#octopus and lemon trees

[greenwitchcrafts]

June 2025 Witch Guide

New Moon: June 25th

First Quarter: June 2nd

Full moon: June 11th

Last Quarter: June 18th

Sabbats: June 24th

June Lovers' Moon

Also known as: Aerra Litha, Brachmanoth, Dyan Moon, Flowering Moon(Ojibwe), Honey Moon, Meade Moon, Moon of Horses, Rose Moon & Strawberry Moon(Ojibwe & Oneida )

Element: Earth

Zodiac: Gemini & Cancer

Nature spirts: Sylphs & Zephyrs

Deities: Aine of Knockaine, Bendis, Cerridwen, Green Man, Ishtar, Isis, Neith & Persephone

Animals: Butterfly, frog, monkey & toad

Birds: Peacock & wren

Trees:  Maple & Oak

Herbs: Dog grass, meadowsweet, mosses, mugwort, parsley, skullcap & vervain

Colors: Gold, gold-green, orange, purple, red & yellow

Flowers: Lavender, orchid, tansy & yarrow

Scents: Lavender & lily of the valley

Stones:  Agate, alexandrite, cat's eye, chrysoberyl, emerald, fluorite, garnet, moonstone, ruby & topaz

Issues, intentions & powers:  Abundance, love, marriage, prosperity & relationships

Energy: Balance, change of residence, communication, decision making, education, family relations, full/restful energy, positive transformation, prevention, protection, public relationships, responsibility, strengthening, tides turning, travel & writing

 

Litha

Known as: Alban Heruin, Midsummer Gathering Day, & Summer Solstice

Season: Summer

Element: Fire

Symbols: Bonfire, besom, cauldron, faeries, God's eys, rosettes seashells, solar cross/sun wheel, spirals, sun symbols. & wands

Colors: Blue, gold, green, orange, red, tan, white & yellow

Oils/Incense: Cinnamon, frankincense, heliotrope, lavender, lemon, lily of the valley, musk, myrrh, orange, peppermint, pine, rose, saffron, sandalwood, spearmint & wisteria

Animals: Bee, bull, butterfly, cow crab, horse & octopus

Birds: Goldfinch, hawk, kingfisher, meadowlark, owl, robin, swallow & wren

Stones: Agate, alexandrite, aventurine,carnelian, cat's eye,citrine, diamond, emerald, fluorite, jade, lapis lazuli, moonstone, pearl, peridot, tiger's eye & topaz

Mythical: Faeries

Food: Ale, berries, bread, cheese, cinnamon foods, edible flowers, garden foods(fresh), grapes, honey, lemons, mead, milk, oranges, peaches, pears, pine nuts, pumpernickel bread, spinach, summer squash, sunflower seeds, sun-dried tomatoes & wine

Herbs/Plants: Anise, basil, betony, cinquefoil, copal, fennel, fern, frankincense, galangal, heliotrope, hemp, holly, ivy, larkspur, lemon, lemon balm, mistletoe, mugwort, mullein, nettle, rosemary, rue, saffron, St John's wort, thyme, verbena, vervain & ylang-ylang

Flowers:  Carnation, chamomile, daisy, foxglove, heather, honeysuckle, lavender, lily, marigold, meadowsweet, orchid, rose, wisteria & yarrow

Trees: Beech, elder, hazel, laurel, linden , oak & rowan

Goddesses: Aestas, Aine, Ameratasu, Amaunet, Anahita, Anuket, Aphrodite, Arani, Artemis, Astarte, Athena, Aurora, Bast, Bona Dea, Brighid, Cerridwen, Dag, Dana, Eiru, Eos, Epona, Fenne, Frigga, Gaia, Grania, Gwydion, Hathor, Hera, Hestia, Iarila, Inanna, Ishtar, Juno, Kupala, Mabd, Phoebe, Rhiannon, Saule,  Sekhmet, Solntse, Sul, Sunna, Vesta & Yemaya

Gods: Agni, Amun-ra, Apollo, Baal, Balder, Belinos, Bochina, The Dagda, Donnus, El, The Greenman, Hadad, Helios, Hodur, Hu, Huitzilopochtli, Huon, Hyperion, Janus, Jupiter, Kupalo, Lleu, Loki, Lugh, Marduk, Maui, Mithras, Oak King, Odin, , Ogmios, Orunjan, Perun, Prometheus, Ra, Shamash, Sol, Surya, Taranis Thor, Thunar, Vishnu, Woden, Xiuhtecuti & Zeus

Tarot cards: The Empress, The Emperor, The Sun & Strength

Spellwork:  Abundance, empowerment, energy, green magic, faeries, fertility, fire magic, growth, love & motherhood

Issues, Intentions & Powers: Agriculture, changes, divination, endings, fertility, life, light, manifestation, power, purpose, strength, success & unity

Activities:

•Charge and cleanse your crystals in the solstice sun

• Make Sun water

• Create crafts with natural elements such as flowers

• Burn a paper with things that no longer serve you or that you are trying to let go

•  Invite friends & family over for a bonfire and/or feast

• Gather & dry herbs(and flowers) for the upcoming year

• Clean, decorate & cleanse your altar with summer symbols

• Brew some sun tea

• Circle dancing

• Take a ritual bath/shower with flowers

• Make your own sun dial

• Craft a door wreath out of flowers & herbs

• Enjoy some sunrise/sunset yoga or stretching

• Volunteer at a food kitchen or animal shelter

• Plant trees (especially ones that may provide fruit or berries to feed the wildlife)

• Watch the sunset & say a blessing to nature

• Make flower infused anointing/spell oils

• Eat fresh fruits & berries

• Participate in a handfasting or weddings

• Create shadow art

The history of Litha reveals its deep connections to ancient agricultural societies & their reliance on the sun’s power. Celebrated as part of the Wheel of the Year, Litha symbolizes the balance between light & darkness. Throughout history  customs such as bonfires, herb gathering & the construction of sunwheels have marked this festival. Today, Litha continues to be celebrated by various communities, with gatherings at sacred sites & private rituals in natural settings. It serves as a reminder of our connection with nature and the cycles of life.

• The traditions of Litha appear to be borrowed from many cultures. Most ancient cultures celebrated the summer solstice in some way such as the Celts celebrated Litha with hilltop bonfires & dancing. Many people attempted to jump over or through the bonfires for good luck. Other European traditions included setting large wheels on fire & rolling them down a hill into a body of water.

Litha is often associated with Midsummer, a celebration that extends beyond the pagan & Wiccan traditions. Midsummer festivities are observed in many cultures around the world, including Scandinavian countries where it holds a prominent place in their cultural heritage. Midsummer dances, bonfires, & feasts are integral parts of these celebrations, often accompanied by folklore & traditional rituals that honor the sun’s energy & the abundance of nature during this time.

• In the Northern Hemisphere the Summer Solstice occurs when the Sun reaches its highest and northernmost points in the sky. It marks the start of summer in the northern half of the globe. (In contrast, the June solstice in the Southern Hemisphere is when the Sun is at its lowest point in the sky, marking the start of winter.)

Related festivals:

• Vestalia: June 7th -15th-

Was a Roman religious festival in honor of Vesta, the goddess of the hearth & the burning continuation of the sacred fire of Rome. It was held from 7–15 June & was reserved as a women’s-only event. Domestic & family life in general were represented by the festival of the goddess of the house & of the spirits of the storechamber — Vesta & the Penates .

On the first day of festivities the penus Vestae (sanctum sanctorum of the temple of Vesta which was usually curtained off) was opened for the only time during the year, at which women offered sacrifices. As long as the curtain remained open, mothers could come, barefoot and disheveled, to leave offerings to the goddess in exchange for a blessing to them & their family.

For the last day, the penus Vestae was solemnly closed, the Flaminica Dialis observed mourning & the temple was subjected to a purification called stercoratio: the filth was swept from the temple & carried next by the route called clivus Capitolinus & then into the Tiber.

Sources:

Farmersalmanac .com

Wikipedia

Llewellyn's Complete Book of Correspondences by Sandra Kines

A Witch's Book of Correspondences by Viktorija Briggs

Llewellyn 2025 magical almanac Practical magic for everyday living

aianta.org/native-american-moon-names

Llewellyn's Sabbat Essentials: Midsummer

[ask-postcrash-curly]

Heya! Minnie here. Wanted to tell you about every Companion Cube I have. Just so I can send you pics of them (maybe) and you won’t get confused.

A Companion Cube is an inanimate object that a person is deeply attached to. Doesn’t need to be a literal cube.

First, there’s my gadgets.

I used to have a laptop named Pink Machine, but I broke him, and we had to replace him with Daniel. Daniel is this big silvery chunk of metal who is for some reason called a laptop. He’s dumb as a pile of bricks and I love him.

There’s also my dumbass phone, Roma, short for Roman. He’s an idiot who would regularly fall and break until I gave him a name, now he doesn’t anymore (but he can).

I also have an ipad. Her name is Denise. Unlike the boys, she never got broken in any way. Good for you, Denise.

I think my trusty steed, the scooter named Cerulean Flow, also counts. And his sister, White Lightning, who belonged to my dad and is now without a rider.

Then the stuffed toys… alright, we have Leo the cheetah cub, I sleep with him. When he’s unavailable, I sleep with either Greywing the swan fledgling or my licensed Hedwig plush.

Leo’s one of the oldest plushies I have, the other being Valera the teddy bear… he used to play the role of Paddington, but then I got a licensed Paddington plush, and I had to separate them. There’s also Seraphima the mouse that’s in my mom’s room, a Huggy Wuggy knockoff called Argus (Ari for short), and an orange cat called Jeremy.

I also have a piggy bank, but it’s not a pig, it’s a pug. Named Peri, short for Periquarameridon. He’s cute, but ceramic and, alas, not cuddly.

There’s also the Tiny Gang. It’s all the toys that are too small to be cuddled. Pik the wolf, Kitty the Hello Kitty toy, Buryonka and Tanyukha the cows, Springtime the ritual doll, Claire the octopus, Lena the pteranodon (pretty old too!), Sveta the hippo, Simka the Fixie, Vasilissa the frog, Manya the panda and Mei Lee the red panda, Gena the weird dinosaur, Mu Shu the dragon and Goose the alien masquerading as an astronaut.

There’s also the various characters I’ve made out of modeling clay. From UTDR - Frisk, Flowey, Noelle and Ralsei, from Hollow Knight - the Knight, Grimmchild, Quirrel and Tiso (not counting all the charms), from Pokémon - Latte the Eevee and Volt the Pikachu, from Little Nightmares - all the six protagonists + a nine, from Portal - only Wheatley but he’s worth a thousand. Also my own characters. Also Ida from Monument Valley.

Oh, and how could I forget my plants? The palms named Charlie and Rick, the lemon named Dimon, the cacti Ralph and Alice, the geranium Pasha, the orchid Varya, and a plant I dunno how it’s called in English but her name is Katie.

Also I have lots of Lego minifigs but I’m not listing all of them.

And if you go all the way across the city, I have inanimate friends there too! Excluding the many nameless trees who are all my friends, of course.

There’s this big thing, a pole or something I guess, with wires and transmitters and stuff. It’s standing in the park, all alone, among trees. I just kinda thought “man, must be lonely being a pole, not talking to anyone, just standing there, eh?” and befriended him! His name is Winston. I always greet him when I visit that park, and sometimes I give him a hug.

There’s also a monument to a war hero standing there! His name was Mikhail so I call him Uncle Misha. I always greet him too. He gets flowers often, but I don’t think people talk to him much.

There’s a shop window nearby, and in it is a statue of a Faunus. Naturally, I called him Mister Tumnus. I rarely see him, but I’m glad to.

Oh, and next to my old school there’s an acacia tree growing! Her name is Vera. I tied a little blue string to her branch so that we’re best pals. Maybe someone tore it off, I dunno, but in my heart it’s there.

Probably forgot some of them.

Anyway, yep, just decided to tell it all to ya. My yappings probably aren’t needed, but alas.

Minnie… out, finally.

Sure, all right.

…

…

…

…

No, hey, it was great! Really calming, honestly. You’ve got a very relaxing voice. I’m not sure I processed all of it, to tell the truth, but it was still very nice to hear. I liked your inanimate city friends best of all. Thank you, Minnie. Talk soon, yeah?

[juliaqueendragon]

Full List of Names Pre-2025-02-12

Comparison (Names only in 1st or 2nd Position down Below)

A 

Abyss 

Acacia 

Ace 

Agate 

Air 

Alpha 

Amber 

Amethyst 

Ancient 

Angel 

Anti 

Apocalypse 

Apple 

Aqua 

Aquamarine 

Arch 

Arctic 

Ash 

Attack 

Aurora 

Autumn 

Azure 

Baby 

Ball 

Banana 

Basalt 

Bat 

Bay 

Bear 

Beat 

Bee 

Berry 

Beryl 

Big 

Birch 

Bird 

Blaze 

Blind 

Block 

Blue��

Bold 

Book 

Botanic 

Bottle 

Boulder 

Bow 

Box 

Brain 

Bramble 

Brass 

Brave 

Bread 

Breath 

Breeze 

Bright 

Brilliant 

Broken 

Bronze 

Bubble 

Bullet 

Bumble 

Butter 

Butterly 

Cactus 

Cake 

Candle 

Candy 

Caramel 

Carrot 

Cash 

Castle 

Cat 

Chance 

Chaos 

Charcoal 

Charm 

Cherry 

Chestnut 

Chip 

Chocolate 

Chunky 

Cinder 

Cinnamon 

Citrine 

Clash 

Class 

Classy 

Clear 

Clever 

Cloud 

Clover 

Club 

Coal 

Coco 

Cocoa 

Coconut 

Coffee 

Cold 

Color 

Cookie 

Cool 

Copper 

Coral 

Core 

Corn 

Coyote 

Crazy 

Crescent 

Crimson 

Crow 

Crown 

Crystal 

Cup 

Cupcake 

Cute 

Daisy 

Dance 

Danger 

Dark 

Darkness 

Dash 

Dawn 

Day 

Deep 

Deer 

Demon 

Depth 

Desert 

Dew 

Diamond 

Dice 

Dip 

Disco 

Dive 

Divine 

Dizzy 

Doctor 

Dog 

Dollar 

Dolphin 

Domino 

Donut 

Doom 

Double 

Dragon 

Drake 

Dream 

Drop 

Druid 

Drum 

Duke 

Dusk 

Dust 

Dusty 

E 

Eagle 

Earth 

East 

Easter 

Echo 

Eclipse 

Egg 

Elder 

Ember 

Emerald 

Epic 

Evening 

Ever 

Extra 

Fairy 

Faith 

Falcon 

Fan 

Fancy 

Fantasy 

Far 

Farm 

Fast 

Fern 

Field 

Fire 

Flame 

Flash 

Flower 

Fluffy 

Flutter 

Fly 

Force 

Fortune 

Fox 

Freedom 

Frenzy 

Fresh 

Frog 

Frost 

Fruit 

Future 

Galaxy 

Game 

Garden 

Garnet 

Gem 

Ghost 

Giga 

Ginger 

Glass 

Glitter 

Globe 

Gloom 

Glory 

Glow 

Gold 

Grace 

Grand 

Grass 

Gray 

Great 

Green 

Griffin 

Grim 

Ground 

Guardian 

Hair 

Hall 

Hand 

Harpy 

Hawk 

Hay 

Hazel 

Heat 

Heaven 

Heavy 

Hero 

Hollow 

Holly 

Home 

Honey 

Horse 

Hour 

Humming 

Ice 

Illusion 

Indigo 

Iron 

Ivory 

Jade 

Jasper 

Jazz 

Jelly 

Jewel 

Juice 

Jump 

June 

Jungle 

Juniper 

Jute 

Kangaroo 

Key 

Kick 

King 

Kite 

Knight 

Koala 

Lady 

Lake 

Land 

Lavender 

Leaf 

Leather 

Legend 

Lemon 

Life 

Light 

Lily 

Lime 

Lion 

Little 

Live 

Lost 

Love 

Lucky 

Luna 

Lush 

Magic 

Magma 

Marble 

Maroon 

Marzipan 

Masked 

Master 

May 

Maze 

Mega 

Melody 

Melon 

Memory 

Metal 

Meteor 

Midnight 

Milk 

Mind 

Mini 

Mint 

Miracle 

Mirror 

Mist 

Mocking 

Money 

Moon 

Morning 

Moss 

Mountain 

Mouse 

Movie 

Music 

Mystic 

Myth 

Nacho 

Nature 

Nebula 

Night 

Ninja 

Noble 

North 

Nova 

Nugget 

Oak 

Obsidian 

Ocean 

Octopus 

Old 

Olive 

Onion 

Onyx 

Opal 

Orange 

Orchid 

Osprey 

Owl 

Paladin 

Pale 

Panda 

Paper 

Park 

Party 

Peace 

Peach 

Pearl 

Penguin 

Pepper 

Peridot 

Phantom 

Phoenix 

Pie 

Pine 

Pink 

Pirate 

Pixel 

Pop 

Posh 

Potato 

Power 

Proof 

Pumpkin 

Purple 

Purpur 

Quail 

Quartz 

Quest 

Quick 

Rain 

Rainbow 

Ranger 

Raspberry 

Raven 

Red 

Rich 

River 

Robin 

Rock 

Root 

Rose 

Row 

Royal 

Ruby 

Rune 

Sad 

Saddle 

Salt 

Sand 

Sapphire 

Scarlet 

Scary 

Scroll 

Sea 

Sequoia 

Set 

Shade 

Shadow 

Shark 

Ship 

Sienna 

Silent 

Silver 

Sky 

Small 

Snake 

Snow 

Soft 

Solid 

Solo 

Song 

Soul 

Sound 

South 

Spark 

Sparkle 

Spell 

Spider 

Spirit 

Sporty 

Spotlight 

Spring 

Spruce 

Squirrel 

Star 

Steam 

Steel 

Step 

Stone 

Storm 

Strawberry 

Sugar 

Summer 

Sun 

Sunny 

Sunrise 

Sunset 

Swamp 

Sweet 

Swift 

Table 

Tea 

Thorn 

Thunder 

Tiger 

Time 

Tin 

Tiny 

Titan 

Tooth 

Topaz 

Town 

Trail 

Tree 

Trouble 

Truth 

Tsunami 

Tulip 

Turtle 

Tuxedo 

Twilight 

Twin 

Twinkle 

Ultra 

Umber 

Un 

Unicorn 

Vanilla 

Violet 

Voice 

Void 

Wall 

Walnut 

Walrus 

Water 

Wave 

Way 

Weather 

Web 

West 

Wild 

Willow 

Wind 

Wing 

Winter 

Wish 

Witch 

Wizard 

Wolf 

Wonder 

Wood 

World 

Yam 

Yellow 

Yoga 

Youth 

Yule 

Zap 

Zebra 

Zombie 

Ace 

Agate 

Air 

Amber 

Anchor 

Angel 

Anthem 

Apocalypse 

Apple 

Apricot 

Aquamarine 

Attack 

Aura 

Away 

Bag 

Band 

Bank 

Beach 

Beam 

Bean 

Bear 

Beat 

Beauty 

Bee 

Bell 

Belle 

Berg 

Berry 

Beryl 

Bird 

Birth 

Biscuit 

Blaze 

Block 

Blood 

Blossom 

Blue 

Board 

Bolt 

Bone 

Book 

Born 

Bottle 

Boulder 

Bow 

Box 

Boy 

Brain 

Bramble 

Brass 

Bread 

Break 

Breath 

Breeze 

Broken 

Bronze 

Brook 

Brother 

Bubble 

Buddy 

Bug 

Bullet 

Butter 

Butterfly 

Cactus 

Cake 

Candle 

Candy 

Caramel 

Care 

Cash 

Caster 

Catcher 

Cave 

Chain 

Champion 

Chance 

Charm 

Chaser 

Cherry 

Chestnut 

Chief 

Child 

Chip 

Chocolate 

Chunk 

Citrine 

Clash 

Class 

Clear 

Cloud 

Clover 

Club 

Cocoa 

Color 

Comet 

Cookie 

Copper 

Core 

Corn 

Craft 

Crasher 

Crescent 

Crimson 

Cross 

Crow 

Crown 

Crumb 

Crush 

Cry 

Crystal 

Cube 

Cup 

Cupcake 

Dale 

Dancer 

Danger 

Dark 

Dark 

Darling 

Dash 

Dawn 

Deep 

Deer 

Demon 

Desert 

Desire 

Destiny 

Dew 

Diamond 

Dice 

Dip 

Disco 

Diver 

Divine 

Dollar 

Dolphin 

Dome 

Doom 

Dove 

Dragon 

Drake 

Dream 

Dreamer 

Drink 

Drop 

Druid 

Drummer 

Duck 

Duke 

Dusk 

Dust 

Eagle 

Earth 

Echo 

Eclipse 

Effect 

Egg 

Escape 

Eye 

Fairy 

Faith 

Falcon 

Fall 

Fan 

Farm 

Father 

Feather 

Field 

Fighter 

Film 

Finder 

Fire 

Fish 

Flake 

Flame 

Flash 

Flight 

Floor 

Flower 

Fly 

Flyer 

Force 

Form 

Fortune 

Frame 

Free 

Friend 

Frost 

Fruit 

Future 

Gait 

Galaxy 

Game 

Gap 

Garden 

Garnet 

Gate 

Gaze 

Gazer 

Gem 

Ghost 

Gift 

Girl 

Glass 

Glimmer 

Globe 

Gloom 

Glory 

Glow 

Goal 

Goat 

Gold 

Grace 

Green 

Griffin 

Ground 

Growth 

Guard 

Guardian 

Guest 

Gum 

Habitat 

Hair 

Hall 

Hand 

Harmony 

Harpy 

Hat 

Hawk 

Hazel 

Head 

Heart 

Heat 

Heaven 

Herb 

Hero 

Hill 

Hollow 

Home 

Honey 

Honor 

Hoof 

Hope 

Horse 

Hour 

Humming 

Hunter 

Hurricane 

Hype 

Ice 

Icon 

Idol 

Ie 

Ivory 

Jasper 

Jazz 

Jewel 

Joke 

Joker 

Joy 

Juice 

Jump 

Jumper 

Jungle 

Juniper 

Kangaroo 

Keeper 

Key 

Kick 

Kid 

King 

Kiss 

Kite 

Knight 

Knock 

Koala 

Lady 

Lake 

Land 

Lavender 

Leader 

Leaf 

Legend 

Lemon 

Less 

Letter 

Liberty 

Life 

Light 

Lily 

Lime 

Lin 

Ling 

Lion 

Live 

Log 

Loop 

Lord 

Love 

Luck 

Lucky 

Lush 

Ly 

Machine 

Madness 

Magic 

Man 

Mane 

Maniac 

Mare 

Mark 

Maroon 

Mask 

Masked 

Master 

Matter 

Maze 

Meadow 

Melody 

Melon 

Memory 

Metal 

Milk 

Mind 

Mint 

Mirror 

Mist 

Mocking 

Mode 

Moment 

Monster 

Moon 

Mother 

Mountain 

Movie 

Music 

Mystery 

Mystic 

Myth 

Nature 

Nebula 

Ninja 

Nova 

Novel 

Nugget 

O 

Oak 

Oasis 

Ocean 

Octopus 

Omen 

Onion 

Orange 

Orb 

Orchid 

Osprey 

Owl 

Pair 

Paladin 

Panda 

Paper 

Park 

Part 

Party 

Path 

Peak 

Pearl 

Penguin 

Pepper 

Peridot 

Petal 

Phantom 

Phoenix 

Pie 

Piece 

Pine 

Pink 

Pirate 

Pixel 

Place 

Plan 

Planet 

Plant 

Play 

Pop 

Potential 

Power 

Price 

Prince 

Princess 

Promise 

Proof 

Pumpkin 

Punk 

Purple 

Purpose 

Quake 

Quartz 

Queen 

Quest 

Quiver 

Rabbit 

Racer 

Rain 

Rainbow 

Rambler 

Range 

Ranger 

Raspberry 

Ray 

Reader 

Rebel 

Red 

Respect 

Rest 

Rich 

Rider 

Ring 

Rising 

River 

Road 

Robin 

Rock 

Rocket 

Role 

Root 

Rose 

Row 

Royal 

Ruby 

Runner 

Saga 

Sand 

Scout 

Scroll 

Secret 

Seeker 

Sequoia 

Set 

Shade 

Shadow 

Shell 

Shelter 

Shimmer 

Shine 

Ship 

Shore 

Shout 

Shy 

Signal 

Silence 

Silver 

Singer 

Sister 

Sky 

Smash 

Smoke 

Snap 

Snout 

Snow 

Solid 

Solo 

Song 

Soul 

Spark 

Sparkle 

Spell 

Spice 

Spider 

Spirit 

Splash 

Spot 

Squirrel 

Stallion 

Star 

Steel 

Step 

Stone 

Storm 

Strawberry 

Stream 

Strider 

String 

Sunrise 

Sunset 

Surfer 

Surprise 

[tidebreaker]

moonglade/moonscales:

moonglade is the largest of a chain of islands called the moonscales. this is where the members of house silversea reside and would be considered their 'seat'.

the climate is compariable to countries located in the mediterranean. pre-climate change, of course.

moonglade palace, house silversea's main residence, is quite large and is located at the northern most tip of the island. the architecture is reminiscent of the greco-roman in style in real life, featuring arches, columns and domes.

a curious feature (at least to outsiders unaware of their true nature), are the stairs that lead directly into the water.

The throne room of Moonglade Keep is truly remarkable in terms of design and architecture. A large circle portion of the floor is made of glass that can see through to the waters below, sort of like a wild aquarium. It can be opened to allow merlings from their undersea kingdom in whenever they hold court.

underneath moonglade is a network of caves and caverns. there is a "stables" found within that houses hippocamps.

cereals, fruits and vegetables found on all islands: apples, apricots, artichokes, arugula, asparagus, barley, blackberries, broad beans cabbages, carrots, cherries, chickpeas, crabapples, cucumbers, figs, grapes, lemons, lentils, mulberries, nectarines, olives, oranges, peaches, peas, pears, plums, pomegranates, spinach, squash, watermelon, wheat, wild strawberries.

wildlife: anchovies, bats, blind-mole rats, blue crabs, cranes, crows, cuttlefish, deer, dolphins, doves, ducks, flamingos, foxes, frogs, geese, goats, grouse, hares, hawks, herons, ibis, jays, jellyfish, kingfishers, kites, lizards, lobster, lynxes, mackerel, magpies, mertens, mice, minnows, mussels, nightjars, octopus, osprey, orca, owls, oysters, pelicans, pigeons, pigs, pheasants, polecats, ring-necked parakeets, ravens, salamanders, sandpipers, sardines, seagulls, sea urchins, seals, sharks, sheep, shrews, shrikes, snakes, sperm whales, squid, sturgeon, swallows, swifts, tortoises, tuna, turtles, woodpeckers, wrens.

flowers, trees, plants, etc.: almond, althaea, amaryllis, anemone, aster, basil, bay laurel, beech, bellflower, cardamom, cassia, centaurea, chamomile, chestnut, cinnamon, cistus, chrysanthemum, clove, coriander, crocus, cumin, cypress, daphne, dianthus, dill, evergreen, fennel, fir, ginger, heliotrope, hellebore, hyacinth, iris, larkspur, lemon balm, licorice, lilac, lily, lotus, mandrake, marjoram, mastic tree, mint, myrtle, myrrh, narcissus, nutmeg, oak, oleander, oregano, orchid, palm tree, parsley, peony, pepper, pine, poplar, protea, rose, rosemary, saffron, sage, savory, sunflower, thyme, violet, walnut, wolf's bane, yarrow, yellow pheasant's eye, yew.

main trades include pearls, seafood, fruits and vegetables, herbs and spices, fish sauce, olive oil, as well as a specialized fabric dubbed seasilk.

several fishing villages can be found throughout the moonscales. fishing and farming are how a large number of the population makes a living.

do humans live there? yes. but the humans who live there are beholden to the silversea's in one way or another and are sworn to secrecy, lest a terrible fate befalls them. there are other merfolk populating the area as well.

[in-sufficientdata]

A selection of badly translated signs as spotted recently on Language Log

Image IDs are as follows:

The packaging for an Ozark Trail branded Steel Griddle. Below the product name it says: Spanish Spanish. • Non-stick Surface. • Easy To Clean.. Warm Griddle Over Low Heat. Avoid Extreme Heat Or Rapid Cooling. Spanish Spanish Spanish Spanish Spanish Spanish Spanish Spanish Spanish Spanish Spanish Spanish Spanish Spanish Spanish. Caution: Handles Will Be Extremely Hot After Use, Handle Carefully. Keep Away From Children. Spanish Spanish Spanish Spanish Spanish Spanish Spanish Spanish Spanish Spanish Spanish Spanish Spanish Spanish Spanish Spanish Spanish Spanish Spanish Spanish Spanish.

A Ukranian sign that says Bblxoaa het and which should be translated "No exit." Instead it says "There is no escape."

A handwritten sign posted on a capucchino machine that says, "I am disorder." Language Log did not supply an explanation for this sign.

This appears to be a page from a menu. Each of the entries listed has a single foreign character in front of it. The list reads as follows: Toothpicks meat Fried meat Celery meat Onion Explosion meat Fish-flavored shredded pork Pure speculation Meat KungpoChicken Cashew chicken Pure belly clearance The fish mother Iron lamb

A box with a translation from the original Chinese 怕水 / 濕.. It says, "Afraid of wet. 3D printer." This legend has a symbol of an umbrella with it.

A large glass jar with a label that says: Bayanihan Original Gelatinous Mutant Coconut in Syrup macapuno strings. No explanation was given for this one. This item was found in a Filipino grocery.

A posted sign that says: Laundry room closed Friday September 18th 1:00pm-3:00pm for satanizing.

A page from a menu with Chinese text, translated in English on a line below each entry. The translations read: Sliced White Gourd Fried beancurd Loofah Staple food/snack Crunchy radish I had sex with my mother as a child Brown sugar cake Wuchang Rice Language Log did not provide translations for the Chinese text.

Packaging for a computer mouse. The text reads: Wireless mouse. Small and light , easy to carry. Wireless era, infinitely damn.

This is a page from a paper menu with 19 lines of text in Chinese. Every single line is translated as French fries.

A printed sign with the Finnish phrase "valitettavasti hiss on rikki." This is translated as "due to happenstance beyonde our controll this elevator is so broken." This actually means "unfortunately the elevator is broken."

A piece of paper with a bunch off short phrases printed on it. They read: Today I don't have the pussy for little lanterns. I don't have a turkey. It's falling the for octopus one! From Guatebad to Guateworse. This brings me by the street of Bitterness. The oven is not for buns. I cry like a muffin.To the bad weather, good face. Today is going to be the milk. Forward like those from Alicante. I am the lemony pear! I sign up for a bombing. I am at two candles. I am a big match. What a big dust! I have got the ruler. I am going to put you looking at Cuenca. I love you an egg. I have got monkey of you. I have discovered the cake. Go to fry asparagus! A nail takes out another nail. Oysters, little Peter! What a big brown! With this and a cake, until tomorrow at eight. S**t yourself, little parrot! Bad bug never dies. If life gives you lemons, ask for Tequila and salt. We are a pineapple! Less wolves, Little Red Riding Hood. Every little teacher has their own little book. What a big pussy! Little eye with me! One and no more, St. Thomas. A truth as a temple. I want the fat one to touch me. Ass I see. What a heat, my weapon! What a cold, big cup! This is already going from chestnut tree to dark. From lost to the river. Garlic and water. To the done, chest. You are the milk! Here peace and after glory. This goes to Mass. Every pig gets its St. Martin.

A Cambodian menu showing a drink called crush coffee with crap.

A sign that says, "Welcom turist. We spik Inglish."

A sign in a Slovak bathroom in Bratislava: A block of text followed by the translation: Please do not throw the toilet. women's hygiene items, wet wipes, paper towels, unpaid invoices, wine corks, non-functional mobile phones, spam, parking fines. unfulfilled dreams and unsupported relationships.

Chinese text that incudes 并非 ("is definitely not") but is translated "This bag is a toy."

A sign in Chinese that says B 超 and which is translated "The B is super." The translation should read B"-mode ultrasonography."

A sign in Chinese that says 如有故障，不要盲目自救 and which is translated "When a failure, don't blindly save yourself." The correct translation would be "If there is a malfunction, do not blindly rescue yourself."

[syzhang]

Puglia, part 1

We descend into Bari, entry point to the Puglia region, and drive to our masseria near Monopoli. The setting sun gilds olive groves, walnut trees, and umbrella pines. A coruscating, cerulean sea (the Adriatic) tantalizes on the horizon. 

The next morning, Eliza floats on her back in this sea (she is learning to swim and proud of her “reverse starfish” move). Leo grabs my hands, using me as ballast and bungee cord in the waves. Overhead, the pounding heat of the sun contrasts with the brisk, bracing water.

One day, I run up the coast to San Vito, castles and conical trulli dotting the landscape. So hot and exposed, but for the sea breeze. The children are back in Polignano a Mare with BJ. I catch up with them as they finish their gelato and we saunter to lunch al fresco. Every lane in the city seems to lead to a view of the sea and cliffs. Bella.

Another day, I run from the beach at Cala Verde to Monopoli, approaching the city’s ramparts and sea walls from afar. Then it’s back to the beach again. What could be better, after a mid-day run, than plunging straightaway into the sea? I swim out past the cove and mimic Eliza’s starfish move, lying on my back and letting the waves lap at me, sun glowing behind eyelids, weightless. 

Back at the masseria, droplets of the rain shower glint in a thousand rainbows. In linen, I lounge on a deck chair reading the final chapter of Anthony Doerr’s Four Seasons in Rome, set in summer. Warm zephyrs skate across my bare limbs and through the leafy branches of the walnut tree, which rustles like an arboreal wind chime. Its leaves are verdant, the sky azure, the poppies aflame. The host sees me and brings a tiny espresso accompanied by a bowl of sweet cherries. I study their crimson glow. Time slows.

And I urge you to please notice when you are happy, and exclaim or murmur or think at some point, 'If this isn't nice, I don't know what is.’ - Kurt Vonnegut 

If this isn’t nice, I don’t know what is. All my senses are beguiled. La dolce vita, indeed. Epicurus echoes across centuries here. His ideas are contemporaneous with and analogous to the stones of the Roman thoroughfare (Via Appia, “the queen of the long roads”) that is preserved and exposed beneath our feet at lunch: both provide underpinning. Piacere means pleasure, and is used in similar ways as in English: to ask for a favor, offer hospitality, express attraction. I wonder, for a culture so attuned to pleasure, if Italian has a more expansive vocabulary for describing it, the way Eskimos have 50 words for snow. Joys. Wonders. Delights. Treats. Contentments. The pleasures of pursuit, giving chase. The pleasures of repose, forsaking restraint. The moments that soothe, and the moments that steal your breath away. 

My first bite of a local strawberry is a revelation. So much flavor in a jewel of a morsel. They are brought out by our host because “I like them with prosecco.” His hospitality is boundless. Breakfasts are an array of local cheese, bruschetta drizzled with the farm’s own olive oil, apricots (honeyed, floral, tasting like sunshine), cherries, almonds, homemade yogurt, and bitter orange marmalade. There is also pasticciotto, a local speciality: shortcut pastry filled with lemon custard. I grab two for the kids, mostly so that I can sneak bites.

Seafood and pasta abound. We dine out on chilled octopus salad; grilled calamari; fresh burrata and capicollo; risotto with porcini, scallops, shrimp, and lemon; tortelli (a stuffed pasta) with prawns, basil, and cream; troccoli (a thicker spaghetti) with cacio e pepe and scampi; paccheri with creamy chickpeas, clams, and white truffle oil; pancietta primavera (redolent of spring) with tomatoes, ricotta, rocket, and spinach; fresh whole sea bass baked with tomatoes, olives, and lemony potatoes.

Dinner is late, and leisurely. To linger over limoncello is the local way. At 11pm, we are still surrounded by families with bright-eyed babes. Does sieste push all bedtimes back, or are parents here just more indulgent? Certainly our children are indulged - and BJ and me, too, by proxy. Waiters tickle and tease Leo, strangers offer up their umbrellas at the beach, Italian airlines board all families - not just those with children under the age of two - before first class. The playground is empty because everyone is at the beach. What a place to grow up.

[rumpocky]

Blahblah self projecting idiot that still can't off it still can't read their own text before sending more at 11

My terrible abuse of your inability to hop off my blog's dick for a decade.

My terrible abuse of your unbridled attention to force you to witness the truth.

My terrible abuse of inverting your abuse until you realize you've been abusing yourselves trying to abuse me.

My terrible abuse of making you realize, your abuse no longer works. Not on me, nor the world, nor will it continue to disrupt the kids.

My terrible abuse of ending your political warfare interfering with human rights, from trans to gaza.

Yes, I know, idiot, I chose to be your straight up villain. Or more, you chose it a long time ago in your other accusations and denial. You just did not understand what I could do with that when I accepted what you would not let me escape.

You ran from your abusive selves trying to find a target for all of your angers and failings in whatever collective you could homogenize against, bending years of truth from scripts to shoots to lemons and divorce and crazy octopus jibberish cults. You chased a man into anonymous and gaming land until he did say you know what? Sure, I'll show you villain.

Now you're whining I chose to be what you spent 10 years dry humping me pretending I was.

And I'm using it to end your nonsense.

You're all so systemically chronically abusive you abused the great wizard until god himself slammed reboot and you still refuse to read the room while you're destroying your own barbie dreamhouse.

The terrible abuse. Of ripping the fascist rot out of the left, and the US, and the world. Oh, the abuse of it all, the fascists left and right both weep.

Human slime pretending at freedom fighters absolutely incensed at the ask to do anything while they're tired. Who literally cannot tolerate a man having free speech on his own journal, or trying to stay far away from them, no they will even hunt him down.

Rotten creatures. Pigs. I make bacon out of pigs. I'm sure someone can call a vegan to complain about the abuse. I pour intentional shit into my private trough for the pigs, and still they come to eat it, and squeal, bad trough villain man, this is terrible slop!

But they can't help it. They will always come back.

Your fury is you realizing I realized your games and you no longer have power, and you've made your own hellcycle of bearing witness.

Ask Shealyn who Luciferous Ash may be.

She knows what this is. Come on baby, why are Elon's kids all named after the Szurane Triumvirate? You know, the Xorvintaal Trine and such! There was Zenthus as the tree and the snakes, but Lord Provider, the Sidereal Exdeath, and the Technomagnus Administrator or Accountant Nes! And who could ever forget Aesh! Hey you knew that look, and that one, and that one, and- Drogs. Doges. Close enough. Everyone sure has been on about this "Great Game" for a few years. Wonder where she heard that before. Oh right. That dusty 20+ year old game of mine I was running when she barged in with her cult to Aaron Eema, but Totally Not Me, A Different Hot Topic Era Aaron Eema Son Of Hermes. Obviously.

She's only treating it like crazy arithmetic instead of magic she half pretends to believe in when she realizes by it, she has made the greatest irrecoverable mistake not just of her life, but eternity.

Now Rose? Rose didn't miss.

[s3dadesignfirm]

Clever Ways to Create Stunning Focal Points in Every Room

When you walk into a beautifully decorated space, you’ll notice that your eyes  are automatically drawn to a certain object in the room. This is called a focal point, and it can be anything from a stunning piece of artwork to a beautiful window with a gorgeous view of the outdoors. Focal points are essential since they bring together large living spaces, and they enhance the look and feel of any room. They also help to create a feeling or mood, so they’re important if you want to add a relaxing or energizing vibe to your living spaces. 

According to ‘Dream Home Makeover’ hosts Syd and Shea McGee, every room should have a focal point. “Not only do focal points draw the eye in, but they also give your visual field a place to rest,” they add. They also prevent your space from looking awkward, and they contribute to the overall balance of rooms. If you’re wondering how to include these crucial interior design elements into your home, here are some tips to create stunning focal points in every room. 

Position Seating to Face the Focal Point

Got a fabulous new painting from an up-and-coming artist? Or perhaps you’ve just installed an elegant electric fireplace to give your home a cozy, winter cabin feel? Show it off by making it the focal point of your living room. To do that, you’ll need to position seating and other key objects in the room to create a spot where everyone can gather and admire it. For instance, if you have a big couch, move it so that it’s facing the fireplace or painting, then position your coffee table, accent chairs, and other decorative objects accordingly.

If the fireplace or painting is right in the center of a wall, consider having two identical sofas customized to your specifications, then position them in such a way so that they’re on either side of your focal point. The sofas should be facing each other to create a natural conversation and gathering spot in your living room. Add a low coffee table between the couches so you’ll have a place for drinks and snacks. 

Add an Unexpected Design Element

Tired of using paintings to add interest to your rooms? Think about having something unexpected in shared spaces and make it the focal point of that particular area. Forget about having potted plants– instead, consider indoor trees to make a style statement and have a unique focal point in any room. Try having an olive tree in a matte black globe planter to add drama to your living room, or a lemon tree in the kitchen for a dash of cheerful color. If you like the idea of being surrounded by nature indoors, consider adding an atrium in your home. Plant a tall tree right in the center of it to soften the look of your interiors. 

If your stairs are the first thing that everyone sees upon entering your home, why not remodel it and create a slide attachment? This will bring an element of fun to any home, and it’s a great way to highlight a curved or circular stairway. Meanwhile, an octopus or gummy bear chandelier will be an ideal focal point in any room with a high ceiling. 

Go Oversized

Sometimes, just adding one big element to any room is enough to create a good focal point. Think about an oversized light fixture in the corner, or an abstract metal sculpture. A large, ornate mirror can also serve as a focal point, especially if you place it above a mantle. For those who love taxidermy or fossils, take some inspiration from Massachusetts-based couple Joan and Henry Kriegstein. The pair acquired a fossil of a 17-foot-long mosasaur, which is a giant lizard of the sea, and it hangs from the couple’s ceiling, right above their living room. Having the real thing can be tricky though, so think about commissioning an artist to replicate a large fossil for a truly impressive focal point. 

A focal point can pull a room together and make it look more balanced and appealing. Try these tips to create beautiful focal points in any room, and don’t be afraid to experiment to see what’s right for your home.

[banarjeenikita]

Top 10 Best Places to Eat in Bugibba Malta: A Food Lover’s Guide

Bugibba, located in St. Paul’s Bay, is one of Malta’s most popular destinations, renowned for its vibrant dining scene. Whether you’re a fan of Mediterranean cuisine, crave international flavors, or are simply looking for a cozy spot to enjoy a meal by the sea, Bugibba has something to offer. If you're searching for the best places to eat in Bugibba Malta, look no further. From hidden gems to renowned restaurants, this guide highlights ten must-visit spots, including the exceptional Chatterbox, a South East Asian dining haven.

1. Chatterbox: A South East Asian Delight

If you’re on the hunt for bold flavors and unique culinary experiences, Chatterbox tops the list of the best places to eat in Bugibba, Malta. Known for its creative take on South East Asian cuisine, this restaurant brings the vibrant flavors of Asia to the Maltese coastline.

Signature Dishes: Savor their aromatic Thai green curry, crispy Peking duck rolls, or the ever-popular Singapore noodles, each crafted with authentic spices and fresh ingredients.

Ambiance: With stylish decor inspired by bustling Asian markets and a welcoming atmosphere, Chatterbox offers a perfect blend of elegance and comfort.

Why Visit: For food lovers seeking an exotic twist, Chatterbox stands out as a must-visit destination in Bugibba.

2. Ocean Basket

Ocean Basket is a top choice for seafood enthusiasts visiting Bugibba. This Mediterranean seafood restaurant is known for its generous portions and unbeatable waterfront views.

Recommended Dishes: Their seafood platters are a hit, featuring a mix of grilled fish, prawns, and calamari, served with lemon butter sauce.

Why It’s Special: Enjoy fresh catches of the day with a view of the azure waters—a perfect dining experience in Bugibba.

3. Venus Restaurant

A staple in the Bugibba dining scene, Venus Restaurant offers an exquisite fine-dining experience with a focus on Mediterranean and Maltese cuisine.

Top Picks: The seafood risotto and rabbit stew are highly recommended for an authentic Maltese culinary experience.

Why It’s Among the Best: Their dedication to fresh, locally sourced ingredients ensures a meal that’s both flavorful and memorable.

4. Fat Harry’s Pub

For a more relaxed and casual atmosphere, Fat Harry’s Pub is the place to be. This British-style pub is popular for its hearty comfort food and lively vibe.

Menu Favorites: Enjoy classics like fish and chips, hearty pies, and burgers.

Why It Stands Out: Its friendly atmosphere makes it a great spot for families or groups looking for a casual dining experience.

5. Cheeky Monkey Gastropub

One of the best places to eat in Bugibba, Malta, if you’re looking for a fun and trendy spot, is the Cheeky Monkey Gastropub.

What to Try: Their gourmet burgers and innovative cocktails are a must.

Why Visit: With quirky decor and a buzzing ambiance, it’s perfect for a lively night out.

6. The Plum Tree

A family-run gem in Bugibba, The Plum Tree is known for its welcoming hospitality and delicious Maltese and European dishes.

Recommended Dishes: Their seafood options and homemade desserts, like tiramisu, are customer favorites.

What Makes It Special: A cozy, home-like vibe makes dining here a truly delightful experience.

7. L’Artista Trattoria

For lovers of Italian cuisine, L’Artista Trattoria is a standout among Bugibba’s restaurants.

Must-Haves: Their wood-fired pizzas and creamy pasta dishes.

Why Dine Here: Their authentic Italian recipes ensure a slice of Italy in the heart of Malta.

8. Bistroteca

For a more intimate dining experience, Bistroteca is a hidden gem offering Mediterranean-inspired dishes.

Top Choices: Grilled octopus and their perfectly cooked ribeye steak are highly recommended.

Why It’s Worth a Visit: A quiet and cozy spot perfect for couples or small groups.

9. Ta’ Pawla

For a traditional Maltese dining experience, Ta’ Pawla is a must-visit.

Local Specialties: Try their rabbit stew or bragioli (beef olives) for an authentic taste of Maltese cuisine.

Why It’s Popular: Rustic decor and warm hospitality make it one of the best places to eat in Bugibba, Malta.

10. Victoria Restaurant

If you’re seeking stunning views alongside your meal, Victoria Restaurant is the perfect spot.

What to Order: Their seafood dishes, especially the lobster linguine, are a hit.

Why It’s Among the Best: Combining contemporary Mediterranean flavors with breathtaking views of St. Paul’s Bay, it’s a dining experience to remember.

Why Bugibba Is a Food Lover’s Paradise

Bugibba’s vibrant dining scene is a testament to Malta’s rich culinary culture. Whether you’re in the mood for traditional Maltese dishes, fresh seafood, or exotic Asian cuisine, the best places to eat in Bugibba Malta, cater to every taste. From the flavorful dishes at Chatterbox to the cozy charm of The Plum Tree, there’s something to suit every palate.

Conclusion

Exploring the best places to eat in Bugibba, Malta, is an adventure in itself. Each restaurant offers a unique flavor, atmosphere, and story, making every meal a memorable experience. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, make sure to indulge in the diverse culinary delights that Bugibba has to offer. From casual bites to fine dining, this seaside town has it all. So, bring your appetite and enjoy the culinary treasures of Bugibba!

[greenwitchcrafts]

June 2024 witch guide

Full moon: June 21st

New moon: June 6th

Sabbats: Litha/Summer Solstice- June 20th

June Strawberry Moon

Known as: Aerra Litha, Birth Moon, Blooming Moon, Brachmanoth, Dyad Moon, Egg Laying Moon, Green Corn Moon, Hatching Moon, Hoer Moon, Honey Moon, Lovers Moon, Mead Moon, Moon of Horses, Moon of Making Fat, Partner Moon, Rose Moon & Strong Sun Moon

Element: Earth

Zodiac: Gemini & Cancer

Nature spirits: Sylphs & Zephyrs

Deities: Aine of Knockaine, Bendis, Cerridwen, Green Man, Ishtar, Isis, Neith & Persephone

Animals: Butterfly, frog, monkey & toad

Birds: Peacock & wren

Trees: Maple & Oak

Herbs: Dog grass, meadowsweet, moss, mugwort, parsley, skullcap & vervain

Flowers: Lavender, orchid, tansy & yarrow

Scents: Lavender & lily of the valley

Stones:  Agate, Alexandrite, cat's eye, chrysoberyl, emerald, fluorite, garnet, moonstone, ruby & topaz

Colors: Gold, green, orange & yellow

Energy:  Abundance, balance, change of residence, communication, decision making, education, family relations, full & restful energy, love, marriage, prosperity, positive transformation, prevention, protection, public relations, relationships, responsibility, strength, tides turning, travel & writing

While strawberries certainly are a reddish-pink color and are roundish in shape, the origin of the name “Strawberry Moon” has nothing to do with the Moon’s hue or appearance.

• June's full Moon is typically the last full moon of spring or the first of summer. The June Full Moon will be extraordinary. For the first time since 1985, Full Moon happens precisely on the summer solstice, when the Sun is highest up. Because the Full Moon is always opposite the Sun, this year, you will see that the Moon is 10 widths lower on the horizon than the Sun ever is. 

This “Strawberry Moon” name has been used by Native American Algonquian tribes that live in the northeastern United States as well as the Ojibwe, Dakota, and Lakota peoples to mark the ripening of “June-bearing” strawberries that are ready to be gathered. The Haida term Berries Ripen Moon reflects this as well. As flowers bloom and early fruit ripens, June is a time of great abundance for many.

Litha

Known as: Alban Heruin, Summer Solstice & Whit Sunday

Season: Summer

Element: Fire

Symbols: Besom, fairies, God's eyes, sunflowers & symbols of the sun

Colors: Blue, gold, green, orange, red, tan & yellow

Oils/Incense: Cinnamon, frankincense, heliotrope, lavender, lemon, lily of the valley, mint, musk, myrrh, orange, orange pine, pine, rose, saffron, sandalwood & wisteria

Animals: Cattle, crab, horse & octopus

Birds: Goldfinch, kingfisher, meadowlark, owl, robin & wren

Mythical: Fairies

Stones: Bloodstone, diamond, emerald, jade, lapis lazuli & tiger's eye

Food: Ale, bread, cheese, edible flowers, garden fresh vegetables & fruit, lemons, meade, milk, oranges, pumpernickel bread, summer squash & wine

Herbs/Plants: Anise, basil, betony, cinquefoil, copal, elder, fennel, fern, frankincense, galangal, hemp, ivy, larkspur, lemon, lemon balm, mistletoe, mugwort, mullien, nettle, orange, orpin, plantain, rue, saffron, sandalwood, St.John's wort, thyme, verbena, vervain, wild thyme & ylang-ylang

Flowers: Carnation, chamomile, daisy, heather, heliotrope, honeysuckle, lavender, lily, marigold, orchid, rose, wisteria & yarrow

Trees: Elder, holly, laurel, linden, oak & pine

Goddesses: Amaterasu, Aine, Anahita, Dea, Cerde, Dag, Dana, Eiru, Fenne, Gwydion, Kupala, Mabd, Phoebe, Skhmet & Sul

Gods: Apollo, Baal, Balder, Bel, The Dagda, Donnus, El, The Green Man, Helios, Huon, Jupiter, Llew, Loki, Lugh, Maui, Mithras, Oak/Holly King, Ogmios, Ra, Surya, Thor & Zeus

Issues, Intentions & Powers: Agriculture, changes, divination, ending, fertility, life, light, manifestation, power, purpose, strength, success & unity

Spellwork: Fire & water magick

Activities:

• Charge and cleanse your crystals in the solstice sun

• Make Sun water

• Create crafts with natural elements such as flowers

• Burn a paper with things that no longer serve you or that you are trying to let go

•  Invite friends & family over for a bonfire and/or feast

• Gather & dry herbs for the upcoming year

• Clean, decorate & cleanse your altar with summer symbols

• Brew some sun tea

• Take a ritual bath/shower with flowers

• Make your own sun dial

• Craft a door wreath out of flowers & herbs

• Enjoy some sunrise/sunset yoga

• Volunteer at a food kitchen or animal shelter

• Plant trees (especially ones that may provide fruit or berries to feed the wildlife)

• Watch the sunset & say a blessing to nature

• Make flower infused anointing/spell oils

• Eat fresh fruits & berries

• Participate in a handfasting

• Create shadow art

The history of Litha reveals its deep connections to ancient agricultural societies & their reliance on the sun's power. Celebrated as part of the Wheel of the Year, Litha symbolizes the balance between light & darkness. Throughout history  customs such as bonfires, herb gathering & the construction of sunwheels have marked this festival. Today, Litha continues to be celebrated by various communities, with gatherings at sacred sites & private rituals in natural settings. It serves as a reminder of our connection with nature and the cycles of life.

• The traditions of Litha appear to be borrowed from many cultures. Most ancient cultures celebrated the summer solstice in some way such as the Celts celebrated Litha with hilltop bonfires & dancing. Many people attempted to jump over or through the bonfires for good luck. Other European traditions included setting large wheels on fire & rolling them down a hill into a body of water.

Litha is often associated with Midsummer, a celebration that extends beyond the pagan and Wiccan traditions. Midsummer festivities are observed in many cultures around the world, including Scandinavian countries where it holds a prominent place in their cultural heritage. Midsummer dances, bonfires, & feasts are integral parts of these celebrations, often accompanied by folklore and traditional rituals that honor the sun's energy and the abundance of nature during this time.

The summer solstice is the longest day of the year & in some traditions, Litha is when The Sun(The God) is symbolically at it's peak time of power & the World will soon be ripe to harvest. It is also when The Goddess is pregnant with The God who is to be reborn at Yule.

• In the Northern Hemisphere the Summer Solstice occurs when the Sun reaches its highest and northernmost points in the sky. It marks the start of summer in the northern half of the globe. (In contrast, the June solstice in the Southern Hemisphere is when the Sun is at its lowest point in the sky, marking the start of winter.)

Some also believe the history & spirit of Litha revolve around two deities, The Oak King & The Holly King. In Wiccan and Neo-Pagan traditions, each King rules the Earth for half of the year. From Yule to Litha, the Oak King rules. On Litha, the two battled for the crown and it is then that the Holly King triumphs. The Holly King will rule through fall until Yule, and the cycle will begin again.

Related festivals:

• Vestalia- June 7th -15th

Was a Roman religious festival in honor of Vesta, the goddess of the hearth & the burning continuation of the sacred fire of Rome. It was held from 7–15 June & was reserved as a women's-only event. Domestic & family life in general were represented by the festival of the goddess of the house & of the spirits of the storechamber — Vesta & the Penates .

On the first day of festivities the penus Vestae (sanctum sanctorum of the temple of Vesta which was usually curtained off) was opened for the only time during the year, at which women offered sacrifices. As long as the curtain remained open, mothers could come, barefoot and disheveled, to leave offerings to the goddess in exchange for a blessing to them and their family.

For the last day, the penus Vestae was solemnly closed, the Flaminica Dialis observed mourning & the temple was subjected to a purification called stercoratio: the filth was swept from the temple and carried next by the route called clivus Capitolinus and then into the Tiber.

Sources:

Farmersalmanac .com

Llewellyn's Complete Book of Correspondences by Sandra Kines

Wikipedia

A Witch's Book of Correspondences by Viktorija Briggs

Encyclopedia britannica

Llewellyn 2024 magical almanac Practical magic for everyday living

[sylveonyiezoo]

꒰ঌৎ୭໒꒱ My Introduction post!

꒰ঌ Information ໒꒱

My name is Ambrose! ♡

I am 20 years old! ♡

My pronouns are He/Him! ♡

I mainly post planet zoo on this account but I will also post about animals and animal themed games/shows! ♡

꒰ঌ Games ໒꒱

My favourite animal themed games are: Planet Zoo, Calico, Koi Farm, Let's Build A Zoo, Zoo Tycoon, Bunny Park!

My favourite dinosaur themed games are: Jurrasic World Evolution 2, Prehistoric Kingdom, Paleo Pines!

꒰ঌ Shows and Docs ໒꒱

I love the Jurassic Park franchise! I really love camp cretaceous!

My favourite animal shows/docs are: River Monsters, Our Great National Parks, Our Planet!

꒰ঌ My Favs ໒꒱

My favourite fish are: Red Tailed Cat Fish, Koi Fish, Veiltail Goldfish, Strawberry Peacock Cichlids, Clownfish!

My favourite sharks/rays are: Nurse Shark, Whale Shark, Great Hammerhead Shark, Lemon Shark, Silky Shark, Thresher Shark, Zebra Shark, Manta Ray!

My favourite crustaceans are: Cherry Shrimp, Fairy Shrimp, Vampire Crab, Mantis Shrimp, Golden Bee Shrimp, Horseshoe crab!

My favourite marine/aquatic mammals are: Orca, Harp Seal, Leopard Seal, Beluga, Amazon River Dolphin, Dusky Dolphin, Humpback Whale, Narwhal, Sea Otter, Giant Otter!

My favourite cats are: Pallas Cat, Caracal, Siberian Tiger, Asiatic Lions, Cheetah, Fishing Cat, Scottish Wild Cat, Eurasian Lynx, Clouded Leopard!

My favourite canids are: Maned Wolf, African Wild Dog, Raccoon Dog, Bat-Eared Fox, Arctic Fox, Fennec Fox!

My favourite primates are: Ring Tailed Lemur, Squirrel Moneky, Golden Lion Tamarin, Lar Gibbon, Siamang!

My favourite snakes are: Corn Snake, Desert Horned Viper, Green Tree Python, Green Vine Snake, Barons Racer, Boomslang!

My favourite lizards are: Asian Water Monitor, Frilled Lizard, Marine Iguana, Satanic Leaf Tailed Gecko, Day Gecko, Tokay Gecko, Namib Sand Gecko, Veiled Chameleon, Emerald Tree Monitor, Bearded Dragon!

My favourite amphibians are: Strawberry Poison Dart Frog, Glass Frog, Whites Tree Frog, Axolotl, Marbled Salamander, Chinese Giant Salamander, Clown Frog!

My favourite turtles & tortoises are: Red-eared Slider, Common Musk Turtle, Eastern Painted Turtle, Alligator Snapping Turtle, Indian Star Tortoise, Galapagos Tortoise!

Some other animals I like: Butterflies, Rosy Maple Moths, Poodle Moth, Orchid Mantis, Gharials, Cuban Crocodiles, Quokka, Sugar Gilder, Skunks, Genet, Owls, Octopus, Nudibranch, Binturongs, Capybara, Chinchilla!

[logicspirit]

2 0 J U N 2 0 2 0 | First!

Our usual lectures are being replaced by commented videos. Today I was early on this course because the videos had no other view! But it's one to do box to check off! ☑

[ssentimentals]

hoshi + cuddling

'i feel fine, really! i'm not sic-' right at that soonyoung sneezes loudly, almost jumping out of the bed. he falls back on it with a loud groan, covering his face with a pillow.

'right, you're not sick at all,' you deadpan, rolling your eyes. you reach over for the salt and pepper, turning to look at him: 'bless you. you want me to add more black pepper or salt?'

'salt,' he replies, sneezing again. 'god, this is awful.'

you add the salt and then check the taste of the soup, nodding to yourself. 'soup is ready, come out.'

soonyoung says that he fell sick two days ago, but you suspect that in reality he felt off for an entire week, managing to somehow stove off the inevitable by being extra busy. you should have known, really, from the first bell when you two facetime'd each other and he had a runny nose. his stubbornness sometimes knows no limits and arguing with him about this leads to nothing, so you go along with his 'it's been only two days, i promise!' with a long sigh and a reluctant nod. carefully you place the bowl on the table, also putting the kettle on. 'tea with a lemon sounds good?' you ask loudly. you pause as no reply comes out within the next seconds. 'soonyoung?'

'come here please!' he calls.

you walk towards the bedroom and find your boyfriend wrapped in the blanket in a burrito way, only his head can be seen. his pout is more visible than anything else though - soonyoung hates being sick, hates feeling useless and especially hates when he can't spend time with you cause he doesn't want you to get sick as well. you shake your head fondly, stopping right at the door, leaning on it. taking care of soonyoung is not an easy task considering how he despises chicken soups and taking pills, but after battling one flu with him, you now consider yourself a professional at it. at the sight of you soonyoung lights up like a christmas tree and you can't be mad at him at all when he uses his famous eye smile. you don't move and seeing how you're not coming closer, soonyoung pouts even harder. 'why are you standing so far away?'

'soup is ready, you need to eat something,' you say instead of replying to his question.

'come cuddle me first.'

'you haven't eaten anything since you woke up,' you press, not moving. it is hard to do so, when he looks so cute all wrapped up like burrito, but someone has to be responsible. 'eat first, soonyoung.'

'cuddle me first.' he repeats, reminding you again who is the king of stubbornness here. in order to make his point even clearer, he opens up the blanket and moves to the left side of the bed, making space for you. 'right here.'

arguing with him is a losing game. you know it, you knew it from the start but you still are trying to be stern, not wanting to give in this time too. you frown, taking one step closer. 'but you really need to eat.'

soonyoung's expression softens and he smiles gently, tapping place next to him. 'i will eat after cuddles, i promise,' he assures you in a serious tone and then smiles, opening the blanket even more: 'now come here, please.'

admitting defeat, you shuffle towards him and smile, when he sighs in satisfaction as bed dips under your weight. you don't even have time to get comfortable before he wraps around you like an octopus, blocking you any route to escape. plastering his chest to your back, soonyoung giggles happily, tucking his face into your neck. his arms loop around your waist and he makes sure to intertwine your legs as well. it's not the most comfortable position for you at first, but you relax as he starts pressing small kisses on your neck, mumbling how good you smell.

'this is so nice,' he lets out, content. 'thank you.'

your hands rest on top of his and you smile secretly; soonyoung's warmth is something you also missed during last two days so being back in his arms feels like coming home. his breathing tickles a little but it feels so familiar that your eyes close on their own accord. 'do not let us fall asleep,' you mumble, pressing closer to him.

'no promises here,' he mouths into your neck, yawning. 'missed having you like this.' soonyoung hands get under your t-shirt and rest gently on your stomach, caressing it. 'let's just stay like that, please?'

there's so much longing in his voice that rejecting him feels like a crime; you nod and he kisses your neck once more before relaxing. laying in his arms like that you don't think about any of the errands that you are supposed to do, choosing to concentrate on him instead; how each part of your bodies seems to be connected, how warm it feels, how you instantly feel less anxious. you turn your head to the side and peck his nose, making him smile. 'love you,' you whisper before turning back.

'you're too cute,' he mumbles, tightening his hold. 'i love you too.'

a/n: don't come at me but i genuinely hate spooky season so nothing on halloween theme will be written, have a cute hoshi instead!!

here is the link to my other works and let me know if you liked this oneee <3 - nini

tag list: @pearlygraysky @woozionascooter @smalliechelle @jaetaimjadore @yeow6n (let me know if you want to be added!)

[redrocketpanda]

Akaashi's already outside with the others by the time Bokuto finally exits the spa.

They've been waiting here a while. The warm air has almost completely dried Akaashi's damp skin and hair.

He closes his eyes, raises his face to the bright sun and inhales deeply, filling his lungs with the fresh mountain air. Its the kind of place that people come to relax, surrounded by the tall trees and trickling water and singing birds. 

Or Akaashi imagines that's what it would be like if he were in different company. 

But he can't hear the trickling water or the singing birds over the raucous debate Hinata and Kageyama are having about which sea creatures they would pick for their marine volleyball dream team and whether either of them should be allowed to have the octopus. 

And maybe it would have been relaxing if they hadn't been with Bokuto who insisted on just a bit more time - just another 5 minutes with the masseuse, just another 10 minutes in the steam room, just another 15 minutes in the bath - until they were so hopelessly behind schedule that there was no longer a schedule. 

Kenma had long ago given up waiting and had gone to sit on a nearby rock to drink the strawberry milk that Kuroo had procured for him, whilst Kuroo muttered complaints about that damn owl from beneath his mess of floppy hair. 

They’ve been waiting for Bokuto for so long that Hinata and Kageyama have almost picked their entire team - though the disagreement about the octopus remains to be settled - and Akaashi is on the cusp of marching back in to find and drag Bokuto out himself when he hears the whoosh of the sliding door.  

His eyes snap open and he turns to face the door. 

Bokuto strides out of the spa towards them, arms raised above his head as he stretches lazily whilst in motion. Eyes closed, nose crinkled, a huge smile on his face. 

And, most distractingly of all, his hair isn't spiked into its signature look but instead rests loosely atop his head. The grey and black strands falling forwards, framing his face.  

Akaashi's heart skips a beat.

Though saying it skips makes it sound more gentle of an experience than it actually is. It's much less a skip and much more of a sharp and sudden drop. Like when you slip whilst walking down the stairs and it sends your heart plummeting into your knees and your pulse racing as you try to grab onto the hand rail in a desperate attempt to save yourself from falling. 

It's not as though Akaashi hasn't seen Bokuto with his hair down before. Of course he's seen it get wet when they've showered together, and it's briefly down before and after they go to sleep during training camps. But it's not long before Bokuto plasters it back into his signature look with unnerving amounts of gel, so the sight of him with his hair down properly like this is a rare, and special, moment. 

A moment that presents Akaashi with a Bokuto different than the one that he's become so familiar with; the one who blazes with the intensity of the midday sun in a way that leaves Bokuto imprints on Akaashi's retinas so that the image remains even when he closes his eyes.  In this moment, Bokuto looks younger and more innocent, and there's a tenderness about him... like he's made out of a kind of softness that Akaashi struggles to put a name to. 

This is a softness like the mellow rays of the rising sun that trickle in through the curtain and bathes Akaashi's body in its golden light.

Like a cool afternoon breeze that lightly caresses his skin.

Like the way a particularly good pencil gliding over smooth paper fills him with a sense of deep satisfaction, or the way sipping on honey and lemon tea soothes his aching body, or the way finishing a beloved book leaves his soul glowing.

It's the way that Bokuto Kōtarō’s name sounds in his mouth.

It’s the way that Bokuto Kōtarō feels in his heart.

[feeshies]

10 Facts About Me

Rules: Share 10 facts about yourself and tag 10 other blogs! I want to get to know my mutuals, and the people I follow a little bit :) The facts can be about anything!

Tagged by @cullenvhenan thank you!

Tagging: @hamingo @insomniac-pens @chordsykat @claudia-nomusaabara @nekrotikon @buchimgay (but no pressure!)

I kissed a sea cucumber once

My hair used to go past my waist and that was the only thing people remembered about me for a while

I've gone by the nickname "Fish" since I was six. I often make up a bullshit explanation when asked about that, but the true origin is that I really like fish.

I was a tapeworm for Halloween when I was 10 (I really liked tapeworms too).

I ate a live octopus on the beach while my grandmother watched on in disapproval.

I like to go running in jeans

I hate bananas. Always have. As a kid I would lie and say that I was allergic because no one took my aversion to them seriously and they'd try to trick me to eat them.

Somewhere, there's a CD of 11 year old me singing Dani California by the Red Hot Chili Peppers and I don't know where it is and sometimes that stresses me out.

When I was a kid, I would sit in one of the trees outside the house and eat a whole lemon every day after school.

I'm an anthropology major and I don't know if I'm allowed to say I was in STEM. I did a lot of biology, chemistry, and math to get that degree but some people get weird if you call it a science. I don't know.

[moonheavens]

snippet sunday!!

please ignore that it's monday I know no timely bounds (I fell asleep drafting this)

thanks for the tag @tortoisebore you always indulge my oversharing tendencies and ily for that (and those HS! snippets looked so good I cried a little so. thanks for that too you monster)

sharing something a little different this time - the opening bit of my provisionally titled "Remus just fully and wholly obsessed with anything Sirius does" WIP (aka Remus meets an old friend in a club and catches them up about his sexy long-term boyfriend, and the highlights of their relationship). SO. HERE GOES.

Remus Lupin knew fully well he was a weak, weak man when it came to Sirius Black – but at least he was self-aware about it. He hated clubbing. Hated the smell and the stickiness of sweat and beer, and getting pushed around by stumbling, drunk strangers, and the harsh beat of contemporary music. He loved Sirius much more than he hated anything else, though, and that’s how he found himself leaning over the balustrade of their (Sirius’s) favourite club with a strong drink in hand, staring down at the pulsating mass of bodies on the dancefloor below, his boyfriend lost somewhere in the faceless crowd. He’d much rather be doing literally anything else right now – working on his Paradise Lost essay, or lounging on the couch with Bean, their cat, or sleeping, or doing the Sirius in question, yet here he was. He hated clubbing, but Sirius had come home late last week after a night out with James and Marlene and accidentally woken him up. He'd wrapped himself around Remus’s back like an octopus, freshly showered and smelling of lemon body wash and coconut shampoo and home, pressing apologetic kisses and whispered apologies into the nape of Remus’s neck. Remus had turned sideways in his arms, all thoughts of sleep forgotten now that Sirius was home and safe and back with him, and offered up more skin for Sirius to press his lips to as he asked how his night had been. Sirius had complained that he’d missed his sexy tree of a boyfriend, lips pressed to the hollow of Remus’s throat, and batted his pretty, pretty eyelashes as he begged for Remus to join him next time. And how was Remus supposed to say no to that, really?

so. yeah. excited for this one.

tagging @athensmoon and @saintlupin bcs I know you're both cooking up something incredible and. GIMME!!!