Dec 21: The Winter Solstice is a celebration of the heart, vessel of our dreams. Through the darkest time on the planet, we are to find solace once again, returning to our inner resting place. Gallantly gazing upon our life’s daily uncertainty and unknowing future. May the earth fold us in comfort away from any harshness. As the light dims, we are to harmonize and begin to sincerely replenish our hearts and minds. The pagans called this holiday Yule, where the people of Europe and Scandinavia made festive. It is not considered religious. The pagans were naturalists, such as the Native Americans and other indigenous communities around the world. They followed the course of the sun, the moon, and the cycles of the seasons for planting food and generally planning a survival strategy. As winter comes, we recognize our need to rest our minds, hearts, and bodies while warming at the hearth. And as we come back out of the darkest day-night of the year and begin to gain more minutes of sunlight and replenishment each day. We linger for a glimmer of light to awaken, reconnecting our spark to life, to the sun and the conviviality of our own beating heart.
Recipes for Winter Solstice & Yule
Hot Apple Cider
Juice Apples or Buy Apple Cider
6 cups Apple Cider
½ tsp whole cloves
¼ tsp ground nutmeg
3 cinnamon sticks
Heat ingredients, simmer, strain & serve hot
Hearty or Veggie Stew
1 ½ pounds Beef stew meat
water (optional)
Vegetable Broth (for Vegetable stew)
¼ c. flour
Add tomatoes, carrots, potatoes, onion
1 tsp thyme
2 tbsp mustard
Salt/pepper
Cook until meat is cooked and vegetables are tender
Preheat oven to 350°. Place 1 in. of water in a large saucepan; add carrots. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer until crisp-tender, 7-9 minutes. Drain, reserving 1/4 cup cooking liquid. Transfer carrots to a 1-1/2-qt. baking dish. In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, onion, horseradish and reserved cooking liquid; spread evenly over carrots. Sprinkle with cheese; top with cracker crumbs. Bake, uncovered, for 30 minutes.
Turkey-spinach Casserole
1 can (14-1/2 ounces) reduced-sodium chicken broth
3 tablespoons butter
3 cups stuffing mix
3 cups cubed cooked turkey
2 cups fresh baby spinach
1/2 cup dried cranberries
3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Bake
Preheat oven to 350°. In a large saucepan, bring broth and butter to a boil. Remove from heat. Add stuffing mix; stir until moistened. Stir in turkey, spinach and cranberries.Transfer to a greased 11×7-in. baking dish. Sprinkle with cheese. Bake, uncovered, 10-15 minutes or until cheese is melted.
Squash Casserole
6 c. diced yellow squash or zucchini
Onion
Garlic
Salt/pepper
Butter or oil
Add into casserole dish
Bake 325* bake until squash is tender 20-45 mins
Alternative added ingredients into squash casserole
Crushed crackers
Cheese
Sour cream
Yule Log Cake
10×15-inch jelly roll pan – line with parchment paper & butter the paper.
Pre-heat oven to 400°F
4 eggs, room temperature
2/3 c. sugar — 7 minutes beat eggs while adding sugar 1 tbsp at a time
Add sifted flour ½ c to batter – stir, don’t beat
Add another ½ c. of flour – stir
Pour into pan – BAKE 10 min. Do not overcook
While hot, put the cake into a clean dish towel sprinkled with powdered sugar so it doesn’t stick.
Remove parchment paper, still warm – roll the cake with the dish towel in. Let the cake cool.
Unroll the cake – spread desired filling, jam, or frosting onto the cake and re-roll the cake.
Frost outside & decorate, Refrigerate to set overnight
13* Gemini will culminate, December 4, 2025 3:14 PM PST/6:14 PM EST.
As the Gemini Full Moon rises in the East, nestled within the Taurus constellation, it brings forth an opportunity for profound self-expression and communication. This celestial Super Moon event invites you to explore the depths of your voice, urging you to articulate your thoughts and feelings with clarity and confidence. For far too long, you may have felt stifled, caught in the web of societal expectations that prioritize politeness over authenticity. The world around you often seems fraught with tension, creating an environment where speaking your truth can feel daunting.
This full moon serves as a gentle reminder that your voice matters. It encourages you to reclaim the art of communication, to find a style that resonates with your true self. This journey is not about harsh confrontations or belittling others; instead, it is about expressing yourself with kindness and respect. Embracing a clarity of conscious speaking will allow your inner wisdom to shine through.
This full moon signals a shift, a lovely promise of feeling more liberated in your speech, as if a weight has been lifted. Your convictions will no longer feel like burdens; instead, they will flow naturally, allowing you to engage in conversations that nurture rather than harm. Trust in your intuitive kindness, and remember that the more you relax with your feelings, the more your words will resonate with authenticity. you will find that life begins to flow more effortlessly, paving the way for deeper connections.
Inner Wisdom List
Are your Values in sync –
There are about 50 values but 5 core values:
Love
Peace
Truth
Respect
Self-control
What is your philosophy of life:
Your philosophy would be your inner wisdom and conduct
What are your desires, what do you really want:
Do you harbor secret desires, what are they?
What are your fears:
What are you afraid might happen, good or bad.
Who in your life, matters
Who is important to you in the past and present
6. Speaking your truth
How easy is it to be truthful in a gentle way.
Journal Questions:
Write down what has changed and are you happy with these changes, if not why:
yourself
others
Family
Friends
Work arena
Neighborhood
City
State
Country
World
What do you have, used to have or want to have:
House
Love
Family
Parents
Mate
Children
Are you reigniting a peaceful passion for:
Love
Career
Job
Health
Relationships
Friendships
Happiness
Exercise
What needs to be perked up in your daily life:
Love
Career
Job
Health
Relationships
Friendships
Happiness
Exercise
What could be your new Aspirations:
Spiritually
Emotionally
Intellectually
Materially
Physically
Who Inspires you, list those family, friends or mentors.
Write a kind or uplifting word next to their name.
———-
There exists a profound truth: true contentment stems not from societal expectations but from a life imbued with meaning, authentic relationships, and alignment between one’s values and actions. As conscious explorer’s, we want the journey of seeking personal happiness, fostering sincere connections, and creating a positive impact that inspires others to follow suit.
The pursuit of joy should focus on experiences, personal growth, and fulfillment. By reflecting on what truly brings joy—be it a serene morning routine, pursuing a passion, or spending time with loved ones—individuals can redefine their understanding of happiness.
—— “Wisdom cannot be imparted. Wisdom that a wise man attempts to impart always sounds like foolishness to someone else … Knowledge can be communicated, but not wisdom. One can find it, live it, do wonders through it, but one cannot communicate and teach it.”
The Full Hunter’s Moon (Native American) at 14* Aries culminating October 7, 2025, 8:48PM Pacific/ 11:48PM Eastern. (Farmers Almanac)
As the nights grow darker, an invitation for introspection emerges, urging us to embrace rest and rejuvenation. The Aries moon, with its assertive energy, calls for change, particularly in our home lives and in how we treat those around us. It’s a time to recharge our understanding of ourselves and our connections. This lunar phase encourages us to cultivate wellness within our hearts and minds, extending that healing to our families and friends.
To foster this transformation, we must reflect on our lives—where can we improve? Are there habits that drain our energy? Perhaps we can enhance our interactions, making those we love feel special. Small gestures—a kind word, a thoughtful act—can illuminate our hearts and bring joy to others.
Aries embodies a spirit of movement, urging us to act decisively toward our goals. This is not a time for hesitation; sometimes we must dig deep for some sentimentality. We are called to be bold and clear in our intentions. Let go of what no longer serves us; it is essential to shed the burdens that weigh us down. Embrace the strength needed as we prepare for the winter months ahead. As we move forward, let us do so with clarity and determination, ensuring that our hearts shine brightly in the company of those we cherish.
Move toward advancement. Sit with your eyes closed and take a couple deep breaths, remove all pressure, heaviness and worries away.
Relax your mind – Learn to Meditate
Feel Your Body – Be in Gratitude for your Vessel/Temple
Open the Senses – Breathe in “Life”
Don’t make too many Decisions – But be decisive
Take a break every few hours – Revive
Stay in touch with your Loved Ones – Be the love
Read Books – brain stimulation
Not always needing to be right – compromise or accept
Be the bigger person – keep on track with your life
Here are some tips on how to make clear decisions.
Use your Emotions – How do you Feel:
What do you want your health to be
What do you want your career to be
How do you want to make money
How much money do you want
How hard are you willing to work
How much time are you willing to study
How much time are you willing to work
Are you working smarter, not harder
Where do you want to live
What kind of house do you want
Where are your opportunities
What are you afraid of
What are you NOT afraid of
What are your opportunities to date
Who are you committed
Over 18 years, do they pull their share
Do you make conscious choices to clear your confusion – how.
B. Use your Intellect – How do you reason:
What do you want your health to be
What do you want your career to be
How do you want to make money
How much money do you want
How hard are you willing to work
How much time are you willing to study
How much time are you willing to work
Are you working smarter, not harder
Where do you want to live
What kind of house do you want
Where are your opportunities
What are you afraid of
What are you NOT afraid of
What are your opportunities to date
Who are you committed
Over 18 years, do they pull their share
Do you make conscious choices to clear your confusion – how
Reasoning gives you a chance to be more objective about yourself and your needs over the emotional side of your nature.
C. Visualize your future
Create your perfect world in your mind’s eye
Be willing to compromise if you live with others
No rigidity
D. Stop Arguing
Make Space in your mind
Be truthful, especially to yourself
Make space in your future
Don’t fight for your limitations
Do not fall prey to others fear
Don’t judge others
Don’t persuade others
Do you have clear mind and why
Create strength of mind
E. Progressive Movement
Use your vitality
Use your personal power
We read, therefore learn
Use your core values
Take steps to achieve in health, well-being, career, well-being, relationships, love, positive direction
Use your education
Use your creativity
Use your sound plans
Create strength of body
— Practice gratitude with your family and friends. You can say one thing you appreciated about them that day. Eat together when possible. Share a meal without screens; use a “talking item” to guide conversations. Make effort to listen and when we respond, we want to encourage those we love to be their very best.
We’re working on creating our personal power this Full Moon Month. All Dreams are born in the dark as our days of light are limited, allow plans and goals to be developed. We can fail many times, but we’ll find what we are looking for eventually. If it’s people, places or things, we are to remain hopeful, polite and adventurous. It’s our birthright to survive and thrive in this world and allows us to become the very best we can be.
—“My friends, it is wise to nourish the soul, otherwise you will breed dragons and devils in your heart.”
― C.G. Jung 1875-1961 Swiss Psychiatrist and Author
Autumn Equinox, 2nd Harvest, September 20/21/22/23 September 22, 2025 (Almanac) Mabon, (pronounced MAY-bun, MAY-bone, MAH-boon, or MAH-bawn) is the Autumn Equinox. A partial solar eclipse will occur at the Moon’s descending node of orbit on Sunday, September 21, 2025, with a magnitude of 0.855. It will be seen in New Zealand and corresponds with their Spring Equinox. The Northern hemisphere is now heading toward “Fall”. Eclipses are about change, and solar eclipses are about getting a gift of some kind. They can be auspicious. It can be to bring something exciting or illuminating into your life.
The Autumn Equinox divides the day and night equally, and we all take a moment to pay our respects to the impending dark. We also thank the waning sunlight, as we store our harvest of this year’s crops. The Druids call this celebration, Mea’n Fo’mhair, and honor the Green Man, the God of the Forest, by offering libations to trees.
Offerings of ciders, wines, herbs, and fertilizer are appropriate at this time. Wiccans celebrate the aging Goddess as she passes from Mother to Crone, and her consort, as he prepares for death and rebirth. Various other names for this Lesser Wiccan Sabbat are The Second Harvest Festival, Wine Harvest, Feast of Avalon, Equinozio di Autunno (Strega), Alben Elfed (Caledonii), or Cornucopia.
The Teutonic name, Winter Finding, spans a period of time from the Sabbat to Oct. 15th, Winter’s Night, which is the Norse New Year. At this festival, it is appropriate to wear all of your finery and dine and celebrate in a lavish setting. It is the drawing to and of family as we prepare for the winding down of the year at Samhain. It is a time to finish old business as we ready for a period of rest, relaxation, and reflection.
Symbolism of Mabon: – Second Harvest, the Mysteries, Equality, and Balance.
Symbols of Mabon: – Wine, gourds, pine cones, acorns, grains, corn, apples, pomegranates, vines such as ivy, dried seeds, and horns of plenty.
Foods of Mabon: – Breads, nuts, apples, pomegranates, and vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, and onions.
Incense of Mabon: – Autumn Blend-benzoin, myrrh, and sage.
Colors of Mabon: – Red, orange, russet, maroon, brown, and gold.
Stones of Mabon: – Sapphire, lapis lazuli, and yellow agates.
Activities of Mabon: – Making wine, gathering dried herbs, plants, seeds, and seed pods, walking in the woods, scattering offerings in harvested fields, offering a ritual pouring to loved ones —Flowers and trees, adorning burial sites with leaves, acorns, and pine cones to honor those who have passed over.
Spellworkings of Mabon: – Protection, prosperity, security, and self-confidence. Also, those of harmony and balance.
Deities of Mabon: – Goddesses-Modron, Morgan, Epona, Persephone, Pamona, and the Muses. Gods: Mabon, Thoth, Thor, Hermes, and The Green Man. Mabon is considered a time of the Mysteries. It is a time to honor Aging Deities and the Spirit World. Considered a time of balance, it is when we stop and relax and enjoy the fruits of our personal harvests, whether they be from toiling in our gardens, working at our jobs, raising our families, or just coping with the hustle and bustle of everyday life. May your Mabon be memorable, and your hearts and spirits be filled to overflowing!
Recipes: Salad Fixings—-Lettuce: any kind Add:
Sliced radishes
Shelled edamame
Cucumbers
Onions
Mushroom
Tomatoes
Peppers
Sliced fruit, like pears, apples, and mangoes
Berries, blueberries, raspberries, strawberries
Grilled salmon
Roasted garlic, Wild rice, quinoa, or other whole grain
Beans, like pinto, garbanzo
White beans
Celery
Italian Parsley
Wheat berries
Fresh basil (especially nice with a deep balsamic vinegar)
Nonfat ricotta cheese (a little goes a long way)
Scallions
cabbage
Grilled chicken breast
tofu
Roasted beets
bell peppers, thinly sliced
Dill
Any Dressing of your choice. Autumn Apple Cider Chicken or Vegan Soup
Chicken (optional) cooked using Pam spray, browned in a cast iron skillet (preferably)
Cut into cubes for the soup pot
In a big soup pot or crockpot
3 cups apple cider or juice
1 carton reduced-sodium chicken broth
2 tablespoons cider vinegar
1-1/2 teaspoons Himalayan salt (optional)
1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/4 teaspoon pepper
3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
4 medium carrots, cut into pieces
3 celery ribs, cut into pieces
2 medium onions, cut
Sweet Potatoes & Ground Turkey or Vegan Casserole
5 sweet potatoes or yams, cooked, peeled, and cubed
Saute’
1 or more pounds ground turkey (optional)
1 medium onion, chopped
5 Green Onions, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 cup low-sodium tomato paste
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
2 teaspoons smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon Himalayan salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
Add the sweet potatoes or yams, cooked, peeled, and cubed
Dash crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Minced fresh mint (optional)
South of the Border Casserole
4 cups uncooked pasta shapes (whole wheat/ gluten-free)
4 cups vegetable broth or water
1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
1 can (14-1/2 oz) diced low-sodium tomatoes, undrained
1 yellow pepper, chopped
1 red pepper, chopped
1 cup fresh or frozen corn, thawed
1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
Add –
1/2 cup shredded cheese
Combine in a pot, bring the pasta and ingredients to al dente, and the sauce has thickened slightly, 12-15 minutes. Add cheese, melt in the oven, and serve Apple-Cranberry Pie
Dough for 2 pies with lattice tops
2-1/4 cups sugar or Monk sugar (same equivalent)
1/3 cup whole wheat flour or rice flour
pie filling –
tart apples, peeled and sliced (about 8 cups)
3 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
2 tsp grated orange zest
1-1/2 tsp nutmeg
1-1/2 tsp cinnamon
6 cups frozen or fresh raspberries
Bake at 375°F 45-50 minutes. Hot apple cider — In a medium-size bowl, mix sugar or honey, cinnamon, cloves, allspice, mace, and nutmeg. Heat the apple cider until hot, and add 1 to 2 teaspoons to the apple cider. Repost Enquire: Sessions & Seminars +1-310-303-8188 taraappointment@gmail.com
The Full Harvest Moon (Native American) at 15* Pisces will culminate on September 7, 2025, 11:09 am PDT/ 2:09 pm EDT (Farmers’ Almanac). This full moon is also a Total Lunar Eclipse: The eclipse will be visible across Asia, Australia, New Zealand, and much of Europe and Africa on Sunday night into Monday morning, local times. Viewers in most of the Western Hemisphere, including North and South America, will miss the event. The September lunar eclipse will reach its maximum phase, when this Blood Moon is fully immersed in Earth’s dark umbral shadow. Almost 77% of the world’s population will be able to witness the entire total phase of this eclipse, according to Time and Date.
This Pisces Moon has asked us to quiet down and reinvent ourselves. Rebirthing a new you, or an idea to bring to light. Tapping into your deeper self. You are to reduce worry and reform long-term opinions and beliefs. If your life isn’t changing for the better it’s time to rework your thought process and your daily habits. Especially as we have a total lunar eclipse, when we have an eclipse, it’s time to change or let go of something holding us back. Take time to meditate on what you’d like unblocked or cleaned up in your life, as it brings something exciting or illuminating to each of us.
Find time for simple pleasures, take baths, meditate, get a massage, silence our minds, draw, paint, do alone things. Get yourself a good book or write in your journal. No complaining, only solutions and your genuine desires and goals. No need to reflect at this time. You’re being asked to search for your peaceful place, to find rejuvenation, you’re getting ready for a brighter future, and to master the goals you set before yourself.
How to Gain a Calm Mind:
Don’t overthink
Embrace your Fear
Focus
Using a calm mind to make centered decisions
Using your Intuition: Using your intuition and psychic ability to move forward. Feeling good about the decisions you make. Knowing when wrong feelings happen they can indicate going in a wrong direction.
Initiate Talent or New Skills
Feel more Confident
Initiate Artistic Abilities
Meditation and Prayer
Release Criticism of self or others
Listen to Hypnosis or Mind Programming
Take a walk
Take a bath
Turn off social media or phone
Journal Questions:
sentence+ for each question.
Are you calm when handling:
People problems
Money problems
Relationship problems
Health problems
Personal issues
Bad habits
Phobias
Career problems
Past choices
Stress
Overwhelmed
Where are you most riled up and not thinking clearly:
relationships
career
job
homelife
friendships
marriage
children
beauty
exercise
eating
inside maintenance
outside maintenance
person maintenance
place maintenance
thing maintenance
When Calm do you:
accept yourself
acceptance of others
Spend too much time on others and not yourself
Spend too much time on yourself and not on others
Forward movement toward positive activities
Forward movement toward negative activities
What have been your calmest moments regarding:
Family
Friends
Job
Career
Money
Beauty
Health
Harmony
Things
Strangers
When creating calmness in your life what 5 things are you going to do daily:
Breathing deeply a few times a day
Drinking more water
Taking a walk
Meditating
Praying
Writing in a Journal
Creating a solution
Creating plans
Giving Hugs
Offering Smiles
Saying nice things to people
Waving here or there to people
Enjoying a color
Enjoying nature
Enjoying architecture
Complimenting your kids
Complimenting everyone
What are you doing now
What job will you have next year
What job will you have in 5 years
What job will you have in 10 years
Do you stay with a career
Do you change careers often
Do you like jobs
Do you like responsibility
Do you like to be a boss
Are you a good boss
Are you a good employee
What makes you happy
When you were a child what did you want to be when you grew up:
What is your career
What is your self confidence
What is your earning potential
What is your verve for life
Are you a winner
Are you sometimes winning
Are you winning yet losing
Are you losing but close to winning
What could make you win
What could make you content
___ Rebirthing is a deep personal journey. There can be worn-out methods of how you’ve done things before. Whether it’s been failed relationships or losing your confidence and footing. Maybe you’ve been struggling with your health. Clear your mind of toxic thoughts. Clear your body of toxic waste. You can regain yourself step by step. Ideas + Effort = Progress. You can manifest in various forms — whether through religion, meditation, nature, or personal reflection. Cultivating Mindfulness through Meditation: Meditation and Hypnosis Programming are powerful tools for growth. You need only to begin…
—— Transitions are a part of life, allowing for perpetual renewal. When you experience the end of one chapter, allow yourself to feel the emotions of loss and rebirth. A bud gives way to a new flower, which surrenders to the fruit, which gives rise to a seed, which yields a new sprout. Even as you ride the roller coaster, embrace the centered internal reference of the ever-present witness. ~David Simon
The Full Sturgeon Moon (Native American) at 17* Aquarius will culminate, on August 9, 2025, 12:55 AM PST/3:55 PM EST (Farmers Almanac).
This Full Sturgeon Moon is about being Devoted. Not to a cause, but rather those you love or feel deeply. You may daydream on who your best friend is or who your heart loves and why. Those why’s may not add up to your standards. it’s not about finding perfection in life, its about finding the kindred spirits who spark our life in a perfectionistic way. Whether we are taken off our path or placed solidly on one and pushed forward; you know deep inside what is right, who is right and if you must… wait patiently for the right people to show up.
When you were a child, what did your inner best friend look like? Did anyone spark you deep devotion and loyalty? Who sparked it when you were older? Has your best friends and loved ones continued to be the sparks and the deep fire of life in your heart? And if its dimmed, where is the devotion in you? How do you keep it all alive…just as you keep you body alive…
Practicing an inner dialog with your younger self, allows you to progress into who you would like to become. It’s not about what happened in the past, it’s only about concentrating on the future. It’s about jumping from your childhood to a new starting point. A fresh standpoint is where you begin believing in yourself and your dreams. Visions of a potential you. You always have enough time to begin a changed aspect of yourself. Or to reach a cherished goal on your bucket list.
Reacting positively toward yourself, allows you to create situations of trust and calmness. People seldom gather their thoughts and wits in disappointment. Allow yourself to stop to listen and learn. If you have to dig deep, then start digging. Allow yourself to start dreaming of the real you. And… the real devoted you.
How to become a Better Friend:
Be Present & Listen
Show Empathy and Validate their Feelings
Be Reliable and Keep Commitments
Communicate Sincerely and Honestly
Celebrate Them and offer Practical Support
Respect Boundaries and Offer Solutions
Invest Time and Share Experiences
Journal Questions:
Looking for your Soul Family or your biological family in your inner depths:
Adding who: (1-20)
Waiting to Add: (1-5)
Steps to Making Dreams A Reality:
Focus
Intention
Set Goals
Be Inspired
Practice Thankfulness
Surround yourself with positive people
Inner Calmness
Outer Directness
Visualize
Honest Affirmations
Power of Your Thoughts
Power of Your Words
Power of Your Actions
_____ It’s important to set ourselves in a direction for success and attracting others and their light to help light our way. The key to flourishing is honest reflection. Becoming
self-aware and waking up to our hopes allows us to focus on goals, strengths, and, positive ambition. Life is about enjoying the process of our motivation and aiming to better ourselves every day while enjoying the journey.
—-“If I had a flower for every time I thought of you…I could walk through my garden forever.”
Lughnasadh is the harvest and reaping of great rewards; it is also a day of feasting. Lugh is the Celtic God of Light, and this Pagan Sabbat is the midpoint between the Summer Solstice and the Autumn Equinox. Some bake a figure of the “corn god” in bread, and then symbolically sacrifice and eat it. The tradition of eating and sharing the first fruits, vegetables, and grains of the season started with Lughnasadh in Ireland. In England, it became the medieval festival known as Lammas Day. In keeping with the Lughnasadh tradition, the first grains were offered to the gods, the form of a baked loaf of bread. The loaf was blessed and cut into four pieces, with one piece placed in each corner of the home for good luck.
The non-sporting competitions in festivals were singing, dancing, poetry-reading and storytelling. Trial marriages were performed, couples would join hands through a hole in a slab of wood. The experimental marriage would last one year and a day, after which it was annulled without question.
Celtic festivals like Lughnasadh was an opportune time to make political, social and economic deals. All weapons and rivalry’s were laid down so the neighbors could get to know one another. Chieftains held important meetings, farmers would make trade agreements about crops or cattle for the coming season.
A common tradition of Celtic festivals were to visit holy wells. People would give offerings to the wells and decorate them with flowers and garlands, they could leave coins or clooties (cloth). They would walk around the well in a sun-wise direction praying to the Gods.
* Preheat oven to 375°. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add broccoli and onion; cook and stir until broccoli is crisp-tender. Stir in greens and garlic; cook and stir 4-5 minutes longer or until greens are wilted. Unroll pastry sheet into a 9-in. pie plate; flute edge. Fill with broccoli mixture. In a small bowl, whisk eggs, milk, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir in 1/4 cup cheddar cheese and 1/4 cup Swiss cheese; pour over vegetables. Sprinkle with remaining cheeses. Bake 30-35 minutes or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. Let stand 15 minutes before cutting.
* In a large saucepan, saute onion in butter until tender. Stir in the flour, salt and pepper until blended. Gradually stir in broth; bring to a boil. Boil and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened and bubbly. Stir in the cream, chicken, rice, mushrooms, pimientos and parsley; heat through. Transfer to a greased 2-1/2-qt. baking dish. Sprinkle with almonds. Bake, uncovered, at 350° for 30-35 minutes or until bubbly.
* Cook spaghetti according to package directions. Meanwhile, in a medium bowl, beat egg. Add sour cream, Parmesan cheese and garlic powder. Drain spaghetti; add to egg mixture with Monterey Jack cheese, spinach and half of the onions. Pour into a greased 2-qt. baking dish. Cover and bake at 350° for 30 minutes or until heated though. Top with remaining onions; return to the oven for 5 minutes or until onions are golden brown.
Pasta Pizza Skillet Casserole
Ingredients
* 8 ounces uncooked angel hair pasta
* 4 teaspoons olive oil, divided
* 2 cups sliced fresh mushrooms
* 1/2 cup chopped green pepper
* 1/4 cup chopped onion
* 1 can (15 ounces) pizza sauce
* 1/4 cup sliced ripe olives
* 1/2 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
* 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Directions
* Preheat oven to 400°. Cook pasta according to package directions; drain. In a large cast-iron or other ovenproof skillet, heat 1 teaspoon oil over medium heat. Add mushrooms, green pepper, and onion; saute until tender. Remove with a slotted spoon and keep warm. Increase heat to medium-high. In the same skillet, heat the remaining oil. Spread pasta evenly in the skillet to form a crust. Cook until lightly browned, 5-7 minutes. Turn the crust onto a large plate. Reduce heat to medium; slide crust back into skillet. Top with pizza sauce, sautéed vegetables, and olives; sprinkle with cheese and Italian seasoning. Bake until cheese is melted, 10-12 minutes.
Layered Fruit Salad
Ingredients
* 1/2 teaspoon grated orange zest
* 2/3 cup orange juice
* 1/2 teaspoon grated lemon zest
* 1/3 cup lemon juice
* 1/3 cup packed light brown sugar
* 1 cinnamon stick
* FRUIT SALAD:
* 2 cups cubed fresh pineapple
* 2 cups sliced fresh strawberries
* 2 medium kiwifruit, peeled and sliced
* 3 medium bananas, sliced
* 2 medium oranges, peeled and sectioned
* 1 medium red grapefruit, peeled and sectioned
* 1 cup seedless red grapes
Directions
* Place first 6 ingredients in a saucepan; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, 5 minutes. Cool completely. Remove the cinnamon stick. Layer fruit in a large glass bowl. Pour juice mixture over top. Refrigerate, covered, several hours.
Berry Pie
Ingredients:
5 cups fresh blueberries
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 (15-ounce) package refrigerated pie crusts
1 cup sugar
½ cup all-purpose flour
1/8 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 tablespoons butter or margarine
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1 teaspoon sugar
Method:
Sprinkle berries with lemon juice; set aside.
Fit half of the pastry in a 9-inch pie plate according to package directions.
Combine 1 cup sugar and the next 3 ingredients; add to berries, stirring well.
Pour into pastry shell, and dot with butter.
Unfold remaining pastry on a lightly floured surface; roll gently with a rolling pin to remove creases in pastry.
Place pastry over filling; seal and crimp edges.
Cut slits in the top of the crust to allow steam to escape.
Brush the top of the pastry with beaten egg, and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon sugar
Bake at 400° for 35 minutes or until golden.
Cover edges with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning, if necessary.
Serve with vanilla ice cream, if desired.
Lughnasadh or Lammas is a harvest festival. In other languages:
Irish – Lá Lúnasa
Welsh – Gwyl Awst (August Feast)
English – Apple Day (drinking Apple juice, Apple cider, or Mead
Lughnasadh Harvest Spell
sit down in the middle of a circle of candles (tealight)
Cup your hands ready to receive
Repeat Aloud:
Thank you, Mother Earth, and our Amazing Land
Thank you for the seeds, for creating the food
Thank the nourishment feeding everyone we love, Thank the Farmer for tending the crops
Thank the handlers for getting the crops to market. Thank you to the market representatives
Thank you, Food Preparers, Thankful for Food. Let us pray. So Much to Be Thankful For
The Sustenance, the Healing, the nourishing, and the nurturing. Blessed Be
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Her journey began with a strong foundation in traditional psychology, which she later complemented with specialized training in hypnotherapy. Tara is a certified hypnotherapist, recognized for her ability to guide individuals into deep states of relaxation and heightened awareness. This allows clients to access their subconscious mind, facilitating transformative change and healing.
Tara’s expertise extends beyond basic hypnotherapy techniques; she is skilled in regression therapy, enabling clients to explore past experiences and traumas that shape their current behaviors and beliefs. Through her compassionate and intuitive approach, she creates a safe space for clients to confront and release emotional blockages, fostering healing on multiple levels.
In addition to her one-on-one sessions, Tara has conducted numerous workshops and seminars, educating aspiring hypnotherapists and spiritual counselors on the intricacies of the practice. She is passionate about empowering others to harness the power of the mind, teaching them effective techniques for self-hypnosis, visualization, and affirmations. Her engaging teaching style and deep knowledge make her a sought-after instructor in the field.
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The Full Buck Moon (Native American) at 18* Capricorn will culminate on July 10, 2025, at 1:37 pm Pacific/4:37 pm Eastern (Farmers Almanac).
This Capricorn Moon invites us to reflect deeply on our ambitions, responsibilities, and the emotional landscapes we navigate. It challenges us to assess whether we truly harness our inner drive with enough courage to foster a genuine connection to our lifeforce. The essence of this astrological phase encourages introspection—are we merely skimming the surface of our potential, or are we diving deep into the waters of our true capabilities?
As we ponder our successes, health, love life, and overall consciousness, we must ask ourselves if we’ve been cutting corners. Are we settling for mediocrity in pursuit of convenience, or are we committed to the hard work necessary to cultivate a fulfilling existence? This period of renewal serves as a clarion call to let go of the distractions that pull our focus from the life we aspire to lead. Instead of getting bogged down by minor infractions or grievances, we are urged to adopt a broader perspective, embracing the possibility of transformation and growth.
We are beckoned to confront our past fears—those emotional weights that may have stunted our progress. As we process these feelings, we can begin to unfurl our potential, shedding the layers of self-limitation. It is crucial to examine whether our concerns are truly significant or if we have allowed third-world problems to overshadow our first-world realities. This reflection can reveal a deeper compassion or, conversely, expose judgments that come from a place of privilege.
In a world filled with diverse opinions, the question of morality arises. Are we grounded in a sense of ethics that guides our decisions and interactions, or do we find ourselves lost in a sea of self-serving beliefs? We are reminded to root our actions in integrity, fostering a sense of accountability not only to ourselves but to the greater community.
By fostering a spirit of determination and addressing our emotional truths, we can embark on a powerful journey of rebirth and renewal. Are we ready to engage with our full potential, or do we still have work to do?
Journal Questions:
1. What are the top three dreams or aspirations that I have for my life, and what steps can I take to start pursuing them?
– Reflect on your deepest desires and outline actionable steps to begin working towards them. Consider both short-term and long-term actions.
2. What beliefs about myself or my capabilities are limiting my potential, and how can I challenge or change these beliefs?
– Identify specific beliefs that may be hindering your progress. Explore how you can reframe these thoughts to foster a more empowering mindset.
3. What does success look like for me in various areas of my life (career, relationships, health, personal growth), and what is one action I can take in each area this week to work towards that vision?
– Define your personal concept of success across different life domains. Set tangible, achievable actions for the immediate future to bring your vision closer to reality.
4. When faced with obstacles, how do I typically react, and what strategies can I implement to respond more effectively moving forward?
– Analyze your typical responses to challenges and setbacks. Consider developing a toolkit of strategies that can help you navigate difficulties with resilience.
5. What passions or interests have I neglected, and how can I reintegrate them into my life to enhance my overall happiness?
– Reflect on activities or interests that once brought you joy but have since fallen by the wayside. Plan specific times to engage with these passions again.
—- It is never too late to become who you want to be… The treasure hunt is searching for key elements to unlock manifesting abilities and fulfill projects and tasks. Rewards come from recognition and appreciation, it appeals to a fundamental human need.
We are on our own personal treasure hunt in life. Treasure hunt is used as a metaphor for unlocking our manifesting abilities is both captivating and enlightening. This journey represents the quest for self-discovery and the realization of our potential, where each key element we uncover not only propels us toward fulfilling our projects and tasks but also enriches our lives in profound ways.
At the heart of this treasure hunt lies the recognition and appreciation we seek. These rewards resonate deeply with our fundamental human needs, as they affirm our worth and validate our efforts. When we feel acknowledged, it ignites a spark within, motivating us to pursue our aspirations with greater fervor. Recognition serves as a powerful catalyst, transforming our mundane tasks into significant milestones on our journey toward self-actualization.
As we embark on this quest, we must first identify the key elements essential for unlocking our manifesting abilities. These elements may include clarity of intention, self-belief, and a commitment to action. Clarity of intention acts as our map, guiding us through the labyrinth of possibilities. It is vital to define what we truly desire, ensuring our focus remains unwavering amidst distractions.
Self-belief is another crucial component; it acts as the compass that directs our efforts. When we possess confidence in our abilities, we are more likely to take risks, embrace challenges, and step outside our comfort zones. This courage is often what separates those who merely dream from those who manifest their visions into reality.
—–”A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” – Lao Tzu
“In the world’s audience hall, the simple blade of grass sits on the same carpet with the sunbeams, and the stars of midnight” – Rabindranath Tagore (Indian Poet, Playwright and Essayist, Won the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1913, 1861-1941)
Summer Solstice marks the end of the waxing year. And the rays of the sun directly strike one of the two tropical latitude lines. June 21 marks the beginning of summer in the northern hemisphere, as winter begins in the southern hemisphere. On this day, the earth’s “circle of luminescence” will be from the Arctic Circle to the Antarctic Circle. The equator receives twelve hours of daylight, as there will be 24 hours of daylight at the North Pole and 24 hours of darkness at the South Pole.
All over the world people honor this day as an important reminder of the apex of light and to cast away evil and their problems. Northern Hemisphere inhabitants use June 21 as the day of celebration, but the splendor of light lasts from new moon to full moon.
Worshipping the Sun’s great power, all cultures celebrate in some way. Celts and Slavs dance around bonfires while Chinese marked the day honoring Li, the Goddess of Light. The celebrants of modern and ancient ceremonies tune in that life comes from the sun. It is life giving and life supporting. We’ve recently had the good fortune to have electricity, greenhouses, and shipment suppliers. How will you celebrate? We all may not get a chance to dance around the bonfire but it’s a time to bask in the light, sit in the sun, cast our worries away and awaken to our lives.
Recipes:
Summer Pasta Salad
2 cucumbers chopped
2 big tomatoes chopped
1/2 red onion chopped
5 tbsp lime juice
4 tbsp cilantro (coriander)
2+ tbsp honey
salt/pepper
2 cups shell macaroni (optional: gluten free)
Directions
Cook pasta, drain.
Combine lime juice, cilantro, honey, salt & pepper in small bowl.
In a large bowl, combine pasta vegetables. Toss gently in lime dressing.
Dill Pickle Pasta Salad
1 (16 oz) pkg large shell pasta (optional: gluten free), ½ c. dill pickle juice plus 4 tbsp. pickle juice (divided), 2/3 c. mayonnaise (optional: veganaise), 1/3 c. sour cream (optional: plain yogurt), Salt & Pepper to taste, ¾ c. sliced or diced dill pickles, ¼ c. onion, 2 tbsp. minced fresh or dry dill spice, (optional: 2/3 c. diced or grated cheddar or almond cheese)
Directions: Cook pasta to pkg specifications. Rinse & drain cold water, add ½ c dill pickle juice, set aside, In another bowl, add 4 tbsp dill pickle juice , mayo, sour cream, salt & pepper (optional: dash of cayenne), Drain off excess pickle juice from pasta and mix with dressing, chill one hour and serve.
Spinach-Strawberry Salad
Yield: 4 to 6 servings 1/2 cup white sugar 2 tablespoons sesame seeds 1 tablespoon poppy seeds 1-1/2 teaspoons minced onion 1/4 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce 1/4 teaspoon paprika 1/2 cup vegetable oil 1/4 cup cider vinegar 1 bag (10 ounces) fresh spinach 1 pint strawberries, sliced thin In a blender, combine the sugar, sesame seeds, poppy seeds, onion, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, oil, and vinegar. Blend well. If the dressing seems thick, add a few drops of water.
Remove the stems from the spinach and tear the leaves into bite-size pieces. Arrange them on individual salad plates or in a salad bowl. Arrange the strawberries on top. Drizzle the dressing over the strawberries and serve.
Bonnie Brae Strawberry Pie
A mixture of cooked and fresh berries helped make this pie a family favorite.
1 quart strawberries or 1 large package frozen strawberries, thawed and drained 3/4 cup water 4 tablespoons cornstarch 1 cup sugar 1/4 cup water 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1 cup sliced berries, fresh or frozen, thawed and drained whipped cream whole berries for garnish Combine strawberries and water in saucepan. Cook until just softened, about 4 or 5 minutes. (Let frozen berries thaw; heat but don’t cook them.) Mix together cornstarch, sugar, and water until smooth; add to hot berries. Cook over medium heat until clear. Add lemon juice; immediately remove from heat and let cool. Place sliced berries in cooked pie shell. To assemble pie, pour cooked mixture over berries, top with whipped cream, and garnish with whole berries.
Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Wedding Cake
Yield: Makes 12 to 16 servings.
1 cup (2 sticks) butter or margarine, softened 3 cups sugar 4 cups cake flour 1 teaspoon baking soda 2 teaspoons baking powder 1/4 teaspoon salt 2 cups buttermilk 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/2 teaspoon butter flavoring 1/2 teaspoon almond extract 6 egg whites Preheat over to 350° F. Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans. In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar until fluffy. Add flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Pour in buttermilk and begin mixing slowly. Continue to mix until well blended. Add flavorings and stir. In another bowl, beat egg whites until stiff. Fold the egg whites into the cake batter. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans. Bake for 20 minutes at 350° F, then lower heat to 300°F and bake for about 25 minutes longer, until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Remove cakes from oven and cool on racks. After 10 minutes, remove from pans and continue cooling on racks.
Cream Cheese Frosting 8 ounces cream cheese, softened 3 cups confectioners’ sugar 2 teaspoons vanilla extract No wedding needed to have this cake
The Druids celebrated with “The Wedding of Heaven and Earth”.
Two people represent Mother Earth and the Sun King. Create a Bonfire, dancers adorned in garlands and flowers, and young men jumping through the tall flames. A time of cleansing and renewal. The participants playing Mother Earth and the Sun King go to each participant, and speak to each person as though planting seeds of growth, imparting words of love, wisdom, thankfulness and prosperity.
Candle or Bonfire Ritual
With a candle or your bonfire – Give blessings in the 4 directions. Cast a blessing for yourself, a blessing for the harvest, a blessing for your loved ones, and a blessing for the earth. (make this blessing 3-5 sentences long for each subject) A Call to Love
Single women are to sleep with 4 flowers under their pillow Flowers:
Flowers blooming in your area, also daisies, roses, lilyof the valley, calendulas, marigolds
Decorations:
daisy chains, lavender wreaths, rosemary garlands Head wreath
Circle base, thin gauge wire, or vines and tie or wire on flowers of your choice Symbols:
Fire to celebrate the power of the sun, Sun Wheels, Medicine Wheels, Stone Circles, Candle Circles, Mother Goddess, Ripening fruits, Sun Dials, Feathers, and Swords/Blades. Candles:
Green & Blue representing the earth White representing God light
LifeForce Activation 