Goodbye to My Boots

This is sad, y'all, and if it were cowboy boots, this would be a hit Country song. I've had these here boots for almost 20 years--I know, 20 years! And now it's time to say goodbye. Can't wear 'em anymore because of my dang right foot. I've tried everything I know to make them comfortable again, but it hasn't worked.

So I've bought some new Harley boots, and they seem to fit right, at least for now. But will I have them 20 years later? This is silly, I know--they're just boots. Funny how we get attached to things. It isn't the boots themselves but what they represent.

I could shine these boys up and wear them with most anything, and I always looked sexy (*wink*). They're tough and have held up for years. They're actually Air Force boots that I bought in an Army-Navy surplus store. I've worn them everywhere, while hiking and while on the motorcycle. They've been covered in mud and soaking wet, and reheeled at least 3 or 4 times.

If it weren't for my delicate big toe bone, I could keep wearing them. Ah well, rest in peace my loyal boots. You served me well! I know it's probably just the codeine I'm on for my cold, but I--I got a little something in my eye...

Goodbye to My Boots

This is sad, y'all, and if it were cowboy boots, this would be a hit Country song. I've had these here boots for almost 20 years--I know, 20 years! And now it's time to say goodbye. Can't wear 'em anymore because of my dang right foot. I've tried everything I know to make them comfortable again, but it hasn't worked.

So I've bought some new Harley boots, and they seem to fit right, at least for now. But will I have them 20 years later? This is silly, I know--they're just boots. Funny how we get attached to things. It isn't the boots themselves but what they represent.

I could shine these boys up and wear them with most anything, and I always looked sexy (*wink*). They're tough and have held up for years. They're actually Air Force boots that I bought in an Army-Navy surplus store. I've worn them everywhere, while hiking and while on the motorcycle. They've been covered in mud and soaking wet, and reheeled at least 3 or 4 times.

If it weren't for my delicate big toe bone, I could keep wearing them. Ah well, rest in peace my loyal boots. You served me well! I know it's probably just the codeine I'm on for my cold, but I--I got a little something in my eye...

Lovecraft and Codeine: a Heady Mix

I'm still fighting this nasty cold and cough that started last week. Well, the over-the-counter stuff wasn't really making a dent--even when combined with my master shaman skills. So I caved and called the modern witch doctor, who prescribed an antibiotic and some kick-ass cough syrup. Boy, that codeine is good!

So I'm loopy as a loon. I snuggled up on the sofa and decided to pass the time with a crazy horror movie. Lo and behold, I came across "The Dunwich Horror," a really bad film adaptation of H.P. Lovecraft's 1928 short story.

They obviously took some creative license with the original. Sometimes movies can be so bad, they're actually good. But this one almost put me to sleep. Or it could be the codeine. Hmmm, I'm surprised I made it through this post...

Lovecraft and Codeine: a Heady Mix

I'm still fighting this nasty cold and cough that started last week. Well, the over-the-counter stuff wasn't really making a dent--even when combined with my master shaman skills. So I caved and called the modern witch doctor, who prescribed an antibiotic and some kick-ass cough syrup. Boy, that codeine is good!

So I'm loopy as a loon. I snuggled up on the sofa and decided to pass the time with a crazy horror movie. Lo and behold, I came across "The Dunwich Horror," a really bad film adaptation of H.P. Lovecraft's 1928 short story.

They obviously took some creative license with the original. Sometimes movies can be so bad, they're actually good. But this one almost put me to sleep. Or it could be the codeine. Hmmm, I'm surprised I made it through this post...

Latest Shamanic Weekend: Sirius and Sacredness, Part 2

What do you consider "sacred?"
Think it's an easy question? Maybe, but you might not be going as deep into the meaning as you think. In our last shamanic workshop, we discussed this in detail, and it was a fun and insightful exercise.

Immediately I thought of nature, forests and trees, mountain streams, the ocean, rocks and birds, butterflies and flowers. "Ok," the facilitator said, "but go beneath the clinical answer, go beneath the answer you've been told to give. Get to the feeling. What is it about nature that makes it sacred? "

Good question, and I had to think about it. When I'm in nature, I see everything as it was intended to be, animals living as they were meant to live, streams flowing unimpeded, trees not carefully pruned or maintained--it's the world without anything human imposed upon it. It's nature being nature.

"Good," the facilitator said, "but go deeper. How does that make you feel?"

It makes me feel free, as well. When I see nature in freedom, that feeling fills me with freedom. And that's what I'm seeking, that feeling of simply being, without any cultural, societal rules imposed upon me. In nature, I'm in touch with ultimate reality, original reality, something real in a primal sense.

"That's sacred," said the facilitator. "You can ask similar questions such as 'What makes me happy?' or 'What does harmony mean?'--as long as you get to the feeling, to the heart, you have the real answer."

Take my new poll in the sidebar and see what other visitors consider sacred.

Latest Shamanic Weekend: Sirius and Sacredness, Part 2

What do you consider "sacred?"
Think it's an easy question? Maybe, but you might not be going as deep into the meaning as you think. In our last shamanic workshop, we discussed this in detail, and it was a fun and insightful exercise.

Immediately I thought of nature, forests and trees, mountain streams, the ocean, rocks and birds, butterflies and flowers. "Ok," the facilitator said, "but go beneath the clinical answer, go beneath the answer you've been told to give. Get to the feeling. What is it about nature that makes it sacred? "

Good question, and I had to think about it. When I'm in nature, I see everything as it was intended to be, animals living as they were meant to live, streams flowing unimpeded, trees not carefully pruned or maintained--it's the world without anything human imposed upon it. It's nature being nature.

"Good," the facilitator said, "but go deeper. How does that make you feel?"

It makes me feel free, as well. When I see nature in freedom, that feeling fills me with freedom. And that's what I'm seeking, that feeling of simply being, without any cultural, societal rules imposed upon me. In nature, I'm in touch with ultimate reality, original reality, something real in a primal sense.

"That's sacred," said the facilitator. "You can ask similar questions such as 'What makes me happy?' or 'What does harmony mean?'--as long as you get to the feeling, to the heart, you have the real answer."

Take my new poll in the sidebar and see what other visitors consider sacred.

Lady Gaga Graces "Rolling Stone" Cover

Here's my favorite chanteuse on the latest issue of RS! Gotta love her--and her bubbles.

Preview the RS interview here.

Lady Gaga Graces "Rolling Stone" Cover

Here's my favorite chanteuse on the latest issue of RS! Gotta love her--and her bubbles.

Preview the RS interview here.

Hooray for Acupuncture--Now I Can Put On My Dancing Shoes!

About a month ago I began going to an acupuncturist--and I can happily say it has worked wonders! If you think you need it, do it! The doctor brought such a holistic approach to everything and essentially put my health back into my hands. When I spoke to my general physician, all he offered was a shot of cortisone. Gee, thanks.

My acupunturist gave me great foot rubs and various exercises to do at home, counseled me on the types of shoes I'm wearing and talked to me about how I walk and move in general. Was it the mere act of sticking me with pins that helped? Or was it a combo of all the above plus by own TLC of my foot? Either way, going to the acupuncturist did the trick.

Hooray for Acupuncture--Now I Can Put On My Dancing Shoes!

About a month ago I began going to an acupuncturist--and I can happily say it has worked wonders! If you think you need it, do it! The doctor brought such a holistic approach to everything and essentially put my health back into my hands. When I spoke to my general physician, all he offered was a shot of cortisone. Gee, thanks.

My acupunturist gave me great foot rubs and various exercises to do at home, counseled me on the types of shoes I'm wearing and talked to me about how I walk and move in general. Was it the mere act of sticking me with pins that helped? Or was it a combo of all the above plus by own TLC of my foot? Either way, going to the acupuncturist did the trick.

Latest Shamanic Weekend: Sirius and Sacredness, Part 1

Hoo-boy, it's always a challenge to distill these weekends into something digestible. Let's just get to it. I'm going to have to split all this up into several pieces. I started writing this one and aggravated my CTS!

The double star Sirius A and Sirius B as taken by the orbiting Chandra telescope

First a few basics:

Last weekend was the 6th workshop in the Shamanic Mystery School, which I've been participating in since August 2008. This was the Temple of the Galaxy, focusing on the 3rd eye, or brow, chakra, sacred geometry and "galactic citizenship" (I'll get to that). There's always so much deeper to go with these topics, and I'm just scratching the surface. Each workshop takes me deeper, requiring longer periods to let things settle internally and figure out what to do with it all.

Given our focus on the 3rd eye, this workshop dealt with moving between realities and working on changing our perspectives or our ability to see things in different ways. In other words, paying attention to our intuition, the varieties of perception that exist in the world as well as the ability to concentrate.

This one had a particularly difficult start since it began on a Friday night, after work. I was out of sorts coming into such a different setting than my workaday world. But hey, shamans must have the ability to respond to any situation!

This weekend was also much more experiential, with several different meditations. It's becoming clearer that the facilitator wants us to become comfortable leading meditations ourselves. He also talked a lot about serving others, which I was pleased to hear, coming from a Christian background myself. As skeptical as I am, it's refreshing to hear how strongly he believes in what he's teaching and how it can help others. It's certainly helped me, so what more proof do I need?!

America's Next "Chant" Idol!
Well, if there was such a competition, I'd enter it! I really got into the chanting this time. Each workshop, we participate in a ceremony to activate the particular chakra we're targeting, and each chakra corresponds to a different tone. For the 3rd eye, we chanted a long "a." Don't know why, but this felt so groovy, and it was quite moving to be in a room with 20 others chanting the same. Very powerful.

I also noticed how comfortable I've become in these group settings. When I began the mystery school, most of my beliefs and interests were deeply private, and sharing them with strangers made me slightly self-conscious. But now that I'm past that, I can better sense the power of what we're doing, the connections we're forming and the changes that are manifesting.

"Hermetic Wisdom" Doesn't Refer to Smart Sandwich Bags That Seal Themselves
As in "hermetically sealed"--get it? Ok, I never claimed to be a comic. But I had never heard of the so-called Hermetic Wisdom, the works ascribed to Hermes Trismegistus. Have you?

Often grouped with gnostic literature, these writings (also called the Corpus Hermeticum) were created by unknown Egyptian authors shortly after the time of Christ. They share characteristics with Christianity and Neoplatonism, and touch on topics such as the nature of the mind and mysticism. While it seems now accepted that H. Trismegistus was not a historical individual, the writings were believed to spring from ancient primordial wisdom traditions, and they may have influenced Christianity. It is believed this wisdom was even referenced in the Biblical book of Exodus. The writings were the basis by an effort in Europe during the Middle Ages to re-establish magick as a socially acceptable spiritual practice in the West.

Obviously, every shaman worth his salt has to know this stuff! We only skimmed it, and it generally aligns with the principles of shamanism I've mentioned previously. Cool stuff, and I need to delve more into it.

Sacred Geometry Doesn't Mean Trig Class Was Ordained by God
I did know a little about sacred geometry, but I do remember snickering the first time I heard the phrase. This section will be woefully short, unfortunately. The topic was woven into everything we did in the workshop, and it's difficult to tease it all out. I'm quite interested in this, and would love to have explored it further. You could probably do an entire weekend on this alone. Suffice to say that sacred geometry helps you see the underlying form and foundation for everything in the universe, from the cells in our bodies to the components of stars.

Not to get to "creationist" on you, but it does appear there is some "intelligent design" here. For example, measure your foot. Now measure from your elbow to your wrist. Those measurements should be roughly the same! How does that happen? Think how funny you would look or how clumsy you would be with really looooong forearms and super-short feet! The width of your palm should also roughly match the distance across your face from one iris (eye) to the other. We take all this for granted and yet, how do you explain it?

If I'm stating this correctly, check out why the 5 Platonic solids make up, at some level, everything in the world. Who knew math could be so fun? I would've paid more attention in high school if we had studied this! And if you're going to be an effective shaman, it's critical to know how the universe works.

reminds me of D&D dice! But I digress...

Come back for Part 2!
That's all I got today. As a preview, look for updates on what "sacred" means, my minister ordination and on meeting Jesus on one of my shamanic journeys!

Latest Shamanic Weekend: Sirius and Sacredness, Part 1

Hoo-boy, it's always a challenge to distill these weekends into something digestible. Let's just get to it. I'm going to have to split all this up into several pieces. I started writing this one and aggravated my CTS!

The double star Sirius A and Sirius B as taken by the orbiting Chandra telescope

First a few basics:

Last weekend was the 6th workshop in the Shamanic Mystery School, which I've been participating in since August 2008. This was the Temple of the Galaxy, focusing on the 3rd eye, or brow, chakra, sacred geometry and "galactic citizenship" (I'll get to that). There's always so much deeper to go with these topics, and I'm just scratching the surface. Each workshop takes me deeper, requiring longer periods to let things settle internally and figure out what to do with it all.

Given our focus on the 3rd eye, this workshop dealt with moving between realities and working on changing our perspectives or our ability to see things in different ways. In other words, paying attention to our intuition, the varieties of perception that exist in the world as well as the ability to concentrate.

This one had a particularly difficult start since it began on a Friday night, after work. I was out of sorts coming into such a different setting than my workaday world. But hey, shamans must have the ability to respond to any situation!

This weekend was also much more experiential, with several different meditations. It's becoming clearer that the facilitator wants us to become comfortable leading meditations ourselves. He also talked a lot about serving others, which I was pleased to hear, coming from a Christian background myself. As skeptical as I am, it's refreshing to hear how strongly he believes in what he's teaching and how it can help others. It's certainly helped me, so what more proof do I need?!

America's Next "Chant" Idol!
Well, if there was such a competition, I'd enter it! I really got into the chanting this time. Each workshop, we participate in a ceremony to activate the particular chakra we're targeting, and each chakra corresponds to a different tone. For the 3rd eye, we chanted a long "a." Don't know why, but this felt so groovy, and it was quite moving to be in a room with 20 others chanting the same. Very powerful.

I also noticed how comfortable I've become in these group settings. When I began the mystery school, most of my beliefs and interests were deeply private, and sharing them with strangers made me slightly self-conscious. But now that I'm past that, I can better sense the power of what we're doing, the connections we're forming and the changes that are manifesting.

"Hermetic Wisdom" Doesn't Refer to Smart Sandwich Bags That Seal Themselves
As in "hermetically sealed"--get it? Ok, I never claimed to be a comic. But I had never heard of the so-called Hermetic Wisdom, the works ascribed to Hermes Trismegistus. Have you?

Often grouped with gnostic literature, these writings (also called the Corpus Hermeticum) were created by unknown Egyptian authors shortly after the time of Christ. They share characteristics with Christianity and Neoplatonism, and touch on topics such as the nature of the mind and mysticism. While it seems now accepted that H. Trismegistus was not a historical individual, the writings were believed to spring from ancient primordial wisdom traditions, and they may have influenced Christianity. It is believed this wisdom was even referenced in the Biblical book of Exodus. The writings were the basis by an effort in Europe during the Middle Ages to re-establish magick as a socially acceptable spiritual practice in the West.

Obviously, every shaman worth his salt has to know this stuff! We only skimmed it, and it generally aligns with the principles of shamanism I've mentioned previously. Cool stuff, and I need to delve more into it.

Sacred Geometry Doesn't Mean Trig Class Was Ordained by God
I did know a little about sacred geometry, but I do remember snickering the first time I heard the phrase. This section will be woefully short, unfortunately. The topic was woven into everything we did in the workshop, and it's difficult to tease it all out. I'm quite interested in this, and would love to have explored it further. You could probably do an entire weekend on this alone. Suffice to say that sacred geometry helps you see the underlying form and foundation for everything in the universe, from the cells in our bodies to the components of stars.

Not to get to "creationist" on you, but it does appear there is some "intelligent design" here. For example, measure your foot. Now measure from your elbow to your wrist. Those measurements should be roughly the same! How does that happen? Think how funny you would look or how clumsy you would be with really looooong forearms and super-short feet! The width of your palm should also roughly match the distance across your face from one iris (eye) to the other. We take all this for granted and yet, how do you explain it?

If I'm stating this correctly, check out why the 5 Platonic solids make up, at some level, everything in the world. Who knew math could be so fun? I would've paid more attention in high school if we had studied this! And if you're going to be an effective shaman, it's critical to know how the universe works.

reminds me of D&D dice! But I digress...

Come back for Part 2!
That's all I got today. As a preview, look for updates on what "sacred" means, my minister ordination and on meeting Jesus on one of my shamanic journeys!

Miss California's Mom is a Lesbian!

Just when you thought gay-hater Carrie Prejean might fade away, now comes the bombshell that her own mother is a lesbian! Or at least bisexual--although the relationship with the girlfriend seems to have suddenly ended because Carrie's mom didn't think the family could handle it. Which means, "she's just not that into you." Cause no matter your sexual orientation, if you're in love--you're in love.

Not sure if Carrie knew about this, but it does fill in the blanks about Carrie's home situation. Her own parents are divorced. And as a child of divorce myself, there's a part of me that supports traditional marriage and wants it all the last forever like it always does in Disney movies.

But then it gets interesting. When Carrie's parents divorced, they both accused the other of being gay! How crazy is that? My parents just screamed, yelled, cried and threw things. Ahhhhh--good ol' traditional American divorce!

Hmmm, is that odd, queasy sensation I suddenly feel, is that sympathy for Carrie? Maybe. If her parents' divorce was so traumatic and involved allegations of homosexuality, I could understand how that experience could scar you. Maybe even turn you against gay people.

And then I hear that Carrie thinks Satan tempted her when she was asked that fateful question about gay marriage in the Miss USA pageant. And once again, she refuses to take responsibility for her own beliefs and actions! Well, Carrie should certainly understand temptation, considering all those sexy photo shoots she's had. Just think about all those happily married men out being tempted right now by Carrie's almost-exposed boobies. And don't forget the lesbians, too! Poor Carrie, she's so wrapped up in a whirlwind of contradictions, she couldn't find her way out if she tried.

Miss California's Mom is a Lesbian!

Just when you thought gay-hater Carrie Prejean might fade away, now comes the bombshell that her own mother is a lesbian! Or at least bisexual--although the relationship with the girlfriend seems to have suddenly ended because Carrie's mom didn't think the family could handle it. Which means, "she's just not that into you." Cause no matter your sexual orientation, if you're in love--you're in love.

Not sure if Carrie knew about this, but it does fill in the blanks about Carrie's home situation. Her own parents are divorced. And as a child of divorce myself, there's a part of me that supports traditional marriage and wants it all the last forever like it always does in Disney movies.

But then it gets interesting. When Carrie's parents divorced, they both accused the other of being gay! How crazy is that? My parents just screamed, yelled, cried and threw things. Ahhhhh--good ol' traditional American divorce!

Hmmm, is that odd, queasy sensation I suddenly feel, is that sympathy for Carrie? Maybe. If her parents' divorce was so traumatic and involved allegations of homosexuality, I could understand how that experience could scar you. Maybe even turn you against gay people.

And then I hear that Carrie thinks Satan tempted her when she was asked that fateful question about gay marriage in the Miss USA pageant. And once again, she refuses to take responsibility for her own beliefs and actions! Well, Carrie should certainly understand temptation, considering all those sexy photo shoots she's had. Just think about all those happily married men out being tempted right now by Carrie's almost-exposed boobies. And don't forget the lesbians, too! Poor Carrie, she's so wrapped up in a whirlwind of contradictions, she couldn't find her way out if she tried.

Riverwolf Is Sick

Guess I caught it from my partner--basically a sore throat, some coughing, aches and pains, and general malaise. Crap--and on Memorial Day weekend! I had plans to do some volunteer work today, but that got scrapped. Also wanted to wrap up some yard work. Oh well, it is what it is. I'm taking some medicine, doing some "healing" meditation and a few other esoteric thingies to help get my system back in balance. Send some good energy my way!

Riverwolf Is Sick

Guess I caught it from my partner--basically a sore throat, some coughing, aches and pains, and general malaise. Crap--and on Memorial Day weekend! I had plans to do some volunteer work today, but that got scrapped. Also wanted to wrap up some yard work. Oh well, it is what it is. I'm taking some medicine, doing some "healing" meditation and a few other esoteric thingies to help get my system back in balance. Send some good energy my way!

And What ISN'T Growing in the Garden

Like I said in my post about trapping the groundhog, Mother Nature has lots more critters.

And they're eating what the groundhog didn't. First pic is of freshly nibbled peppers. We had one plant, which was nibbled a while back. So we bought 2 more, and then all 3 were looking great. Until now.

Second pic is of our evening primrose, nibbled down to the stems. We've grown these before and never had a problem with them being eaten.

Could be hornworms, deer, maybe geese or squirrels. The primrose is out back and fair game for anything, but the peppers are up on the desk railing--so either squirrels or the hookworm.

On the positive, our squash, arugula, parsley and tomatoes seem to be doing fine.

And What ISN'T Growing in the Garden

Like I said in my post about trapping the groundhog, Mother Nature has lots more critters.

And they're eating what the groundhog didn't. First pic is of freshly nibbled peppers. We had one plant, which was nibbled a while back. So we bought 2 more, and then all 3 were looking great. Until now.

Second pic is of our evening primrose, nibbled down to the stems. We've grown these before and never had a problem with them being eaten.

Could be hornworms, deer, maybe geese or squirrels. The primrose is out back and fair game for anything, but the peppers are up on the desk railing--so either squirrels or the hookworm.

On the positive, our squash, arugula, parsley and tomatoes seem to be doing fine.

Groovy Galactic Glass and Some Handmade Jewelry

Bought this glass pendant the other week and had to share. The local pagan gift shop was having a trunk show, and the vendor bought lots of offerings from Galactic Glass. These are all designed by glass artist Andy Ray from Arizona.

There were so many stunning styles to choose from! I picked this one because it resembles a spiral galaxy, and I wore it to help me meditate in preparation for my latest shamanic workshop, where we focused on galactic and universal energies and service. (More to come, I promise!) The pendant is especially glittery and mesmerizing in the sunlight!

And I finally had a chance to personalize my "Riverwolf" necklace (above). I've had the wolf pendant for a while--and you've probably seen similar porcelain jewelry in your local pagan gift shop--but the plain black cord it came with just wasn't how I roll. So some friends let me rummage through their unused bead stash, and I created this new necklace! The various blue and green beads symbolize water ("river") and makes it much more personal--and powerful! I'm gettin' so crafty in my old age.

Groovy Galactic Glass and Some Handmade Jewelry

Bought this glass pendant the other week and had to share. The local pagan gift shop was having a trunk show, and the vendor bought lots of offerings from Galactic Glass. These are all designed by glass artist Andy Ray from Arizona.

There were so many stunning styles to choose from! I picked this one because it resembles a spiral galaxy, and I wore it to help me meditate in preparation for my latest shamanic workshop, where we focused on galactic and universal energies and service. (More to come, I promise!) The pendant is especially glittery and mesmerizing in the sunlight!

And I finally had a chance to personalize my "Riverwolf" necklace (above). I've had the wolf pendant for a while--and you've probably seen similar porcelain jewelry in your local pagan gift shop--but the plain black cord it came with just wasn't how I roll. So some friends let me rummage through their unused bead stash, and I created this new necklace! The various blue and green beads symbolize water ("river") and makes it much more personal--and powerful! I'm gettin' so crafty in my old age.

What's Growing In the Garden

Took a few quick shots the other day.

Here's some perky portulaca---

And we have blueberries! We actually have 4 bushes full of ripening berries, and those will be so tasty at breakfast.

What's Growing In the Garden

Took a few quick shots the other day.

Here's some perky portulaca---

And we have blueberries! We actually have 4 bushes full of ripening berries, and those will be so tasty at breakfast.

Shamanic Weekend Update On Its Way!

I know, I know, you're all wondering where the update is on how my weekend went. Well, it was interesting as always, but you'll have to wait a bit longer. Things are ker-azy 'round here right now. Plus I always need to let things settle in my head for a few days.

Besides, patience is a virtue. Not that this is directed to any reader in particular, especially not Dracenea, especially not her... ;)

I will say that, as usual, there were likes and dislikes. I found out one woman is bisexual. And when this is all over, yours truly will be a perfectly legit interfaith minister! (Debate amongst yourselves.)

An update is a'comin!

Shamanic Weekend Update On Its Way!

I know, I know, you're all wondering where the update is on how my weekend went. Well, it was interesting as always, but you'll have to wait a bit longer. Things are ker-azy 'round here right now. Plus I always need to let things settle in my head for a few days.

Besides, patience is a virtue. Not that this is directed to any reader in particular, especially not Dracenea, especially not her... ;)

I will say that, as usual, there were likes and dislikes. I found out one woman is bisexual. And when this is all over, yours truly will be a perfectly legit interfaith minister! (Debate amongst yourselves.)

An update is a'comin!

Cuba and Russia Have Homosexuals!

Arrests in Moscow

I found it so interesting that in 1 week, both Cuba and Russia had gay pride events, with very different results. While here in the U.S., gay pride parades have become cliche and downright boring, marching in your finest drag can still get you arrested in some places.

Take Russia. Moscow banned a recently planned gay pride parade, and when people began gathering anyway, riot police moved in, broke it up and arrested people. No surprise, I suppose, given the former Communist country's record on human rights. Guess they'll find a way to spin this.

Contrast that with what happened in still-Communist Cuba, where the country held it's first-ever gay rights event. Granted, the government approves everything there or it doesn't happen--but that's a huge step from 2008, when a gay rights rally was banned. It wasn't a full-on parade with leather boys and all, but hey--baby steps! And the event was led by Raul Castro's daughter Mariela, so I guess that's a good thing. She's already known for being a gay rights advocate.

Interesting contrasts and comparisons. And it shows the world that we're not going to be silent, no matter where we live.

Support from Mariela Castro in Havana

Cuba and Russia Have Homosexuals!

Arrests in Moscow

I found it so interesting that in 1 week, both Cuba and Russia had gay pride events, with very different results. While here in the U.S., gay pride parades have become cliche and downright boring, marching in your finest drag can still get you arrested in some places.

Take Russia. Moscow banned a recently planned gay pride parade, and when people began gathering anyway, riot police moved in, broke it up and arrested people. No surprise, I suppose, given the former Communist country's record on human rights. Guess they'll find a way to spin this.

Contrast that with what happened in still-Communist Cuba, where the country held it's first-ever gay rights event. Granted, the government approves everything there or it doesn't happen--but that's a huge step from 2008, when a gay rights rally was banned. It wasn't a full-on parade with leather boys and all, but hey--baby steps! And the event was led by Raul Castro's daughter Mariela, so I guess that's a good thing. She's already known for being a gay rights advocate.

Interesting contrasts and comparisons. And it shows the world that we're not going to be silent, no matter where we live.

Support from Mariela Castro in Havana

With Hubble Successfully Patched Up, Europeans Launch Next Generation of Telescopes

The Herschel telescope being inspected in 2008

In my opinion, investment in science always pays off, so I'm thrilled to hear that NASA has successfully repaired the Hubble telescope. Now it will be able to peer even farther back into space--an additional 200 million years! Remember, any light we see from space is coming from the past, so--if I have it right--we could theoretically look far enough back and see what the universe looked like the moment it formed. I want to see that!

The Hubble will last a little while longer, and in the meantime, the Europeans have launched the new Herschel telescope and its companion spacecraft (Planck). Can't wait to see what they find!

After a weekend spent pondering the secrets of our galaxy and universe, things like this continue to fill me with awe and wonder.

With Hubble Successfully Patched Up, Europeans Launch Next Generation of Telescopes

The Herschel telescope being inspected in 2008

In my opinion, investment in science always pays off, so I'm thrilled to hear that NASA has successfully repaired the Hubble telescope. Now it will be able to peer even farther back into space--an additional 200 million years! Remember, any light we see from space is coming from the past, so--if I have it right--we could theoretically look far enough back and see what the universe looked like the moment it formed. I want to see that!

The Hubble will last a little while longer, and in the meantime, the Europeans have launched the new Herschel telescope and its companion spacecraft (Planck). Can't wait to see what they find!

After a weekend spent pondering the secrets of our galaxy and universe, things like this continue to fill me with awe and wonder.

I'm Headed Outta This World Through My Third Eye!

Or something like that. My next shamanic workshop begins tonight, and it's a FULL weekend. This time we explore the brow chakra, the 3rd eye. And something about a trip to Sirius--SERIOUSLY!

Should be interesting, as always, and I'll have a report once I return.

The photo at top is from a labyrinth based on the chakra system--very intriguing--and I love the representations created for each chakra. I think this is located in Kansas. Would love to see it in person.

Have a great weekend!

I'm Headed Outta This World Through My Third Eye!

Or something like that. My next shamanic workshop begins tonight, and it's a FULL weekend. This time we explore the brow chakra, the 3rd eye. And something about a trip to Sirius--SERIOUSLY!

Should be interesting, as always, and I'll have a report once I return.

The photo at top is from a labyrinth based on the chakra system--very intriguing--and I love the representations created for each chakra. I think this is located in Kansas. Would love to see it in person.

Have a great weekend!

Testing, Testing: Is This Crystal On?

Do you believe that crystals have special powers or energies? I don't know myself, but they are beautiful and alluring. Just look at this one from Brazil, 26 inches tall and 32 pounds. It now sits at Mountain Light Sanctuary in the garden circle thanks, in part, to yours truly.

If you're a longtime reader, you may recall that Mountain Light, located near Asheville, North Carolina, is a favorite retreat of mine. The owner recently emailed frequent visitors describing his intention to purchase this crystal and place it in the garden. He decided to do so by inviting people to donate toward the purchase and with the donation become part of a far-flung Mountain Light "intentional community."

The owner, Michael, said to send with our donation a piece of paper on which we should write our intention for 2009. He would then permanently place all these intentions underneath the crystal--the idea being that as we gave positive energy to our individual intentions each time we thought of the crystal, we would also be supporting the intentions of others as well.

Hokey, maybe, but I thought it was cool. I jumped at the chance to contribute, to help make manifest in some small way another touch of beauty and harmony in this wonderful retreat up in the Pisgah National Forest.

So, the crystal was purchase and placed in the garden on Sunday, May 3. I wasn't able to attend, but Michael sent some photos of the dedication ceremony, attended by roughly 60 folks.

Michael says he received donations and intentions from 91 people from 7 countries--Dominican Republic, Israel, Mexico, Paraguay, Turkey, the UK & the USA--now part of his Mountain Light Intentional Community. How cool is that?!

Wondering about my intention? I'm afraid I'm keeping that secret for now. Somehow, it feels right to keep it private, to nurture it, think on the crystal and see what happens. I know nothing is private in the blogosphere, but I hope you'll indulge me on this one thing, which feels quite sacred and personal.

It's been exactly 1 year since I last visited Mountain Light--hmmm, interesting. Don't know when I'll return, but when I do, I look forward to seeing the beauty of the crystal in person, with the knowledge that my intention will have broken down by then, making itself part of the rich mountain soil. It's my gift to this special place, and it feels as if I'll always be a part of it from now on.

Click here for more on Mountain Light Sanctuary, one of my personal sacred places.

If you're a crystal freak, check out the Web site of the dealer who provided the crystal for Mountain Light: www.thequantumawakening.com.

Testing, Testing: Is This Crystal On?

Do you believe that crystals have special powers or energies? I don't know myself, but they are beautiful and alluring. Just look at this one from Brazil, 26 inches tall and 32 pounds. It now sits at Mountain Light Sanctuary in the garden circle thanks, in part, to yours truly.

If you're a longtime reader, you may recall that Mountain Light, located near Asheville, North Carolina, is a favorite retreat of mine. The owner recently emailed frequent visitors describing his intention to purchase this crystal and place it in the garden. He decided to do so by inviting people to donate toward the purchase and with the donation become part of a far-flung Mountain Light "intentional community."

The owner, Michael, said to send with our donation a piece of paper on which we should write our intention for 2009. He would then permanently place all these intentions underneath the crystal--the idea being that as we gave positive energy to our individual intentions each time we thought of the crystal, we would also be supporting the intentions of others as well.

Hokey, maybe, but I thought it was cool. I jumped at the chance to contribute, to help make manifest in some small way another touch of beauty and harmony in this wonderful retreat up in the Pisgah National Forest.

So, the crystal was purchase and placed in the garden on Sunday, May 3. I wasn't able to attend, but Michael sent some photos of the dedication ceremony, attended by roughly 60 folks.

Michael says he received donations and intentions from 91 people from 7 countries--Dominican Republic, Israel, Mexico, Paraguay, Turkey, the UK & the USA--now part of his Mountain Light Intentional Community. How cool is that?!

Wondering about my intention? I'm afraid I'm keeping that secret for now. Somehow, it feels right to keep it private, to nurture it, think on the crystal and see what happens. I know nothing is private in the blogosphere, but I hope you'll indulge me on this one thing, which feels quite sacred and personal.

It's been exactly 1 year since I last visited Mountain Light--hmmm, interesting. Don't know when I'll return, but when I do, I look forward to seeing the beauty of the crystal in person, with the knowledge that my intention will have broken down by then, making itself part of the rich mountain soil. It's my gift to this special place, and it feels as if I'll always be a part of it from now on.

Click here for more on Mountain Light Sanctuary, one of my personal sacred places.

If you're a crystal freak, check out the Web site of the dealer who provided the crystal for Mountain Light: www.thequantumawakening.com.

We Caught Mr. Groundhog!

I awoke this morning and found the little critter in our trap! Guess he couldn't resist that crunchy, juicy lettuce!

So my partner and I put him in the pick-up and drove him way over to the other side of the Grove. We opened the trap and let him out near the lake. So even if he does find his way back to our garden, it'll be a while. Not sure how many miles groundhogs can cover in a day....

So ends the 2009 Battle of the Garden--or does it? There's a whole lot more critters in Mother Nature's world.

We Caught Mr. Groundhog!

I awoke this morning and found the little critter in our trap! Guess he couldn't resist that crunchy, juicy lettuce!

So my partner and I put him in the pick-up and drove him way over to the other side of the Grove. We opened the trap and let him out near the lake. So even if he does find his way back to our garden, it'll be a while. Not sure how many miles groundhogs can cover in a day....

So ends the 2009 Battle of the Garden--or does it? There's a whole lot more critters in Mother Nature's world.

Trump Lets Miss California Keep Her Sash--and Steps in a Big Pile of Irony

Despite all the accusations that Miss California--poster-girl for all that's good and true in America--has been shirking her pageant duties and violating her contract by posing for sexy pics, Carrie Prejean gets to keep her title. I guess that includes wearing the California Crown Jewels and overseeing the Changing of the Guard in Sacramento??

Anyway, I'm crestfallen! Well, not really, but I was hoping for the frenzy over this to get whipped a little more. I don't care if she posed semi-nude or whatever--but now, Prejean will use this an example that she, somehow, has been "vindicated" for her willingness never compromise her beliefs. No--matter--what. Because that's what you do--never compromise, even when you're wrong!

Speaking of being wrong--Trump brushed aside the concerns over Prejean's sexy pics by saying that she's a model and this is the 21st century. In other words, "Get over it, you prudes!" And he has a point:

It's the 21st century--so get over gay marriage, you prudes!

Hopefully, this will fade away now, and Miss California can join the growing list of wanna-be reality TV stars and speakers on the church social circuit (but it was fun, wasn't it?!).

Trump Lets Miss California Keep Her Sash--and Steps in a Big Pile of Irony

Despite all the accusations that Miss California--poster-girl for all that's good and true in America--has been shirking her pageant duties and violating her contract by posing for sexy pics, Carrie Prejean gets to keep her title. I guess that includes wearing the California Crown Jewels and overseeing the Changing of the Guard in Sacramento??

Anyway, I'm crestfallen! Well, not really, but I was hoping for the frenzy over this to get whipped a little more. I don't care if she posed semi-nude or whatever--but now, Prejean will use this an example that she, somehow, has been "vindicated" for her willingness never compromise her beliefs. No--matter--what. Because that's what you do--never compromise, even when you're wrong!

Speaking of being wrong--Trump brushed aside the concerns over Prejean's sexy pics by saying that she's a model and this is the 21st century. In other words, "Get over it, you prudes!" And he has a point:

It's the 21st century--so get over gay marriage, you prudes!

Hopefully, this will fade away now, and Miss California can join the growing list of wanna-be reality TV stars and speakers on the church social circuit (but it was fun, wasn't it?!).