Honoring Lughnasadh--and a Goodbye

Ok, let's cut right to the chase. I've decided to shut down this blog. But it's actually a good thing! And it's fitting that I do it today, as a way to mark Lughnasadh. In the past, today was a time to gather in nature's harvest; now we instead reflect on what is manifesting in our lives as the year draws closer and closer to autumn. As I reflect in this way, I see that I'm moving more and more out of my spiritual closet and into the wider world. I'm also finding more outlets for my writing, and that's been a great experience. Since I don't really "harvest" in the traditional sense, I also like to think of this time of the year as one of nature's maturity. We've gone from new growth in the spring and have now arrived at full flower and maturity. And so this is reflected in my own life, too.

When I started this blog a little less than 3 years ago, I was also beginning a new spiritual path. I was insecure, unsure and just looking for an outlet. Now that I'm more confident and sure of my path, I'm emerging into the "real world," and so I need this outlet less and less. I was also searching for my own voice, if you will. For various reasons, I didn't know who I was or, at the least, didn't feel confident in expressing certain aspects of my life. I still have a way to go, but I do think I've found my voice now, both in spiritual expression and direction, and in my writing. Hurray!

Since my hiatus earlier this summer, I've been on a nice vacation, spent some time writing, and I've conducted one house blessing and another ceremony I created for high school graduations. In addition, I've been digging further into my family's ancestry and have found new connections--one of those is that 1 set of great-grandparents are buried less than 1/2 mile from my current home. So one thing I'm exploring more is my ancestors.

I do plan to leave this page up so that I can still connect with many of you from time to time. You have such interesting things to say and share! Just don't come here expecting to see anything new. But--who knows, I may revive this blog if the mood hits me again. I want to thank everyone who has read a post or left a comment; so many of you have encouraged me along my path, reaching out to share a common interest when I often felt isolated or tentative. Thank you, thank you, thank you!

In closing, I'd like to encourage you all to follow your heart, take chances and believe in yourself. This world is a wonderful place, and all it takes to see it is for us to open our eyes and look. At the bottom of this blog, I've included something written by Rumi that I think sums up what I'm trying to say. When my eyes finally opened several years ago, a friend showed me this poem, and it felt as if Rumi had been reading my mind. So I've repeated it here:

"The breeze at dawn has secrets to tell you.

"Don't go back to sleep.

"You must ask for what you really want.
"Don't do back to sleep.

"People are going back and forth across the doorsill where two worlds touch.

"The door is round and open.

"Don't go back to sleep."

Honoring Lughnasadh--and a Goodbye

Ok, let's cut right to the chase. I've decided to shut down this blog. But it's actually a good thing! And it's fitting that I do it today, as a way to mark Lughnasadh. In the past, today was a time to gather in nature's harvest; now we instead reflect on what is manifesting in our lives as the year draws closer and closer to autumn. As I reflect in this way, I see that I'm moving more and more out of my spiritual closet and into the wider world. I'm also finding more outlets for my writing, and that's been a great experience. Since I don't really "harvest" in the traditional sense, I also like to think of this time of the year as one of nature's maturity. We've gone from new growth in the spring and have now arrived at full flower and maturity. And so this is reflected in my own life, too.

When I started this blog a little less than 3 years ago, I was also beginning a new spiritual path. I was insecure, unsure and just looking for an outlet. Now that I'm more confident and sure of my path, I'm emerging into the "real world," and so I need this outlet less and less. I was also searching for my own voice, if you will. For various reasons, I didn't know who I was or, at the least, didn't feel confident in expressing certain aspects of my life. I still have a way to go, but I do think I've found my voice now, both in spiritual expression and direction, and in my writing. Hurray!

Since my hiatus earlier this summer, I've been on a nice vacation, spent some time writing, and I've conducted one house blessing and another ceremony I created for high school graduations. In addition, I've been digging further into my family's ancestry and have found new connections--one of those is that 1 set of great-grandparents are buried less than 1/2 mile from my current home. So one thing I'm exploring more is my ancestors.

I do plan to leave this page up so that I can still connect with many of you from time to time. You have such interesting things to say and share! Just don't come here expecting to see anything new. But--who knows, I may revive this blog if the mood hits me again. I want to thank everyone who has read a post or left a comment; so many of you have encouraged me along my path, reaching out to share a common interest when I often felt isolated or tentative. Thank you, thank you, thank you!

In closing, I'd like to encourage you all to follow your heart, take chances and believe in yourself. This world is a wonderful place, and all it takes to see it is for us to open our eyes and look. At the bottom of this blog, I've included something written by Rumi that I think sums up what I'm trying to say. When my eyes finally opened several years ago, a friend showed me this poem, and it felt as if Rumi had been reading my mind. So I've repeated it here:

"The breeze at dawn has secrets to tell you.

"Don't go back to sleep.

"You must ask for what you really want.
"Don't do back to sleep.

"People are going back and forth across the doorsill where two worlds touch.

"The door is round and open.

"Don't go back to sleep."

Taking a Break!

Well, I guess I'm already on a break since I haven't posted in about 2 weeks, but I do like to tidy things up--so, yeah, time for a blogging break. Maybe I'll even get to go to the location in the photo above!

The good thing is that I'm busy with lots of stuff, but I'm starting to stress (no, not me!). I enjoy posting when I can, so I'm just going to chill for a while until things calm down.

What am I up to, you ask? Well, I've had some extra editing/writing work on the side, and I have another house blessing coming up as "Rev. Riverwolf." Plus I'm heading for a week-long vacation in 2 weeks. I'm also ready to sell the old house, my niece is graduating high school--and on and on!

Thanks as always for stopping by, and I wish you and yours much joy and freedom!

Taking a Break!

Well, I guess I'm already on a break since I haven't posted in about 2 weeks, but I do like to tidy things up--so, yeah, time for a blogging break. Maybe I'll even get to go to the location in the photo above!

The good thing is that I'm busy with lots of stuff, but I'm starting to stress (no, not me!). I enjoy posting when I can, so I'm just going to chill for a while until things calm down.

What am I up to, you ask? Well, I've had some extra editing/writing work on the side, and I have another house blessing coming up as "Rev. Riverwolf." Plus I'm heading for a week-long vacation in 2 weeks. I'm also ready to sell the old house, my niece is graduating high school--and on and on!

Thanks as always for stopping by, and I wish you and yours much joy and freedom!

My Various Worlds Are Colliding

This pic says it all, which is one reason I haven't posted much lately. When I started blogging just less than 3 years ago, this space gave me freedom to speak and do some things that I felt I couldn't do in real life, when I'm not Riverwolf. But now, surprisingly, that's changed. As my shamanic practice has deepened and since my ordination last summer, the "real" me is becoming more of that person that I once only felt comfortable being here on this blog.

But those worlds are colliding, merging--which is probably a great thing. Right? For example, there's another blog I write for professionally, and I find I'm starting to repeat myself; what I write about over there is also finding its way here. And I really do want to keep this one private. I've revealed too much here, a lot of things that I'd be embarrassed about or that might even hurt others were someone to connect all the dots. Not that anyone's digging around, but the Web can easily turn on you and bit you in the ass. Add in other social  networking, and it all gets way too difficult to juggle. I'm sure I'm not alone because I know people who have several blogs, a Twitter account and so on.

This integration that I feel taking place is a good thing, but it needs to settle in. I guess you could say that many of those things that have been germinating are finally beginning to flower. But I need to figure out what I'm doing here on this blog, specifically. This blog has become a wonderfully private and inspiring place, a source of strength and a great way to act out or relax. And it's worth protecting.

My Various Worlds Are Colliding

This pic says it all, which is one reason I haven't posted much lately. When I started blogging just less than 3 years ago, this space gave me freedom to speak and do some things that I felt I couldn't do in real life, when I'm not Riverwolf. But now, surprisingly, that's changed. As my shamanic practice has deepened and since my ordination last summer, the "real" me is becoming more of that person that I once only felt comfortable being here on this blog.

But those worlds are colliding, merging--which is probably a great thing. Right? For example, there's another blog I write for professionally, and I find I'm starting to repeat myself; what I write about over there is also finding its way here. And I really do want to keep this one private. I've revealed too much here, a lot of things that I'd be embarrassed about or that might even hurt others were someone to connect all the dots. Not that anyone's digging around, but the Web can easily turn on you and bit you in the ass. Add in other social  networking, and it all gets way too difficult to juggle. I'm sure I'm not alone because I know people who have several blogs, a Twitter account and so on.

This integration that I feel taking place is a good thing, but it needs to settle in. I guess you could say that many of those things that have been germinating are finally beginning to flower. But I need to figure out what I'm doing here on this blog, specifically. This blog has become a wonderfully private and inspiring place, a source of strength and a great way to act out or relax. And it's worth protecting.

The Most Interesting Thing I've Seen All Day

Is, naturally, Lady Gaga. Here she is arriving at the Brit Awards (where she is changing her show to honor the late Alexander McQueen).

Once again, Gaga has inspired me. I love the way she constantly pushes herself to stay creative. I have plans tonight with friends, and so I'm going to step up the fashion just a hair. I mean, these things take planning! I could just throw on jeans--which is what I had in mind--but we'll see what else I can come up with. But baby steps...

Otherwise, work is work. Good news on the romantic front: Things with my partner are going really well, so stay tuned for more updates. We're still in the process of getting the house ready to sell, so bathroom walls are being sanded and primed in preparation for painting.

Busy day, too. I had hopes to carve out 15 minutes or so for a meditation (several things to explore!)--so maybe that will still happen.

Until next time, be good to yourself and love someone today.

The Most Interesting Thing I've Seen All Day

Is, naturally, Lady Gaga. Here she is arriving at the Brit Awards (where she is changing her show to honor the late Alexander McQueen).

Once again, Gaga has inspired me. I love the way she constantly pushes herself to stay creative. I have plans tonight with friends, and so I'm going to step up the fashion just a hair. I mean, these things take planning! I could just throw on jeans--which is what I had in mind--but we'll see what else I can come up with. But baby steps...

Otherwise, work is work. Good news on the romantic front: Things with my partner are going really well, so stay tuned for more updates. We're still in the process of getting the house ready to sell, so bathroom walls are being sanded and primed in preparation for painting.

Busy day, too. I had hopes to carve out 15 minutes or so for a meditation (several things to explore!)--so maybe that will still happen.

Until next time, be good to yourself and love someone today.

Ta-Da!

Here's the new look for the blog! Love it? Hate it? I'm diggin the stars, and the colors feel right--plus, I kinda like the tractor. It reminds me of that Kenny Chesney song. But I do care if it's hard to read, so if it is, please let me know.

Now I just have to upload all my widgets again!

And if you're looking for a new look yourself, check out Pyzam.com.

Ta-Da!

Here's the new look for the blog! Love it? Hate it? I'm diggin the stars, and the colors feel right--plus, I kinda like the tractor. It reminds me of that Kenny Chesney song. But I do care if it's hard to read, so if it is, please let me know.

Now I just have to upload all my widgets again!

And if you're looking for a new look yourself, check out Pyzam.com.

And Speaking of Makeovers...

Stay tuned because the ol' blog here is going to get a new look soon. What the hell--it's a new year, and I seem to have renewed energy. I've been checking out some templates, so we'll see. Don't know how long it will take to set up, but I hope it's refreshing and, in the end, not too annoying!

And Speaking of Makeovers...

Stay tuned because the ol' blog here is going to get a new look soon. What the hell--it's a new year, and I seem to have renewed energy. I've been checking out some templates, so we'll see. Don't know how long it will take to set up, but I hope it's refreshing and, in the end, not too annoying!

Rethinking the Sabbatical

So yeah, here I am! Don't get too excited, however--I'm not sure where this is leading. I had a bit of an epiphany yesterday, and I realized that I truly need this here blog to help express myself creatively and spiritually. But it's been great to be away and rest.

In my last post, I used "sabbatical" in the title, almost as an afterthought. But it's really the perfect choice--and must've come through my subconscious. Ever since I left my partner and moved into the apartment, I've had a rough time, mostly feeling adrift with a sense of "Now what?" I get so impatient. And I've felt quite a strong pull away from old friends and old routines and toward something more specifically spiritual. So while working on a writing project yesterday, it slowly dawned on me that this period in my life is truly a sort of sabbatical. And if I could just relax and really use it in that way, it could work wonders in my life.

There's much in flux at the moment for me. My partner and I may still reunite, I have no idea where I'll be living in a year, and I am aiming for a new job within that same time frame. But regardless of whether this all comes to pass or not, I'm not there yet. Still a ways to go. So instead of fretting over all that, I need to use my time wisely. It's time to read those books I've been wanting to read, study those topics I've been wanting to study, travel, take chances and try new things, and brush up on my shamanic and magickal skills and practices. I do so like to have everything nailed down, but obviously, the universe has other plans. So I need to breathe and relax into that.

Don't know how this blog will evolve as a result, but stay tuned and, as always, thanks for reading.

Rethinking the Sabbatical

So yeah, here I am! Don't get too excited, however--I'm not sure where this is leading. I had a bit of an epiphany yesterday, and I realized that I truly need this here blog to help express myself creatively and spiritually. But it's been great to be away and rest.

In my last post, I used "sabbatical" in the title, almost as an afterthought. But it's really the perfect choice--and must've come through my subconscious. Ever since I left my partner and moved into the apartment, I've had a rough time, mostly feeling adrift with a sense of "Now what?" I get so impatient. And I've felt quite a strong pull away from old friends and old routines and toward something more specifically spiritual. So while working on a writing project yesterday, it slowly dawned on me that this period in my life is truly a sort of sabbatical. And if I could just relax and really use it in that way, it could work wonders in my life.

There's much in flux at the moment for me. My partner and I may still reunite, I have no idea where I'll be living in a year, and I am aiming for a new job within that same time frame. But regardless of whether this all comes to pass or not, I'm not there yet. Still a ways to go. So instead of fretting over all that, I need to use my time wisely. It's time to read those books I've been wanting to read, study those topics I've been wanting to study, travel, take chances and try new things, and brush up on my shamanic and magickal skills and practices. I do so like to have everything nailed down, but obviously, the universe has other plans. So I need to breathe and relax into that.

Don't know how this blog will evolve as a result, but stay tuned and, as always, thanks for reading.

On a Blogging Sabbatical

Oconaluftee River in Cherokee, NC

Obviously I haven't posted much lately--too much going on! So rather than stress over it, I'm just going to take a break. I need to regroup. It may only be a few days or it may be a few weeks. And I may stop by your sites and leave a few comments here and there. We'll see. In the meantime, I'll be near the water and among the trees.

Thanks to everyone for taking a moment to stop by and read, and I wish you all peace and happiness.

On a Blogging Sabbatical

Oconaluftee River in Cherokee, NC

Obviously I haven't posted much lately--too much going on! So rather than stress over it, I'm just going to take a break. I need to regroup. It may only be a few days or it may be a few weeks. And I may stop by your sites and leave a few comments here and there. We'll see. In the meantime, I'll be near the water and among the trees.

Thanks to everyone for taking a moment to stop by and read, and I wish you all peace and happiness.

Is It Friday Yet?

I'm actually at my office job and having a bitch of a time coming up with a headline for an article--so, screw it, I'm blogging!

First, my weekend in Cherokee, NC, was ... well, many things. I saw clouds embrace the mountaintops and dipped my hands in the cold, rushing mountain streams. It was also fun, and I learned a lot. Parts were insightful and inspiring as well as horribly dull and irritating. Frightening, too. What do I mean by that? Imagine looking into the coal-black eyes of a modern Cherokee medicine man and feeling the tender underbelly of your soul laid bare. More on that!

When I returned home yesterday, I was surprised by yet MORE roses from my partner! I could get used to this...

Last, I've decided to try an little experiment--I'm going without a TV! Now that I've moved, I really can't afford the kind of TV I'd like. Sure, I can buy a fairly cheap one, but it got me to thinking. Why do I even really need one? Most shows you can now view online, and frankly, it would be nice to do without the distraction. Seriously, who says we need a TV? Nothing wrong with it, per se, but it's that cultural expectation that you must have the biggest screen around, watch all the shows ('cause the advertisers want your $$) and then talk about it with your friends. It's all fine--unless it takes over your life, which is exactly what TV tends to do. So, wish me luck and maybe I'll blog about my progress.

Ok, now back to that damned headline...

Is It Friday Yet?

I'm actually at my office job and having a bitch of a time coming up with a headline for an article--so, screw it, I'm blogging!

First, my weekend in Cherokee, NC, was ... well, many things. I saw clouds embrace the mountaintops and dipped my hands in the cold, rushing mountain streams. It was also fun, and I learned a lot. Parts were insightful and inspiring as well as horribly dull and irritating. Frightening, too. What do I mean by that? Imagine looking into the coal-black eyes of a modern Cherokee medicine man and feeling the tender underbelly of your soul laid bare. More on that!

When I returned home yesterday, I was surprised by yet MORE roses from my partner! I could get used to this...

Last, I've decided to try an little experiment--I'm going without a TV! Now that I've moved, I really can't afford the kind of TV I'd like. Sure, I can buy a fairly cheap one, but it got me to thinking. Why do I even really need one? Most shows you can now view online, and frankly, it would be nice to do without the distraction. Seriously, who says we need a TV? Nothing wrong with it, per se, but it's that cultural expectation that you must have the biggest screen around, watch all the shows ('cause the advertisers want your $$) and then talk about it with your friends. It's all fine--unless it takes over your life, which is exactly what TV tends to do. So, wish me luck and maybe I'll blog about my progress.

Ok, now back to that damned headline...

Be Back in a Few...

I'm going to have to take a break, dear readers. Lots to accomplish this week, so I gotta prioritize--especially if I'm going to avoid another meltdown like I had last week! Also, I'm getting ready for my weekend in Cherokee, NC, and I'm very excited about that. If I'm not back before then, I'll be sure to take lots of notes!

Best to all who wander by.

Be Back in a Few...

I'm going to have to take a break, dear readers. Lots to accomplish this week, so I gotta prioritize--especially if I'm going to avoid another meltdown like I had last week! Also, I'm getting ready for my weekend in Cherokee, NC, and I'm very excited about that. If I'm not back before then, I'll be sure to take lots of notes!

Best to all who wander by.