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.

Look Ma--I'm Praying on TV!

Can't believe I hadn't posted about this yet, but with being sick and all, it somehow slipped through the cracks. So last night, yours truly delivered the invocation for a meeting of our esteemed local county commissioners! And I slipped in a little shamanic juju without anyone realizing it!

One of the administrators said she found my minister web site, therefore the invitation. Unlike some places around the country, we still open each county meeting with prayer (this is the Bible belt, after all). Now, there are some neighboring counties where this practice is under challenge, but locally, no such problems. Naturally, I worried about what to say. Do I shake my rattle and dance a jig around the podium while invoking nature spirits? Do I blow my conch horn and really freak everyone out? Will something I say set off the Christians on yet another "witch hunt?" And--most important--what do I wear?

As an interfaith minister, these aren't easy questions to answer. I knew I wanted some sort of reference to nature and I wanted some form of shamanic elements, too. After researching online, I found part of a prayer that I liked, and then I added my own touches. So instead of praying to Jesus, I invoked the "eternal and unseen spirit of the universe." I thought that was nonspecific enough while also expressing my own opinion that spirit does not take the form of a bearded man in the sky.

I also used the words "sacred circle" to hint at Native American and pagan influences. To honor the 4 directions, I talked about drawing a great circle around the county, mentioning real towns that roughly corresponded to east, south, west, north. The commissioners and visitors might not realize it, but they had just been included in a magickal circle--so let the positive energy flow!

Also, with the spring equinox only a few days away, I mentioned balance and harmony, and tied this into the business of the county. I added a few more nods to taxes, bonds and other such glamour; after all, it's a county meeting, which is what the prayer is supposed to focus on.

What did I wear? Well, my teacher likes to say that one way shamans can "shape shift" is by understanding which mask to wear in which situation. In other words, a kilt and face paint may not be appropriate at the county courthouse! So I decided to rock the suit and bow tie. See, I think that if you sneak up on people with some of this alternative spiritual stuff because you present a more familiar image, then they're likely to get your message. And besides, it was on TV! Only the local cable access channel, but hey--who knows who was watching and may have been touched by something I said. Sure, the fundies may have been puzzled by the lack of "Jesus" every 5 words, but my hope is that my focus on what unites us rather than what divides us got past all that.

Oh yeah, and I included a nod to "Battlestar Galactica," too! Wonder if any one caught that? "So say we all!"

Look Ma--I'm Praying on TV!

Can't believe I hadn't posted about this yet, but with being sick and all, it somehow slipped through the cracks. So last night, yours truly delivered the invocation for a meeting of our esteemed local county commissioners! And I slipped in a little shamanic juju without anyone realizing it!

One of the administrators said she found my minister web site, therefore the invitation. Unlike some places around the country, we still open each county meeting with prayer (this is the Bible belt, after all). Now, there are some neighboring counties where this practice is under challenge, but locally, no such problems. Naturally, I worried about what to say. Do I shake my rattle and dance a jig around the podium while invoking nature spirits? Do I blow my conch horn and really freak everyone out? Will something I say set off the Christians on yet another "witch hunt?" And--most important--what do I wear?

As an interfaith minister, these aren't easy questions to answer. I knew I wanted some sort of reference to nature and I wanted some form of shamanic elements, too. After researching online, I found part of a prayer that I liked, and then I added my own touches. So instead of praying to Jesus, I invoked the "eternal and unseen spirit of the universe." I thought that was nonspecific enough while also expressing my own opinion that spirit does not take the form of a bearded man in the sky.

I also used the words "sacred circle" to hint at Native American and pagan influences. To honor the 4 directions, I talked about drawing a great circle around the county, mentioning real towns that roughly corresponded to east, south, west, north. The commissioners and visitors might not realize it, but they had just been included in a magickal circle--so let the positive energy flow!

Also, with the spring equinox only a few days away, I mentioned balance and harmony, and tied this into the business of the county. I added a few more nods to taxes, bonds and other such glamour; after all, it's a county meeting, which is what the prayer is supposed to focus on.

What did I wear? Well, my teacher likes to say that one way shamans can "shape shift" is by understanding which mask to wear in which situation. In other words, a kilt and face paint may not be appropriate at the county courthouse! So I decided to rock the suit and bow tie. See, I think that if you sneak up on people with some of this alternative spiritual stuff because you present a more familiar image, then they're likely to get your message. And besides, it was on TV! Only the local cable access channel, but hey--who knows who was watching and may have been touched by something I said. Sure, the fundies may have been puzzled by the lack of "Jesus" every 5 words, but my hope is that my focus on what unites us rather than what divides us got past all that.

Oh yeah, and I included a nod to "Battlestar Galactica," too! Wonder if any one caught that? "So say we all!"

No More Shaman Mentor

Back in January, you may remember that I had been approached by a local student who asked me to serve as her mentor on a graduation project about shamanism. Well, she's changed her mind! Which, now that I've known the girl for a while, seems to be a trend. Shamanism was her second project idea, after her first didn't turn out--and now she's onto a third, with less than a month to complete everything! Ah, to be a teenager again (not really).

I'm disappointed, certainly, since I was looking forward to how this would turn out. Plus I thought she was pretty bold for choosing this topic. She had already begun work on a ritual tool kit, but it appears her research paper turned her off. Which is a shame--she never did take me up on my multiple offers to help her refine the topic and figure out what to write about. But, as they say, you can lead a horse to water but you can't make it drink!

But she's on this particular path for a reason, as am I, and so I hope we can both learn what small or big lessons were here in this situation for us to learn. Hmmm, that's always the trick!

No More Shaman Mentor

Back in January, you may remember that I had been approached by a local student who asked me to serve as her mentor on a graduation project about shamanism. Well, she's changed her mind! Which, now that I've known the girl for a while, seems to be a trend. Shamanism was her second project idea, after her first didn't turn out--and now she's onto a third, with less than a month to complete everything! Ah, to be a teenager again (not really).

I'm disappointed, certainly, since I was looking forward to how this would turn out. Plus I thought she was pretty bold for choosing this topic. She had already begun work on a ritual tool kit, but it appears her research paper turned her off. Which is a shame--she never did take me up on my multiple offers to help her refine the topic and figure out what to write about. But, as they say, you can lead a horse to water but you can't make it drink!

But she's on this particular path for a reason, as am I, and so I hope we can both learn what small or big lessons were here in this situation for us to learn. Hmmm, that's always the trick!

My Quest to Join the Illuminati: Steps 13-15

Almost made it through my little Illuminati checklist. After these 3, only 3 more to go!

13) Have all your outward appearances be that of a decent, moral and upstanding citizen. 

Oh, sister, I already have them ALL fooled! Done.

14) Openly become a member of the Christian clergy while secretly holding some occult practice. 

Easy one. I was ordained as an interfaith minister several months ago--and most people think I just do weddings (how sweet, right?) But most don't realize that I also get my ju-ju on and bang my shaman drums! I can shape-shift with the best of 'em!

15) Create a network of connections that form a hierarchy. 

Hmmm--does my experience with Amway count? Yes--it's true. I was once in Amway (hangs head in shame). BUT, it's all about schemes called "pyramids" and hierarchies--so I can totally do this Illuminati gig. 

My Quest to Join the Illuminati: Steps 13-15

Almost made it through my little Illuminati checklist. After these 3, only 3 more to go!

13) Have all your outward appearances be that of a decent, moral and upstanding citizen. 

Oh, sister, I already have them ALL fooled! Done.

14) Openly become a member of the Christian clergy while secretly holding some occult practice. 

Easy one. I was ordained as an interfaith minister several months ago--and most people think I just do weddings (how sweet, right?) But most don't realize that I also get my ju-ju on and bang my shaman drums! I can shape-shift with the best of 'em!

15) Create a network of connections that form a hierarchy. 

Hmmm--does my experience with Amway count? Yes--it's true. I was once in Amway (hangs head in shame). BUT, it's all about schemes called "pyramids" and hierarchies--so I can totally do this Illuminati gig. 

Shamans, Moravians--and how the Universe Connects It All Together

Do you ever feel like things suddenly fit together perfectly, like Lego blocks? I don't always feel that way, but there are some things going on right now in my life that seem to be connected in rather unexpected ways.

So I met earlier today with the local student who wants me to serve as a mentor for her high school graduation project on shamanism. We talked over what she could research, what she would like to learn and so on. Ultimately, she has to make the decision, but hopefully, I've helped guide her in a direction that will be exciting and beneficial.

I met the girl's mother and older sister, too. Very nice folks--and very open-minded, too. I'm sure it isn't every day your child comes home and says they want to do a project on shamanism! But during the conversation, I discover the family is Moravian. Now, what are Moravians, you ask? Some weird pagan cult? Actually, they're the oldest Protestant Christian denomination (predating Martin Luther)--and my mother's family is Moravian!

Most people, even Christians, have never heard of Moravians. Which is a shame because this group paved the way for so many. But they're not big proselytizers, and there's only 1 local Moravian church where I live. So to meet other Moravians is rather rare and interesting all by itself. However, the other week I felt compelled to do some research into Moravians, and at the time, I really couldn't explain why. But earlier today, my research paid off and it entered my conversation with this family as if it was the most natural thing in the world. Instantly, I had a special bond with these folks--and if it did nothing more than put the student's family at ease, well, that's good enough for me. But then the older sister--who's just returned from a Moravian missionary stint in Costa Rica--tells me of a Moravian minister she knows who has a particular interest in shamanism, and she acts as if it's the most normal thing in the world! Hmmm, maybe there's more I need to learn about this ancestral religion of mine. And it certainly pays to listen to spirit.

The Illuminati Connection! 

Ok, now this is totally tongue-in-cheek--but Moravians may even have an Illuminati connection! It seems one Illuminati group sprang up in the Bavarian region of Germany back in the 1700s. Well, guess where my mother's family is from! Her great-great-great (add several more) grandfather came from Bavaria 'round about this time, and he was Moravian--OMG! Come on, think about it: A little-known Protestant sect survives by going underground for centuries, was once called the "Czech Brethren," re-emerges to come to the New World, and although few people have heard of Moravians, their symbols--Christmas stars (see below), cookies and Lovefeasts--are widely known.

I even think the Rosicrucians have roots in Germany, too. Wow, so what is it about Germany and secret societies?

Shamans, Moravians--and how the Universe Connects It All Together

Do you ever feel like things suddenly fit together perfectly, like Lego blocks? I don't always feel that way, but there are some things going on right now in my life that seem to be connected in rather unexpected ways.

So I met earlier today with the local student who wants me to serve as a mentor for her high school graduation project on shamanism. We talked over what she could research, what she would like to learn and so on. Ultimately, she has to make the decision, but hopefully, I've helped guide her in a direction that will be exciting and beneficial.

I met the girl's mother and older sister, too. Very nice folks--and very open-minded, too. I'm sure it isn't every day your child comes home and says they want to do a project on shamanism! But during the conversation, I discover the family is Moravian. Now, what are Moravians, you ask? Some weird pagan cult? Actually, they're the oldest Protestant Christian denomination (predating Martin Luther)--and my mother's family is Moravian!

Most people, even Christians, have never heard of Moravians. Which is a shame because this group paved the way for so many. But they're not big proselytizers, and there's only 1 local Moravian church where I live. So to meet other Moravians is rather rare and interesting all by itself. However, the other week I felt compelled to do some research into Moravians, and at the time, I really couldn't explain why. But earlier today, my research paid off and it entered my conversation with this family as if it was the most natural thing in the world. Instantly, I had a special bond with these folks--and if it did nothing more than put the student's family at ease, well, that's good enough for me. But then the older sister--who's just returned from a Moravian missionary stint in Costa Rica--tells me of a Moravian minister she knows who has a particular interest in shamanism, and she acts as if it's the most normal thing in the world! Hmmm, maybe there's more I need to learn about this ancestral religion of mine. And it certainly pays to listen to spirit.

The Illuminati Connection! 

Ok, now this is totally tongue-in-cheek--but Moravians may even have an Illuminati connection! It seems one Illuminati group sprang up in the Bavarian region of Germany back in the 1700s. Well, guess where my mother's family is from! Her great-great-great (add several more) grandfather came from Bavaria 'round about this time, and he was Moravian--OMG! Come on, think about it: A little-known Protestant sect survives by going underground for centuries, was once called the "Czech Brethren," re-emerges to come to the New World, and although few people have heard of Moravians, their symbols--Christmas stars (see below), cookies and Lovefeasts--are widely known.

I even think the Rosicrucians have roots in Germany, too. Wow, so what is it about Germany and secret societies?

"Will You Be My Shaman Mentor?"

That's what the voice on the other end of the phone asked me. A local student found me through my minister Web site, and she wants me to serve as a mentor for her graduation project on shamanism. How cool is that! Of course, I said yes.

And I was just sitting here feeling sorry for myself for various reasons. And so the Universe steps in. Interesting. The student has to have her project approved first before we begin any of the work--but how amazing is it that someone so young is interested in shamanism! Stay tuned.

"Will You Be My Shaman Mentor?"

That's what the voice on the other end of the phone asked me. A local student found me through my minister Web site, and she wants me to serve as a mentor for her graduation project on shamanism. How cool is that! Of course, I said yes.

And I was just sitting here feeling sorry for myself for various reasons. And so the Universe steps in. Interesting. The student has to have her project approved first before we begin any of the work--but how amazing is it that someone so young is interested in shamanism! Stay tuned.

Ministry, Maintenance and Makeovers

In case you haven't noticed, I haven't posted much lately. It's all too tedious to go into, but I have been busy with other things.

Rev. Riverwolf hasn't officiated at any other weddings, but I did perform a house blessing a few days before Christmas. It went really well, the family was super-nice, and we ended with homemade chilli and champagne! I am so enjoying this ritual work, and it's becoming a wonderful source of joy in my life.

At home, I've set up what you might call altars, although I don't like that word since I'm not worshipping anything. They're more like photos really, representing the 4 elements and 4 cardinal directions. I need to add a few more touches for South/Fire and North/Air, but they're helpful daily reminders of my connections to the natural world and my place in it. Also did some organizing of my space where I keep all my ritual tools and objects. It feels much more energized now--and I really need some sort of name for it, like "chapel," or "temple"--something like that, but it needs to be more intimate and personal. I'm sure there's a word for it out there. Any suggestions? I'm also reading and researching.

On the relationship front, things are improving with my partner. He's made some changes, and I'm making some myself. We're both nicer to each other, we're listening and communicating--and I think I have hope this might work out. Part of me worries it might still be too late, but I guess we'll see. No rush.

Otherwise, trying to see movies and friends, and work is work, blah, blah. Thanks for indulging me!

Ministry, Maintenance and Makeovers

In case you haven't noticed, I haven't posted much lately. It's all too tedious to go into, but I have been busy with other things.

Rev. Riverwolf hasn't officiated at any other weddings, but I did perform a house blessing a few days before Christmas. It went really well, the family was super-nice, and we ended with homemade chilli and champagne! I am so enjoying this ritual work, and it's becoming a wonderful source of joy in my life.

At home, I've set up what you might call altars, although I don't like that word since I'm not worshipping anything. They're more like photos really, representing the 4 elements and 4 cardinal directions. I need to add a few more touches for South/Fire and North/Air, but they're helpful daily reminders of my connections to the natural world and my place in it. Also did some organizing of my space where I keep all my ritual tools and objects. It feels much more energized now--and I really need some sort of name for it, like "chapel," or "temple"--something like that, but it needs to be more intimate and personal. I'm sure there's a word for it out there. Any suggestions? I'm also reading and researching.

On the relationship front, things are improving with my partner. He's made some changes, and I'm making some myself. We're both nicer to each other, we're listening and communicating--and I think I have hope this might work out. Part of me worries it might still be too late, but I guess we'll see. No rush.

Otherwise, trying to see movies and friends, and work is work, blah, blah. Thanks for indulging me!

Wedding #2 is Set!

Wow, this minister thing is taking off! I have 1 wedding to conduct on Samhain/Halloween, and now I have another on 10/17! Lots to do, but I'm really enjoying this so far, coming up with ideas for the brides. I couldn't have more different weddings to conduct. One is a big ol' pagan wedding, complete with casting sacred circles, blowing conch horns, ringing bells and such. The other is very simple with no mention of anything religious/spiritual at all--and maybe not even any music. Hmmm, I may have to hum something to liven it up! 

Wish me luck and lots of cool/calm nerves!

Wedding #2 is Set!

Wow, this minister thing is taking off! I have 1 wedding to conduct on Samhain/Halloween, and now I have another on 10/17! Lots to do, but I'm really enjoying this so far, coming up with ideas for the brides. I couldn't have more different weddings to conduct. One is a big ol' pagan wedding, complete with casting sacred circles, blowing conch horns, ringing bells and such. The other is very simple with no mention of anything religious/spiritual at all--and maybe not even any music. Hmmm, I may have to hum something to liven it up! 

Wish me luck and lots of cool/calm nerves!