Explores the variety of ways different cultures have marked the movement of the stars and seasonal changes with celebrations throughout history Humans have always observed the passage of time and the changes in the heavens. Moreover, we have marked these observations with customs, celebrations, and observances. In this delightful compilation, Henes, an artist, writer, lecturer, and author of the syndicated column, "Celestially Auspicious Occasions," provides a lively narrative on the solstices, the equinoxes, mid-seasonal celebrations, eclipses, birthdays, and leap year as well as days, months, weeks. Combining folklore, customs, and poetry, she covers many different cultures in this well-written, readable book. Recommended for public libraries, folklore collections, and where there is an interest in seasons and ceremonies.?Gail Wood, SUNY Coll. of Technology Lib., Alfred, N.Y. Copyright 1996 Reed Business Information, Inc. An entertaining compilation of myths and rituals surrounding the four seasons and the planetary cycles of the year. Written with wit and reverence, the author often unearths some startling tales in her research into ancient and modern cultures. From the early origins of Halloween to the appearance of the blue moon to the connection between ancient Egypt and contemporary Easter eggs, this book presents a fascinating cross-cultural exploration of the rites and rituals inspired by astrological events. Here is a good introduction to the traditions that unite humanity to the cosmic center of the universe. -- New Visions This marvelous book, full of inspiration, wisdom and instruction, is useful for all occasions. --Joan Halifax, author of The Fruitful Darkness I appreciate her sense of spirituality and how the workings of the cosmos have an influence on it. --Suzanne Chippindale, Director of the Santa Fe Planetarium Donna Henes is an internationally acclaimed spiritual teacher specializing in multi-cultural ritual celebrations of the cycles of the seasons and the seasons of our lives. She is the author of four books and she writes columns for The Huffington Post, Beliefnet and UPI Religion and Spirituality Forum. A respected ritual expert, she serves as a consultant for motion pictures. In addition to teaching and lecturing worldwide, Mama Donna, as she is affectionately called, maintains a ceremonial center, ritual practice and spiritual consultancy where she works with individuals, groups, institutions, municipalities and corporations to create meaningful ceremonies for every imaginable occasion.