Folkmoon

I feel like most people's experience with astrology is so superficial that they can't help but dismiss it as nonsense. It's those generic horoscopes you see in every paper and magazine, they're so intentionally vague they could apply to anyone.

But for me, the deeper I dig into astrology and understanding my birth chart, the more resonance I find. Sometimes, I'll stumble my way into learning about a new aspect of my chart that I'd never looked at before and it's so accurate its scary.

For example, Pluto's placement in your chart tells you where you have death and rebirth over and over again. Its where you build up but it gets torn down... sometimes because of external forces...sometimes because we're seeking change or ignoring our deepest needs. Reflecting on this placement can help you define those needs or break the pattern... so helpful to know.

Have you heard the story of the Children of Lir? The tale tells of four siblings, Fionnuala, Aodh, Fiachra and Conn, who were transformed into swans by their jealous stepmother, forced to wander Ireland’s lakes for 900 years. They retained their human intellect and the ability to speak, and their songs had the magical ability to bring people happiness and take away their pain and sorrow. Their story is one of endurance, love, and the magic-realism you find in many Celtic legends.

July 19 to July 25, 2026, is the 30th week of the year. Taken with our 1 year, this week has the energy of the number 4. This coincides beautifully with the Sun’s transition from emotional Cancer into the fiery, expressive terrain of Leo on July 22.

This week demands that you ground your passions into concrete reality. The gift of the number 4 is its steady, grounding energy, providing the patience, discipline, and stamina needed to build lasting foundations and turn creative sparks into real-world progress. However, the challenge lies in resisting rigid thinking, stubbornness, or becoming so hyper-focused on the rules that you block Leo's natural joy and spontaneous flow.

By balancing the meticulous organization of the 4 with the open-hearted courage of Leo season, you can methodically construct a framework that allows your authentic self to safely shine.

Did you know the elder tree (Sambucus nigra) is steeped in legend and magic?

Folklore says it shelters the Elder Mother, a guardian spirit—so always ask before cutting its branches!

Traditionally, elder was used to protect homes and travellers, with its wood crafted into charms to ward off illness and evil. Spiritually, it connects the root and crown chakras, symbolizing the link between worlds, and is honoured in Celtic lore as the World Tree.

Elderflowers and berries have long been used for remedies like syrups and wine (Grieve; Culpeper).

Elder stands at the threshold, reminding us that every ending is a new beginning.

Literally one of the weirdest and most wonderful sticker books I have ever seen. Very weird and whimsical, highly recommend.

This week’s energy is all about the power of collaboration. The number 2 represents partnership, harmony, and cooperation. It’s the perfect time to focus on building connections, listening actively, and working together toward shared goals.

Reach out, support others, and watch your efforts multiply.