#Energy from the Southern Hemisphere

[kimludcom]

Uncle Waffles Live Amapiano Dj Set In London, UK 🇬🇧 | Electrifying performance 🔥

[moviestarmartini]

flores amarillas. — franco colapinto x gf!reader

él la estaba esperando con una flor amarilla / ella lo estaba soñando con la luz en su pupila / y el amarillo del sol iluminaba la esquina / lo sentía tan cercano, lo sentía desde niña.

summary: franco surprised you at the airport on a special saturday.

wc: 800

warnings: none! just fluff, conversations in spanish, idiots in love and a established relationship.

A/N: feliz día internacional (latino mostly) de las flores amarillas hehehehe i added the context in the fic so i won't give it here !

now playing... flores amarillas from floricienta

The only way your trajectory to Singapore could get worse was if the plane exploded mid-air like in Final Destination. 

It was humiliating; you were supposed to arrive Friday, and by the time you took your last connection, the estimated time of arrival was for early Saturday morning. The bags under your eyes were bigger than the ones sitting in the compartment underneath the passengers, you went from lack of sleep due to excitement to hibernation, ignoring the flight attendants who attempted to wake you up. 

You only rose from your slumber while the destination edged nearer, to freshen up and half heartedly have breakfast. You did your best to look presentable, flushing away in the sink the despair from both the missed connections and long customs lines. This involved changing out of the designated airport lounging outfit into something more fresh, having prepared the outfit in your personal bag, feeling the humidity already crawl up your bones even when you hadn’t descended. 

After his excellent work in Baku, Franco was eager to finally fly you out to see him race live in the top category, only having experienced him in the feeder series. The nerves ate you up, walking the paddock with your boyfriend was something you had fantasized about, but never expected to become a reality even when he reached Formula One. 

But there you were, praying for your bag to come out and not have gotten lost, leaving a big sigh of relief upon spotting it, untampered with. It wasn’t that heavy, and it was that moment of strength that took over you whenever your boyfriend wasn’t there to carry everything. 

As soon as your roaming plan kicked in you contacted him, letting him know you were there. He told you he hired a chauffeur to pick you up and take you back to the hotel, excusing himself due to the need to rest before paddock duties, which you completely understood. 

Imagine the surprise to see him standing at the arrivals gate holding a bouquet of yellow flowers. 

His face lit up in joy at the same time yours lit up in surprise, a delicate hand flying over to cover the O your mouth had turned into. 

Gifting yellow flowers on September 21st was used to celebrate the beginning of spring in the southern hemisphere, and the phenomenon just spread all throughout Hispanic countries. You’d dropped hints here and there, but with the stress from your flight… situations you’d completely forgotten about everything else. 

Your suitcase made noise against the floor as you dragged it along your sprint, letting it go— but making sure it stayed put— before hugging him tight. His laughter replenished all the energy the trouble had taken away from you, nuzzling into his shirt to breathe in his scent. 

Yeah, it was your Franco. 

“¡Me mentiste!” You proclaimed, hitting him in the chest. He ignored the subject of the yellow flowers and supposedly arranged for a third party to pick you up. 

“Buen día princesa hermosa, feliz de verte.” He blatantly ignored your claims, leaning in to smooch your cheek, hanging the bouquet of sunflowers with fresh eucalyptus mixed in for some greenery. You didn’t know if your ears felt warm because of the high temperatures or the flattery. 

“¿Cómo es que iba la canción? Ella sabía que el sabía que sabía que algún día pasaría—“ You interrupted his annoying high pitched sing along while you took a picture of the plants, heart thumping in your chest. 

“No, no. Que él sabía que algún día pasaría a buscarla—“ Now it was his turn for him to interrupt you, putting a finger over your lips. 

“—con sus flores amarillas!” Though you would regularly be offended at him interrupting you, you almost giggled at his antics. 

You stood there for a second, unable to tear your eyes away from the warm toned bouquet, still in the best type of disbelief. You didn’t notice it was you who he couldn’t tear his eyes away from. 

The second you told him you were asking for all the permissions to get a vacation sorted to see him race, he knew he had to make it special. And by your reaction, he knew it was a mission accomplished. Besides, it warmed his heart to see you so happy. 

“Let’s go get you freshen up and head to the paddock, if I’m any later than the hour I have left, they’re going to replace me.” Now the idea didn’t terrify you just as much, you were too busy gawking about the surprise to your mom and your friends, following him to the car knowing you had no time to lose nor spare. 

He took both your weekender and the medium sized suitcase, letting you to only carry the weight of having the best boyfriend ever. 

[tanadrin]

Pr and the Mniw

Pr is a minor planet orbiting the millisecond magnetar MMR CHA J1712-2901 ("Ast"), about a thousand light years from Earth, in the constellation Sagittarius. Ast has four major planets: Wsjrhp, Hrw, Mnw, and Bstt. Hrw has one moon, Jmstj. There are five large minor planet in eccentric orbits within 3 AU, Jrb, Bjr, Rrj, Zr, and Pr.

Planetoid

Pr is a large asteroid with a rotation period of about two hours; its average density is less than 4 g/cm^3, but its internal composition is highly variable. About 40% of its solid material is composed of massive diamond fragments fused together at seams formed of carbon glass, and the interior of the planet contains a large irregular cavern roughly 250 kilometers in radius. This cavern is sufficiently enclosed to retain an envelope of water and air with minimal outgassing. Due to the very high rotation speed of the planetoid, the surface of the cavern, at its lower levels, experiences a centrifugal force about 1-2% of Earth's gravity. The axis of Pr's rotation is nearly perpendicular to its orbit.

No complete model of the formation of the Ast system has yet been offered, but several hypotheses have been suggested to account for some of its more unusual features. The formation of a protoplanetary disk may be due to the disruption of a stellar companion, or fallback from the supernova that formed Ast in the first place; the diamond fragments which make up Pr may have originated in a disrupted carbon-rich planet or planetoid, or gas giant. The interior atmosphere of Pr is perhaps due primarily to biological processes releasing volatiles into the cavern.

Deliberate planetary engineering has been mooted as a possibility, but the crew of the DSE Scholiast, the only vessel to survey the system so far, has not yet found evidence of such engineering by other civilizations, and the indigenous inhabitants of Pr are likely incapable of such undertakings at this time.

[Map of Pr, with some regions and bodies of water labelled, plus many major settlements. The relief of the cavern interior is very great; the large plateaus have scarps tens or hundreds of kilometers high. Note that the equilibrium potential at the interior surface of a rotating body is cylindrical, not spherical, and this projection is adjusted accordingly, and so shows true shapes near the poles. The nature of the geological processes that have shaped Pr's interior are not fully understood at this time. The total land area visible here is roughly equivalent to Texas or the Iberian Peninsula.]

Biology and Ecology

Pr's internal heat is maintained by the radiation from Ast, which is converted to thermal energy in Pr's crust. Thinner regions of the crust, particularly near the equator, have higher heat flow from the exterior; the high axial tilt of Pr also means that the northern and southern hemispheres can experience somewhat different heat flows throughout the year. Much more important to Pr's seasons, however, is the variability of Ast's magnetic field created by the eccentricity of Pr's orbit. When Pr is closest to Ast, organisms can extract energy from the magnetic field, as Pr's rotation allows them to create selective ion gradients whose diffusion provides energy, or to directly extract mechanical energy from electrically charged cilia. (Induced current is much too weak to be a useful source of biological energy).

As on Earth, the native lifeforms can be broadly classified into producers and consumers, but even the consumers on Ast obtain a significant portion of their energy budget from autotrophy, using heterotrophy only to supplement this budget. A minority of producers are also radiotrophs, who extract energy from the radioactive elements in Pr's crust.

Pr biology does not use DNA and is highly resistant to radiation. It also does not seem to experience Darwinian genetic drift. Instead, cells seem able to adapt their own internal machinery in response to certain kinds of stress, and to disseminate these changes throughout the organism, or even to conspecifics. The nature of this process and how it could have evolved is still a mystery, nor can they apparently account for all of the different forms observed among the native life.

The interior of Pr is dim, but not dark. Some plant species have evolved to emit light as a form of signaling, incentivizing some animal species to evolve eyes in response.

Because of the energy inefficiency of pure heterotrophy, to say nothing of pure heterotrophy that involves predating on other heterotrophs, no carnivorous animals are known on Pr.

[Above, the Mniw. The upper Mni has a fully-grown set of skin-plates; the lower Mni has either shed or removed hers, possibly as a cosmetic choice. The dark patches of skin shown are the rough beds from which the skin-plates grow.]

The Mniw

The Mniw (singular Mni) are the indigenous inhabitants of Pr. They are 12-18 centimeters long, with tough gray skin, and usually found with a mineralized defensive covering that grows out from the skin. They have a single sex, and reproduce via parthenogenesis. However, they still engage in a form of sexual intercourse, which is divorced from reproduction: instead, sex among the Mniw exists as a means of facilitating horizontal gene transfer, which then alters the nature of the offspring they bear. It can also allow a limited sharing of experiential memory. In addition to sight, hearing, and the other usual senses, the Mniw have the ability to sense the weak induced electrical currents in Pr's crust, which helps them perceive their environment better.

Mniw hatch from eggs and are generally raised in family units; they do not make sex-based distinctions, but do make social distinctions based on relationships. A mwt is the Mni who laid the egg; all other adults in the same household involved in childrearing are jtw; the sntw are siblings who share a mother, while other children raised in the same house are snw. Children from one's own eggs are srtw, while children from one's partner(s) are mnw.

As in humans, Mni adolesence is marked by gradual sexual maturity; reproductive fertility comes later in life, however, around the age of 30. Past 50, fertility declines slowly, as does the capacity to engage in horizontal gene transfer, though the capacity for sexual intercourse remains. Past 65 or so, Mniw enter their equivalent of "old age," but Mni do not experience a sudden collapse in their physiological health late in life, and can in principle life forever so long as they are not felled by accident, violence, or disease. In practice, lifespans are around 130-200 years, with a great deal of variability.

Mniw have many social elements, like hierarchy and emotions and social roles, that would not be entirely alien to humans, but they have no direct analogue to human sex roles or orientations. Instead the major cleavage in Mni society historically is between Mniw who tend to be primarily exogamous, preferring to mate and rear children with Mniw from distant communities, vs Mniw who tend to be primarily endogamous, with about 85% of Mniw being primarily endogamous; these traits perhaps evolved in the context of horizontal gene transfer to take advantage of different patterns of dissemination of useful traits.

Mniw can survive outside of Pr, but without a strong, moving magnetic field must consume a large amount of food; and the food they are normally adapted for will not grow at all absent such a field. An Earth-standard gravitational field would render them totally immobile, and would be extremely unpleasant, though probably not fatal, and it's possible given their unique physiology that they could eventually adapt to such an environment.

Mniw generally inhabit large, almost hive-like cities that are built out in three dimensions; historically, these could be strongly fortified against attack in a way that made wars of conquest nearly impossible until the invention of gunpowder. Mniw have had writing for about 5,000 years, and the first confederate states emerged around 3-4,000 years ago. The dissemination of gunpowder weapons 1,500 years ago radically altered politics and society on Pr, but the absence of easy paths to industrialization has caused a certain degree of stagnation since.

Modern Pr is divided into about a dozen large states, in an area of roughly 750,000 kilometers square, with a fair amount of diversity in languages, cultures, and social systems, given the small size of Pr. A very loose framework of international diplomacy is carried out through a series of councils called the Jaw Mwad, and on the occasion of the Scholiast's arrival, the Mniw convened a great council, a Wr Jaw Mwad, for the first time in over a century to open formal channels of communication.

[forgeofthenine]

When you said you can't drink hot drinks rn because it's hot for a moment my dumb ass was like "huh, they're so into the characters, they're straight up writing from Elturel down in Avernus". And then I remembered the southern hemisphere exists....

Anyway as a countertenor, I wonder how the Bachelors would react to someone serenading them. And also how they'd feel about someone serenading them. (Also kind of about countertenors since a loooot of people are weirded out when hearing my low speaking voice and then very high singing voice, if that's not too ultraspecific...)

(Also also, I feel like E Lucevan Le Stelle from Puccini's "Tosca" is such a Zevlor song. Imagine you're getting closer to him, flirting here and there, then during the party getting close. You promise to see each other again. And then everything goes to shit. Now he is trapped in the pod, unsure how much longer he has, terrified of turning into a mindflayer any second now. And he thinks of you...)

These headcanons are a combination of the above request and the anonymous request 'I like to sing, I sing when I get the chance alone. Now I wonder how the three tiefling bachelors react to a singing love interest?'

As for the hot drink thing, this ask and the hot drink one came in after multiple days of 27/28 degrees Celsius as the daily high and I actually felt like I was in the hells lmao. Sometimes I also wonder if people can tell where in the southern hemisphere I'm from by the way I write...

The song you suggested is beautiful and absolutely gives big Zevlor energy, I recommend any Zevlor fans check it out on youtube :)

The bachelors with someone who sings

Dammon

There's nothing Dammon likes more than coming inside from his forge and hearing your singing filling the house

If you sing specifically to serenade him that's even better

Dammon loves to both praise you and be praised, and there's hardly higher praise than someone singing about their love to you

Blushes so much if you sing him a love song, flushes even more if you sing a song that has innuendos

He could honestly listen to it all day

I feel like when the two of you are having spring cleaning days around the house he'd ask if you wouldn't mind singing

It makes working inside so much more pleasant for him

When you're singing while doing stuff he'd absolutely join in, though I feel like his singing voice isn't bad but it isn't anything special either

Dammon just loves getting to hear your voice, especially if you happen to be singing

Zevlor

Please sing for this sad tiefling

He hardly knows what to do with himself when you serenade him

Zevlor loves it, but suddenly doesn't know how to stop his face from flushing or his tail from swishing

Absolutely gives you the sweetest kiss when you finish

It's such a treat for him to hear you sing, nevermind the fact your singing your love for him

He loves it

I feel like Zevlor is good at shanty style singing, the hellriders definitely used to sing while working or on long rides

Sometimes he still softly sings some of his old work songs

He'd absolutely melt if you decided to join in and sing with him

It soon becomes one of Zevlors favourite pastimes

Rolan

Rolan loves to hear you sing

Even better, he loves when he's the only one to hear you sing

For you, in private, to serenade him with a love song is almost too much for him to handle

He feels like his heart is going to burst with love for you

Just think of all the sweet things he murmurs between kissing you after you sing for him

But, such affections should be only in private

Speaking of in private, when it's just the two of you ask him to sing with you

Out of all three of these men he's definitely the best singer

His voice almost sounds magical-

Rolan will reluctantly agree to sing, and after a while would get much more into it

The type to lead you in a very simple dance while the two of you sing

Just a very affectionate boyfriend that loves hearing you sing

[bethanythebogwitch]

Wet Beast Wednesday: lampreys

Welcome to the first Wet Beast Wednesday covering an agnathan. What is that, you may ask? Why it means jawless fish. But they aren't really fish even though they live underwater and have gills. Taxonomy strikes again. Anyway, agnathans are more closely related to each other than to any bony or cartilaginous fish and they may represent an early stage in the evolution of vertebrates. There are only two living groups of agnathans: the hagfish (which I'll get to sometime) and the lampreys.

(Image: a pair of lampreys, one resting on rocky sediment and one swimming. They are long, green, slender fish-like animals with only dorsal and tail fins, several holes on the sides of the heads, large eyes, and no visible jaws. End ID)

Lampreys are sometimes mistakenly called eels due to their long and slender bodies. All 38 known species are elongated, scaleless animals with a funnel-shaped, jawless mouth called the buccal tunnel or buccal cavity. They do not have paired fins, only two dorsal fins and a tail fin. The head has one nostril on the top and seven pores on each side that allow water flowing over the gills to exit the body, similar to the gill slits of sharks. Adult lampreys have well-developed eyes while the larvae have weak eyes covered with skin. In addition, they have two simple parietal eyes, making lampreys the only four-eyes vertebrates. The mouth acts like a suction cup and is used to suction onto rocks or other animals. Inside the mouth is a rasping tongue that is used to scrape at food. You may think that all lampreys are parasites that feed on blood. This isn't the case, only 18 species are predatory and some of those are thought to be exclusively scavengers. The rest of the species either feed on algae by scraping it from rocks or never eat as adults, subsisting entirely on energy stores gained as a larva. The last common ancestor of all living lampreys (which is estimated to have either lived during the Jurassic or Cretaceous periods) is believed to have fed on blood as an adult. Lampreys are believed to be part of a sister group to all jawed vertebrates and are considered the most basal (closest to the ancestral form) of all vertebrates. They have cartilaginous skeletons and primitive, cartilaginous structures called arcualia instead of vertebrae. Lampreys are some of the most efficient swimmers and swim using a different method to other fish. Instead of using their fins to push themselves forward, lampreys use their fins to generate low-pressure zones in the water around their bodies to pull themselves forward. The pressure equalizing is what does most of the work of moving the lamprey, allowing them to move while expending little energy. In shallow water, the lampreys can use their suctioning abilities to crawl forward and are able to crawl over obstacles like rocks or ramps. Most lampreys are exclusively freshwater dwellers, but 9 species (all of which are carnivorous) live mostly in saltwater (though they can also live in large bodies of freshwater like lakes) and return to freshwater to breed. Of the 38 species of lamprey, only 5 species (in two families) live in the southern hemisphere. The remaining species are all members of the family Petromyzontidae and live in the northern hemisphere. No species lives in the tropics, seemingly because their larvae are not heat-tolerant.

(Image: a lamprey's mouth seen from below. It round and conical and ringed with multiple rows of sharp, yellow teeth. End ID)

The lamprey life cycle of lampreys starts in streams which adults will often migrate to reach. Adults will create nests called redds by using their suction to move rocks and expose the sediment below. Males use pheromones to attract females and the two intertwine with each other. The male presses a patch of heat-producing tissue to stimulate the female to release her eggs. The male fertilizes the eggs as they emerge. All lamprey species are semelparous, meaning they die after mating. In the case of lampreys that don't eat as adults, their adult forms exist only to mate and die, much like mayflies and some species of moth. Other species that can eat as adults spend up to 4 years feeding and growing before they mate. Larvae are called ammocoetes and once hatched, they are carried downstream to eventually settle on soft sediment. There, they burrow their rear halves into the sediment with their heads exposed. In this stage, they are filter feeders who need running water to bring plankton, algae, and bits of organic detritus to their mouths. Instead of the disc-like mouths of adult lampreys, ammocoete mouths are fleshy hood that enclose a sieve-like structures that filters particles out of the water. The lifestyle of ammocoetes is very similar to that of lancelets, which are extremely primitive chordates believed to represent some of the earliest stages of chordate evolution. Ammocoetes require water high in nutrients to survive as they capture only a small amount of water and therefore food. Ammocoetes are photosensitive, allowing them to change color in response to ambient light (becoming dark in the day and ale at night) and detect if they are properly buried. Depending on species, ammocoetes can grow between 10 and 20 cm (4-8 in) in length and they can spend between 1 and 10 years in this state. Metamorphosis to the adult form can last up to 4 months and lampreys do not feed during this process. Metamorphosis is synchronized between members of the same species.

(Image: three ammocoetes buried in sand with only their heads exposed. They are similar to the adults but pink, with small, barely-visible eyes, and their mouth are flexible and look like fleshy flaps. End ID)

(Image: two lampreys mating. they are coiled onto each other with one using its mouth to suction onto the midsection of the other. They are on a rocky stream bed. End ID)

Lampreys are used in science for several purposes. They are often used as a model organism when attempting to understand the biology of early vertebrates and extinct agnathans. They are also studied quite a bit for their nervous systems. Lamprey brains are very simple and likely represent very early stages of brain development in vertebrates. In addition, they are useful for studies of the transmission of electrical impulses between nerve cells due to their axons (the part of a nerve cell that conducts electricity away from the main body and to other nerve cells), which are large enough for microinjectors to inject test substances into them. Lampreys are capable of fully recovering from having their spinal cords severed, something that is of great interest to surgeons and neurologists. Lampreys have been used as a food source in many cultures around the world. Some species have toxic mucus and blood, requiring them to be cleaned before eating. Historically lampreys have been kept in captivity for use in food as well as other purposes. There are records of people being executed or tortured by being thrown into a pit of carnivorous lampreys. In the wld, carnivorous lampreys generally don't attack humans unless they are starving. In addition, there is a record of one Roman statesman named Lucius Licinius Crassus being scolded for being more upset over the death of his pet lamprey than over the deaths of any of his wives. Unfortunately, the thing a lot of people know lampreys for today is the sea lamprey (Petromyzon marinus) being an invasive species in the great lakes of North America. They have no natural predators in the lakes and feed on a lot of ecologically and commercially important species. Due to their lack of predators, multiple methods are used to try to reduce their numbers and keep them from harming the ecosystem. These include using barriers to keep the adults from migrating upstream to breed, release of targeted poisons called lampricides, and releasing sterilized males into the lakes to mate with the females.

(Image: two sea lampreys suctioned onto a fish. The fish is green and covered with black dots. The two lampreys are suctioned next to each other on the top of the fish's head. Their bodies are dangling off of the fish in different directions. End ID)

[esoteric-chaos]

Lughnasadh Masterpost - Spoonie Witch Friendly

Lughnasadh, this holiday typically lands on August 1st in the Northern Hemisphere (February 1st in the Southern Hemisphere). 

Lughnasadh celebrates the arrival of the late summer season and the abundance of the first harvest.

Usually it a harvest of grain and corn, but in other areas it’s a fruit and vegetables for harvest. You’ll see the days begin to shorten from here.

This is a holiday that is more easy to feel disconnect from as most aren’t out there Stardew Valley style on their grandfathers farm. We either have a small garden of our own or everything is store bought. Or those who are gluten intolerant they also may find it harder to connect.

Celebrating and honoring the harvest is important. Even if we are not personally gardening we are offering thanks for natures prosperity in keeping us fed and healthy with each bountiful harvest.

But after this correspondence list I will give you a list of ideas of how everyone can celebrate.

Correspondences

Colours

Yellow

Orange

Gold

Green

Light Brown

Dark Purple

Tan

Herbal

Rosemary

Cinnamon

Mint

Basil

Garlic

Flowers

Sunflowers

Marigolds

Hydrangeas

Daisy

Dahlia

Zinnias

Yarrow

Roses

Honeysuckle

Oaktree

Apple tree

Edibles

(Anything within season)

Wheat, grains, bread

Corn

Apples

Berries

Peaches

Pears

Squash & zucchini

Tomatoes

Mead

Animals

Calves

Crow 

Pig 

Rooster

Salmon

Eagle

Lion

Squirrel

Stag

Lamb/ Sheep

Crystals

Citrine

Quartz

Amber

Malachite

Carnelian

Aventurine

Garnet

Tiger’s Eye

Metals

Symbols

The Sun

Wine & mead

Pentagram

Sunflowers

Corn

Wheat

Berries

Spiritual meanings & intentions

Prosperity

Success 

Gathering, harvesting

Giving, donating, sharing, charity

Thankful & grateful

Ancestors & heritage

Offerings

Blessings

The folk

Health

Career

Scents

Rose

Apple

Lavender

Cinnamon

Mint

Frankincense

Sandalwood

Coconut

Patchouli

Gods / Goddesses / Spirits

Demeter – (Greek)

Ceres – (Roman)

Isis – (Egyptian)

Luna – (Roman)

Dana – (Celtic)

Tailtiu – (Celtic) 

Cerridwen – (Celtic)

Parvati (Hindu)

Pomona (Roman)

Lugh – (Celtic)

Taranis – (Celtic)

Adonis (Assyrian/Greek)

Attis (Phrygian)

Mercury (Roman)

Osiris (Egyptian)

And many other harvest Gods/Goddesses

Need some suggestions to celebrate? I got you covered.

High energy celebrations

Abundance rituals

Visit a harvest festival

Harvest your garden

Bake bread

Baking pastries

Make jam or preserves 

Visit a farmer’s market

Create a large meal for the folk

Deity offerings

Create a money bowl (try rice in it just trust me)

Low energy celebrations

Healing bath ritual

Light a candle in honor

Prayer to Gods/Goddesses

Journal

Eat some fresh vegetables 

No spoons celebrations

Create a digital manifestation board (Try Pinterest) 

Eating fall themed pastries

Drinking apple juice or cider

Thank the harvest when you are able to fuel your body for taking care of you

Remember that it’s okay if you cant do much while you are unwell. That you come first and you simply existing is a blessing.

How you celebrate the holiday does not matter. You can choose to do any activity that feels right. These are only suggestions and remember that you're enough no matter what.

[talonabraxas]

Litha, Summer Solstice, Midsummer – circa June 22

Litha 2024: A Witches Guide to the Pagan Summer Solstice Celebration

Litha, also known as the Summer Solstice, is a pagan holiday celebrated on or around June 21st in the Northern Hemisphere. It is the longest day and shortest night of the year, and marks the official start of summer. Litha stands as one of the four 'lesser sabbats,' marking the pinnacle of the solar calendar. In pagan traditions, it is a time to celebrate the power of the sun and the abundance and growth of the natural world. It is also seen as a time of balance between light and dark, and a turning point in the year when the days begin to grow shorter and the nights longer. This holiday is a time of abundance, growth, and light, and is associated with a variety of correspondences, including colours, crystals, deities, traditions, and ways to observe the holiday.

When is Litha 2024

Litha celebration will land on June 20, 2024 in the Northern Hemisphere. In the Southern Hemisphere, Litha, or the summer solstice, occurs around December 21st or 22nd. This is when the Southern Hemisphere experiences the longest day and the shortest night of the year, marking the official beginning of summer.

How to Pronounce Litha

Litha pronunciation is "LEE-thuh" with the emphasis on the first syllable. The word "Litha" is believed to have originated from the Anglo-Saxon word for "midsummer" and is still used by modern pagans and Wiccans to refer to this holiday.

Litha Meaning

As a spiritual holiday, Litha is a time for rituals and ceremonies that honour the sun and the energy of the summer season. It is a time to connect with the natural world and to celebrate the beauty and diversity of life. It is also a time to reflect on personal growth and to set intentions for the rest of the year.

Overall, the meaning of Litha is one of joy, abundance, and connection to the natural world. It is a time to celebrate the light and warmth of the sun, and to embrace the energy of growth and transformation that comes with the summer season.

Litha Colours

The colours typically associated with Litha include yellow, gold, green, and blue. Yellow and gold represent the sun, which is at its strongest and brightest during this time of year. Green represents growth and abundance, while blue represents the sky and the waters of life.

Litha Herbs

Litha, or the summer solstice, is associated with a variety of herbs that symbolize the energy, growth, and warmth of the season. Here are some herbs commonly associated with Litha:

St. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum): This herb is often associated with the summer solstice and is believed to have protective and healing properties. It's in full bloom around this time.

Lavender (Lavandula spp.): Known for its calming and soothing properties, lavender is often used during Litha rituals to promote relaxation and spiritual connection.

Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris): Mugwort is associated with psychic awareness and protection. It's sometimes used in divination practices during Litha.

Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla): Chamomile is known for its calming properties and is often associated with relaxation, making it suitable for Litha rituals focused on introspection and meditation.

Rose (Rosa spp.): Roses are symbols of love and passion and are often associated with the sun. They can be used in rituals or as decorations to bring beauty and positive energy.

Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis): Lemon balm is associated with the sun and is believed to attract love and positive energy. It has a refreshing and uplifting scent.

Mint (Mentha spp.): Mint is often associated with prosperity and vitality. It can be used in rituals to bring abundance and refresh the energy.

Sage (Salvia officinalis): Sage is known for its cleansing properties. It can be used to purify a space before Litha rituals or celebrations.

Yarrow (Achillea millefolium): Yarrow is associated with courage and protection. It's often used in rituals to enhance personal strength and resilience.

Calendula (Calendula officinalis): Calendula, with its vibrant yellow and orange petals, is associated with the sun and is often used in rituals for joy and positive energy.

These herbs can be used in various ways during Litha, such as in incense, sachets, wreaths, or as offerings in rituals.

Flowers for Litha

Flowers are an important part of the Litha celebration. You can use them to decorate your altar, make flower crowns, or simply enjoy their beauty as a reminder of the abundance and growth of the summer season. Some flowers that are commonly associated with Litha and the summer solstice include:

Sunflowers: These vibrant flowers are often associated with the sun and the power of light.

Roses: With their beautiful blooms and sweet fragrance, roses are a symbol of love, beauty, and passion.

Lavender: This fragrant herb is often associated with relaxation, purification, and healing.

Marigolds: These bright orange and yellow flowers are often used in rituals to honour the sun and the power of fire.

Daisies: These simple yet cheerful flowers are a symbol of innocence, purity, and new beginnings.

Chamomile: This delicate flower is often used in rituals to promote calmness, relaxation, and restful sleep.

Yarrow: This herb is often associated with courage, strength, and protection.

Crystals:

Many crystals are associated with Litha, including citrine, sunstone, tiger's eye, and amber. These stones are said to bring warmth, abundance, and vitality, and can be used in a variety of ways during Litha rituals and celebrations.

Deities:

There are a variety of deities associated with Litha, depending on your spiritual tradition. Some popular options include the goddesses Brigid, Gaia, and Freyja, as well as the gods Lugh, Apollo, and Helios. These deities are often associated with the sun, fire, and growth, and can be called upon to bring blessings and abundance during Litha celebrations.

Litha Tarot Cards

While there isn't a specific set of tarot cards exclusively associated with Litha, the themes and energies of the summer solstice can be reflected in certain cards. Here are some tarot cards that might resonate with the themes of Litha:

The Sun (XIX): The Sun card is one of the most direct associations with the energy of Litha. It represents positivity, success, and the height of vitality. It signifies the triumph of light over darkness.

The Emperor (IV): The Emperor card is associated with structure, order, and leadership. It can symbolize the power of the sun in providing stability and guidance during the height of summer.

The Empress (III): The Empress represents fertility, abundance, and growth. It is a card that aligns well with the themes of the summer season when nature is flourishing.

The Wheel of Fortune (X): This card represents cycles and the turning of the seasons. It can symbolize the natural order of life and the changes that come with each season, including the transition from spring to summer.

The Ace of Wands: Wands in the tarot often represent fire and energy. The Ace of Wands, in particular, signifies new beginnings, inspiration, and the spark of creativity—qualities associated with the active and vibrant energy of summer.

The Nine of Cups: Known as the "Wish Card" or "Happiness Card," the Nine of Cups represents emotional fulfillment and contentment. It can be seen as a card of celebration, aligning well with the joyous atmosphere of Litha.

The Lovers (VI): The Lovers card represents harmony, unity, and the coming together of opposites. It can be interpreted as a card of balance and connection, reflecting the balance of light and darkness during the summer solstice.

The Four of Wands: This card is often associated with celebrations, achievements, and a sense of community. It can represent the joyous gatherings and festivities that often accompany the summer season.

Remember, tarot is a highly personal and intuitive practice. Feel free to choose cards that resonate with you and the specific aspects of Litha that you wish to focus on in your readings and rituals.

Traditions:

There are many different ways to observe Litha, depending on your personal beliefs and traditions. Some common practices include:

Lighting bonfires or candles to celebrate the light and warmth of the sun

Decorating altars and sacred spaces with flowers, herbs, and other symbols of growth and vitality

Holding outdoor rituals or gatherings to connect with nature and honour the turning of the seasons

Creating and sharing meals made with fresh, seasonal ingredients

Participating in activities that celebrate creativity, such as dancing, singing, or making art. Witches' Sabbath Zakuro Aoyama

[ray-does-witchcraft]

2024 Attic Calendar - January

Currently working on my own version of the adapted Attic calendar! So far I only have January, but February is almost done as well. Fair warning, this goes in depth about what the festivals/celebrations are and how to commemorate, so this post is gigantic. Attention: This is for the SOUTHERN HEMISPHERE!

⛧ [10/01/24] [Hekatombion 40th] - Hekate Deipnon

WHAT IS IT & WAYS TO CELEBRATE: It takes place at the end of the Lunar month. Hekate means "bringer of light", so at the darkest part of the month, we prepare our homes for the transition to a new month and offer her a meal. Think of it as a mini new year; clean/cleanse your house (especially altars), get rid of things you don't want to bring into next month (physical, spiritual, etc), and leave Hekate an offering at sundown (preferably a meal, but if you can't afford to waste food, just give her something else. Maybe bury or burn it if you can). Here's a list of good offerings (best left outside or at her altar, if you have one for her):

Bread

Cake (especially lit with candles)

Pomegranate

Wine

Honey

Cinnamon

Milk

Chocolate

Roses

Lavender

Poppy seeds

Dandelions

Incense (Frankincense, Lavender, Jasmine, Citrus, Dragons blood, Rosemary, or anything you have at hand)

Keys

Candles

Tea lights

Bones

Fire/Bonfire

Oil lamps

Crow/Raven/Own feathers

Poetry, Literature, Music, Hymns, etc

⛧ [11/01/24] [Metageitnion 1st] - Noumenia

WHAT IS IT & HOW TO CELEBRATE: The Noumenia is the first day of the visible New Moon and is held in honor of the household Gods. The Noumenia is a celebration of the start of a new Hellenic month and seeks blessings for the household. Honestly? You can just kick back and relax if you want or can, to invite calm energies into the upcoming month. But, if you (like me) want to be a little extra, here's some ways to celebrate:

Start a new personal project or hobby, or just pick back on things you've been putting off.

Set intentions for the coming month, and make plans for any of the month’s upcoming festivals, or for any of your personal upcoming plans.

Leave offerings for your deities.

Moon/stargaze, maybe meditate under the Moon.

Do a reading with your preferred divination method with the Theoi, asking what you should focus on in the coming month.

⛧ [12/01/24] [Metageitnion 2nd] - Agathos Daimon

WHAT IS IT & HOW TO CELEBRATE: One of my favorites! Daimons are household spirits that look after you and your family, so this is a day to honor Him! Pour a libation (especially wine, but mine likes milk better to be honest), make an offering, light a candle, maybe even make Him a lil altar! He's heavily associated with snakes, but aside from that you can offer (or put in His altar) anything you correlate with abundance, good luck, protection, etc. These guys are so overlooked and I love them. Here's a more in-depth post about Him and the holiday.

⛧ [13, 14, 16, 17, 18/01/24] [Metageitnion 3th, 4th, 6th, 7th & 8th] - Athena, Aphrodite/Hermes/Eros, Artemis, Apollo, Poseidon

WHAT IS IT & HOW TO CELEBRATE: Not exactly festivals, that's why I compiled them into one section, but these Lunar days are sacred to these deities in that order. Maybe leave them an offering or light them a candle, maybe even just devotional acts! Here's a good list of offerings for each:

ATHENA

Owl feathers/imagery

Pottery

Books

Toy weapons, athames, etc

Roses

Bread

Olive

Honey

Milk

Olive oil

Olive tree branches/leaves (real or not)

Clear crystals

Silver jewelry

Incense (Frankincense, Dragon's Blood, Cedarwood)

APHRODITE

Apples

Chocolate

Honey

Milk

Olive oil

Baked goods

Anything vanilla scented/flavored

Golden jewelry

Flowers (especially roses and anemones)

Sea stuff (sand, seashells, water, etc)

Perfume

Self care products

Rose quartz

Incense (Frankincense, Rose, Myrrh, Jasmine, Cinnamon, Vanilla, Cypress)

HERMES

Currency (real or not) (especially foreign)

Strawberries

Lemons

Dice

Playing cards

Travel tickets

Honey

Milk

Olive oil

Clovers

Cool rocks

Hematite

Incense (Frankincense, Myrrh, Safron, Dragon's Blood)

EROS

Honey cake

Chocolate

Fruit

Sweets (he likes candy a lot)

Milk

Honey

Olive oil

Rose quartz

Feathers

Flowers (real or not)

Heart-shaped objects

Arrows

Jewelry

Incense (Frankincense, Myrrh, Rose)

ARTEMIS

Animal related stuff (Imagery, bones, teeth, etc)

Moon related stuff

Moonstone

Clear quartz

Amethyst

Bows & Arrows

Leaves

Wild flowers

Acorns

Pine cones

Milk

Honey

Olive oil

Water

Silver jewelry

Incense (Frankincense, Cypress, anything woodsy)

APOLLO

Sun related stuff

Arts and crafts

Clear quartz

Citrine

Sunstone

Bows & arrows

Dandelions

Sunflowers

Poetry

Music

Honey

Milk

Olive oil

Water

Honeyed chamomile tea (he loves it)

Golden objects/jewelry

Divination items

Incense (Frankincense, Myrrh, Cypress, Clove, Cinnamon, Bay)

POSEIDON

Saltwater/Seawater

Seashells

Fish

Sand

Toy horses/horse imagery

Photos of the sea

Olive oil

Milk

Honey

Salt

Aquamarine

Sapphire

Incense (Frankincence, Myrrh, Pine)

⛧ [25-27/01/24] [Metageitnion 15-17th] - Eleusinia

WHAT IS IT & HOW TO CELEBRATE: The Eleusinia was a thanksgiving festival held to honor Demeter for the gift of grain. A modern way to celebrate is to have a big dinner (maybe include some breads and baking) and give thanks to Lady Demeter through it! Thank her for grain and the agricultural processes that we benefit from!

⛧ [28/01/24 ?] [Metageitnion 18th ?] - Adonia

WHAT IS IT & HOW TO CELEBRATE: A festival mourning the death of Adonis, one of Aphrodite's human lovers. Traditionally, it was celebrated only by women (as a trans guy, I personally don't give a fuck and celebrate it anyway). Also, there's no source for an exact date, so this is an educated guess at best (most sources just refers to it as taking place "midsummer"). For a way to celebrate, I found this amazing hymn/poem. Remember to honor Aphrodite on this day as well.

⛧ [30/01/24] [Metageitnion 20th] - Hera Telkhinia

WHAT IS IT & HOW TO CELEBRATE: A minor sacrifice for Hera, taking place in the suburbs of Athens. Again, not a lot of info, but if you worship or have a connection to her, maybe read her a hymn, pour a libation honor her on this day! Here's a Orphic hymn to her:

Hera, incense aromatic herbs and spices. You are seated in a cerulean cavern, having the form of air,    Íra queen of all, happy one who shares the bed of Zefs, You provide gentle breezes which sustain the soul. Mother indeed of storms, attendant of the winds, all-begetting. Apart from you life and generation cannot be found;    Mingled with the majestic air you partake of everything. You alone hold sovereignty, ruling over all. You are the stream which flutters down through the rushing winds. And now you, happy Goddess, many named, queen of all, Come with a countenance of kindness and joy. 

[magickkate]

Hey witches! As nature awakens from its winter slumber and the days begin to lengthen, we come to Ostara, the spring equinox, a time of balance, renewal, and fertility.

Ostara, also known as the Spring Equinox or Eostre, is a pagan holiday celebrated around March 20th in the Northern Hemisphere (September 20th in the Southern Hemisphere). It marks the arrival of spring and the balance between light and darkness as day and night are of equal length.

The holiday is named after the Germanic goddess Ostara, who represents fertility, renewal, and the dawn. Many customs and symbols associated with Ostara are rooted in ancient pagan traditions and folklore. Some key aspects of Ostara celebrations include:

Celebrating the Equinox: Ostara marks the arrival of spring and the rebirth of life in the natural world. It's a time to celebrate the earth's renewal, the return of longer days, and the promise of new beginnings. Here are some ways to honor Ostara and celebrate the beauty and bounty of the season:

🌱 Planting Seeds:

Get your hands dirty and plant seeds in your garden or indoor pots to symbolize growth, abundance, and new life.

🥚 Decorating Eggs:

Embrace the ancient tradition of decorating eggs, a symbol of fertility and rebirth. Paint, dye, or decorate eggs with symbols and colors that represent the themes of spring and renewal.

🌸 Nature Walks:

Take a walk in nature and immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and scents of spring. Notice the blooming flowers, budding trees, and chirping birds as you connect with the energy of the season.

🕯️ Rituals and Ceremonies:

Hold a ritual or ceremony to honor the equinox and invoke blessings for balance, harmony, and renewal in your life. Light candles, burn incense, and offer prayers or invocations to the goddess Ostara and the spirits of spring.

🍃 Feasting and Sharing:

Gather with loved ones for a festive meal or potluck to celebrate the abundance of the season. Cook and share dishes made with seasonal ingredients such as fresh greens, herbs, and spring vegetables.

Here are some ideas for recipes for Ostara:

Hot Cross Buns (Cross Quarter Buns): These tasty pastries are often enjoyed during the pre-Easter season of Lent. The decorative cross on top represents a Christian symbol, but you can infuse your own Pagan beliefs into it. Consider associating the four quarters of the cross with elements, directions, moon phases, seasons, Tarot suits, or fire festivals. To make your own, start with your favorite muffin or roll recipe and create an X on top using raisins, currants, or scored dough. Mint Chutney: Mint chutney is a versatile condiment that pairs well with various dishes. Keep in mind that the term “chutney” covers a wide range of culinary options. Roasted Lamb: For many ancestors, lamb was a symbol of spring and rebirth. Roasted lamb can be a delicious centerpiece for your Ostara feast. Dairy Products: Dairy is associated with fertility and new life. Include cheese, milk, cream, butter, and other dairy items in your Ostara meals. Eggs: Eggs symbolize new beginnings and potential. Hard-boiled eggs, deviled eggs, or egg salad are great choices. Spring Greens and Fresh Herbs: Celebrate the awakening of nature by incorporating fresh greens like spinach, kale, and spring onions. Use herbs like parsley, chives, and dill to add flavor and vibrancy to your dishes. Seasonal Crops: Asparagus and fiddlehead ferns are early spring crops that align perfectly with Ostara. Check in your area what is available! Marshmallow Peeps: While not traditional in ancient practices, these colorful marshmallow treats have become an iconic part of modern Ostara celebrations

Embrace the Magic of Ostara: Whether you're planting seeds, decorating eggs, or simply basking in the beauty of nature, Ostara offers a magical opportunity to connect with the energy of spring and celebrate the renewal and rebirth of life. So gather your friends, set your intentions, and let the magic of Ostara guide you on your journey into the light! 🌼🌿

Spring is a time of rebirth and growth. Consider working magic related to these themes.

Explore magical aspects of:

Serpents: Symbolism and folklore. Eggs: Associated with new life. Spring Flowers: Use blooming flowers in your magical workings. Daffodils: Early bloomers with magical purposes. Rabbits: Beyond the Easter Bunny. Magical Gardening: Growing plants as a magical act.

Remember, Ostara is a time to celebrate the return of light, growth, and the promise of warmer days ahead. 🌸🌼🌞

Learn more: learnreligions.com Sabbats: A Witch's Approach to Living the Old Ways by Edain McCoy(amazon.com) Llewellyn’s Sabbat Essentials BOX SET (amazon.com) witchcraftedlife.com magickalspot.com teaandrosemary.com

[tomorrowusa]

Another unwelcome climate change milestone.

You may have heard about Taylor Swift cancelling a concert in Rio de Janeiro because of the heat. This is how hot it was.

The record was hit on Sunday in the town of Araçuaí, in Brazil's south-eastern state of Minas Gerais. The unprecedented weather has been attributed to the El Niño phenomenon and climate change. Forecasters say some of the heat is likely to ease this week. According to the National Institute of Meteorology (Inmet), only three state capitals will see temperatures approaching 40C, CNN Brasil reported. The government agency said Araçuaí's high of 44.8C had beaten the country's previous record of 44.7C, measured in 2005. The heat has seen red alerts issued across the country, weeks before the beginning of summer in the southern hemisphere. Brazil's energy consumption has soared to record levels as people try to keep themselves cool.

The state of Minas Gerais is located in between Rio and the national capital Brasília. It is not a remote area. And in the Southern Hemisphere, this is the equivalent of mid to late spring. To paraphrase Ned Stark, Summer is coming.

The high temperatures led to Taylor Swift cancelling one of her concerts in Rio de Janeiro after a fan fell ill and died before a show on Friday. According to the organisers, 23-year-old Ana Clara Benevides Machado had sought help at the stadium after feeling unwell. She was transferred to hospital but died one hour later. Official research released two weeks ago showed that the average temperature in the country had been above the historical average from July to October. Extreme weather is becoming more frequent and more intense in many places around the world because of climate change.

Climate deniers may try to blame the record heat on the latest El Niño. But that ignores the fact that it hadn't gotten this hot in Brazil during any of the previous recurring El Niños.

This is yet another indication that climate change is testing the limits of where humans can survive.

Brazil's previous president, Jair Bolsonaro, gave the green light to deforestation of the Amazon rainforest. The neo-fascist "Trump of the Tropics" in three years during his term oversaw the deforestation of an area larger than Belgium.

Bolsonaro in his own way added to the misery Brazil is currently experiencing. He is a climate traitor to his own country.

[kimludcom]

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[superman86to99]

Superman #92 (August 1992)

Massacre, a big red alien who goes around the universe punching people, comes to Earth to steal some ice cream... and punch Superman, while at it. The ice cream thing isn't a joke, by the way. The issue starts with a space mobster called Chadda telling Massacre that he owes him for punching too many people to death "from his direction," so he has a mission for him. Massacre is ready to punch him to death too, until Chadda mentions that the mission involves going to Earth.

Earth, as you might know, is where Superman lives. Massacre feels like he owes Superman some punches from the last time they met, so he agrees to take the mission as a flimsy excuse to do that. He turns himself into energy and lands in some island in the Southern Hemisphere, where he instantly yells out for Superman to "reveal himself," but the only people around are some confused locals.

Massacre draws an honestly pretty good rendition of Superman's symbol on the sand (has Massacre been drawing the S-shield on his notebooks for months? omg he's just like me) and the islanders point him in the general direction of the USA. Of course, the USA is actually pretty big, so Massacre ends up asking directions from a random cowboy, who tells him he's "gots to go" to Metropolis to find Superman. And so, Massacre goes to Metropolis... Illinois.

Meanwhile, in the correct Metropolis, Superman is hard at work rebuilding the city's water purification plant after it was destroyed by Lex Luthor's missiles (along with most of the rest of the city), probably because he just wants Lois Lane to take a damn shower for the first time in a week. Unfortunately for the increasingly stinky people of Metropolis, Massacre finally finds his way to the city and distracts Superman from his job with, you guessed it, punching.

While Massacre keeps Superman occupied by burying him in cement, the little "Skimmer" alien who follows him around completes Chadda's mission: filling up a spaceship with an exotic substance that only seems to be produced on Earth called "ice cream." Superman breaks free from the cement, but Massacre throws him towards the ice cream-filled spaceship, causing it to come crashing down and explode. Did the little alien guy survive? Did the ice cream? Will Lois ever shower?! You'll have to wait to find out, because this is the part where I say TO BE CONTINUED!

Plotline-Watch:

Massacre kept his promise to Superman from his previous appearance that "We will meet again -- on Earth!" Now he needs to fulfill the second part, which is that he'd kill all of Superman's friends. Or at least Jimmy Olsen. C'mon, Massacre. You can do it!

Despite the insalubrious conditions in Metropolis, Superman feels like he can't fly off to some other city with Lois for a little romantic vacation because the last time he did that, their work friend's child was murdered by the Toyman. That's an understandable concern, but look at it this way: what if Jimmy is the one who gets killed this time? C'mon, Superman. You can do it!

Speaking of which, there's a subplot about Jimmy and Lucy Lane looking for clean clothes because all the ones they owned were blown up by Lex Luthor. I don't remember where this storyline goes, if anywhere, so I'm just going to assume it leads to Jimmy trying on a sweater that's two sizes too small and accidentally choking. Fingers crossed.

Don Sparrow points out that Massacre is part of a trend where villains were built up as the next Doomsday. They're not subtle about it, either. Superman already remarked during their first fight that he hadn't been punched that hard "since Doomsday," and now Lois says "That Massacre looks so tough! Almost as tough as... Doomsday!" You know one thing Massacre could do to elevate his status in Superman's rogues gallery and surpass Doomsday? Killing Ji-- okay, that's enough dead Jimmy jokes, sorry.

I like how Massacre says "Today, someone dies!" right before the Doomsday reference. That's right, kids! This one could be another collector's item!

Don says: "I appreciate the line of dialogue explaining that Clark will shave before jumping into action as Superman, so that no one connects their matching stubble." My question is, won't they end up looking alike anyway once Clark shows up again with a clean face? And won't the other Metropolis survivors be like "Hey, man, where'd you find shaving implements? You holding out on us?" The logical solution would be for Superman to glue some hair to his face once he goes back to being Clark.

I'm not clear on what Chadda the ice cream-addicted space mobster means when he says, in his weird Yoda speak, that Massacre owes him for "Kills you have from my direction." Is he saying he gave Massacre directions to people he could kill? Or that Massacre killed too many people in his general direction? We need a Chadda miniseries to clear this up. (Or someone could ask Dan Jurgens, but I doubt he'd remember.)

I feel bad for the cowboy who kindly told Massacre about Metropolis and got killed as thanks. Based on his attire, he'd apparently survived since the 1800s, only to die in such a senseless way. If only that had been some other member of the supporting cast...

Shout Outs-Watch:

Ice cream-flavored shout outs to our supporters, Aaron, Chris “Ace” Hendrix, britneyspearsatemyshorts, Patrick D. Ryall, Bheki Latha, Mark Syp, Ryan Bush, Raphael Fischer, Kit, Sam, Bol, Dave Shevlin, and Dave Blosser! Join them (and get extra non-continuity articles; we just finished covering all of the 1994 Superman Elseworlds annuals) via Patreon or our newsletter’s “pay what you want” mode!

And now, more from Don!

Art-Watch (by @donsparrow):

We start with the cover, and it’s an absolute beauty, combining the talents of two of my all time favourite pencillers (making up two out of four on my comic art Mount Rushmore), Dan Jurgens and Jerry Ordway (though on this cover, Ordway handles inks).  There’s always a greater sense of depth and texture from Ordway’s detailed signature hatching, and it elevates a fairly static cover into a really gorgeous piece.  As the story continues, we’re thrown into an alien tavern, with some imaginatively diverse creatures within, which must have been fun to design.  [Max: Speaking of which, the guy on the far right here looks familiar... where have we seen him before, or at least his race?]

It’s on page two that we’re re-introduced to Massacre, the new big bad in the Superman mythology (who we saw briefly in Adventures #509, murdering the loose end known as Auron).  Full disclosure: I never really warmed to this character.  To me he was emblematic of a bad trend in Superman comics of the time, to try to recapture the heat of the Doomsday storyline by adding characters who could go toe-to-toe with Superman, requiring the telltale comment that the new character was “almost as tough as Doomsday”.  Massacre was one of these types, completely devoid of personality, other than confidence, making him read like a humourless Lobo (right down to the dreadlocks, it seems).  [Max: I'll admit I did warm up to Massacre, but mainly because I had the action figure and thought he looked pretty badass as he punched my other toys.]

It’s in these early pages that we’re reintroduced to Skimmer, inexplicably our narrator for this issue, as he was in Adventures #509.  He looks like an earthtone version of a Ralph Bashki design from Heavy Metal, and of all the one-off characters I’d like to see more of, this guy is not high on my list.  As the story continues, I appreciate the look at bomb ravaged Metropolis, especially the detail that the terrain is uneven, really making it seem like a disaster area. 

Quite a nice drawing of Lois Lane on page 7, in profile.  I always felt like Dan Jurgens generally drew her as resembling Geena Davis (Ordway’s Lois always looked like Julia Roberts to me) but in this instance she looks like Emma Caulfield as intrepid 90210 reporter Susan Keats).  The world tour Massacre takes as he hunts for Superman is an interesting way to fill the time, a nice detail that not every alien lands in the continental USA right away.  I appreciated the subtle hints through language and attire that Massacre’s second stop in the outback, interrupting what must have been a Foster’s Lager ad with Paul Hogan.  [Max: I always assumed it was somewhere in the US, because otherwise that'd mean the islanders pointed Massacre in the wrong direction and they strike me as honest folks.] Given that our real-world Metropolis Illinois is the home of the biggest Superman convention in the world every year (I gotta make it out to that one of these times!) it’s neat to see it mentioned in these pages.

The fistfight that occurs once Massacre finally does find Superman is well-drawn, even with the irksome dialogue establishing just how deadly this guy is.  The push that Massacre gets through Superman’s lines like “Too fast” and “how can anybody be so fast” or “I missed? Impossible!” put me in the mind of Poochie’s first appearance on Itchy and Scratchy.  And Massacre is totally in my face.

Superman bursting out of Massacre’s concrete trap is a killer image, and I like the Neal Adams style rim lighting on the next page as Superman gets blasted backward by Massacre’s wrist gauntlet.

SPEEDING BULLETS:

The revelation that Skimmer is on Earth to stock up on ice cream is cute, but perhaps a bit out of place in a story that is otherwise so violent.  [Max: Ice cream is never out of place, Don.]

Proof that I read too many comics—I had remembered Jimmy and Lucy being broken up already (maybe back during the Cerberus storyline?) so maybe they’re scavenging as friends? Or maybe that was just a blip? [Max: Maybe Lucy couldn't resist his manly stubble... which, in his case, I'm pretty sure he did glue to his face.]

I wonder what Elliot S! Maggin would say about Superman rebuilding things like water treatment plants, given the point of view espoused in the now classic “Must There Be a Superman?” story.  On the one hand, creating infrastructure seems beyond the normal “catch them when they fall” Superman parameters, but on the other hand, I felt a little uncomfortable seeing Clark just chilling out and barbecuing in the disaster area earlier in the issue, and not doing more to help.

Another pet peeve of mine (which happens more in the movies than in the comics) is where super-beings use props to fight each other, when their fists would be more durable and do more damage than, say, the i-beam Superman uses to bat Massacre with on page 13.  The baseball looking hit is a nice visual I suppose, and breaks it up from just being a boxing match, so maybe that answers that.

There’s some dissonance in the placid expressions these middle-aged concrete workers wear as they stand feet from a monster named Massacre, and casually discuss that “Supes ain’t got a chance.”  Maybe we should run a caption contest for what else they could be saying with those benign faces. 

[Max: Let me give it a shot...]

[arcane-abomination]

Now it’s important to remember that Eldritch work is done from each individuals unique perspective. Thus, what I have down as a sabbat is something unique to me. My own UPG if you will. This list came from my personal understanding with the gods that I work with, so take from it What’s suits you. Feel free to add or take away as you like.

Disclaimer: be aware that this only pertains to the Lovecraftian gods that I work with. Not all of them.

• New Moon •

The new moon is cloaked in darkness symbolizing the unseen in the physical realm and the stronger pull of the metaphysical where the gods dwell. Thus this moon gives us a great time to honor all Eldritch forces. Offerings, meditative rituals, and drawing down Eldritch energies are just some of the practices performed around this time.

• Velamen •

Latin for “veil” this sabbat takes place on October 31st. Associated as the time the veil between worlds is the thinnest, thus greater connections to alternate dimensions and the realm of the dead can be made more easily at this time. Within Eldritch magick, this is the time to honor Yog Sothoth. He’s not only the deity associated as the keeper of dimensions, but also carries many Necromancer properties as well. Thus it is considered respectful to give offerings and thanks to this deity at this time.

• Hibernal Solstice •

The Hibernal Solstice takes place on December 21st in the Northern Hemisphere and June 21 in the Southern Hemisphere. It is the two moments during the year when the path of the Sun in the sky is farthest away making the day shorter and the night longer. This time can be dedicated to all Eldritch deity but most often can be more directly associated with both Azathoth and Cthulhu. This is because symbolism is often dedicated to aspects of dreams and dream magick in accordance with the night since it’s associated primarily with sleep. This means the connection to those dream forces is extra strong, and while all Eldritch deity reach out in dreams, both Azathoth and Cthulhu are most well known for their dream-like energies. Offerings, dream pillows, and other dreamy associated concoctions can be dedicated to the gods at this time.

• Nativitas •

From the Latin word for “birth” this marks the time of the spring equinox, March 20th, and therefore energies associated with new life and new beginnings. Shub Niggurath, the goddess of fertility is celebrated around this time. Offerings and rituals dedicated to the goddess are performed at this time.

[cidthesquid]

Animal Crossing: New Horizons | Character Creator Chat

[Previous Post]              [First Post]              [Next Post] It's been a long and tough week, so I don't think I'll have the energy for the weekly style savvy post. But hopefully you enjoy this instead. Welcome back to CCC, (Formerly Character Creator Critique) where I just kinda yap a bit while working through a character creator.

Here's a new entry in my 'Character Creator Critique' Series Where I live-blog working through the creator in various games. So I have played this game and created a character previously. However, that was about a year ago, and I don't remember much, So let's start fresh, new character new island!

So the game starts out asking for your same and birthday. And I must say, I really love the UI in this game, the color/textures, really make it look just so inviting! Next you get to start making your character,

I have noticed that some more recent Nintendo games, (like splatoon) Have done away with specific gender labels, and they don't use any cryptic working like "Body Type A", I think this is nice, you just choose how you want to look. As soon as you select your style, you'll be randomly assigned one of the staring outfits, here's a few that I saw when restarting the game a few times:

Next up is skin tone:

(Your starting outfit is picked at random, when you reach this point) And, I think they offer a good selection, it may not be the most realistic, but I think they cover a good range, without breaking the game's art style. Next, you can pick one of the starting hairstyles:

Honestly, I find this a little disappointing. Yes, I'm aware you can get more later, But only four starting options tailored towards each gender feels slim There's not much in the way of variety, especially considering you'll probably be stuck with this look for a few real-time days or weeks. I do like the hair color options though! That shade of orange, and the pale yellow options are nice lesser seen presets. Next is Eyes:

They have a TON f options for these, it looks like the options even span a few different art styles, as I recognize some from the Gamecube entry. Some can look a little odd, in the modern art style, But I feel they all fit well enough that you could get used to them with time, and it means you could probably care over your (basic) look from previous games. I could have gone for a few more eye colors, maybe a brighter blue, or something that offers a warmer brown color, but I think the selection sticks to the AC color pallet well enough Next up, nose & mouth in one combined screen:

And wow, that's... pretty sparse. I get that eyes are important, But it feels like there are more eye options than hair, skin, nose and mouth combined! I kinda wish the nose color adjusted with the skin tone, it looks a little 'clown like'. imo. Also, what's with the mouth choices, Smile, and slightly wider smile take up half the choices. oh well, I like 'option 3', it seems like a a happier version of the standard neutral face. Next is makeup options:

And I did not expect much from this, but I'm surprised they only offer two blush colors. Neither option or color really shows super up well on darker skin in my opinion, so I'll go without. So here's the final product:

Yeah, Animal Crossing does not really cater towards the 'Rock' look, But I think it's a decent enough reimagining. (Why do I always do these comparisons at the end, lol) They then ask more details about where you live, so seasons will work properly, (it's just for norther vs Southern Hemisphere)

Next You get to pick your starting island shape:

And you're asked a question to decide your starting items:

And now we've made it to the island!

My starting villagers were Muffy and Sampson:

If you're unhappy with your starting outfit, villagers, or your island's starting fruit, you can just close the game and try again. And I think the randomness for how your island starts is pretty cool, But I really think, the starting outfit could be something we choose, Even if they only give us a few randomly generated choices, or just let us pick a favorite color. But it's not a huge deal.

My starting island had apples, (same as my main island) so I restarted the game a few times, and eventually found a good mix. Peaches and the sailor style shirt. (and villagers 'Reneigh' and 'Rowan' --- ...And in retrospect... maybe I should have waited a while before making this post. This probably came off as fairy negative, as I was just picking on the lack of options this game starts with. That was not my intention, I've missed most the AC entries, but I know the character builder as still come a LONG way. (Especially from the 'quiz based' character creator on GameCube)

But regardless, I feel this serves as a decent "Part 1" coverage of this game. If I stick with the game I'll come back for a "Part 2" when I've unlocked more stuff. I've always though animal crossing was "neat", But the linear progression the “nook miles” system offers, may be enough to keep me interested for longer. I dropped the game previously because I found it a little confusing how to unlock stuff, but after watching a few youtube video to get me started, I'm ready to give the game a second chance! -----------------------------------------------------------------------------

Next CCC: Fashion Dreamer Thanks for reading! I had a lot of fun making this, so I hope you had fun reading it as well!

As always, all comments, questions, and suggestions are welcome! (I'm also looking for feedback on this new style, how's the formatting)

You literally can't bother me, (unless you go out of your way to be a jerk), so post whatever you need to say!

[spacetimewithstuartgary]

'Killer electrons': Lightning storms play cosmic pinball with space weather

When lightning strikes, the electrons come pouring down. In a new study, researchers at the University of Colorado Boulder, led by an undergraduate student, have discovered a novel connection between weather on Earth and space weather. The team utilized satellite data to reveal that lightning storms on our planet can dislodge particularly high-energy, or "extra-hot," electrons from the inner radiation belt—a region of space enveloped by charged particles that surround Earth like an inner tube.

The team's results could help satellites and even astronauts avoid dangerous radiation in space. This is one kind of downpour you don't want to get caught in, said lead author and undergraduate Max Feinland.

"These particles are the scary ones or what some people call 'killer electrons,'" said Feinland, who received his bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering sciences at CU Boulder in spring 2024. "They can penetrate metal on satellites, hit circuit boards and can be carcinogenic if they hit a person in space."

The study appeared Oct.8 in the journal Nature Communications.

The findings cast an eye toward the radiation belts, which are generated by Earth's magnetic field. Lauren Blum, a co-author of the paper and assistant professor in the Laboratory for Atmospheric and Space Physics (LASP) at CU Boulder, explained that two of these regions encircle our planet: While they move a lot over time, the inner belt tends to begin more than 600 miles above the surface. The outer belt starts roughly around 12,000 miles from Earth. These pool floaties in space trap charged particles streaming toward our planet from the sun, forming a sort of barrier between Earth's atmosphere and the rest of the solar system.

But they're not exactly airtight. Scientists, for example, have long known that high-energy electrons can fall toward Earth from the outer radiation belt. Blum and her colleagues, however, are the first to spot a similar rain coming from the inner belt.

Earth and space, in other words, may not be as separate as they look.

"Space weather is really driven both from above and below," Blum said.

Bolt from the blue

It's a testament to the power of lightning.

When a lightning bolt flashes in the sky on Earth, that burst of energy may also send radio waves spiraling deep into space. If those waves smack into electrons in the radiation belts, they can jostle them free—a bit like shaking your umbrella to knock the water off. In some cases, such "lightning-induced electron precipitation" can even influence the chemistry of Earth's atmosphere.

To date, researchers had only collected direct measurements of lower energy, or "colder," electrons falling from the inner radiation belt.

"Typically, the inner belt is thought to be kind of boring," Blum said. "It's stable. It's always there."

Her team's new discovery came about almost by accident. Feinland was analyzing data from NASA's now-decommissioned Solar, Anomalous, and Magnetospheric Particle Explorer (SAMPEX) satellite when he saw something odd: clumps of what seemed to be high-energy electrons moving through the inner belt.

"I showed Lauren some of my events, and she said, 'That's not where these are supposed to be,'" Feinland said. "Some literature suggests that there aren't any high-energy electrons in the inner belt at all."

The team decided to dig deeper.

In all, Feinland counted 45 surges of high-energy electrons in the inner belt from 1996 to 2006. He compared those events to records of lightning strikes in North America. Sure enough, some of the spikes in electrons seemed to happen less than a second after lightning strikes on the ground.

Electron pinball

Here's what the team thinks is happening: Following a lightning strike, radio waves from Earth kick off a kind of manic pinball game in space. They knock into electrons in the inner belt, which then begin to bounce between Earth's northern and southern hemispheres—going back and forth in just 0.2 seconds.

And each time the electrons bounce, some of them fall out of the belt and into our atmosphere.

"You have a big blob of electrons that bounces, and then returns and bounces again," Blum said. "You'll see this initial signal, and it will decay away."

Blum isn't sure how often such events happen. They may occur mostly during periods of high solar activity when the sun spits out a lot of high-energy electrons, stocking the inner belt with these particles.

The researchers want to understand these events better so that they can predict when they may be likely to occur, potentially helping to keep people and electronics in orbit safe.

Feinland, for his part, is grateful for the chance to study these magnificent storms.

"I didn't even realize how much I liked research until I got to do this project," he said.

Other co-authors of the new study included Robert Marshall, associate professor in the Ann and H.J. Smead Department of Aerospace Engineering Sciences at CU Boulder, Longzhi Gan of Boston University, Mykhaylo Shumko of the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory and Mark Looper of The Aerospace Corporation.

TOP IMAGE: Visualization showing how magnetic field lines, thin cyan lines, circling Earth can trap charged particles, thin yellow lines. Credit: UCLA EPSS/NASA SVS

LOWER IMAGE: Visualization of the radiation belts surrounding Earth. Credit: NASA

[solarpunkaestheticweek]

Other Events During Solarpunk Aesthetic Week - Event 3 Edition

It may be Solarpunk Aesthetic Week, but we're not gonna just assume we're the only thing going on! So let's highlight a few other things that are happening this week, so they can maybe inspire some of what you do for Solarpunk Aesthetic Week!

Pollinator Week 2023 actually takes place June 17th - 23th just like our event!

"Pollinator Week is an annual celebration in support of pollinator health that was initiated and is managed by Pollinator Partnership. It is a time to raise awareness for pollinators and spread the word about what we can do to protect them. The great thing about Pollinator Week is that you can celebrate and get involved any way you like! Popular events include planting for pollinators, hosting garden tours, participating in online bee and butterfly ID workshops, and so much more."

Feel free to check their site here to learn more! Maybe make some pollinator-inspired art and take some biodiversity-boosting actions to celebrate!

Juneteenth/Juneteenth National Independence Day is a federal holiday in the United States commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans, celebrated on the anniversary of an order proclaiming freedom for slaves in Texas on June 19th 1865 (two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued). You may see and hear of public readings, street fairs, cookouts, parades, and more celebrating this event in the US--especially since it was officially declared a federal holiday in 2021, meaning its an official day off from school and work for many people now.

Always, but especially on this day, consider the important role and contributions of African Americans and other Black groups have had and will continue to have on history, punk spaces, and the present and future of Solarpunk!

Summer Solstice is June 20th in the Northern Hemisphere, marking the official beginning of the summer season! This day symbolizes the zenith of the sun's position in the sky, and the longest day of the year.

We're called Solarpunks for a reason! And coinciding with this date was totally purposeful on our parts. Let the sun inspire your works--whether it be thinking up solar panel concepts, painting a sunny meadow scene, or just imbuing your work with the bright and blazing energy of our brightest star, go forth and create!

Winter Solstice is also June 20th in the Southern Hemisphere, marking the official beginning of the winter season! This day symbolizes the death and subsequent rebirth of the sun, and is the shortest day and longest night of the year.

When we visualize Solarpunk, we tend to think of bright and sunny spring and summer days, with lush green growth all around. But what would Solarpunk look like in the fall and winter? Let's start talking about it, changing up our color palettes and creating! And if it's wintertime for you right now, tell us about how you're solarpunking even in the colder months!

June 23rd is the last day of Solarpunk Aesthetic Week this summer, and it's also World Music Day, also known as Fête de la Musique! World Music Day celebrates the universal language of music. This day originated in France in 1982, aiming to encourage both amateur and professional musicians to showcase their talents in public spaces, while also providing free access to concerts and performances for the public. This observance promotes the importance of music in society and celebrates its cultural diversity.

Music often plays a major role in people's lives today, and I see it being no different in a Solarpunk future. Whether you're writing up song lyrics or making chill beats, or listening and contributing to our various collaborative Solarpunk playlists, or anything music related--let's take a moment to consider the power of music to spread messages and hope!

Is there more we're forgetting? Want to share the way you celebrate a particular event? Sound off and let us know--we'd love to hear about other related events and how you celebrate them!