airy inclinations

I felt my lungs inflate with the onrush of scenery—air, mountains, trees, people. 

I thought, "This is what it is to be happy."  

Sylvia Plath, The Bell Jar

As a Libra, I'm one of the air signs. I know, I know. You're thinking astrology is a bunch of bunk. But, it's actually been around since ancient times, a common link between the patterns in the heavens and life on earth. Much can be garnered by understanding nature and the reflections it has on us as individuals. Anyway, I'm happy to finally throw open a window and breath glorious fresh, cool air.  There's nothing I adore more than air in my face, in my hair and wafting through an open window, that thin, cool air, that lets me hear the melancholy whistle of the 3:30 a.m. train in Linworth. Summer is like purgatory for me. I loathe claustrophobic, humid air and actually have to sleep with a fan pointed directly at my face on summer nights.

Air signs are said to be flexible, like the breeze. It's true, I like a fresh perspective on just about anything, and am forever changing things, including my mind. After shopping at a certain grocery store for six months, I switch. Nearly every month, four days before the new moon, I spin off into rearranging mode at the manor. Next time you visit, I promise, nothing will be in the same spot. I thrive on reading new poets, trying new recipes and meeting new people. As you well know, rearranging my blog template and header is a favorite pastime.

Speaking of blogging, the blog community has certainly been a great conduit for airy inclinations, since air signs are said to be communicators, story tellers, and link people socially.  There's nothing I enjoy more than hopping aboard my magic little cyberspace carpet and breezing around the bloggyhood, sharing a manor ghost story or a new  willow poem, or two, with my friends.

Could this be the reason I dreamed of flying as a child, and why my worst nightmares are of tornadoes, now that I'm grown?

sagittarius

My dear friend, the talented collage artist, Leslie Avon Miller, gently
reminded me that I was a little late in spotlighting Sagittarius. She
was so right. In the bustle of the holiday preparations, I nearly forgot.
By the way, if you aren't already familiar with the Leslie's fabulous
artwork, hop over and pay her a visit at [Textures Shapes and Color].


Sagittarius, November 23 - December 21 is the ninth sign of the
zodiac. It's symbolized by a centaur, a mythical creature, which is
half man, half horse, famed as a wild hunter, and usually depicted
holding a bow and arrow. This sign is associated with seeking
knowledge, new challenges, and with a love of travel. Sagittarius
is an enthusiastic fire sign and also a restless mutable sign.

Sagittarius is the sign of the philosopher. People with planets in
Sagittarius are seekers and explorers. Known to be generous and
expansive, big ideas and grand visions fill them with enthusiasm.
However, in their excitement, they can be overpowering and
careless about detail.

The typical Sagittarian is very honest and direct, both in speech and
action. They can be restless and seek out new challenges and tend
to aim high with their boundless energy.

Sagittarians seek patterns in order to make sense of life. They
undertake a quest to find faith and meaning. They are naturally
optimistic, with a happy-go-lucky nature, progressive and open
minded.

The gemstone associated with Sagittarius is topaz, and the metal is
tin. The colors are dark blue and purple. The animal is the horse.
Their flower is the carnation and dandelions. The body part of the
Sag is the thighs. The countries are Spain, Australia, Hungary,
South Africa, Arabia and Yugoslavia.

So, there you have it my bloggy friends. This wraps up a whole
year of spotlighting the signs of the zodiac. Hope you enjoyed this
series. Happy Birthday to all my bloggy Sagi friends, and
especially my dear uncle, [The Bach], whose birthday is today. You
will find his handsome picture in the dictionary, under Sagittarius.

scorpio

I know, I'm squeezing this post in on the very last day of Scorpio.
My youngest son happens to be a Scorpio and fits this description
to a tee. Happy Birthday to all the deep, powerful, and put together
Scorpios out there in the blogosphere.

Scorpio, October 24 - November 22, is the eighth sign of the zodiac
and its symbol is the scorpion. Like scorpions, this sign is said to be
dangerous when attacked, is secretive, and likes to keep their true
selves hidden. Since Scorpio is a water sign, they feel emotions
intensely.

As the sign of birth, death and regeneration, Scorpio is a powerful
force in the birth chart and those born under this sign have a great
deal of energy. They are attracted to situations that sometimes seem
dangerous to others, are fascinated by mystery, and eager to delve
into the secrets of the unknown. They can be summed up as "still
waters that run deep". The male Scorpio needs to maintain his
dignity and the female is poised and apparently cool.

This sign's energies are so strong, they can seem over powering and
the Scorpio can feel driven by them. But if they are fully and
positively expressed, both physically and emotionally, the individual
will be a big achiever. Scorpios are not known for moderation and
their health can suffer as a result of over-indulgence.

The ruling planet for Scorpio is Pluto. Gemstone is the opal. Color is
dark red or magenta. Flowers are rhododendron and geranium. The
tree is the hawthorn, for obvious reasons. The body part associated
with Scorpio is the sexual organs; heh-heh, this says a lot. Scorpios
love strong tasting foods. (Yup, I know this for a fact.) The animal is
most insects. Countries associated with this sign are Morocco,
Norway, Algeria, Syria, Korea and Uruguay.

the scales

Libra (September 23 - October 23) is the seventh astrological sign of

the Zodiac, originating from the constellation of Libra. Okay, I am a

tad biased, since I was born under this sign, (October 20th) but, being

the scales that I am, I'll try to give you a fair and balanced description.

.

Libra is considered a masculine, positive sign. It is also considered

an air sign, indicating compromise and is one of four cardinal signs,

implying action. Libra is ruled by the planet Venus. Also known as

The Scales or Balance, Libra is the only symbol of the zodiac

represented by an inanimate object, rather than an animal or human.

.

The scales have a deeply symbolic meaning for Librans, since the

need for balance and harmony in our lives is paramount. We have a

strong sense of justice and principles, are sensitive to disharmony,

avoiding confrontation whenever possible. WT often describes me as

an iron fist in a velvet glove. I'll admit, I can be a tough cookie, but in

a harmonious, charming way, of course.

.

We tend to be gifted conversationalists, easy going, flirtatious,

intelligent and sometimes gullible. Since we can see both sides of a

problem, we can often be indecisive. Libra is a sign of partnership, so

we find it more difficult to cope with loneliness than any other sign of

the zodiac.

.

Librans need art, beauty, and symbolism in our surroundings.

We are pure romantics at heart and are drawn to attractive things,

lovely people, and have a strongly developed aesthetic sense.

Librans are very much interested in culture and the civilized side of

life.

.

Laziness and relaxation are often associated with this sign, but this is

not entirely fair. While Librans may not enjoy heavy, sweaty, dirty

jobs, (this is so true) we certainly don't lack physical energy,

especially if the work has a creative element. We may seem relaxed

because we often make time to listen and give others a sympathetic

ear.

.

Gemstones associated with this sign are sapphire and jade. Our

colors are shades of blue from pale to ultramarine, pink and pale

green. Our body part is the kidneys, which, amazingly enough,

resemble the scales. Flowers are large roses, hydrangea and blue

flowers in general. Countries associated with Librans are Austria,

Burma, Japan, Argentina, Egypt, Canada and Tibet.

.

So, there you have it. A very Happy Birthday to all my fellow

bloggy Librans!

.

photo from Google images

Virgo, (August 24 - September 22) the sixth sign of the zodiac, is symbolized by a virgin or maiden who carries a stalk of corn. The maiden represents a self sufficient individual. Virgo people have a natural modesty and independence. They need to spend time on their own. Virgo is considered a feminine, mutable or introvert sign. It is also considered an earth sign and is one of four mutable signs. Virgo is traditionally ruled by the planet Mercury.

Virgos are in constant motion due to their abundant nervous energy. It is vital that this energy finds a positive outlet, otherwise it will be frittered away into restlessness. They should learn to center themselves and find inner calm, or tension can become a problem. Virgos are known for their ability to be helpful in many situations. Orderly individuals, they are a very analytical and discriminating sign. Virgos strive for perfection and can be critical of others. They may lack confidence and under value their own achievements.

Virgos like to keep fit and physical exercise is part of their daily routine. They prefer a healthy diet, as well as lifestyle. Virgo is the sign of the craftsman. Tasks requiring careful, detailed work appeal to their perfectionist side. In their concentration of fine craftsmanship, however, they can sometimes be so focused they lose sight of the big picture.

Caring professions are traditional occupations for Virgos. Serving others, quiet efficiency, attention to detail, organization, practicality and reliability are all typical traits.

The gemstone for Virgo is the sardonyx. The colors are green, dark brown and navy blue. Flowers are brightly colored small flowers such as buttercup and forget-me-nots. The body parts associated with Virgo are the intestines and nervous system. The countries are Greece, the West Indies, Turkey, United States, Brazil, Crete, and Yugoslavia. Domestic pets, especially cats and dogs, are associated with Virgo.

So there you have it. A Happy, Happy Birthday to all my dear Virgo bloggy friends!

artwork: La Scapigliata, 1508 by Leonardo da Vinci

king of beasts

My apologies to all you Leos out there. Heavens to murgatroyd,
we're already into the Virgo time frame and I completely forgot to
post on Leos. Actually, I don't know how in the world I forgot, since
both WT and my daughter are both dynamic, sunny Leos.

Leo, July 23 - August 23, is the zodiac's fifth sign. The King of the
Beasts, the lion, is the symbol for this sign. Leos share some of the
characteristics associated with the lion, being proud, loyal and fierce.
As a fixed sign, Leos are steady characters, and as a fire sign, they
are attracted to dramatic or creative situations.

Powerful and proud, Leos like to be at the center of the action. They
are dramatic personalities who are warm hearted and dominant.
Leo has kingly qualities of pride and leadership. They are happiest
when they can rule others and be proud of their achievements.

Creativity is associated with planets in Leo. Painting, drawing, and
display are ways of expressing their creative side. Leos are also
connected with theater and showmanship. They have a very strong
urge to create and make an impact.

Leos are colorful characters and are attracted to anything sunny,
bright and colorful. Obviously, their ruling planet is the sun. They
have a sunny disposition and like to be appreciated. They are
idealists at heart, generous and warm hearted. On the downside,
they tend to be a bit pompous and intolerant. But only a bit!

The flowers associated with the Leo are the sunflower and marigold.
Metal is gold and the gemstone is ruby. Countries are Italy,
Romania, Sicily, Czech Republic, Lebanon and the South of France.

So, a belated Happy Birthday to all you Leos in the bloggyhood. Stay
tuned, Virgos, I'll post on you next week.

Cancer, June 22-July 22, is the fourth sign of the zodiac and is
represented by a crab. The origin of Cancer the Crab is most likely in
Babylon, but twin turtles were associated with this sign in Egypt,
where Thoth, the god of astronomy ruled the constellation. The crab
suggests that people born under this sign will retreat into their shell
if they feel hurt. Cancer is a water sign, linked with feelings. Cancer
also love the sea and its treasures. Like the oyster, they have a hard,
protective shell.

This is a sign with great sensitivity. Cancerians are often kind,
thoughtful and aware of the need of others. They can, however, be
moody and enjoy spending time at home, where they can retreat if
they feel hurt. The home plays a very significant role, symbolic of
security and refuge. The need to protect self and family is a chief
characteristic.

Food and cooking are often important to Cancerians, as well as
matriarchal values. Cancer is ruled by the moon, which is linked to
motherhood. Body parts associated with Cancer are the breasts,
womb and the stomach. Children are very important to those born
under this sign.

The gemstone for this sign is the pearl (hmm, not surprising, since it
is from the oyster). Flowers are lily, acanthus, geranium, white rose
and white flowers in general. The metal is silver and color silver grey.
The countries associated are Scotland, Holland, North and West
Africa, New Zealand, Paraguay and Algeria.

I'm a little late in posting, but a very Happy Birthday to all my
bloggy friends who fall under this month's sign of Cancer!

Gemini

The third sign of the zodiac is Gemini, May 22 - June 21, originating

from the constellation of Gemini. It is symbolized by the twins,

indicating its dual nature. Gemini is a mutable sign, and Geminis

are versatile people. It is also an air sign, meaning that Geminis are

communicative. Gemini has been closely associated with the planet

Mercury and is considered to be ruled by it.

Geminis are adaptable and curious people, who like to keep on the

move. They are youthful and lively, but can feel restless. They

are quick thinking and have no trouble keeping several projects

going at once. Like butterflies, they flit around to various groups of

people, and are colorful characters. Usually, Geminis like to keep in

touch, enjoy emailing, letter writing and tend to be the first to know

the news.

The body parts associated with this sign are the hands, arms and

shoulders. Flowers are lily of the valley and lavender. Color is any

bright color, especially yellow. The gemstone for Gemini is the agate.

And the countries are Wales, Belgium, USA, Lower Egypt and

Armenia.

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Happy Birthday, my dear, clever Gemini friends!

photo: Identical Twins by Diane Arbus

Taurus

Taurus, April 21-May 21, is the second sign of the zodiac, originating
from the constellation of Taurus, and the Egyptian Horus, the Bull of
Heaven. It's symbol, the bull, is known for it's strength and reliability.
Taurus is an earth sign, which means Taurans are practical and have
an earthy sensibility. They also are not afraid to get their hands dirty
and work in the soil, often having a "green thumb".

People with this sign have their feet planted firmly on the ground.
They do not like to be hurried and may be thought of as obstinate.
Taurans are slow workers, who enjoy the process as much as the
finished product. Most have a strong appreciation for beauty and
enjoy collecting beautiful objects. Material security is very important
and they feel most secure when surrounded by their possessions.
There are usually some fixations in the Taurus personality, which
may perplex other signs. They tend to stick with patterns and
experiences they know, which make them feel secure and
comfortable.

The body part associated with Taurus is the throat and neck. They
often have lovely speaking and singing voices. Their color is pink.
The gemstone is emerald and the mineral copper. The flowers are
rose, poppy, foxglove, daisy, violet and columbine. Countries
associated with this sign are Ireland, Switzerland, Iran, Cyprus, the
Greek Islands, Parma, and Capri.

Happy Birthday to all my lovely Taurus bloggy friends!

.

artwork: Taurus, ceramic by Picasso

Willow's Weekly Word

Aries, March 21 - April 20, is the first sign of the zodiac.
Accordingly, it is linked with beginnings. People born under this sign
are typically enthusiastic about new events and are adventurous.
The ram is the symbol for Aries and, like a ram, Aries like to charge
headlong into matters. Aries is a fire sign, as well as a cardinal sign,
signaling action and excitement. They are also said to be willful and
impulsive. Especially good at initiating projects, they have a direct
and dynamic approach, making them natural pioneers. Sharp
weapons are often associated with Aries and are often noted for their
sharp minds, as well as sharp tongues.

Originating from the constellation of Aries, in western astrology, this
sign is no longer aligned with the constellation as a result of the
precession of the equinoxes. The astrological symbol for Aries is said
to represent the head and horns of the ram, and originates from the
cluster of stars which constitute the head of the Aries (constellation),
according to the work of Doctor Acacandam dating from 1592. The
head of Aries is given the name of Aluathay or Salhay, and it consists
of four stars.

In mythology, Aries is often associated with the Greek myth of the
ram which carried Athamus' son Phrixus and daughter Helle to
Colchis to escape their stepmother Ino, as well as the mythological
figure of Theseus, from the Greek myth of the Minotaur.

Traditionally, Aries is linked to the head. These people are
sometimes called headstrong because they have a strong will. Red is
the color associated with Aries; a bold, dynamic color linked with
anger. The gemstone is diamond, the metal is iron and flower is the
thistle. Countries associated with this sign are England, France,
Germany and Denmark.

Happy Birthday to all you dynamic Aries, out there in the
bloggyhood!


info from Wikipedia and Astrology by Darby Costello
photo from Google images

Willow's Weekly Word

Pisces (February 19 - March 20) the twelfth and final sign of the
zodiac, is represented by two fish swimming in opposite directions.
Pisceans are said to be imaginative individuals who, like fish, can
appear slippery and indistinct, moving with the current. Pisces is
a sensitive and compassionate mutable water sign.

One of the most popular stories regarding the mythological origin of
Pisces is the story of Aphrodite and Eros. The story involves
Aphrodite and her son Eros escaping from the terrible monster
Typhon by turning themselves into fish and hiding underwater until
it was safe to come back to the surface. As fish, they tied their tails
together with a cord so they wouldn't lose one another while
swimming in the darkness of the deep. Upon hearing their tale,
Zeus rewarded the pair by placing them among the stars as the
constellation of Pisces

Pisces is the sign of the romantic and the dreamer. When this sign
is prominent in the birth chart, it implies great sensitivity. Pisceans
are usually private people who may feel misunderstood by others.
They often enjoy music or art as an outlet for their feelings.
Possessing strong intuitive powers, Pisceans are able to tune into
the atmosphere around them and respond accordingly. They often
indicate the need to be alone, for rest and recuperation and are,
more often than not, a bit introverted. They enjoy being on or near
water, where they allow themselves to drift along.

The ruling planet is Neptune. Gemstones are the moonstones and
bloodstones. The Picsean color is soft sea green. Flower is the
waterlily. The body part is the feet. And the countries associated
with this sign are Portugal, Scandinavia, Mediterranean Islands and
the Gobi and Sahara Deserts. (Go figure on the dry, hot deserts.
They don't sound very fishy to me!)

So, hey-hey, there you have it. Best wishes for a very Happy
Birthday to all my Picscean bloggy friends!

artwork: Pisces by Peter Goode
info from Wikipedia and Astrology by Darby Costello

Willow's Weekly Word

Aquarius is the eleventh astrological sign in the Zodiac, 21 January
to 18 February, originating from the constellation Aquarius. The
corresponding month in the Babylonian calendar is Arax Šabaṭu,
the destroying month, also called arax arrat zunne, month of the
curse of rains, associated with the Great Flood and is dedicated to
Ramman, the storm god. The zodiacal sign of this month was called
GU or Assyrian qâ, the name of a dry-measure. This was associated
with Hebrew kad, pitcher jar, presumably in reference to the urn
of Aquarius. According to the Greek mythology, Aquarius was cup
bearer to the gods, Ganymede, son of Tros, king of Troy. While
tending his father's flocks on Mount Ida, Ganymede was spotted by
Zeus, who became so enamored of the boy, he disguised himself as
an eagle (represented by the constellation Aquila) and whisked
Ganymede off to Olympus, to be his personal cup-bearer to the
gods. So, this is why the sign is symbolized by the water carrier,
even though it is actually a fixed air sign.

People born under the sign Aquarius have a contradictory side to
their nature. They believe in the ideal of equality, but have a
strong will and an individualistic streak. They are driven to rebuild
and reform as well as disrupt, revolutionize and challenge. It is
sometimes considered an unpredictable sign. Aquarians are usually
friendly, though unemotional, independent and need to maintain
their own personal space. They like to keep in touch with current
thinking and the latest modern technology.

The gemstones associated with this sign are aquamarine and
turquoise. Their flower is the orchid. The body parts associated
with Aquarius are the ankles and shins. Countries associated with
this sign are Russia, Sweden, Poland, Israel and Iran.

So, there you have it. Happy Birthday, all you Aquarian bloggies
out there, wherever you are!

.
info from Wikipedia and Astrology by Darby Costello

photo: Aquarius statue, Val's restaurant, Alviso, CA by hayleybeee, Flickr

Willow's Weekly Word

I've noticed that quite a few in the bloggyhood have had birthdays
in the last week or so, making them all born under the symbol
Capricorn, (December 22-January 20) the tenth sign of the zodiac,
symbolized by a goat, sometimes depicted with the tail of a fish.
Capricorn is associated with the Greek myth of the goat Amalthea,
who provided the infant Zeus with milk and Zeus, in turn, placed
her in the sky to honor her. Capricorn is ruled by the planet Saturn.
The Babylonian god Ea wore a cloak designed as a fish's skin,
complete with head and tail. Among his names was "Antelope of
the Seas". What better description of a fishtailed goat?

Capricornians develop self discipline and become sure footed like a
mountain goat. Capricorn is a cardinal, therefore initiating, sign. It
is an Earth sign, and so is practical and structured. On the whole,
Capricorn is a serious sign. People with this sign like to be in control
and are accepting of responsibility. They are willing to make great
efforts to reach their goals through patience and persistence. Order
and structure are part of the Capricorn world. They generally
respect authority, are solid and reliable. Tending to be reserved,
they can be a little on the shy side.

The body part associated with the Capricorn is the knees. Dark
gray, black and dark brown are the colors usually associated with
Capricorn. Gemstones are onyx, quartz, beryl, obsidian, and
amethyst. The plants are ivy and pansies. Countries are India,
Mexico, Afghanistan, Macedonia, Lithuania and the region of Thrace.

Happy Birthday out there, all you trusty bloggy Capricornians!

info from Astrology by Darby Costello and Wikipedia