New Peony Moon

Tonight is the new moon; the Chinese call the fourth new moon the Peony Moon. Peonies are the flower of riches, romance, and honor, called sho yu in Chinese, which means "most beautiful." Their lush blooms are an omen of good fortune, and also a happy marriage.

This is the season of blossoming into abundance; I open myself to the receipt of gifts, and try to be fully awake to all that each moment holds. 

The new moon is my monthly time for “seeding” intentions. I write down what I hope to focus on in the next 30 days or so, and then give my ideas a period of gestation, like seeds in the soil, before I take action. Having this regular time each month to focus my goals has helped to give me clarity of purpose.

Beautiful peonies growing in my neighborhood.

Agenda for today: 
1. Journal: 

What might give my life more wholeness?
What am I hungry for?
What are my next steps in life?
How might I be more awake to the gifts each moment offers?

Butterfly lavender in my front yard.

List my intentions for the month of May in these areas-
Self, Friends and Family, Teaching, Artwork, Writing, Home and Garden, Work/Business, and Volunteer work.



2. New Moon Meditation:
Light a small white candle. Center, and feel myself fill with thankfulness for all I have now in my life.

3. Plan: 

As the moon waxes, I expand-- plant seeds, make connections, and begin new projects. Today I will plan my first small steps.

4. Plan a garden party: 

In China this is the start of the season of garden parties, especially for the purpose of peony viewing. I don't have any peonies in my garden any longer, but I do hope to have friends over soon to have tea and cookies in my garden.