Full Circle Events Newsletter

Greetings to all Full Circle friends and members,

In this January 2003 edition of our newsletter we have:

The Pagan Bookshelf * Vikings Land in North America * Pagan Shopping * Art, War & a movie called “Max” * Pagan Crafts & Costumes * Layne Redmond at Mt Modonna this month * The Dread Swordsman Robert * Events of Interest * The Year of the Sheep

THE PAGAN BOOKSHELF *

On the Pagan bookshelf this month we have:

Myth & Middle-earth: Exploring the Legends Behind J.R.R. Tolkien's The Hobbit & The Lord of the Rings by Leslie Ellen Jones.

The publisher writes: “In here Ms. Jones discusses the Anglo-Saxon, Finnish, Old Norse, Germanic, Gothic and Celtic myths that Tolkien drew upon for his created worlds. Dragons and marching trees, cosmic couples, wizards, dwarves, Elves, shape shifters, heroes and riddle games – it’s all explored in this concise look at the wondrous universe created by Tolkien’s deep breadth of knowledge and his magnificent imagination.”

VIKINGS IN THE NORTH ATLANTIC:

Programs, articles and exhibits on the Vikings seem to be everywhere these days. I just watched one program on the Vikings in Ireland and then was able to tune to another on Viking art and weapons. If like me, you can’t get enough Vikings, then check out this website from the Smithsonian Museum Exhibit titled “Vikings in the North Atlantic”

http://www.mnh.si.edu/vikings/start.html

PAGAN SHOPPING:

If you know a young girl just about to enter her time of change, you might wish to wish to visit this site where they offer menarche jewelry to celebrate the occasion:

http://www.womanrare.com/menarche_jewelry.htm

These pieces were created especially for girls in celebration of their passage into womanhood. Each comes with a poem describing the jewelry's symbolism.

The site also has some interesting links to information on menarche rituals and stories.

Looking for Fairy Crowns or a Mermaid Diadem to wear on the holidays? Then check out: http://www.animalx.com/citadel/crowns.htm

Finally, Todd Alan Studios offers some exquisite silver and gold elfin crowns inspired by LOTR: http://www.toddalanstudios.com/elfincrowns.htm

ART, WAR AND A MOVIE CALLED “MAX”:

In his new movie, "Max," Cusack plays Max Rothman, an artist who lost his arm in the First World War. Max is determined to transform his world by fostering modern art as a gallery owner. The film shows how Max's hopes and life are powerfully determined by a struggling young artist he befriends named Adolph Hitler. Beliefnet talked to Cusack recently about his faith, his politics, and his new movie.

http://www.beliefnet.com/frameset.asp?pageLoc=/story/120/story_12015_1.html&boardID=50671

PAGAN CRAFTS:

Want to make your own crown? How about your own LOTR cloaks and costumes? Then check out: http://www.alleycatscratch.com/lotr/. She makes it look easy.

(and yes, for those of you paying attention, there is a LOTR (Lord of the Rings) theme to this month’s newsletter)

LAYNE REDMOND AT MT. MADONNA:

This just in from Allee Barr: “Layne Redmond will be teaching another beginning frame drumming workshop with Tommy Brunjes at Mt. Madonna next month. I highly recommend their workshops to anyone interested in frame drumming, or in the study of transcendental states of consciousness, sound healing, and the like. Layne's work is always evolving, and just keeps getting more and more wonderful.”

Layne is the author of “When The Drummers Were Women”. Her website is: http://www.layneredmond.com/

Workshop Description:

Bhramari Devi, The Ancient Bee Goddess Drumming and Chanting Workshop.

Intro level frame drumming, bhramari pranayama and other humming practices, chanting and slide lecture on the history of the Bee Goddess and her priestesses. Chanting, overtone singing and humming sacred sounds to the rhythms of the drum is an ancient technique for directly synchronizing the mind/body, creating conditions for psychological, physical, and spiritual healing. The primal mantra Aum is considered the seed syllable of created existence. This mantra and its sound are linked to the Bindu, the pulse of consciousness, the great beehive - the place of sacred utterance and the buzzing vibration of life. Chanted correctly, it vibrates the cranium and the cerebral cortex of the brain, causing a sound similar to the humming of bees. In yogic
practices, the sound of bees buzzing is the closest sound that we can actually hear to the unstruck sound behind reality. Layne will show a slide lecture based on the ancient bee goddess and her bee priestesses and the seven realms of consciousness represented by the chakras. The Maha Devi, Kundalini, manifests as a queen bee surrounded by bees known as Bhramaridevi, who awakens in a buzz of ascending consciousness and descending spiritual grace. This ascending buzzing energy illuminates the chakras which are interconnected with areas of the brain that are silent in the unawakened state. The brain explodes into awareness as these dormant areas are activated. We will also be practicing Bhramari, a pranayama
practice derived from the buzzing of bees which vibrates and realigns the entire nervous system, brain and body by buzzing the vocal chords. We'll learn a synthesis of drumming techniques from India, the Middle East, and North Africa on the Middle Eastern Style tambourine. Drums will be
provided.

http://www.mountmadonna.org/
Phone: (408) 847-0406 Fax: (408) 847-2683
Email: programs@mountmadonna.org

THE DREAD SWORDSMAN ROBERT:

(This section is dedicated to my friend Kristil)

Bob (Robert) Anderson is so well regarded that his name is spoken in hushed and reverent tones by famous and talented people worldwide. But unless you are an avid movie buff or a sword fighter, you’ve probably never heard of him.

But Bob Anderson is “The guy”. Not “a guy” he is “The Guy”, because he is the man who taught both Robin Hood and Aragorn how to fight.

Now is his 80’s, Bob is famous for choreographing the fight scenes for such movies as “Robin Hood”, “The Princess Bride”, “Star Wars” (where he played Darth Vador in the fight scenes), “First Knight, “Zorro” and yes, (you knew I’d mention it again, somehow) “The Lord of the Rings”.

Here are some websites that talk about the man and the movies he has worked on:

http://www.safd.org/documents/darthvader.html

http://www.theonering.net/features/exclusives/nzexclusives08.html

http://www.sonypictures.com/movies/firstknight/exclusive.html

http://www.lordoftherings.net/film/productoin/or_sword.html

EVENTS OF INTEREST:

January 2 – Pronaos Ritual – Aptos

Pronaos Ritual Work, with Artisans of Light, on the first Thursday of every month at 8pm. Pronaos is a unique and powerful opportunity to participate in ritual, the language of the Soul. Pronaos awakens our consciousness to a variety of meanings for the symbols we study and helps us apply universal principles in our daily lives. The ritual brings to our awareness the poignant bond we enjoy with the Inner School, with each other, and with our own Inner Self. This heightened awareness, in turn, results in receiving more help when studying by ourselves. It provides us with a support system. Information: artisan@thegrid.net.

January 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 – Dream Class – Walnut Creek

Thursday Morning Dream Class with Alexandra Robin at Dolphin Dream from 10:30-noon, suite F. The dreams that we create for ourselves each night are replete with deep meaning. Truly valuing our nightly forays into dreamtime can transform our lives. Learn how to interpret your dreams with the "dream interview process", an essential skill that delves deeply into your dream. Please bring one of your dreams to share and explore. Cost: $20 per class. Please pre-register with Alexandra at 925-609-8640, or call Dolphin Dream at 925-933-2342.

January 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 – Open Meetings – Cotati

Coven Nemorensis invites you to join them and others for open meetings at The Redwood Cafe, Old Redwood Highway, every Thursday night at 7pm. For updates and information regarding this or other Coven Nemorensis events and services, contact ferne.campbell@att.net, or visit http://www.covennemorensis.mybravenet.com/cronestea.html.

January 3 – Elements of Witchcraft Course – Walnut Creek

Dolphin Dream will host a 5-week course, The Elements of Witchcraft with Storm Faerywolf from 7-9PM. The powers that witches call upon are anything but supernatural. Through training we can learn to see beyond the limits of everyday reality, and begin to weave our own threads into the Pattern, to make magick. In this 5 week course we will open ourselves in trance and experience the 5 elemental powers of the ancients: Air, Fire, Water, Earth, and Spirit, and discover how this ancient model can connect us to the land on which we live, and also to the deepest levels of ourselves. We will experience each of the elements in turn and see how they unfold in our lives, bringing us closer to balance, strength, and alignment to our power. Class size is limited. Cost: $50-$100 sliding scale for entire course; $25 non-refundable deposit required to hold your space. Information: 925-933-2342.

January 3 – Rune Class – Berkeley

Rune Classes are being offered on the first Friday of every month with Hammer Oak Kindred at 7:30pm. Two to three runes of the elder futhark will be studied in each class. It’s part lecture, part discussion and almost always there is an activity relating to the rune. A donation between $2-$5 is requested to pay for the room rental, but no one will be turned away for lack of funds. Information: Eric at eric@iconoclast.net.

January 3, 4, 10, 11, 17, 18, 24, 25, 31 - Palmistry Classes – Oakland

Palmistry Classes are being offered at The Palmistry Academy of Ancient Wisdom on Fridays from 7:30-9:30pm, and Saturdays from 9:30am -noon. Instructor J. Owen Shift will be teaching intuitive and psychic methods of exercises, allowing students to develop channels for interpreting glyphs and other metaphysical signs that are otherwise unnoticed to the ordinary conscious individual. The wisdom of the ancients herein explored also includes I-Ching-Tarot revelations using fingerprints and numerology coordination. All classes are open-ended; meaning new and advanced may attend. No classes are repeated. No two classes are the same. $25 a week for two and a half hours of class, and tuition after one year is $15 a week. Information: 510-729-6329 or PAAW@postmark.net.

January 3, 31 – Women’s Group – Berkeley

"Rituals for Life", a women's group with Z Budapest, meets on the first and last Fridays of the month from 7-9pm. We focus on our lives, we listen to each other, we don't judge. Z then will lead then lead appropriate and powerful rituals to support our goals. Group meets at the 1901 North Berkeley Senior Center (corner of Martin Luther King and Hurst St) second floor; room C. Cost is a hundred dollars a month. Z Budapest is an internationally known author of seven books on the Goddess and her rituals. She is returning to lead groups for the first time in the 21st century. Information: 510-893-3097. Register online at www.zbudapest.com via PayPal or E-mail silverzb@aol.com.

January 4 – Beginning Tarot Classes – Los Gatos

Lisa Dale Miller will be teaching a 4-part Beginning Tarot Class on Saturdays from 11am-1pm at Inner Journey in Los Gatos. This class combines learning with practice, and is specifically designed for beginning students. By the end of the 4 classes you will have studied the meanings of the 78 Tarot cards, learned some basic spreads, and worked on responsible counseling skills for beginners. Since most students have trouble finding the right context to practice what they learn, we will spend class time doing actual readings. Each student will need to have his or her own Tarot deck (about $15.00) for this class. Lisa teaches with the Rider Waite Tarot Deck. Bring a notebook and either a Rider Waite Deck or Universal Waite Deck. Students must be 17 or older to join this class. Cost: $100.00 (for a series of 4 classes). Information: Lisa at 408-206-2518, astrotarot@earthlink.net, or visit http://home.earthlink.net/~astrotarot/index.htm.

January 4 – Open Meeting – Modesto

Open congregation meetings with Fellowship of the Earth take place the first Saturday of every month at 3 PM at the Universal Life Church. Information: fote@partytown.com.

January 5, 12, 19, 26 – Open Circle – Pacific Grove

Join an Open Pagan Circle every Sunday morning at 11am, for fellowship and chat at the Sacred Branch, next to Bookworks, downtown. Information: annie490@yahoo.com.

January 5, 12, 19, 26 – Pagan Coffee and Open Circle Teaching – Marina

Come to Red Rock Coffee and Tea located at Seacrest and Reservation every Sunday from 11:00am-1:00pm. The first hour is social hour, then a topic will be chosen and the open form
teaching begins. Sponsored by Firerose Tradition. Look for a man in a black leather jacket and glasses (Robert aka Dragon Founder of Firerose Tradition) and a knitting woman with dark hair (Kate).

January 5, 12, 19, 26 – Learn to read Hieroglyphs – San Jose

Learn to read Hieroglyphs at the Rosicrucian Museum in San Jose from 2-3pm. This is a single, repeating one-hour workshop that will introduce the novice to symbols and meaning, numbering system, calendar-dating system ancient names, and museum gallery search for hieroglyphs. At the conclusion of the workshop a visit to one of the museum galleries will be available for those who wish to find hieroglyphs relating to workshop material. Free with Museum admission. Information: 408-947-3632, or visit http://www.egyptianmuseum.org/calendar/index.html.

January 6 – Tarot Classes – San Francisco

The Psychic Eye Bookshop in San Francisco is offering a 6-weekTarot for Dummies class on Mondays from 7:30-8:30pm. Cost: $10. Information: 415-863-9997.

January 6, 13, 20 – Tarot In-Depth Class – Los Gatos

Lisa Dale Miller will be teaching Ongoing Tarot In-Depth classes on Mondays at Inner Journey in Los Gatos from 7-9pm. Prerequisite: Beginning Tarot or equivalent knowledge of basic card meanings. This ongoing class has evolved into a dynamic learning and sharing environment for intermediate/advanced Tarot students. Though there are many resources for studying the Tarot, most students have trouble finding the right context to practice what they learn. This class combines learning with practice. During the first hour, we work on real-life reading examples that students bring to class. Some topics we cover are in-depth card meanings, new spreads, responsible counseling skills, timing etc. The second hour is devoted to doing Tarot readings. Lisa teaches with the Rider Waite Tarot Deck. No Pre-registration necessary. Cost: $25.00 per class. Information: Lisa at 408-206-2518, astrotarot@earthlink.net, or visit http://home.earthlink.net/~astrotarot/index.htm.

January 6, 13, 20, 27 – Magical Workshop Series – San Lorenzo

A Magical Workshop series will be held on Monday nights from 8-10pm. The first series of workshops will focus on the chakras, and future topics will be announced. These workshops tend to be experiential in nature and very hands on, working with energy and creating meditation symbols or tools. The workshops are open to any experience level, there is no fee, and you are not required to attend the whole series. Children are welcome. Information: Foxglove, aka Stacy, at foxglove999@hotmail.com.

January 7 – Open Gathering – Berkeley

Fellowship of the Spiral Path (SPIRAL) offers ongoing classes and teaching circles, open rituals and clergy services for men and women at the Berkeley Unitarian Universalist Church on the first Tuesday of the month at 7:30pm. Information: Diana at 510-658-6033.

January 7 – Women’s Descent of Innana Celebration – East Bay

All women are welcome to celebrate The Descent of Innana with Daughters of the Goddess starting at 7:30pm. Walk the path of the Sumerian Goddess as she descends to the Underworld and re-emerges as Queen of Heaven and Earth. While this is not a drop-in circle, you can confirm with Daughters of the Goddess on the day of ritual, if you want attend. Please bring a candle for the altar, rattles, drums, blanket, pillow to sit on and a snack to share. Cost: $40. Work exchange and senior discount payment plans available. All women are welcome, and no one will be turned away due to lack of funds. Information: Lellani at 925-256-8109, Leimermaid@aol.com, or visit http://www.daughtersofthegoddess.com.

January 7, 14, 21, 28 – Seekers’ Lunch – Palo Alto

Seekers' Lunch meets weekly on Tuesdays at Hobee's from 12:30-2:00PM. Curious, new to the Craft, or Pagans new to the area are welcome to gather at 4224 El Camino Real. Ask the hostess for the "duck people". Information: 650-813-1816. Reservations not required.

January 8 – Open Circle – Berkeley

Hrafnar kindred hosts heathen events and rituals on the second Wednesday of every month, starting at 7:30pm. Open to both men and women, this is a potluck, and contributions of food and drink are welcome. Most meetings are open, but newcomers should contact Hrafnar Circle first to confirm the topic and location. Information: Diana L. Paxson, Box 5521, Berkeley, CA 94705, greyhavn@earthlink.net, or visit www.hrafnar.org.

January 8, 22 – Merlin Tarot Class – Aptos

Join an ongoing Merlin Tarot Class, every second and fourth Wednesday of the month at 7:15pm. This class is not about divination as much as about the cosmology of the Western Mystery Tradition and the Celtic Tree of Life. The deck, created by RJ Stewart, both strips the Christian overlay off of Tarot and shows how the Trumps act as paths or fusions of the spheres of the Western Tree. The class will explore the energies and powers of the Trumps through experiential visionary work, enabling personal transformation of consciousness. Cost is $5 per class. Information: Andrea at 831-426-2439 or andrea@cruzio.com.

January 8, 29 – Open Meeting – Santa Cruz

The Sacred Grove hosts "Linking Circles" on the second and last Wednesdays of every month from 7-9pm in Santa Cruz. This is a space for all groups to meet and organize, and shall not be a recruiting platform controlled by any one group. Meet in a safe and comfortable environment where solitaires can meet groups, groups can meet groups and solitaires can meet solitaires at 924 Soquel Ave. Information: 831-423-1949 or sacredgrove@onebox.com.

January 9, 23 – Women’s Spirituality Group – Gilroy/Hollister

A Women's Spirituality Group meets on the second and fourth Thursday evenings of each month. Information: Susan at orcalove@gte.net, 408-838-4704 or visit http://www.lighthousewoods.com.

January 9, 23 - Moms and Babes Celebrate! – Santa Cruz

Body & Soul hosts ceremonial classes encompassing prayer and meditation, song and sound, breath and movement, ritual and dance beginning at 11:15am on the second and fourth Thursdays of every month. Body & Soul is located at 738 Chestnut St. $8 offering. Information: Iolani at 831-479-3310 or visit www.sanctuary-illumination.com.

January 9, 23 – Intermediate Astrology Class – Los Gatos

Lisa Dale Miller will be teaching Ongoing Intermediate Astrology classes from 7-9pm at Inner Journey in Los Gatos. Prerequisite: Beginning Astrology or equivalent knowledge of houses, planets, and signs. This is a class for intermediate students and focuses on developing synthesis skills and understanding chart interpretation, as well as interpretations of the moon’s nodes and Chiron. Students are encouraged to bring along example charts for us to work with. No Pre-registration necessary. Cost: $25. per class. Information: Lisa at 408-206-2518, astrotarot@earthlink.net, or visit http://home.earthlink.net/~astrotarot/index.htm.

January 10 – Women’s Circle – San Jose

Luna Circa is an eclectic women's circle that has been meeting in the San Jose area since 1987. Every month on the second Friday after the new moon, we gather at 7:30 and circle from 8pm until late, with members taking charge of rituals on a voluntary rotational basis. For location and other information: lunacirca@yahoo.com, or visit http://pagan.drak.net/lunacirca.

January 10 – Open Ritual – San Jose

Circle of Heart's Delight, a chapter of the Covenant of Unitarian Universalist Pagans (CUUPS), offers rituals at 7:45pm on the second Friday of each month. These are held in the beautiful round sanctuary of the First Unitarian Church of San Jose located at 160 N. 3rd St. Information: moonlet@dsldesigns.net, or call the church at 408-292-3858.

January 11, 25 – Ancient Cosmetics Workshop – San Jose

Ancient Cosmetics Workshops are being offered at the Rosicrucian museum on the second and fourth Saturdays of each month, from 1:30-2:30pm. "Necessary Luxuries" -- Ancient Egyptian Cosmetics, Perfumes, and Incense is a hands-on and noses-on talk about scents and hygiene in the land of the Nile with our docent Kim Sanders. Ever wonder why Egyptians wore heavy makeup? Or what it was made of? Just what is Frankincense and Myrrh, anyway? Come to Kim Sanders' workshop and find the answers to these questions and more. Free with Museum admission. Donation encouraged. Information: 408-947-3632, or visit http://www.egyptianmuseum.org/calendar/index.html.

January 12 – Open Ritual – Santa Cruz

Community seed invites you to an open ritual at The Pacific Cultural Center located at 1307 Seabright Ave from 2-4:30pm on the second Sunday of every month. Come all Ye Witches and let us dance, do magic, and make merry! Let's celebrate the turning of the seasons, attune to the cycles of the moon and sun, create music, dance the spiral dance, and heal our world and ourselves. Alison Harlow has offered to host this months open circle and will be sharing some of her Faery Tradition with us. This circle is open to all Pagans, and to those who desire an understanding of how pagans worship. Keep in mind that this is a participatory event, and there will be no "onlookers". So don your favorite robes, your cloaks and pentacles and let us meet together in sacred trust. A $4.00 to $10.00 donation is requested to cover costs. No one will be turned away for lack of funds. Information: 831-469-0336, community_seed@mindspring.com or visit http://www.communityseed.org/Events/Open_Ritual/open_ritual.html.

January 12– Ritual and Potluck Social for Families – East Bay

Scarlet Cord (A member of the Fellowship of the Spiral Path) hosts a brief ritual followed by a potluck and social for families with young children beginning at 11am. These are regular gatherings held on the second Sunday of every month. Information: Mary at 510-526-1008

January 12– Women’s Healing Circle – San Francisco

A Women’s Healing Circle is held every second Sunday. Guided meditation, chanting, toning and drumming are used to call in the spirit healers to assist women in need of healing. Information: Lupa at 510-601-1428 or Nancy at 510-839-5292. “All healing is self-healing.”

January 12– Irish Music Session and Traditional Song Circle – Aptos

Gather every second Sunday from 6-10pm at Britannia Arms, 8017 Soquel Drive. All singers and instrumentalists are welcome. Information: Jessica at 831-335-7696, or Sheila at 831-464-2128. Sponsored by the Celtic Society of Monterey Bay.

January 14 - The Heart of Chanting – Mountain View

East West Bookshop hosts The Heart of Chanting with Robert Gass and Friends from 7-9pm. This ecstatic evening will feature chanting from Hindu, Christian, Buddhist, Sufi, Jewish and Native American traditions. You’ll quickly understand why the ancient practice of chanting is enjoying such widespread revival. A warm and gifted teacher, Robert Gass, author of Chanting: Discovering Spirit in Sound and the best-selling CD, Om Namaha Shivaya, will show you ways to use chant to bring joy, inner peace, and the presence of the Sacred into your daily life. Cost: $15. Information: 650-988-9800, 800-909-6161, info@eastwest.com, or visit http://www.eastwest.com/.

January 14, 28 – Drumming Circle – Half Moon Bay

The Moss Beach Drumming Collective, a core shamanic drum circle, meets at 7pm on the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month at the Half Moon Bay Yacht Club in Half Moon Bay. It is not mandatory to attend every drum circle, but regular participants will benefit greatly from the consecutive teachings provided by JanFreya. This will provide an excellent opportunity to develop shamanic journey skills. Cost: $10.00 per session. Information: janfreya@mindspring.com.

January 16 – Women’s Blessing of the Animals Ritual – East Bay

Daughters of the Goddess hosts Blessing of the Animals, and The Goddess Artemis, with special guest, Cathy Malkin at 7:30pm. Learn how to communicate with animals. While this is not a drop-in circle, you can confirm with Daughters of the Goddess on the day of ritual, if you want attend. Please bring a candle for the altar, rattles, drums, blanket, pillow to sit on and a snack to share. Cost: $40. Work exchange and senior discount payment plans available. All women are welcome, and no one will be turned away due to lack of funds. Information: Lellani Birelyi at 925- 256-8109, Leimermaid@aol.com or visit http://www.daughtersofthegoddess.com.

January 16 – Pagan Pizza Night – Modesto

You’re invited to a Pagan Pizza Night hosted by local Pagan groups every third Thursday of the month at the Round Table Pizza located at Sentry Shopping Center beginning at 7pm. Join local Pagans / Wiccans / Witches and others for fun and fellowship. No hard-core "meeting" - just pizza and conversation. Fliers and information about upcoming local Pagan events will be available at most times. Each person will be required to buy his or her own food and drink if desired. Information: DragonHawk at 209-549-1727.

January 17 – Music Benefit and Fundraiser for Pagan Pride Parade – Berkeley

Rosin Coven and others will host a fundraiser to benefit the Second Annual Interfaith Pagan Pride Parade at the Starry Plough Pub and Restaurant located at 3101 Shattuck Ave. beginning at 9pm. Cost: $7-$15, sliding scale. Information: 510-841-2083 or visit http://www.paganparade.org

January 17 – Women’s Spiritual Journey – Monterey Peninsula

Join us the third Friday of each month from 7-9PM at the Community Church of the Monterey Peninsula for Women's Spiritual Journeys: A Safe Place to Explore. This is a unique opportunity for women of various faith perspectives, lifestyles, ages, and stages to come together for meaningful dialogue, shared ritual, and the Goddess within. Together we will share our stories, celebrate our lives, and explore our spiritual journeys. Information: Sheree at 831-899-3565, or Phyllis 831-659-4585. Free.

January 17 – Ecstatic Dance – Santa Cruz

Experience oneness with Spirit through sacred dance and soul empowering music of the world every third Friday from 7-10pm at Body & Soul located at 738 Chestnut St in Santa Cruz. Ecstatic Dance allows your dance to be your heartfelt prayer. Cost: $15 offering. Information: Iolani at 831-479-3310 or visit www.sanctuary-illumination.com.

January 18 – Drumming Circle – Walnut Creek

Every third Saturday, Dolphin Dream hosts a drumming circle from 6:30 – 8PM. Bring your drums and rattles or use theirs to beat away the stresses of the outside world and find that place within where the heartbeat dwells. Attendance is free. Information: 925-933-2342.

January 18 – Rhythm Circle – Palo Alto

Rhythm Circle usually meets on the third Saturday of each month from 6:30-7pm, followed by a potluck, and then a Bardic Circle into the night. For the Bardic Circle, we sit around in a circle and take turns "pick, pass, or play ". You can pick someone to do something, pass your turn, or play by singing, reciting stories or poetry, drumming etc. We usually have a few guitar players, fiddlers, drummers, and at least one didjeridu player. Most people sing a cappella. It's a really friendly environment. Most people that show up for the bardic circle come during the potluck period. If you are only interested in the rhythm circle, feel free to stay for the potluck if you want. Bring drums, didjes, and other rhythmic instruments. If you are interested in attending, request to be put on the announcement list. For location and information: richard@imagecraft.com.

January 18-19 – The Magic of Sexual Empowerment Workshop – Boulder Creek

Madrone will host this 2-day workshop exploring personal boundaries in group work. Learning to sense our sexual energy/power, experiencing energy orgasms and sexual healing through breath work, and self love of our physical bodies. This workshop is for those men and women wishing to make big changes in their lives, and to find powerful new ways to help break the pattern of sexual oppression and move towards healing and liberation. We will be working clothing optional, in pairs, groups, and solo. All sexual persuasions/genders are welcome. Singles, couples, groups welcome. For people who would really like to do this work, but may feel too afraid, or nervous, a phone conversation with Madrone can be arranged, to have more in depth questions answered. A powerful exploration of our sacred sexual selves, inside SAFE sacred space, we will work on deepening intimacy with self and others, exploring our personal hunger and desire, sexual fulfillment, healing and liberating the creative sexual being. Pre-registration required. Cost: $110-$180, sliding scale fee. Camping/dorm style sleeping available - ask for details). Information: contact Karen at karen@risingdragon.org. Sponsored by Earth Dancer Circle.

January 19 – Radical Fairies Ritual – Santa Cruz

The Radical Fairies of Santa Cruz gather on the third Sunday of the month to celebrate full moons and solstices, our love for the earth our mother, each other, and the spiritual gift which that love is. Join them for a potluck at 6PM followed by ritual at 7PM. Information: 831-335-5861 or 831-429-1388.

January 19 –Women’s Spirit Circle – San Rafael

Women’s Spirit Circle meets on the third Sunday of every month at 5:00pm at the Marin Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Marin located at 240 Channing Way, San Rafael. A light to heavy potluck will follow, depending on participation. This is a circle open to all women, whether interested in UUism or not. Volunteers provide a safe space for sharing, healing, community in a Pagan, or earth centered spirituality. Information: Marina at 415-893-9999 or songster@cmc.net, or Wendy at 415-892-6983 or foxglove@slip.net or visit http://www.mindspring.com/~uucm/. Church phone: 415-479-4131.

January 19 – Rabbit Village Social – El Cerrito

The Rabbit Warren invites you to a Rabbit Village Social on the third Sunday of every month from 5-10pm. We will begin with socializing and a potluck dinner, and then we will have a village discussion from around 7-9pm, with social time again after ending at 10pm. Since a village is made up of all ages, we would also like to include childcare during the discussion part so that everyone can participate. We want to encourage children to be able to connect with their village peers as well. So if you have children and will be bringing them, please let us know ahead of time. Please bring food and/or drinks to share for the potluck. Please contribute to the community by bringing something of value to share. We ask that each person contribute $3-5 to help with expenses. RSVP required. Information: rabbitwarren@therabbitwarren.org or visit www.therabbitwarren.org/rwweb/index.htm.

January 19 – Women Wisdom Circle – San Francisco

Women Wisdom Circles with Dragon Dream: to walk the Path of the Dragon from noon to 3pm. The focus of the Women Wisdom Circles is on sharing our stories as women and the use of transformational tools. Listening and sharing gives us insights of alternative strategies to approach issues and become more conscious of the direction we want to take in our life. An integral part of meetings will be the use of powerful tools e.g. talking stick, dream- and drum journeys, movement, dyads, journaling, drama theater and energy work. We follow the energies of the seasons. Each season's cycle starts with a solstice/equinox celebration with ritual and potluck. There will also be time to network and connect socially. These meetings are limited to 10 women (open to new women). Cost: $25. Please bring a pillow to sit on, your journal and flyers/business cards to share during the networking portion of the gathering. The meeting place in San Francisco will be announced to registrants. Information: 415-339-7888, or lilith@dragondream.com.

January 21 – Rune Workshop – San Francisco

The American Vinland Association hosts a Rune Workshop at Captain Patt's on the third Tuesday of each month from 7-9pm. Information: runegild@freyasfolk.org.

January 23 – Past Lives, Dreams, and Soul Travel Class – San Francisco

The Psychic Eye Bookshop in San Francisco is offering a Past Lives, Dreams, and Soul Travel class from 7:30-9pm. Learn spiritual tools to recall past lives, understand dreams, and investigate the expansion of consciousness that comes with the practice of soul travel. Presented by and based on the teachings of Eckankar, this free workshop will explore ways to resolve everyday problems and live life from a higher viewpoint. We will also investigate answers to some of the deepest questions that face humankind. The workshop will include special focus on the interests and questions of the participants, and the introduction and practice of practical contemplative techniques using the primal, divine, light and sound. Cost: $10. Information: 415-863-9997.

January 24-26 – Drumming and Chanting Workshop – Watsonville

Bhramari Devi, The Ancient Bee Goddess Drumming and Chanting Workshop, Intro level frame drumming, bhramari pranayama and other humming practices, chanting and slide lecture on the history of the Bee Goddess and her priestesses. Chanting, overtone singing and humming sacred sounds to the rhythms of the drum is an ancient technique for directly synchronizing the mind/body, creating conditions for psychological, physical, and spiritual healing. We'll learn a synthesis of drumming techniques from India, the Middle East, and North Africa on the Middle Eastern Style tambourine. Drums will be provided. Location: Mt. Madonna, Watsonville. Information: 408-847-0406, programs@mountmadonna.org, or visit http://www.mount.org/.

January 24-26 – Pentacle of Pearl Weekend Intensive – Boulder Creek

Earth Dancer Circle sponsors this Pentacle of Pearl Weekend Intensive with Willow
Fire Zachubi and Angela Magera of Reclaiming. The Pearl Pentacle, Love, Law, Wisdom, Liberty and Knowledge, is a powerful tool for integrating our vision with our work in the world. We will use meditation, trance, and ritual throughout the weekend. We will explore the deep and healing points and connections of the Pearl Pentacle as well as work with how these powerful forces can be shaped and channeled into our actions and our relationships. Prerequisite: Elements of Magic or equivalent. Cost: $60-$180 sliding scale. Pre-registration and deposit required. Information: karen@risingdragon.org or visit http://www.reclaiming.org.

January 25 – Imbolc Celebration – Fairfax

Join the Marin Ritual Planning Cell of Reclaiming for a celebration of Brigid, Lady of the forge, flame and healing waters at Fairfax Community Church, 2398 Sir Francis Drake Blvd. Gather at 6:30pm; ritual at 7pm. Please bring Waters of the World, and wear red, white, yellow or gold. Sliding scale donation is $10-$20. No one turned away for lack of funds. All Reclaiming rituals are clean and sober. NO drugs or alcohol (including wine), please. Information: Georgie at 415-454-8744, gdennison_@hotmail.com , or visit http://reclaiming.org/rituals/marin.html.

January 26 – Open Ritual – Gaia’s Gateway – Palo Alto

BAPA sponsors Gaia's Gateway, an open public ritual featuring a different Pagan tradition each month. Gateways are held from 6-8:30pm at the Palo Alto Unitarian Church located at 505 E. Charleston Rd. Each Gateway begins with an informative talk, and both the talk and the ritual are led by the practitioners of the religion presented. This month’s Gateway will be the ABC’s of Psychic Defense with the Magickal Arts Guild, International. There will be a brief presentation on the basics of psychic protection will be followed by a hands-on ritual demonstrating how to create a protected space and how to detect and remove unwanted entities in one¹s energy field. Presented by the M.A.G.I., an educational fellowship dedicated to practical instruction in the Occult Sciences and to the preservation and disciplined transmission of the Western Mystical Tradition.Information: 408-559-GAIA (4242), or visit www.bapa.net.

January 26 – Irish Music Session and Traditional Song Circle – Felton

Irish Music Session and Traditional Song Circle every fourth Sunday from 6-10pm at Don Quixote's located at 6275 Highway 9, Felton. All singers and instrumentalists are welcome. For information, contact Jessica at 831-335-7696 or Sheila at 831-464-2128. Sponsored by the Celtic Society of Monterey Bay.

January 26 – Open Goddess Service – Berkeley

Fellowship of the Spiral Path (SPIRAL) invites you to an open Goddess service on the last Sunday of every month at the Berkeley Unitarian Universalist Church at 7:30PM. Information: Diana at 510-658-6033.

January 28 – Open Circle – Fremont

You are invited to attend a monthly Open Circle hosted by The Way of the Magi on the last Tuesday of every month from 8-9:30pm at 43687 Mission Blvd. All faiths are welcome in the spirit of Community. During the circle we will join with each other to focus our intent to send energy to people, places and events that are in need of love or healing. Information: Lady Toban at 510-657-8566 or visit http://www.wayofthemagi.com.

January 30 – Women’s Coffee Night – San Jose

Luna Circa invites all women to join them and others for Coffee Night on the last Thursday of every month from 7:30-10pm at Willow Glen Coffee Shop on Lincoln Ave between Hamilton and Willow in Willow Glen. For ritual location and other information, please contact lunacirca@yahoo.com or visit http://pagan.drak.net/lunacirca.

Do you have an event, workshop or Circle or Open Ritual you want others in the Bay Area to know about? If so, please write to our Networking Coordinator, Scoutghost at ScoutGhst@aol.com. She will explain our new interactive Full Circle calendar to you. We will be unveiling this new calendar in February.

THE YEAR OF THE SHEEP:

Now, before we begin, let me be clear. We are not talking about fluffy, cute, baaa, baaa, Disney cartoon, Swiss postcard, Easter Parade type sheep here, people. We are talking about Chinese (or, if you prefer, Scottish or Australian or Alpine) sheep. These are rugged, strong, give-birth-in-the-snow-and-keep-moving, Who-you-looking-at? sheep. Not easily messed with sheep. Outland, mountain living, sleep outdoors in all weather, BIG, I’ll go where I want to and that can either be through you or around you, kind o’ sheep. Got that? Ok. Now we can begin.

My WeMoon calendar http://www.wemoon.ws/wemoon.html has this to say about the Year of the Sheep.

“The year of the Sheep begins on the new moon of Febaury1, 2003. Sheep year is a time of peace, calm and contentment. Life’s hectic pace is slowed and people are more caring, sensitive and emotional. Family, close friends and intimacy are valued. All the arts flourish and creativity flows.

…In the wild, Sheep are able to tolerate severe weather conditions and scarcity of flood and still survive. A sheep…can be strong and persevere when she must. Sheep are calm in appearance yet strong in determination. But they must not let their determination turn into stubbornness nor their independence into isolation.”

As we enter into the energy of this year, I would suggest that we all pay close attention to what we “take in”.

Here is a warning from WeMoon: “… debts may easily accrue. Sheep “eat paper” – and can really spend.”

I would take that a step further and suggest that we keep a close watch on what we “take in” spiritually, intellectually and physically. “Garbage in”, as they say, “Garbage out.”

Watch what and whom you listen to. Be careful of your stress level. Keep taps on your inner voices and be aware of negativity, self-doubt and despair. Irony and cynicism are easy poses but they cheapen our experience. Hope and courage are the products of wisdom, but they take effort. This is why teenagers (who have so little life wisdom to draw upon) can so easily succumb to despair.

What is your life direction? In other words, where are you going? Sheep tend to go with the herd. While there is strength in numbers, there is also no sense in heading off a cliff, just cause the other guy is going in that direction. Among the questions to ask this year are: Are you safe with the people you are with or is the whole group heading in the wrong direction?

There are no easy ways out this year. Well, perhaps there are, but you won’t like where you end up if you take the easy road.

Advertisers use our human desire to be a part of the “in crowd” against us and politicians prey on our fears to get what they want. The claims of those who want to “protect us” should be analyzed and judged on their merits. If we aren’t careful, we can be “protected” right out of our civil rights, our privacy and our power before we know it.

Whether you are “for” or “against” something this year, just make sure that it’s your decision and that you’ve based it on facts and reasoning and not just on emotion and slogans.

A lot of green grass went brown these last few years and a lot of open pasture seemed to disappear as our choices shrank. The world now seems to be a much more dangerous and challenging place than it was before. I say “seems’ because a look at history will show us that the world has always been a dangerous and chaotic place. This is simply our generation’s time to know it.

During hard times it is tempting to think just about our own little flock. Nevertheless, we are also going to have to move off of old ground and make new connections, if we want to find new opportunities. So be careful of the people you choose to have in your life. Are they equals, guardians and teachers or are they wolves? Who is truly a part of your Tribe? Who supports and nurtures you? Who believes in your dreams and will lovingly call you on your character defects? On the other hand, who is there in your life acting as a “stress puppy”.

A stress puppy is someone who creates their own chaos and pain and then whines about it all. They scatter the flock and cause problems everywhere they go. These people drain you of the energy you need to fully live your life. It’s time to choose - are going to live their life or yours?

Sarah Ban Breathnach writes:

Every moment of every day, consciously, or unconsciously, we all seek our people and hide from our familiars.

Our people should never be confused with our familiars. Unfortunately, we mix up the two all the time, which causes us enormous emotional distress and disillusionment. Our people are our spiritual family, the kith, kin, and kindred spirits we’ve unconditionally loved and been loved by since the beginning of time. Sometimes we’re connected by blood and lineage. But not always.

Our familiars are those individuals whose lives intersect with outs in order to play a role crucial in helping us manifest our Divine Destiny. They can be in our lives for an hour or for what seems like an eternity – however long it takes for us to “get it,”, whatever life lesson the “it” may be.

Seeking truth in relationships is scary. Take a careful look at your list. Which of these individuals represent your own inner circle – your people – the friends of your soul with whom you truly belong and feel safe? The ones with whom you feel that your Authentic Self can emerge, be appreciated and be loved? Which family members and friends have cared about you, stood by you during difficult days, and were genuinely happy to see you flourish? These are your sacred connections. (1)

As you ponder your sacred connections this year, ponder this, as well: What have you done to get in your own way? Have you taken on too much, spent too much, worried too much or allowed yourself to fall back on unhealthy patterns of thinking and behavior? If so, what are you going to do about it? This is a year for becoming conscious about our behavior and our motivations for same. The great majority of humankind is compelled to action and reaction by forces within them that they don’t question or understand. You can be a part of that flock or not. It’s your choice.

In the greater scheme of things, we are now being called upon to be citizens of the world for the good of all. How you choose to behave in this new context will effect the generations that come after you.

Dreaming and Doing are brave and vital acts. They change the world around us. Be brave this year. Be hopeful. Claim the right to your life as you want to live it. You can do more with less, but you’ll have to be creative, determined and careful in order to get what you want.

This is a year for healing and a time to replenish your energy. It’s a year for focus, discovery and, believe it or not, a good time to find inner peace. Inner peace is not dependent on outer peace, although we can certainly hope for and work towards, both.

Hang in there,

Sia

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(1) The Illustrated Discovery Journal: Creating a Visual Autobiography of Your Authentic Self.