#4 feng shui animals

[diamondcrownacademy]

DCA Info Part 22: Dragonstone Dorm 🐲🗡️🏮

Dragonstone (ドラゴンストーン寮, Doragonsutōn Ryō) was founded on the Bravery (勇気) of the Maiden who held the Dragon Sword and is inspired by the world of Mulan. Students of this dorm excel in Martial Arts, Fencing and Study of Magical Relics.

Dorm Founder: Fa Mulan

Known in-universe as the Maiden who held the Dragon Sword (竜剣溶接の乙女).

Dorm Crest

The dorm crest features a shield like emblem with a red interior and gold outline. There is a golden dragon silhouette inside of a golden circle outline. The top of the emblem features a lily flower, reminiscent of the one on Mulan's hair comb and near the bottom of the emblem is a pale green banner with the dorm's name on it. On both sides of the exterior emblem are golden dragons and there is a Shinto gate behind the emblem.

Dorm Leader: Jinlong Esi

Dragonstone's current dorm leader is Jinlong Esi, a dragonkin from the Valley of Clouds who wishes to prove her worth.

Dorm Fairy: Cinder

Cinder (シンダー, Shindā) is Dragonstone's dorm fairy and vice dorm leader. She mostly hangs out in the forge of the Dragonstone dorm living quarters, activating it with her fire and putting it out. She is very poetic as she is known to write lovely poems with an illustration drawn using brushes. Very skilled in almost anything she puts her mind to, when she starts a new hobby or studies something, she learns what she is able to be decent at it within a week. Everyone in the dorm admires her for it since she is able to help out a lot.

Her current appearance is reminiscent of the dragon that guided the Maiden who held the Dragon Sword, Jinlong aspires to learn a lot and achieve many great things so that she'll be acknowledged and would no longer have to conform to what others want her to be.

Dorm Living Quarters

• The Dragonstone dorm living quarters exterior resembles a large chinese mansion built on top of a plateau overseeing the entire area around the dorm. There's a stairway that leads to the small square that is filled with small statues of dragons and other zodiac animals. The statues sometimes move and leave their post during certain months. The zodiac statues act as guardians and depending on which animal the year is currently focused one, that animal is the leader. To determine which zodiac is the current leader, a golden medallion is shown on the stone statue's chest to indicate the zodiac year.

• There is also a koi pond in the zen garden area. Students maintain these gardens as a form of discipline and each take turns in maintaining it. The koi pond connects to the small ponds on the area.

• Inside the dorm has a basement that is seen in the lobby, that area is the forge where some students rebuild relics or make glass and many other things. It is highly hot and safety clothes are available near the entrance to prevent injuries.

• Each of the rooms are decorated following the rules of feng shui (Chinese Geomancy). Each student has a bonsai in their personal quarters to look after. They are required to take care of it and make sure it grows healthy.

• At night, the lanterns in the dorm are lit and give off the image of a lively festival.

• On occasion, a big dragon would come to the dorm and perform a dance with the smaller ones. It is mesmerizing to watch and the students have the day marked on the calendar. The dragon always arrives to dance at the square since it is the most spacious. There are dragons that can be seen on campus, but they are the size of a 4 foot reptile and enjoy lounging on the roof or on the warm stone pavement. They come and go as they please but there is a feeding box for them under the shade of a blossom tree.

• In one of the zen gardens, there is a praying temple where students burn incense to pray. Sometimes the runes carved in the temple would glow.

Etymology

The dorm's name is a portmanteau of the words "dragon" and "stone". The "dragon" part references Mushu, one of Mulan's companions, while the "stone" part references the Great Stone Dragon located outside the Fa family household which Mushu accidentally destroyed.

The dorm was originally going to be named "Rongyu" which means honor in Chinese. The name was instead given to Jinlong's pet Komodo dragon.

[jetspikepub]

Early concepts of episodes from Bounty Hunter's Steel edition artbook

I copied the text from that unboxing video. The old story seems a bit different and somewhat darker than the final version. For example, Ed's father was a criminal, and Vicious planned to kill Jet with the hands of his former co-worker. Toys in the Attic episode originally had "the floor is lava" idea with infected insects. Many concepts made it to the show but in another form.

#1 “Asteroid Blues”

Episode where Spike and Jet are introduced and play active roles.

The setting is Tijuana, a Mexico-like asteroid.

A bounty named Asimov stole and ran off with illegal eye drops, and now he’s on the run with his woman Katerina. Spike pursues them, but the effect of the eye drops makes things difficult. But at the same time, this proves fatal to Asimov.

#2 “Stray Dog Strut”

Confrontation with Hakim, a martial artist and serial pet thief bounty. Men from a secret animal research lab also show up.

A Martian Chinatown is the setting.

The dog he stole is actually a highly intelligent data dog.

#3 “Honky Tonk Women”

Faye’s introductory episode.

Suffering from money troubles, Spike and crew encounter Faye at a casino.

She’s a bounty, but she unexpectedly ends up running about with them.

The money card she stole from the casino is counterfeit electronic money. In the end, Faye runs off with the reward money for her own bounty.

#4 “Gateway Shuffle”

Faye blows through the money, then comes back. She tells Spike and Jet to let her join them, but she winds up getting in their way.

An episode about the terrorist Twinkle and her virus bomb.

A battle within a Gate (hyperspace). Twinkle disperses bombs at the Gate.

She’s an environmental protection terrorist, and she utilizes a virus that only harms humans.

#5 “Ballad of Fallen Angels”

A Vicious episode. It shows just a little of Spike’s past.

A bounty is placed on Mao, Spike’s teacher from his gangster days. But he’s already been killed, and it’s all a trap.

Spike is caught in the trap, and he and Vicious have a fateful confrontation.

#6 “Sympathy for the Devil”

Wen, a boy who plays the blues harp. His actual age is 58. Due to the effect of the Gate accident, he’s stopped aging and his body won’t die.

Spike and crew show up in pursuit of another bounty, Giraffe, but Giraffe gets killed. Then when Spike learns of Wen’s dreadful purpose, he gets shot.

#7 “An episode like The Wages of Fear” – mecha episode

#8 Waltz for Venus

A story in the Venusian desert.

Spike and crew capture some hijacker bounties.

That’s when Spike meets a punk named Roco, for whom he feels an odd sense of friendship. But there’s a bounty oh his head. He had stolen gems for the sake of his blind sister Stella.

#9 Jamming with Edward

Ed’s introductory episode. A hacker stroty. We see Earth for the first time.

A story about Domino, a man controlling an electronic religion from the shadows. Somewhat comedic.

The adherents have wound up as mummies (?).

#10 “Boogie Woogie Feng Shui”

A story about a Universal Feng Shui master.

A chance encounter leads Jet to accept a request from the girl Mei to search for the legendary Feng Shui master Jicca Pacca.

But he turns out to be Pao, Mei’s father who was supposedly dead.

#11 “Mushroom Samba” – comedy

The Bebop pursues a hit-and-run ship to a frontier asteroid. There, Ed and Ein get their hands on some mysterious mushrooms.

But when Spike and the others eat the mushrooms, they start acting funny.

On that world, a bounty named Chingensai was growing illegal mushrooms.

#12 “My Funny Valentine (Part 1)”

A story about the androgynous Gren, as well as Spike’s and Vicious’ past.

Information about Julia comes is. The Bebop crew splits up. Two stories progress simultaneously, and they become one at the end.

Faye meets Gren. But he has bounty on his head.

#13 “My Funny Valentine (Part 2)”

The conclusion of the previous story.

As a lead-in to the second half of the series, the artificial eye comes up.

There’s apparently some dreadful secret behind Spike’s one artificial eye.

#14 “Cosmic Gypsy Jive”

An episode about criminal support software. Incidents following the exact same pattern occur in various places. They’re crimes that use the same criminal support software.

The culprit who made the software is a 120-year-old man. But there’s a vital flaw in the software.

A story about a Kowloon Walled City in outer space – a spaceship graveyard.

#15 “Insect Stomp”

An onboard bug panic episode. A comedy where nobody can take a step outside.

A new kind of virus gets inside the ship by way of an insect. Spike and crew fight back, but it evolves again and again.

#16 “Ganymede Elegy”

An episode about a Ganymede fishing boat. The Bebop plays an active role as a kamikaze ship.

Jet meets up again with and old colleague. But having been threatened by Vicious, he attempts to kill Jet.

#17 “Monkey Business”

An episode about criminal brain surgeon Doctor Strange and bio-robot with its own consciousness. A mad scientist tale.

A biocomputer becomes neurotic. It’s a crazy episode.

#18 “An episode about a marriage swindler (Faye’s former lover)”

#19 “Daydream Believer”

An episode about vegetative boy hacker. Ed’s short-lived love.

An electronic religion episode.

In the end, she aids him by making someone else the culprit. Ed takes the bounty money and decides on her own to donate it anonymously.

A story where they go to access a planet that’s been digitized onto a hard drive.

#20 “Pierrot Le Fou”

An episode about a Tongpu, a clown-like assassin who comes after Spike.

A peculiar hard-boiled style. A battle in an outer space amusement park.

Surreal imagery. Ed gets lost.

#21 “Goodbye, Porkpie Hat”

An episode about the Titanic, a ghost ship in hyperspace. Faye reacts very sensitively to it. Her father went missing on the Titanic.

#22 “The man from Titan”

An episode about a criminal who’s a combat veteran. Has a Vietnam story feel to it. We learn that Vicious was a mercenary too.

#23 “An episode about the origins of Spike’s ship” – mecha episode

#24 “You Can’t Always Get What You Want”

An episode where they catch Ed’s father, who was sentenced to life imprisonment for shoplifting. (ex-thug)

This story is a bit touching. This is where Ed returns to Earth.

#25 “Shooting Star Bebop (Part 1)”

The secret of Spike’s artificial eye. The past and the present overlap.

Vicious murders the Red Dragon elders and becomes the boss.

Spike and crew receive bounties on their heads, Spike finally reunites with Julia. But she points a gun at him.

#26 “Shooting Star Bebop (Part 2)”

The continuation. Without telling anyone, Spike launches an attack on Red Dragon. Faye’s wavering heart. The final confrontation with Vicious. Spike defeats Vicious, but he too is wounded, and he ends up collapsing. And then…

The following are episodes that aren’t likely to make it in.

# “Murder in the Europa Mist”

# “Last Waltz”

An episode about Wong, a legendary old bounty hunter. He comes out of retirement for one last job - an unsolved case from twenty years ago.

#“Let It Bleed”

An episode about Piggy, a homicidal maniac who killed all the staff at a Neptune observatory, then disappeared.

Psychological thriller. A battle at an aquarium.

# “Shoot the Pro Bowler”

An episode where they go to a prison on Pluto. A former pro bowler turned criminal, Magic Bones. He was a bowling legend, but he got kicked out for rigging his games after betting on them.

[i-windwater]

Important dates to prepare for the 2023 lunar new year

Important dates to prepare for the 2023 lunar new year (year of the Rabbit)

The lunar new year or the Chinese new year is an important date for a new start. Traditionally, there are a few important dates for certain activities, including removing old Tai Sui altars, setting up a new one if needed, setting up new Feng Shui cures for the year, the right time to open a business after the new year holidays, the best dates to visit temple and pray, and the best time for a deep house cleaning.

House cleaning before the lunar New Year's Day (January 22, 2023)

The end of the year is the best time to do a deep house cleaning, declutter, and organization. It is a good time to mindfully look at what is surrounding you, what do you really need, and what should be discarded or donated. We change and evolve, so it is important to set up our living space to reflect our current priorities. Make room for new projects to happen and say goodbye to outdated belongings.

2. Best time to remove last year’s Tai Sui altar and set up a new one

Tai Sui or the yearly god is a strong power that can affect the animal sign of the year and the animal sign across from that sign. In the 2023 year of the Rabbit, the affected zodiac signs are Rabbit and Rooster. If your animal sign is a Rabbit or Rooster, you can set up a Tai Sui altar to pray for a peaceful year.

The best date to take down the previous year’s Tai Sui is on the lunar December 24th or January 15, 2023.

You can set up a new Tai Sui altar anytime, but it is usually done from mid-lunar December until mid-lunar January. The lunar January 15, 2023, is February 05, 2023, on the western calendar. It is best to set up the Tai Sui altar before that. This includes setting up a Tai Sui altar at home or having the Tai Sui ceremony at the temple.

3. Lunar New Year's Eve and New Year's Day

The lunar New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day are January 21 and 22, 2023. These 2 days are the best for meditation, goal-setting, visiting temples, and setting up a money altar or enhancer.

For the first few days of the lunar new year, it is important to bring good energy. Make sure your pantry is full, your clothing is bright, your home is clean, and all words spoken are positive. It is to ensure our new year starts with happiness and abundance.

4. The best dates to re-open for business after lunar new year

Here are the traditionally lucky dates to open the door for business after the new year holidays. These are also lucky dates to set up a money altar for any money enhancers.

In the western calendar, it includes January 26, 27, 29, and February 1st, 2nd, and 5th.

Use these dates as references to fit your schedule and your business.

To find more daily lucky and unlucky activities, directions, and animal signs, check out our 2023 Feng Shui Planner and Calendar.

Link: https://picturehealer.com/2023-feng-shui-planner-and-calendar

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[japanwithjoc]

Blog 03: Shizuoka, Mt Fuji, Tokyo | 3/29 thru 4/01

Blog 03: Shizuoka, Mt Fuji, Tokyo | 3/29 thru 4/01

In-Yo (Yin-Yang) & Feng-Shui (Wind Water)

In-Yo and Feng-Shui is a Chinese philosophy used in Japan that describes how balance is achieved through opposing forces being in constant flux. The forces may be entirely different, but they complement each other, creating harmony. The entire country widely represented this concept as there are many urban spaces, yet an equivalence of green. Although in this case, pink, since our group traveled during the Sakura season. 

Kawaii

Kawaii, meaning cute in Japanese, is a popular social concept in Japan, especially in Harajuku Tokyo. Kawaii is shown in many products and shows like Sanrio and Pokemon, the most universal. I’ve also noticed this concept's widespread back home; it is fascinating to see the country where it started.

Shinjuku Gyoen (新宿御苑) 

Shinjuku Gyoen is located in the city's heart and is one of Tokyo's largest and most popular parks. It is one of the best places to see the cherry blossoms during the springtime and Sakura season. The park has a traditional Japanese garden and an English landscape garden. It is an excellent representation of forest bathing and an escape from the city. Seeing the large city buildings shine through the large pine trees is extraordinary. The contrast of the opposites creates a different type of harmony and picture within the city. 

Tokyo Sky Tree

To see the entire Sky Tree, you must move your head toward the sky; the tower is massive! Once we got into the elevator, my stomach was turning, but going up 350 floors was a breeze. It barely felt like we went up one foot. Exiting the elevator, we got a breathtaking view of all of Tokyo. You can see all the cars moving below and the entire infrastructure of Tokyo. It was a wonderful experience. 

Kaiseki Dinner 

We ended our trip with a formal Kaiseki dinner. Kaiseki is known around the world as the finest meal. The traditional multi-course Japanese dinner applies the Shun principle, which means preparing ingredients at the peak of their freshness and allowing each dish to be authentic to flavor with the proper eloquent display. There are several courses to kaiseki meals, and the exact number of courses depends on the chef and the availability of seasonal ingredients. However, the kaiseki dining experience typically goes in the order of appetizers, sashimi, cooked dishes, and a rice course, ending with dessert. It was a great way to end the time with our professor and classmates. 

Ikebukuro & Harajuku

We had to make our own itinerary on the final day in Japan. Using all the guidance we got from our professor the previous days, we took public transport from Shinagawa station to Ikebukuro. The intent was to find a place that sold anime products. While walking through the streets, we found a cat cafe, “Mocha Cafe,” and spent about an hour obsessing over the cuteness. After, we stopped at multiple second-hand anime stores and got great deals on anime items. We ended off the day at Harajuku, experiencing large crowds of people and tasty banana strawberry crepes.

[luckylittt]

Who Can Wear Pi Xiu and How to Wear It Properly?

Introduction Pi Xiu, also known as Pi Yao, is a mystical creature in Chinese culture that is widely regarded as an auspicious symbol, bringing wealth, prosperity, and protection to its wearer. Its money-drawing and wealth-gathering abilities make it highly favored by many, especially those looking to enhance their financial fortunes or ward off misfortune. While the Pi Xiu meaning is tied to Feng Shui principles, its proper usage, including how to wear it and who can wear it, is crucial for it to bring its desired effects. In this article, we will dive deep into understanding the significance of Pi Xiu, who can wear it, how to activate Pi Xiu bracelets, and how to wear them according to Feng Shui principles.

Who Can Wear Pi Xiu?

Pi Xiu, with its strong connection to prosperity and protection, is suitable for various people. However, there are some groups who should avoid wearing Pi Xiu for specific reasons.

1. Business People

Those in business are the ideal candidates for wearing Pi Xiu. Its primary function is to draw and keep wealth, making it a perfect talisman for entrepreneurs and traders seeking financial success. Wearing a Pi Xiu bracelet or necklace helps attract money and ensure that the wearer’s fortune grows steadily.

2. Students

Students can also benefit from wearing Pi Xiu, especially in terms of health and well-being. The protective nature of Pi Xiu supports personal growth, offering blessings to the wearer to help them overcome obstacles and achieve their goals.

3. People Clashing with Tai Sui

Pi Xiu is believed to provide protection to those who are clashing with Tai Sui (the Grand Duke Jupiter) in a given year. Tai Sui conflicts are a major concern in Feng Shui, as they can bring misfortune. Wearing Pi Xiu helps ward off negative energy and keep one safe from harmful influences.

Who Should Avoid Wearing Pi Xiu?

While Pi Xiu brings wealth and fortune, some individuals should avoid wearing it due to its fierce energy:

1. People with Deficient Qi or Vital Energy

Pi Xiu is a powerful creature with fierce energy. It is not recommended for people who have low Qi or vital energy, including the elderly and children. These groups may find it difficult to control Pi Xiu’s potent energy, which could lead to negative outcomes.

2. Pregnant Women

Pregnant women should avoid wearing Pi Xiu because, despite its auspiciousness, it carries some level of malevolent energy that could harm the unborn child.

3. People Born Under the Zodiac Signs of Dog, Rabbit, and Tiger

In Feng Shui, Pi Xiu is known to clash with certain zodiac signs. Specifically, people born under the Tiger, Dog, and Rabbit signs are not recommended to wear Pi Xiu as it can attract misfortune due to their incompatibility with the Dragon King, Pi Xiu’s father.

4. Women During Menstruation

Women going through their menstrual cycle are advised not to wear Pi Xiu. During this period, the body discharges impurities, which are considered incompatible with Pi Xiu’s need for purity.

5. People with Digestive Issues

Since Pi Xiu is a spiritual creature that only consumes but never excretes, people suffering from digestive problems like constipation or indigestion should avoid wearing it, as it may exacerbate their condition.

6. Evil-minded People

Pi Xiu is a loyal spirit animal that protects its kind-hearted master. Those with malevolent intentions or a wicked heart should not wear Pi Xiu, as its power may work against them instead of offering protection.

7. Those Seeking Instant Wealth

While Pi Xiu is renowned for its money-drawing abilities, it does not grant immediate wealth. Individuals who expect quick riches may find themselves disappointed. Pi Xiu assists in accumulating wealth through hard work and proper financial management, not by providing a shortcut to success.

How to Wear Pi Xiu Bracelets or Necklaces?

Wearing Pi Xiu correctly is vital to ensure its benefits. Here are some tips on how to wear Pi Xiu bracelets or necklaces based on Feng Shui practices.

1. Which Hand to Wear Pi Xiu Bracelet – Left or Right?

Most Pi Xiu bracelets should be worn on the left hand. According to Feng Shui, energy flows into the body from the left and exits from the right. Therefore, wearing it on the left hand helps attract wealth and good fortune. However, if the bracelet is made of obsidian, it can be worn on either hand.

2. Pi Xiu Bracelet Facing Direction

When wearing a Pi Xiu bracelet, ensure that the head of the Pi Xiu is facing outward. This symbolizes Pi Xiu drawing wealth from all directions and channeling it toward you. The thumb points inward, so the head of Pi Xiu should face away from your body to fulfill its wealth-gathering function.

3. Pi Xiu Pendants for Necklaces

For Pi Xiu pendants worn around the neck, make sure the head is pointing upward. This is to symbolize rising prosperity and the absorption of positive energies from the universe. Pi Xiu is a heavenly creature, and its head should never be facing downward, as this is considered inauspicious.

4. Touch Pi Xiu Frequently

To establish a strong bond with your Pi Xiu, touch it frequently. This helps the Pi Xiu recognize you as its master, enhancing its protective and wealth-attracting powers.

5. Wear Pi Xiu for Extended Periods

It is recommended to wear Pi Xiu for longer periods, especially the first time. Avoid wearing it sporadically, as it may lose its connection with you and become less effective in accumulating wealth.

6. Avoid Touching Pi Xiu’s Eyes and Mouth

Pi Xiu’s eyes are for spotting treasure, and its mouth is for devouring wealth. Avoid touching these areas unnecessarily, as it could diminish its power. However, accidental touches are not a cause for concern.

7. Keep Others from Touching Your Pi Xiu

Pi Xiu is a personal talisman and should not be touched by others. If someone else touches your Pi Xiu, cleanse it with water to restore its potency.

8. Remove Pi Xiu During Intimate Moments or Bathing

Pi Xiu enjoys cleanliness, so remove it during intimate moments or when bathing. Exposing it to impure conditions can weaken its effectiveness.

How to Activate Pi Xiu Bracelet

Activating your Pi Xiu bracelet is essential to unlock its full power. Here are the steps to activate Pi Xiu bracelet effectively:

Cleanse the Pi Xiu with clean water or natural methods such as placing it in moonlight overnight.

Wear the bracelet for an extended period without taking it off, especially during the initial days.

Touch your Pi Xiu daily, stroking it from head to tail to establish a personal connection.

Show it respect by avoiding exposure to dirty or negative environments.

How to Cleanse Pi Xiu

As Pi Xiu is a son of the Dragon King, it loves water. Regular cleansing is essential to maintaining its purity. Clean Pi Xiu with natural water sources such as rainwater, river water, or simply clean tap water. Avoid chemicals that can damage its material, especially if it's made from jade, obsidian, or jadeite.

What to Do with a Broken Pi Xiu?

If your Pi Xiu breaks, it means it has served its purpose by protecting you from a misfortune. You can pack the broken Pi Xiu in a red cloth and bury it in a serene place, symbolically returning it to nature. You can then replace it with a new Pi Xiu to continue receiving its blessings.

Conclusion

Pi Xiu is a powerful talisman steeped in Feng Shui meaning, offering wealth, protection, and good fortune. However, it must be treated with respect and worn correctly to activate its full potential. Whether you're wearing it as a bracelet or necklace, following the right guidelines for wearing, cleansing, and caring for your Pi Xiu will ensure that you reap its benefits in both wealth and protection.

FAQs

What is the Pi Xiu meaning in Feng Shui? Pi Xiu is an auspicious creature that symbolizes wealth, protection, and prosperity. It is especially used to attract and safeguard money.

How do you activate a Pi Xiu bracelet? You can activate a Pi Xiu bracelet by cleansing it with natural water, wearing it regularly, and touching it frequently to build a bond.

Can anyone wear Pi Xiu? While many people can wear Pi Xiu for wealth and protection, individuals with certain zodiac signs (Tiger, Rabbit, Dog), pregnant women, and those with low energy should avoid wearing it.

Which hand should I wear my Pi Xiu bracelet on? Most Pi Xiu bracelets should be worn on the left hand, except for those made of obsidian, which can be worn on either hand.

How should I cleanse my Pi Xiu? Cleanse Pi Xiu with water, preferably rainwater or river water, to avoid chemical damage. You can also leave it out under moonlight for natural cleansing.

What should I do if my Pi Xiu breaks? If your Pi Xiu breaks, bury it respectfully in a red cloth. This symbolizes returning it to nature after it has served its protective role.

[promiscxous]

♡ . ◞ * 𝐂𝐇𝐀𝐑𝐀𝐂𝐓𝐄𝐑 / 𝐁𝐋𝐎𝐆 𝐀𝐒𝐒𝐎𝐂𝐈𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍 .

ANIMAL: Black Panther — Courage, valor, beauty, grace, challenge, feminine power, and rites of passage. The black panther is a courageous guardian, blessed with ancient maternal lunar power, who is drawn towards solitary people. Fierce feminine power resides within you. // Black Mamba — Transformation and rebirth. The black mamba often symbolizes shedding old patterns and behaviors in order to make room for new ones. It can be a sign that you are ready to let go of something in order to move forward. The black mamba is also associated with the idea of prophecy and divination.

COLOR(S): Gold — Reminiscent of luxury, success, achievement, triumph, royalty, and fortune, the color gold is named after the precious metal of the same name. The meaning of the color gold is multifaceted, often denoting generosity and compassion, as well as being synonymous with divinity and power in many religious settings. // Purples — Royalty, nobility, luxury, power, and ambition. Purple also represents meanings of wealth, extravagance, creativity, wisdom, dignity, grandeur, devotion, peace, pride, mystery, independence, and magic. // White — Purity, perfection, honesty, cleanliness, and beginnings. Surveys in Europe and the United States repeatedly link the color white to forms of purity.

MONTH: February — Vibrant symbols that reflect its unique character. The color popping bloom, the violet, symbolizes faithfulness and remembrance, while the amethyst birthstone enhances awareness and spirituality, providing much-needed warmth and energy during this cold, dark month.

SONGS: Aishite Aishite Aishite (English Cover)【JubyPhonic】愛して愛して愛して // My Chemical Romance - The Light Behind Your Eyes // Smoke and Mirrors - Cover by Lollia feat. ‪@sleepingforestmusic // Fuckarias - Those Dancing Days // 【Miery】- Lie // Dead or Alive 4 - Official Soundtrack 'My Grave' Track 66 // SRNO ft. Gia Koka - Give It All Up // Blackbriar - Through the Crevice

DAY OR NIGHT: Night — Darkness and night therefore symbolize a world without God’s presence, night always occurs when suffering is worst.

PLANTS AND FLOWERS: Wisteria Frutescens — Longevity, endurance, love, affection, youth, poetry, friendship, homesickness, longing, elegance, grace, romantic ambiance. // Dicentra Spectabilis — Love, pain or sorrow, compassion, unrequited love, purity and innocence, true love. // Lycoris Radiata — Death, reincarnation, life cycle, abandonment, afterlife, personal growth, life's transient beauty, manjushake.

SMELL: Roses — Love and passion, tranquility, relaxation, ethereal beauty, versatility, longevity, complexity. The rose is a universal symbol of love and passion, and is often used in perfumes to enhance mood and emotional well-being. The scent of rose is associated with positive emotions such as tranquility. The fragrance of roses was said to relax and clear the mind. The scent of roses can be both feminine and masculine, and blends well with a variety of other notes. The scent of rose can vary widely, from sweet and honey-like to rich and spicy.

GEMSTONE: Amethyst — Royalty, christianity, love, healing, feng shui, intuition.

SEASON: Spring — New beginnings, hope and optimism, renewal, impermanence, rebirth and resurrection, growth, education, and development.

FOOD: Candy — Goodness, pleasure, reward, and temptation. // Desserts — Sweetness and love.

ELEMENT: Darkness — Evil, foreboding, sadness, mystery, ignorance. Darkness is the opposite of light, and light is often associated with salvation, spiritual growth, and discernment. // Moon — Time, femininity, knowledge, the afterlife, hope, nature, emotions. Waxing and waning, the moon is a sign of constant change. Moral instability, the changing heart, the gullible mind, and our frequently vacillating resolve.

DRINK: Rose Tea — Love, purity, friendship, gratitude, happiness, confidentiality, balance, emotional resonance, timelessness. An herbal infusion that can be used to unwind. It may also have functional benefits, such as aiding digestion, nourishing the skin, and balancing temperature. Rose tea may also have natural anti-inflammatory properties and can potentially enhance sleep and mood. // Wine — Divine gift, sacred drink, knowledge and wisdom, prestige and wealth, love and romance, taste and class, mystical properties, and Dionysus. Wine often connotes happiness and friendship. It is also a symbol of transformation, as grapes undergo transformation when they are fermented. Because of its importance in the Near East, wine may also symbolize sustenance and life. // Cocktail — Free thinking, celebration, relaxation, cultural significance, and status symbol. They can symbolize celebration. They can evoke feelings of fun or sophistication. Or they can simply be a great way to unwind and relax after a hard day's work.

Tagged by: @chrysnae

Tagging: I have no idea who to tag anymore so just steal it from me and tag me.

[brookston]

Holidays 4.8

Holidays

Aerosol Day

All is Ours Day

Baghdad Liberation Day (Kurdistan)

Bloating Prevention Day

Colorism Awareness Day

Counter Stool Memorial Day

Cushing’s Disease Awareness Day

Cuti Bersama (Indonesia)

DAB Day (Draw A Bird Day)

Day of Military Commissariat Employees (Belarus)

Day of Silence

Day of Valor (Araw ng Kagtingan; Philippines) 

Dog Farting Awareness Day

Draw a Picture of a Bird Day

Drug Control Authority Workers’ Day (Kyrgyzstan)

Economist Day (Tajikistan)

Geranium Day (England)

Ghodejatra (Nepal)

Grand Ivy Day

Grand National Ladies Day (UK)

Ground Ivy Day

Hammerin’ Hank Day

International Bird Day

International Day of Pink

International Feng Shui Awareness Day

International Pageant Day

International Romani Day (a.k.a. International Day of the Roma)

Ja Morant Day (South Carolina)

Martyrs’ Day (Tunisia)

Ministry of Defense Day (Thailand)

More Cowbell Day

Mule Day

National Animation Day (Russia)

National Arcade Day

National Banjo Day

National Best in the World Day

National Catch and Release Day

National Dog Fighting Awareness Day

National Idiot Day

National Plitvice Lakes Day (Croatia)

Peanuts-Kids-Baseball Day

Polling Day Eve (Samoa)

Pygmy Hippo Day

Radish Day (French Republic)

Rex Manning Day (in “Empire Records”)

Right to Read Day

Rumenians’ Independence Day (Sweden)

Sealing the Frost (Cuchumatan Indians; Guatemala)

Shiatsu Day

Shiba Inu Day (Japan)

Step into the Spotlight! Day

Trading Cards for Grown-Ups Day

Tutor Appreciation Day

Twin Peaks Day

World Mixed Martial Arts Day

World Neurosurgeon’s Day

Zoo Lovers' Day

Food & Drink Celebrations

Milk in Glass Bottles Day

National Empañada Day

2nd Monday in April

Global Day of Action on Military Spending [2nd Monday]

National Lineman Appreciation Day [2nd Monday]

Weekly Holidays beginning April 8 (2nd Week)

Ora;, Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Week [thru 4.14]

Take Your Poet to School Week [thru 4.12 from 1st Monday]

Independence & Related Days

Australis (a.k.a. Grand Duchy of Australis; Declared; 2020) [unrecognized]

Rumenians' Independence Day (Romernas Nationaldag; Sweden)

Festivals Beginning April 8, 2024

Children’ Book Fair (Bologna, Italy) [thru 4.11]

Electric Mountain Festival (Solden, Austria) [thru 4.12]

NFRA Executive Conference (Tempe, Arizona) [thru 4.10]

Seatrade Cruise Global (Miami, Florida) [thru 4.11]

Feast Days

Ædesius (Christian; Martyr)

Allen Butler Talcott (Artology)

Anne Ayres (Episcopal Church (USA))

Apollonius (Positivist; Saint)

B. Albert, Patriarch of Jerusalem (Christian; Saint)

Barbara Kingsolver (Writerism)

Buddha's Birthday (Mahāyāna Buddhists; Japan)

Constantina (Christian; Saint)

Cornelius de Heem (Artology)

Day of Amon-Ra (Pagan)

Dionysius of Corinth (Christian; Saint)

Feast of the Hummingbird (Aztec)

Feast of the Three Days of the Writing of the Book of the Law begins (Thelema)

Freedom of Religion Day (Everyday Wicca)

Geronimo Day (Church of the SubGenius; Saint)

Hana Matsuri (Flower Festival on Buddha’s Birthday; Japan)

Juan van der Hamen (Artology)

Julie Billiart of Namur (Christian; Saint)

Kanbutsu-e (Buddha’s Birthday; Japan)

Kiki the Rattlesnake (Muppetism)

Lazarus Saturday (Orthodox Christian)

Nuzzle Quran (Malaysia)

Odd Nerdrum (Artology)

Our Lady of Good Counsel (Christian)

Perpetuus of Tours (Christian; Saint)

Prayer for Clarity Day (Starza Pagan Book of Days)

Red Wine Day (Pastafarian)

Walter of Pontoise (Christian; Saint)

William Augustus Muhlenberg (Episcopal Church (USA))

Zoo Day (Pastafarian)

Lucky & Unlucky Days

Nēmontēmi, Day 4 (of 5) [Aztec unlucky or fasting days, taking place between 4.5-4.18]

Sensho (先勝 Japan) [Good luck in the morning, bad luck in the afternoon.]

Unlucky Day (Grafton’s Manual of 1565) [19 of 60]

Premieres

All the Old Knives (Film; 2022)

American: The Bill Hicks Story (Documentary Film; 2011)

The Apocrypha (Religious Text received as Canonical by Catholic Church; 1546)

Bars and Stripes Forever (WB MM Cartoon; 1939)

The Boss (Film; 2016)

Box Car Bandit (Woody Woodpecker Cartoon; 1957)

The Century, by Peter Jennings and Todd Brewster (Book; 1999)

The Clash, by The Clash (Album; 1977)

David and Goliath, by Malcolm Gladwell (Book; 2014)

Destitively Bonnaroo, by Dr. John (Album; 1974)

Father Noah’s Ark (Disney Silly Symphony Cartoon; 1933)

Fever Pitch (Film; 2005)

The Fireman (Oswald the Lucky Rabbit Cartoon; 1931)

From Russia, with Love, by Ian Fleming (Novel; 1957) [James Bond #5]

The Gambler (TV movie; 1980)

Hanna (Film; 2011)

Have Gun, Can’t Travel (Woody Woodpecker Cartoon; 1967)

Inspector George Gently (UK TV Series; 2007)

Jerry the Lion (Tom & Jerry Cartoon; 1950)

Just Dance, by Lady Gaga (Song; 2008)

Killing Eve (TV Series; 2018)

Kingdom (BBC TV Series; 2007)

La Gioconda, by Amiliare Ponchielli (Opera; 1876)

The Little Engine That Could, by Watty Piper (Children’s Book; 1930)

Lucky Star (Anime TV Series; 2007)

The Mansion Cat (Tom & Jerry Cartoon; 2001)

Miss Lonelyhearts, by Nathanael West (Novella; 1933)

Mr. Right (Film; 2016)

On the Heights of Despair, by Emil M. Cioran (Philosophical Book; 1934)

The Organ Grinder (WB MM Cartoon; 1933)

Sea Salts (Disney Cartoon; 1949)

The $64,000 Question (Radio Quiz Show; 1955)

Smash by The Offspring (Album; 1994)

The Smurfs Springtime Special (Hanna-Barbera Animated TV Special; 1982)

Soul Surfer (Film; 2011)

Toys in the Attic, by Aerosmith (Album; 1975)

The Trouble With Being Born, by Emil M. Cioran (Philosophy Book; 1973)

Twin Peaks (TV Series; 1990)

The Unusuals (TV Series; 2009)

Von Drake in Spain (Disney Animated TV Special; 1962)

Where Did Our Love Go, recorded by The Supremes (Song; 1964)

Ye Olden Days (Disney Cartoon; 1933)

Today’s Name Days

Beate, Rose-Marie, Walter (Austria)

Lazar, Lazo (Bulgaria)

Diogen, Dionizije, Klement, Timotej (Croatia)

Ema, Emanuel (Czech Republic)

Janus (Denmark)

Julia, Juuli, Juulika, Lia, Liana, Liane (Estonia)

Suoma, Suometar (Finland)

Julie (France)

Beate, Rose-Marie, Walter (Germany)

Lazaros (Greece)

Dénes (Hungary)

Alberto, Dionigi, Walter (Italy)

Dana, Danute, Dziedra, Edgars, Žanete (Latvia)

Dionizas, Girtautas, Julija, Skirgailė (Lithuania)

Asle, Atle (Norway)

Apolinary, Cezary, Cezaryna, Dionizy, Gawryła, January, Radosław, Sieciesława (Poland)

Agav, Irodion, Lazar, Ruf (Romania)

Alla, Anna (Russia)

Albert (Slovakia)

Amancio, Dionisio, Julia (Spain)

Hemming, Nadja, Tanja (Sweden)

Gillian, Jill, Jillian, Jolyon, Julia, Julian, Juliana, Julianna, Julianne, Julie, Julien, Juliet, Juliette, Julio, Julissa, Julius (USA)

Today is Also…

Day of Year: Day 99 of 2024; 267 days remaining in the year

ISO: Day 1 of week 15 of 2024

Celtic Tree Calendar: Fearn (Alder) [Day 23 of 28]

Chinese: Month 2 (Ding-Mao), Day 30 (Ren-Yin)

Chinese Year of the: Dragon 4722 (until January 29, 2025) [Wu-Chen]

Hebrew: 29 Adair II 5784

Islamic: 29 Ramadan 1445

J Cal: 9 Cyan; Twosday [9 of 30]

Julian: 26 March 2024

Moon: 0%: New Moon

Positivist: 15 Archimedes (4th Month) [Eudoxus]

Runic Half Month: Ehwaz (Horse) [Day 14 of 15]

Season: Spring (Day 21 of 92)

Week: 2nd Week of April

Zodiac: Aries (Day 19 of 31)

[brookstonalmanac]

Holidays 4.8

Holidays

Aerosol Day

All is Ours Day

Baghdad Liberation Day (Kurdistan)

Bloating Prevention Day

Colorism Awareness Day

Counter Stool Memorial Day

Cushing’s Disease Awareness Day

Cuti Bersama (Indonesia)

DAB Day (Draw A Bird Day)

Day of Military Commissariat Employees (Belarus)

Day of Silence

Day of Valor (Araw ng Kagtingan; Philippines) 

Dog Farting Awareness Day

Draw a Picture of a Bird Day

Drug Control Authority Workers’ Day (Kyrgyzstan)

Economist Day (Tajikistan)

Geranium Day (England)

Ghodejatra (Nepal)

Grand Ivy Day

Grand National Ladies Day (UK)

Ground Ivy Day

Hammerin’ Hank Day

International Bird Day

International Day of Pink

International Feng Shui Awareness Day

International Pageant Day

International Romani Day (a.k.a. International Day of the Roma)

Ja Morant Day (South Carolina)

Martyrs’ Day (Tunisia)

Ministry of Defense Day (Thailand)

More Cowbell Day

Mule Day

National Animation Day (Russia)

National Arcade Day

National Banjo Day

National Best in the World Day

National Catch and Release Day

National Dog Fighting Awareness Day

National Idiot Day

National Plitvice Lakes Day (Croatia)

Peanuts-Kids-Baseball Day

Polling Day Eve (Samoa)

Pygmy Hippo Day

Radish Day (French Republic)

Rex Manning Day (in “Empire Records”)

Right to Read Day

Rumenians’ Independence Day (Sweden)

Sealing the Frost (Cuchumatan Indians; Guatemala)

Shiatsu Day

Shiba Inu Day (Japan)

Step into the Spotlight! Day

Trading Cards for Grown-Ups Day

Tutor Appreciation Day

Twin Peaks Day

World Mixed Martial Arts Day

World Neurosurgeon’s Day

Zoo Lovers' Day

Food & Drink Celebrations

Milk in Glass Bottles Day

National Empañada Day

2nd Monday in April

Global Day of Action on Military Spending [2nd Monday]

National Lineman Appreciation Day [2nd Monday]

Weekly Holidays beginning April 8 (2nd Week)

Ora;, Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Week [thru 4.14]

Take Your Poet to School Week [thru 4.12 from 1st Monday]

Independence & Related Days

Australis (a.k.a. Grand Duchy of Australis; Declared; 2020) [unrecognized]

Rumenians' Independence Day (Romernas Nationaldag; Sweden)

Festivals Beginning April 8, 2024

Children’ Book Fair (Bologna, Italy) [thru 4.11]

Electric Mountain Festival (Solden, Austria) [thru 4.12]

NFRA Executive Conference (Tempe, Arizona) [thru 4.10]

Seatrade Cruise Global (Miami, Florida) [thru 4.11]

Feast Days

Ædesius (Christian; Martyr)

Allen Butler Talcott (Artology)

Anne Ayres (Episcopal Church (USA))

Apollonius (Positivist; Saint)

B. Albert, Patriarch of Jerusalem (Christian; Saint)

Barbara Kingsolver (Writerism)

Buddha's Birthday (Mahāyāna Buddhists; Japan)

Constantina (Christian; Saint)

Cornelius de Heem (Artology)

Day of Amon-Ra (Pagan)

Dionysius of Corinth (Christian; Saint)

Feast of the Hummingbird (Aztec)

Feast of the Three Days of the Writing of the Book of the Law begins (Thelema)

Freedom of Religion Day (Everyday Wicca)

Geronimo Day (Church of the SubGenius; Saint)

Hana Matsuri (Flower Festival on Buddha’s Birthday; Japan)

Juan van der Hamen (Artology)

Julie Billiart of Namur (Christian; Saint)

Kanbutsu-e (Buddha’s Birthday; Japan)

Kiki the Rattlesnake (Muppetism)

Lazarus Saturday (Orthodox Christian)

Nuzzle Quran (Malaysia)

Odd Nerdrum (Artology)

Our Lady of Good Counsel (Christian)

Perpetuus of Tours (Christian; Saint)

Prayer for Clarity Day (Starza Pagan Book of Days)

Red Wine Day (Pastafarian)

Walter of Pontoise (Christian; Saint)

William Augustus Muhlenberg (Episcopal Church (USA))

Zoo Day (Pastafarian)

Lucky & Unlucky Days

Nēmontēmi, Day 4 (of 5) [Aztec unlucky or fasting days, taking place between 4.5-4.18]

Sensho (先勝 Japan) [Good luck in the morning, bad luck in the afternoon.]

Unlucky Day (Grafton’s Manual of 1565) [19 of 60]

Premieres

All the Old Knives (Film; 2022)

American: The Bill Hicks Story (Documentary Film; 2011)

The Apocrypha (Religious Text received as Canonical by Catholic Church; 1546)

Bars and Stripes Forever (WB MM Cartoon; 1939)

The Boss (Film; 2016)

Box Car Bandit (Woody Woodpecker Cartoon; 1957)

The Century, by Peter Jennings and Todd Brewster (Book; 1999)

The Clash, by The Clash (Album; 1977)

David and Goliath, by Malcolm Gladwell (Book; 2014)

Destitively Bonnaroo, by Dr. John (Album; 1974)

Father Noah’s Ark (Disney Silly Symphony Cartoon; 1933)

Fever Pitch (Film; 2005)

The Fireman (Oswald the Lucky Rabbit Cartoon; 1931)

From Russia, with Love, by Ian Fleming (Novel; 1957) [James Bond #5]

The Gambler (TV movie; 1980)

Hanna (Film; 2011)

Have Gun, Can’t Travel (Woody Woodpecker Cartoon; 1967)

Inspector George Gently (UK TV Series; 2007)

Jerry the Lion (Tom & Jerry Cartoon; 1950)

Just Dance, by Lady Gaga (Song; 2008)

Killing Eve (TV Series; 2018)

Kingdom (BBC TV Series; 2007)

La Gioconda, by Amiliare Ponchielli (Opera; 1876)

The Little Engine That Could, by Watty Piper (Children’s Book; 1930)

Lucky Star (Anime TV Series; 2007)

The Mansion Cat (Tom & Jerry Cartoon; 2001)

Miss Lonelyhearts, by Nathanael West (Novella; 1933)

Mr. Right (Film; 2016)

On the Heights of Despair, by Emil M. Cioran (Philosophical Book; 1934)

The Organ Grinder (WB MM Cartoon; 1933)

Sea Salts (Disney Cartoon; 1949)

The $64,000 Question (Radio Quiz Show; 1955)

Smash by The Offspring (Album; 1994)

The Smurfs Springtime Special (Hanna-Barbera Animated TV Special; 1982)

Soul Surfer (Film; 2011)

Toys in the Attic, by Aerosmith (Album; 1975)

The Trouble With Being Born, by Emil M. Cioran (Philosophy Book; 1973)

Twin Peaks (TV Series; 1990)

The Unusuals (TV Series; 2009)

Von Drake in Spain (Disney Animated TV Special; 1962)

Where Did Our Love Go, recorded by The Supremes (Song; 1964)

Ye Olden Days (Disney Cartoon; 1933)

Today’s Name Days

Beate, Rose-Marie, Walter (Austria)

Lazar, Lazo (Bulgaria)

Diogen, Dionizije, Klement, Timotej (Croatia)

Ema, Emanuel (Czech Republic)

Janus (Denmark)

Julia, Juuli, Juulika, Lia, Liana, Liane (Estonia)

Suoma, Suometar (Finland)

Julie (France)

Beate, Rose-Marie, Walter (Germany)

Lazaros (Greece)

Dénes (Hungary)

Alberto, Dionigi, Walter (Italy)

Dana, Danute, Dziedra, Edgars, Žanete (Latvia)

Dionizas, Girtautas, Julija, Skirgailė (Lithuania)

Asle, Atle (Norway)

Apolinary, Cezary, Cezaryna, Dionizy, Gawryła, January, Radosław, Sieciesława (Poland)

Agav, Irodion, Lazar, Ruf (Romania)

Alla, Anna (Russia)

Albert (Slovakia)

Amancio, Dionisio, Julia (Spain)

Hemming, Nadja, Tanja (Sweden)

Gillian, Jill, Jillian, Jolyon, Julia, Julian, Juliana, Julianna, Julianne, Julie, Julien, Juliet, Juliette, Julio, Julissa, Julius (USA)

Today is Also…

Day of Year: Day 99 of 2024; 267 days remaining in the year

ISO: Day 1 of week 15 of 2024

Celtic Tree Calendar: Fearn (Alder) [Day 23 of 28]

Chinese: Month 2 (Ding-Mao), Day 30 (Ren-Yin)

Chinese Year of the: Dragon 4722 (until January 29, 2025) [Wu-Chen]

Hebrew: 29 Adair II 5784

Islamic: 29 Ramadan 1445

J Cal: 9 Cyan; Twosday [9 of 30]

Julian: 26 March 2024

Moon: 0%: New Moon

Positivist: 15 Archimedes (4th Month) [Eudoxus]

Runic Half Month: Ehwaz (Horse) [Day 14 of 15]

Season: Spring (Day 21 of 92)

Week: 2nd Week of April

Zodiac: Aries (Day 19 of 31)

[joancoyechina]

DAY 6: Beijing: Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven

Our Beijing guide, Cathy whisked us off first thing this morning to Tiananmen Square where after multiple passport station checks, we entered the world’s largest square capable of holding 1 million people!  Edging the vast expanse are the Great Hall of the People(where the government meets), the Mao mausoleum (where his preserved body is kept), the Palace of Earthly Tranquility, the Hall of Supreme Harmony, the Monument to the People and the gate of China (entrance toForbidden City:originally Forbidden to ordinary people).

We of course took photos in front of the parade stand with the enormous picture of Chairman Mao, and found ourselves again having celebrity status.  Person after person asked us to pose for pictures with them and/or their children... fun and funny!

The Forbidden City is the world’s largest imperial palace built in 1420, covering 178 acres and was home to 24 emperors over 492 years! A vast complex of walls, courtyards and ornate buildings it includes 9,999.5 rooms (just less than the 10 thousand rooms they believe God has in Heaven). 

The roofs were made of porcelain tiles and the structures of wood - all with traditional pagoda style roofing. There were no trees in the city for reasons of security and Feng shui, but the intricate carving, gold gilt and paintings on the woodwork added beauty enough.  The three main buildings of the complex are The Hall of Preserving Harmony, the Hall of Central Harmony and my favorite, The Hall of Supreme Harmony.

After lunch we were driven to the Temple of Heaven built at the same time as the Forbidden City where the Emperor came to the temple twice a year, at summer and winter solstice to offer prayers and sacrifices. The architecture was similar with the most conspicuous difference here being the plentiful trees, flowers and plants in the temple gardens.  We stopped to absorb good vibes from one particular 600 year old Juniper tree labeled the Tree of Longevity.  

Numerology appears to be a strongly held belief system here.  At both the Forbidden City and The Temple of Heaven our guide explained the importance of the number of buildings, the number of steps, the number of rows of bricks in the wall etc.  The numbers 2, 8 and 9 are auspicious, whereas 4, 5 and sometimes 7…not so much.  4 seems to be the worst, and is associated with death. Our guide said that the Chinese don’t even want to have license plates containing the number 4 (but it can’t be helped?!).  The culture also attributes specific meaning to lots of other things such as shapes (round = heaven; square=earth), colors (red=luck, joy and happiness; white =death), and animals (crane=longevity and high rank; elephant=happiness and good luck).

Red Theatre was the last stop of our eventful day where we viewed a traditional Chinese acrobatic show.  It was an impressive Cirque de Soleil type production culminating in 11 lovely ladies riding one bike and 5 motorcycles circling in a spherical cage (think Mad Maxx).

We only had energy left to dine at the hotel bar which was actually perfect as we shared a salad, spaghetti and Sauvignon Blanc, with a finalé  of Macha Ice Cream.

[i-windwater]

2025, year of the snake, Feng Shui analysis and setup suggestions

2025, year of the snake, Feng Shui analysis and setup suggestions

Below is the 2025 annual Flying Star Feng Shui chart, showing the locations of the nine stars and Feng Shui afflictions in the Snake year.

The chart below combines the 2025 annual Flying Stars and the Period 9 stars. For the analysis and suggestions, I picked the primary lucky element. This does not mean that other elements are not lucky or helpful in feng shui. There are many different factors, such as your house chart based on your house direction and construction year or the Ba Zi birth charts of residents. Use the information from Feng Shui as a general reference.

Please note that the South is always at the top of traditional Chinese maps. You can turn around the Feng Shui chart to match the direction of your house so the South of the Flying Star chart matches the South of your floor plan.

Nine flying stars and Feng Shui afflictions on the 24 mountain chart for 2025

From the 24 mountain chart (24 directions), it is clear that Tai Sui (the Yearly God or Grand Duke Jupiter) is occupying Southeast 3 because it is the location of the Snake animal sign.

Across from Tai Sui is the Sui Po (Year Breaker) in Northwest 3. This is the location of the Pig animal sign. In 2025, both SE3 and NW3 are under the influence of Tai Sui and are related to more stress and uncertainty. Both Snake and Pig signs are under pressure this year.

The Feng Shui rule for Tai Sui is to avoid facing the Tai Sui direction (SE3) directly for the long term. So avoid having a chair or sofa in the NW3 and facing SE3 in 2025.

Area-by-area Feng Shui for 2025, the year of the Snake

1. Center - yearly star 2, Period 9 star 9

2. West - yearly star 4, period 9 star 2

3. Northwest - yearly star 3, Period 9 star 1

4. North - yearly star 7, Period 9 star 5

5. Northeast - yearly star 5, Period 9 star 3

6. East - yearly star 9, Period 9 star 7

7. Southeast - yearly star 1, Period star8

8. South - yearly star 6, Period star4

9. Southwest - yearly star 8, Period 9 star 6

Watch the video about the 2025 Snake Year Feng Shui analysis

Have a healthy and prosperous 2025, the year of the snake!

Featured Posts

[angelandgypsy]

Check out this listing I just added to my Poshmark closet: Huge 2.86 LB Dream Amethyst Beautiful Crystal Ball Sphere Gemstone With Stand.

[skinnydpn]

Check out this listing I just added to my Poshmark closet: The Feng Shui Box ENERGY & BALANCE Jo Russell. UNOPENED.

[dextixer]

Worldbuilding of RWBY - The reason i HATE and LOVE the show in equal measure.

I love exploring new fantastical worlds. Be it through books, video games, anime, movies or any kind of media. To me, all of those creative endeavors are not just about the story that is being told, it is also about the world that is being presented to me. Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings being one of my first influences in just experiencing new worlds.

RWBY is no different in this regard. While the fights captivated me as much as anyone else, its the world that attracted me the most. It was during the retcon period of League of Legends and (in my opinion) the total failure of a story from "Sunrider" that i got fully immersed in RWBY as not just a cool show with cool fights, but as a full world full of wonder.

And this sense of wonder has only been growing since V1, with each volume bringing in new information, or series such as "world of remnant" that also gave extra information about the world. Even with my opinion that the quality of the show is not the best, anything the show gives i like in a creative sense (to an extent).

Imagination and Freedom

The reason why i care about worlds like RWBY is because they allow imagination to run free, for not only the creator but also the consumer. Let us take the universe of "Shadowrun" games for example. It is a dystopian cyberpunk setting with fantasy elements in it. Through this universe i have seen stories, met characters and even explored ideas that i never thought about before. And so have the writers.

We have a cyberpunk setting with fantasy elements? Well, why dont we explore what would happen if a corporation exploited the concept of "Feng Shui" for its own gain?

Why dont we explore transhumanism through one characters quest to achieve immortality of all humanity through integration of machines?

Why dont we explore how becoming an outcast and finding strenght in it can lead a person to reject and even fight against values instilled in them by others?

I could go on for hours about the stories i have experienced in Shadowrun. Characters i have met. And the world itself of course, the differences and connections between different corporations. European war 1 and 2. But most importantly is that while there have been a lot of things explored, i still feel like the world has a LOT to go through. As such i both feel content with what i have now, yet i want more.

Remnant, a world underutilized

This is not the feeling i have with the world of RWBY as much as i would like to. While i still want to see more of it and can tell you about the world of Remnant, i cant even tell close to the ammount of stories that i can about Shadowrun. And its simply because RWBY barely utilizes its world and even characters, at least the main show does.

The books i have heard about quite frankly sound more interesting and more exploring of the world than the show. A brother and a sister working together to recreate a monarcy as they believe to be the righftull descendents of a great ruler? The details i have heard about those books are great, they explain why civilians dont have aura, how Vacuo was fucked over by the other kingdoms.

Or what about stories about Ozpin? Him in his various reincarnations? Him living different lives and influencing legends and stories that outlive his own hosts?

And yet the main show over 8 volumes manages to run over 3(4) kingdoms without barely exploring ANY of them. Why does Vale look so "modern"? Does it even have a consistent city plan that does not change between Volumes? What culture does it have? How is it ruled? How do criminals like Torchwick and Junior come about? The same can be said about other locations as-well. We barely saw Mistral, most of our time in Menagerie was in a literal palace and while V7-8 do try something with Atlas, it is quickly cut short due to Salem being included in a place that she genuinely did not need to appear in.

It just feels like im sitting in a train looking out the window and see so many interesting things pass by, yet being unable to focus on any of them.

This is why for the most part fanfictions of RWBY keep me an avid fan of the show. I have seen fanfictions that create/explore the military life of Atlas. Fanfictions that explore the relationship between huntsmen and simple civilians. Fanfictions that explore a possible crime underground in various kingdoms. Fanfictions that truly explore and utilize the world that the show has, and does not use.

What is a Huntsman

In the end, some of you might say "Well, RWBY as a show does not focus on those things, its fine if they are not shown", and that is partially correct, RWBY as a show is about different aspects of the world than i have listed previously. The problem is....

Even that is done poorly in regards to worldbuilding.

Aura has been retconed in V5, and even to this day, from the show itself we barely know ANYTHING about it. It can shield people but we dont know what for example decides aura reserves, why do people have different ammounts of Aura? Why are certain weapons (like snipers) not more popular since aura is active? How is Vytal Tournament even a thing if anyone can die from stealth easily? Why are aura trackers seemingly used in the tournament and almost never make an appearance again?

Hunters are basically trained mercenaries right? What governs them, does anyone? Is there any way of ensuring loyalty? Are there many rogue huntsmen? Do businesses or governments use them for some shady stuff? Is that not allowed or allowed? How would you even take in a rogue huntsman and keep them in jail? Can you negate semblances or Aura of people somehow?

Are they all trained to build/maintain their weapons? Where do they get the parts? Who teaches them? Does everyone do that?

I can ask these questions all day and night and receive barely any answers to any of these, while i can go into a single Shadowrun game and get many, if not answers, at least directly proposed theories and information. The same cannot be said about RWBY.

And the questions i gave before? All related to huntsmen, the people we are following on their adventure right now. They even have Qrow with them, a supposed veteran huntsman of a bad background that could be utilized to tell the heroes at least a few of these things.

And yet, nothing.

End

I love the world of RWBY because it allows a LOT of creativity in those who look at the world and want to add to it. But i also hate the show because it REFUSES to do the same, to take the world it has created and fully utilize it.

RWBY genuinely could have been on the level of Avatar with its worldbuilding. An adventure during which our heroes discover/learn more about the huntsmen system and the kingdoms that they are supposed to protect.

And yet as many have described what RWBY has is a world that is as big as an ocean, yet deep as a puddle. It has so much at its hands and does nothing with it.

And it is frustrating.

I WANT to know more, yet the show refuses to do so and instead looks like its running head-first into the end of the series.

[thecatsandthecrone]

Witchcraft 101: 10 good luck charms and their origin (part 2)

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Symbolism is ever present, ever changing, always evolving. There are as many items full of meaning as there are cultures, and what might be lucky for a culture might be unfortunate for others. Black cats, traditionally hailed as “unlucky” in folklore, are considered extremely lucky by witches, who adore them and keep them around as familiars. This is only one of the most common examples, but signs, charms and symbols vary from culture to culture, albeit some are common to many cultures all over the bloge. Today, I want to introduce you to another 10 chams that mean good luck to certain cultures and why they do so; as the 2nd part of another article in this series. Please support me by reblogging and liking this piece and by sending me messages if you’d like to see more articles like this ! 1.Dragons: While dragons were considered villains and bad omens in European cultures, in certain Asian cultures they are regarded as gentle spirits that bestow good luck and wisdom, as they were considered to be old and wise. Those that are favoured by a dragon are considered to be fortunate in China, and it is not rare to see little statues, decor and jewellery pieces that include dragons as a motif in hopes of bringing fortune to one and one’s household. 2.Beetles: Beetles were considered good luck in ancient Egypt but also in many modern cultures, so their image features in many pieces of jewellery old and new. Beetles are said to bring good luck due to their association with prosperity, as they are very hardworking animals that are said to never tire. They are also said to protect harvests from other pests, so those that had lots of beetles in their fields were considered lucky. 3.Maneki neko (beckoning cat): Originary from Japan and popularized by Japanese culture, it is not rare to see a beckoning cat in the entrance or in the window or different Asian businesses. The maneki neko, often gold and with a moving right paw, is said to have prevented a samurai from being stuck by thunder after beckoning him with his paw. This little statues can bring fortune on different areas depending on which colour they are and which paw they move: golden ones for general fortune, green for monetary gains, pink for love... 4.Dolphins: Dolphins as a symbol of good luck are particularly popular in seafaring cultures, specially Mediterranean ones. Not only are they said to be intelligent and headstrong animals that “make their own luck” by working hard and being resourceful; but they were beloved by marines and considered lucky as they were said to prevent boats from sinking and guiding seafarers back to land when lost. 5.The nazar (turkish eye): The nazar originated from Turkish culture, but in most recent years it has become popularized all over the world. The nazar, a blue ornament resembling an eye, is said to prevent bad luck and to drive away the evil eye. It’s association with good luck came to be due to its symbolism as a protective charm that keeps jinxes away. 6.The chinese coins: Popularized by Chinese culture and extremely popular in feng shui decor, this coins are said to bring fortune and wealth to those that own them. They are very popular in feng shui decor and it is not rare to see a string of this coins tied together with a red ribbon in the walls of chinese restaurants ! 7.The number 7: The number 7 is considered to be particularly fortunate in certain cultures, specially Latin and Mediterranean ones. Hailed as “the perfect number” by ancient mathematicians, there are numerous reasons why 7 is considered a fortunate number: it is the sum of 4 and 3 (or of squares and triangles, considered perfect figures in geometry), there are 7 colours in a rainbow, there are 7 days in a week... 8.Lucky bamboo: Asian cultures often look at bamboo as an extremely lucky plant. This is because bamboo is strong, flexible, resilient and it also grows extremely fast. It is common in certain cultures to offer a bamboo shoot to attrack wealth and good fortune to a household. 9.Ankh (Egyptian cross): The egyptian cross was favoured by ancient Egyptians as a lucky totem. Also called “the key of life” it is a symbol of eternal life and divinity, commonly associated with Gods and pharaohs. There are images of ancient Egyptian Gods utilizing Ankhs to revive people, so they are also said to have resurrective powers. 10.Pigs: Pigs are considered lucky in many cultures for different reasons. In European cultures, pigs were considered a symbol of prosperity and good luck, as only wealthy and affluent families were lucky enough to afford this animal. In Chinese culture, pigs are considered diligent and hardworking, and therefore “prosperous” animals. It is not difficult to see why pigs have come to be associated with luck, wealth, fortune and prosperity and why we keep our money inside piggy banks nowadays ! I hope you have enjoyed this post. If you would like me to continue making posts like this please support me so I can continue making them: you can support me by donating here https://ko-fi.com/bunnymatchamochi or by visiting my Etsy store here: https://www.etsy.com/shop/LovenestAtelier?ref=profile_header Reblogs and likes also help ! Thank you so much for reading me !

[phoenixlionme]

Asian Martial Arts

I will be doing a set of posts of all of the martial arts from each of the country they all originated from. I can’t be entirely sure how many martial arts there, so I had to google and went to a site called, wayofthemartialarts.com as well as using Wikipedia on the “List of martial arts” page. If I missed any from this country, please add it but BE polite. I don’t tolerate rudeness. Also, some of these martial arts may include a weapon (s).

1. Bangladesh -> Butthan, Lathi Khela, Boli Khela

2. Cambodia -> Bokator, Pradal Serey

3. China -> Ba Fa; Ba Ji Quan Kung Fu; Ba Gua Zhang; Ba Ji; Bak Mei Kung Fu; Bai Mei; Bao Quan Kung Fu; Bei Tui; Chang Quan; Cha Quan; Chin Na; Choy Gar; Choy Li Fut; Chuo Jiao; DiSom; Di Tang Quan; Drunken Money; Drunken Fist; Duan Quan; Eagle Claw; Emei Quan; Fanzi; Feng Shou; Five Ancestors; Five Animals aka Ng Ying; Fujian White Crane; Guzhuangquan; Fu Jow Pai (Tiger Claw Style); Fut Gar (Buddhist Family); Hei Hu Quan (Black Tiger Fist); Hou Quan Kung Fu; Hua Quan; Hung Fut; Hung Ga; Hung Gar; Jow-Ga Kung Fu; Kunlun Quan; Kuntao; Lai Tung Pai; Lama Pai; Lau Gar; Leopard Style; Liu He Ba Fa; Li Gar Quan (Li Family Fist); Long Quan; Luohan Quan (Arhat Fist); Mei Hua Quan (Plum-blossom Fist); Mian Quan (Cotton Fist); Mi Zong; Mizongyi; Mok Gar; Monkey Style; Nan Quan; Northern Praying Mantis Style; Northern Shaolin; Pao Chui; Pi Gua Quan (Chop-Hanging Fist); Pushing hands; San Da (Chinese Kick-boxing); San Soo; Sanshou; Shaolin Kung Fu; Shuai Jiao (Chinese Wrestling); Shui Quan (Water Fist); Snake Style; Southern Dragon Style; Southern Praying Mantis Style; Tai chi; Tan Tui; Tien Shan Pai; Tong Bei Quan; Wing Chun; Wu Dang Quan; Wushu; Xing Yi Quan; Yau Kung Moon; Yi Quan; Yue Jia Quan; Zi Ran Men; Zui Quan

4. India -> Adimurai; Andhra Pradesh; Bal Vidya; Bihar; Dhanurvidya; Gadayuddha; Gatka; Huyen Langlon; Malla Yuddha; Mushtiyuddha; Kalaripayattu; Karnataka; Kashmir; Kerala; Kick-fighting; Maharashtra; Manipur; Nagaland; Niyuddha; Odisha; Pehlwani; Pugilism; Silambam; Vajra-mushti

5. Indonesia -> Caci; Cakalele; Debus; Fitimaen; Kabasaran; Kuntao; Mekare-kare; Pasola; Payuq; Pencak Silat; Silat; Sisemba; Sitobo Lalang Lipa; Tarung Derajat; Tinju

6. Israel -> Kapap; Krav Maga

7. Iran -> Kung Fu To’a

8. Japan ->  Aikidio; Aikijujitsu; Araki Ryu; Bajutsu; Battojutsu; Bojutsu; Bujutsu; Byakuren Kaikan; Daido Juku Kudo; Daito-Ryu Aikijujutsu; Enshin Kaikan; Goju-Ryu Karate; Hanbojutsu; Hojojutsu; Iaido; Iaijutsu; Isshin-Ryu; Itto-Ryu; Jojutsu; Judo; Jujutsu; Jukendo; Juttejutsu; Karate; Keijojutsu; Kendo; Kenjutsu; Kickboxing; Kobudo; Koryu; Kyokushin Karate; Kyudo; Kyujutsu; Kyusho Jitsu; Naginatajutsu; Ninjutsu; Nippon Kempo; Niten Ichi-Ryu; Nunchaku Jutsu; Shindo Jinen-Ryu; Shintaido; Shito-Ryu Karate; Shootfighing; Shooto; Shorinji Kempo; Shorin-Ryu Karate; Shotokan Karate; Sojutsu; Spochan; Sumo; Taido; Taiho Jutsu;  Tanto Jutsu; Tessenjutsu; Wado-Ryu Karate; Yabusame; Yamanni-Ryu; Yoseikan Budo

9. Korea -> Gongkwon Yusul; Gungdo; Gungsol; Haidong Gumdo; Han Mu Do; Hapkido; Hwa Rang Do; Korean swordsmanhsip; Korean spears; Kuk Sool Won; Kumdo; Kyuk Too Ki; Sibpalki; Soo Bahk Do;  Ssireum; Taekkyeon/Taekkyon; Taekwondo; Tang Soo Do aka Soo Bahk Do; Subak; Teukgong Moosool; Wong Hwa Do; Yongmudo

10. Laos -> Muay Lao

11. Malaysia -> Silat

12. Mongolia -> Bokh aka Mongolian wrestling

13. Myanmar (Burmese) -> Aka; Bando; Banshay; Lethwei; Naban; Pongyi thaing

14. Philippines -> Dumog; Eskrima; Kino Mutai; Panantukan; Sikaran; Yaw Yan

15. Sri Lanka -> Angampora

16. Thailand -> Krabi–krabong; Lerdrit; Muay boran; Muay Thai; Silat Pattani

17. Turkey -> Matrak; Oil Wrestling; Sayokan

18. Vietnam -> Cuong Nhu; Nam Hong Son; Qwan Ki Do; Tam Qui Khi-Kong; Võ thuật Bình Định/Bình Định Gia; Nhất Nam; Võ Việt Nam aka Võ Đạo of Phạm Văn Tan; Vovinam

[officialromaniantranslatiuni]

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