at work and new group or online networks will widen your social circle in a most unexpected way.

You won`t be the only sign to feel torn in two this week. Fact is that there is one group of planets at one end of the sky, another opposing them and Mars, moving through another of the Fire signs, halfway between the two. Tensions are likely to run high. Yet Mars is in a sign in which said to work well. It should bring courage to those who need it. For those who`ve felt trapped and super concerned about the future, pointers to new possibilities should soon appear. First though it may be necessary to do a major audit and determine exactly where you stand and what support you have. This applies at every possible level. This though, might also be the time to remind others of your expertise and your contacts. Though aggressive networking might soon be required, it`s quite possible that you could yet pick up loose ends and move these in satisfactory direction.

———— ———– ———- ——— ——– ——- —— —– —- — — –

Virgo
Personal theme: I analyse!!
Earth sign: August 23 — September 22

Your horoscope for this week:

As a Virgo, you`re not only expert at planning, others seek your advice and, often, you turn your skills into a profession. Yet even you will have struggled with the confusion triggered by your ruler Mercury`s retrograde cycle, which ends today. However, while untangling that confusion will take time, what you learn from the process will justify the patience required, enough you can take things slowly.

It can sometimes seem as if you`re doing all the work while other people get away with doing nothing. If people are being inconsiderate, you need to let them know it. Feeling sorry for yourself is not the answer. It is time to let everyone in on your feelings. Resist any desire to lock yourself away in isolation unless this cannot be avoided. At the moment, your own company just doesn`t seem to be a very good idea. When making decisions, trust your head over your heart.

You could view this as a week for lay foundations; but yes, this is likely to be demanding and require working with someone (most likely born under one of the Fire signs of Aries, Leo or Sagittarius) who might not yet see the value of what you propose. Fact is that there is considerable tension in the sky with two groups of planets opposing one another and Mars acting as referee between the two. In your case, the need to ally with someone who appears to have great energy and enthusiasm but has as yet unproven expertise, might leave you apprehensive. Yet you may be right in determining that this is the only practical way forward. Note too that with considerable emphasis on the research and development area of your solar chart, that building on latent talents will surely not be time wasted. Indeed, before your birthday, you could be set on fresh career path.

———— ———– ———- ——— ——– ——- —— —– —- — — –

Libra
Personal theme: I balance!!
Air & cardinal sign: September 23 — October 22

Your horoscope for this week:

Ordinarily you`d already have dealt with recent complex issues involving your way of living, working or, possibly, both; but you wisely decided to wait and watch. What you learn, both about the actual circumstances and, as much, the intentions of others will enable you to make sound decisions, but probably not until early August. By then, circumstances and your priorities will be much clearer.

You are tempted to take time out for the sake of having some fun. This may not be wise and you will be letting other people down. If you are meant to be working, studying or carrying out other obligations, be sure to put these first. Once you`ve dealt with duty, you will enjoy company and pastimes that mean leaving familiar pursuits and pastimes behind for a short while. A change of pace will inspire you to take up a spiritual practice that will remind you of your life`s purpose.

Libras are supposed to seek harmony yet often set themselves up in situations where competition is involved. There is high probability of a close colleague wanting to fire off in fresh direction This is no time for your lazy Libra sub-personality to come to the fore. You will need to be on your marks, steady, and ready to go and could advance your career -especially if you`re contemplating increasing how much more work you do from home. It may be necessary to review yet again, how you create space within your domestic environment to build cash reserves. It`s quite possible too that you are now seen as someone with considerable experience; if not an authority in a specific area. It might also be that you are asked to work in partnership with someone who seems very `pushy` to you (and so has an apparently inelegant way of working) but whose support is essential.

———— ———– ———- ——— ——– ——- —— —– —- — — –

Scorpio & Ophiuchus
Personal theme: I desire!!
Water & fixed signs: October 23 — November 21

Your horoscope for this week:

Between recent intriguing but unsettling ideas and offers, and tensions involving those closest, at home or at work, you`re unsure what`s next. Obviously, life would be easier if decisions could be made once and for all. However, events as unexpected as they are promising could alter your thinking and plans, possibly overnight. Knowing that, for now, focus on letting go of burdensome elements of the past.

Much to your surprise and disappointment, a journey that had been carefully planned may need rearranging due to circumstances beyond your control. You thought you had covered for every possible outcome and you feel annoyed with yourself for not having been prepared for what does occur. If you`re looking for work, a job involving publishing, property or education will fall into your lap. If you`re offered a flat salary or commission, choose the former.

The presence of Uranus in your opposite sign has no doubt be felt. It doesn`t leave the partnership (all kinds) area for some years yet so learning to live with constant and fast-moving developments is necessary. Yet this week, with others making announcements about their future plans and how much they are prepared to invest either in time or energy, might be highly disturbing and your nervous system put under considerable stress. However, Mars, one of your ruling planets, acts as `referee between two groups of planets opposing one another, and it could be that you are in the right place and at the right time. Not only might you take the lead, you could show others how to improve their efficiency and, in the process, illustrate how crisis management techniques can be enjoyed even when used on a daily basis.

———— ———– ———- ——— ——– ——- —— —– —- — — –

Sagittarius
Personal theme: I see!!
Fire sign: November 22 — December 21

Your horoscope for this week:

Over the past several weeks, you`ve been juggling intriguing ideas of your own and opportunities that appeared from out of the blue. While they`re thrilling, they`re also taking you into territory so new and unfamiliar that you`ve lots of questions and few answers. While, ordinarily, you`d tackle these immediately, with things moving so swiftly, you`re better off plunging in, and letting experience be your teacher.

You won`t mind helping out a colleague or neighbour even if it means putting your own plans and projects on a back burner for a wee while. Once you return to your own concerns, you could be surprised by the amount you have to do. In your haste to catch up you might not realise how this is taking you away from those who care about you. Your best friend or a partner is starting to feel unimportant or left out. Reassure them this is not the case.

The patterns in the sky this week are simply extraordinary: Jupiter, Saturn and Pluto are grouped together at one end of the zodiac with the Sun and Mercury at the other end. Meanwhile, Mars, travelling through another of the Fire signs lies between the two groups. Obviously, this affects all signs. How each sign uses Mars energy differs however. Your approach to challenges may be to find humour but also creative and useful ways around these. As a result, you are likely to be much in demand.. If there is a difficulty, it`s that others may think you`re being cavalier about costs. With a major aspect involving Saturn (the cosmic headmaster), it might be as well to anticipate the cold chill of austerity and/or family pressures. Yet career wise, your exuberance will likely be noticed and yes, in a few weeks` time rewarded.

———— ———– ———- ——— ——– ——- —— —– —- — — –

Capricorn
Personal theme: I use!!
Earth & cardinal sign: December 22 — January 19

Your horoscope for this week:

Once you understand that, whatever you do or say, events are unlikely to proceed as planned, you`ll relax, stop worrying about details, and focus on learning from what each day offers. Combine this with exploring events with those who`re better informed about the matters in question than you are, and you`ll not only have companionship, you`ll learn from both their knowledge and experience as you proceed.

Close relationships and partnerships will bring you plenty to be happy about. Even those awkward situations you`ve been trying to avoid for fear of causing upset, can be approached now. Do this in a way that encourages everyone to speak their mind. An open and honest discussion is the best way forward. You`ve been waiting to hear from someone hoping they will have some good news but you won`t be too amused by what they have to tell you.

It could be argued that the last similar planetary alignments to the present time occurred back in the 13th century. Clearly you have no memory of that. Jupiter, Saturn and Pluto are all together in your sign and this week the Sun (and Mercury) opposes all of them. Meanwhile Mars, acting almost as referee, lies between the two groups. The pressure of so many of the outer planets in your sign could be depressive and you might feel the weight of the world on your shoulders. Note though that these times will pass. It`s probable that you already have the support and confidence of those born under the other Cardinal signs of Aries, Cancer and Libra. More than others, they will surely understand what you`re grappling with. The really good news, – and especially if you`re willing to work from a new base – is that more than one team will want your services. Indeed, your expertise could be much in demand.

———— ———– ———- ——— ——– ——- —— —– —- — — –

Aquarius
Personal theme: I know!!
Air & fixed sign: January 20 — February 18

Your horoscope for this week:

The current powerful planetary focus on the most strategic portion of your chart indicates, after the exciting but often unsettling past several months, you`re in a period of retreat and reflection. This is as much about which elements of your life or future plans can go, as what`s next. Still, you`re urged to take it slowly, because you`re just beginning to learn about your options for the future.

Allow the practical side of your nature to guide you when it comes to spending. Some people in your circle just want to have fun and this will include throwing away their cash on madcap ideas. Make sure your cash isn`t involved in any way. No matter what type of circumstances you find yourself in, few will be able to fault your powers of communication. Indeed, you will argue both sides of a situation so well that you may end up not knowing which way to turn yourself.

Before next weekend, the Sun opposes one of your ruling planets, Saturn. This is an annual event but rarely does it follow a complicated planetary picture that includes the Sun`s opposition to both Jupiter and Pluto. Obviously, this affects all signs. You may think others are taking unnecessary risks. Respect for tradition is part of your make up. On this occasion, and arguably disappointed with those who you think should have taken responsibility earlier, you might agree that they were out of their depth and that far from heaping more blame their way, the optimum way forward is to give extra support. For now, anticipate being challenged and quite probably, asked to take on greater responsibility within a group.

———— ———– ———- ——— ——– ——- —— —– —- — — –

Pisces
Personal theme: I believe!!
Water sign: February 19 — March 20

Your horoscope for this week:

As an intuitive Pisces, usually, you`re open to unexpected offers than most. Still, some of what`s arisen is so exciting yet far out, even you are unsure about pursing it. The obvious is to at least explore what`s arisen, knowing that, at minimum, you`ll learn something. Your real concern is you`ll discover these are as good as they seem, and find yourself exploring a new life.

You wish you could find a way to tell your favourite person how much they really mean to you. You feel lost for a way to express all those loving feelings. Talk to a friend who has always given you good advice. A partnership will be the source of emotional strength so don`t hold back. Also, if you`re seeking inspiration in order to complete a creative venture you could find it via a message from afar. Good news will soon arrive to confirm your bank balance looks a lot healthier.

You surely won`t be the only sign to feel overstretched. Fact is that there is a huge `tug-of-war` going on in the sky: imagine one hefty group of planets group at one end of the zodiac and another opposing whilst Mars takes up the `referee` position in the middle. At this point in the Mars cycle, it is going through one of the key financial areas of your solar chart; and yes, you could feel pulled this way and that. The heavy-duty planets are likely to win this particular tug-of-war and yes, you may need to face unpleasant and unpalatable truths before next weekend. Yet nothing is ever all bad, and presumably once you`ve done some reassessment, and with a fresh page then waiting next week, all could soon look very different indeed. Over the seven days however it may not be possible to avoid uncomfortable truths and yes, square up to those in authority.

Posted by: arif uk <pepper.buoy@yahoo.co.uk>

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Teach a witch a spell and she can do that spell. Teach a witch the craft and she can do magick!

GrannyMoon, Teaching the Craft for over 20 years!

“We all come from the Goddess
And to Her we shall return
Like a drop of rain, going to the ocean”
)0(
“May the circle be open, but unbroken,
May the love of the Goddess be ever in your heart.

Merry Meet and Merry Part
And Merry Meet Again!”
Goddess Bless!