What do you wish for?

Do you base our choices on what you want, or what you think you're supposed to want? Let yourself feel what you feel and want what you want, THEN engage your mind in the process. The best wishes are born from your heart.

Tuesday, January 21, 2014

Molly Blue Dawn's List of Events for the Week starting Wednesday, January 22, 2014

British Traditional Wicca 101, Methods of Manifestation Workshop, The Sandman: World’s End, Celebrate Ma'at Egyptian Goddess of Truth, Geoff Hoyle's Geezer, Goddess of the Month: Cerridwen, East Bay Pagan Meet and Greet, Pity Party, History Mystery Tour, Year of the Wood Horse 2014, Downtown Martinez Ghost Walk, Vintage Invasion, Healing the Divide: A Reconciliation Ritual for Men and Women, The Princess Bride Quote-Along, Return to the Forbidden Planet, Tartuffe, The Sunflower Center 2 Year Anniversary Celebration!, Tour of PLACE for Sustainable Living, Be your Bliss!, Crafts for Kids On Board the Balclutha, Make Salsa, Jesse Moore In Concert, Sukhawat Ali Khan, Do We Understand Pain?, Macintosh 30th Anniversary Celebration, Introduction to the Shamanic Journey, Winter Cheese Making Intensive, Family Day at Sienna Ranch, Visioning Circle at The Home of Truth, Tamerlane Stalin and the Great Fatherland War: The Prehistory and Afterlife of a Soviet Ghost Story, The Seven African Powers, Tea and Tarot, Freedom from Anxiety, Hrafnar Oracular Seidh, Crystal Workshop, Visioning 2014, Tea and Chanting Sangha, Standing with the Watershed, Sacred Burlesque: The Art of Prayerformance
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British Traditional Wicca 101
with Lady Argante
Wednesday, January 22, 7:00-9:00PM,
and eleven more Wednesdays through April 9
The Sacred Well, 536 Grand Avenue, 510-444-9355
$10 per class

“British Traditional Wicca 101 is a 14-week class which provides students with a basic overview of the religion and craft of Wicca, from a British Traditional perspective. Subjects to be covered include the Goddess and the God, the Wheel of the Year, tools and correspondences, ritual structure and function, magical ethics and methods. There will also be guided visualizations and two informal rituals.

This month's classes:
January 22: Tools/Correspondences/The Coven
January 29: Meditation on the Goddess

British Traditional Wicca 101 will be taught by members of the Coven Daoine Sidhe, led by their High Priestess, Lady Argante. At 26 years young, Daoine Sidhe is one of the most enduring (or stubborn) Gardnerian covens in the San Francisco Bay Area.”
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Methods of Manifestation Workshop
Wednesday, January 22, 7:00-9:00PM
Los Gatos Acupuncture and Qigong Center, 761 University Avenue, Suite A, Los Gatos
$35

“Have you ever had a goal, aspiration, or dream that you couldn't wait to reach?

In this 2 hour workshop, we will cover just that! Learn how to manifest the things you want, and to eliminate those you don't. You will be learning a series of techniques to help clear obstacles to manifestation, taught by our expert and practitioner, Adam Atman. Written aids and materials will be provided free of cost!

Tickets are $35, can be purchased at the door when you arrive for the event!”
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The Sandman: World’s End
Thursday, January 23, 7:00-9:00PM
The Cartoon Art Museum, 655 Mission Street, San Francisco
$10 general admission, $25 VIP

“The Cartoon Art Museum welcomes artists Gary Amaro and Steve Leialoha for its ongoing celebration of the 25th anniversary of Neil Gaiman’s Sandman.

In 1993, Neil Gaiman embarked upon one of the most ambitious Sandman storylines with Worlds’ End.  Reminiscent of Chaucer’s legendary Canterbury Tales, The Sandman: World's End is a wonderful potpourri of engrossing tales and masterly storytelling. To fully realize the different realities depicted in this storyline, Gaiman selected several of his favorite artists and tailored stories specifically to their talents. Gary Amaro and Steve Leialoha both contributed to the final issue of Worlds’ End, with Amaro’s story foreshadowing the series’ conclusion.

Amaro and Leialoha will discuss their collaborations with Neil Gaiman on this classic Sandman story, as well as their other work for DC Comics’ Vertigo imprint.  The two artists will collaborate on a limited print for VIP ticket buyers, available as an attendees-only exclusive.”
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Celebrate Ma'at Egyptian Goddess of Truth
Thursday, January 23, 7:30PM
Concord location, directions given upon RSVP
$15 newcomer discount, $35 one time exchange
This ritual is for cisgendered women.
Please RSVP to 925-787-9247 or Leilani@DaughtersoftheGoddess.com
“Ma’at is the Goddess of Harmony, Justice, and Truth.  She is represented as a young woman who is either sitting or standing and holding a scepter - the symbol of power - in one hand, and an ankh - the symbol of eternal life - in the other.  She is depicted with wings on each arm or as a woman with an ostrich feather adorning Her head.  Ma’at is the foundation platform which the Scales of Justice, the great Temples and statues of all other Egyptian Deities themselves stand upon.  Her statue was a stone platform depicting the stable foundation on which order was built and the primeval mound that emerged from the waters of Chaos. It was believed that without Her all of creation would perish, as Ma’at represented the order and stability of the universe.

The earliest writings in which Ma'at is mentioned date back to the Old Kingdom  (more than 2300 years ago).  Even though She was depicted in human form, Ma'at symbolized the Egyptian belief that the universe was logical and naturally occurred in a state of order and inner balance.  This was true of all aspects of life including: authority, trade, the changing of seasons, the movement of planets, religious ceremonies, signing contracts, as well as the fairness and truthfulness in everyday life.  Because order was considered natural, any disturbances in its functioning were believed to be caused by human beings.  Ma'at guaranteed order in Egypt and the respect of Her laws and customs promised that Chaos could be averted and that individuals and institutions could exist in the harmonious cosmic balance of the Goddess.  
Egyptians believed that Ma'at was present when the sentence was passed over the souls of the dead.  Here, the 42 Principles of Ma'at were considered in relation to each person's life.   After death, human spirits would go to Duat, the Underworld, where their hearts (the place where human souls were believed to reside within the body) were put on one scale and the feather of Ma'at was placed on the other.  When weighed in relation to one another, if the deeds of the deceased stayed in balance with the feather, it was believed that the individual was to go to Aaru, the field of reeds, ruled by Osiris.  However, if one's heart (and therefore their deeds) were heavier than Ma'at's feather, the soul was devoured by the lion Goddess Ammit and the spirit of the dead had to stay in Duat forever.   
Today, as we ready ourselves for our time in the presence of Ma'at, let us take note that Her 42 Principles are very closely linked and connected to the Witches Creed that we live by.  Our Creed states three things:  That we have free will, that we harm none, and that whatever acts we perpetuate will come back to us three fold.  In what ways do you live by the Principles of Ma'at and the Wiccan Rede? Will your heart be in balance with the feather of Ma'at when it is placed on the scale?  As you come to Her altar, think about how you can be a part of bringing order from the Chaos.  How do you stand up for right action in the world?  How do you offer service to your community and Temple?  What are you leaving for the next generation of womyn to come?   Let us always remember that we are the change!  Join us as we come to the platform of Ma'at and call for Truth, Justice and Right Action ourselves and in the world.
For the altar please bring a yellow or gold candle and the ankh or the ostrich feather - two of Her symbols, and any images of Ma'at that call out to be on Her altar.

If you are interested in participating in a ritual or celebration, please help out by doing the following:
Please bring a snack to share (if possible, food of the culture we are celebrating), washable eating utensils (bowl, cup, plate, utensils, etc. In honor of Mother Earth, we do not provide disposable items), a candle (for safety reasons, we highly recommend a candle in a glass container, often called a novena), and pillow or chair to sit on to all rituals. For more information about our rituals please visit our FAQ page.
Please see our current series schedule and check the web page for the specific ritual to see what items to bring and how to prepare yourself. Please take the time to read this, especially if you are a newcomer. New information is added from time to time so even if you feel you have already seen this, it is important to check back in every now and then.”
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Geoff Hoyle's Geezer
Thursday and Saturday, January 23 and 25,
Thursday 8:00PM, Saturday 5:00PM
playing through March 1
The Marsh Berkeley, 2120 Allston Way, Berkeley
Sliding scale, Thursdays $25-$35, Saturdays $30-$35

“The Marsh is thrilled to announce the return of Geoff Hoyle’s hit solo show, Geezer.

From a hysterical riff on life in a nursing home to The Venerable Bede’s meditations on the meaning of life, from delightful reminiscences of his youth in England and young manhood in America to ruminations on aging and mortality, Hoyle brings his irrepressible sense of comedy and trademark physicality, as well as a certain elegiac wistfulness, to this tour-de-force performance about what it is like to grow old.

Geoff Hoyle trained with Marcel Marceau’s teacher, Etienne Decroux, in Paris, developing his unique physical bravura comic style, a combination of the court jester, vaudeville and English music hall. He made his mark in the Bay Area as the Pickle Family Circus’ beloved clown, Mr. Sniff. Later, he created the critically acclaimed Feast of Fools, featuring masked Commedia Dell’Arte characters including the libidinous and elderly Pantalone (Hoyle claims he will no longer need to use a mask for this one,) Il Dottore and the pratt-falling Arleccino. It is a depiction of Everyman striving for dignity in the face of a multitude of struggles, big and small, that is not unlike Hoyle’s own search for meaning in Geezer. His award-winning shows The Convict’s Return (about taking Feast of Fools to Broadway and its mixed reception there,) (Geni(us) and The First Hundred Years (an improbable history of comedy) have been seen in San Francisco, Paris, London, Berlin, Taiwan, New York, England and the former Soviet Union.

Regional theatre appearances include Berkeley and Seattle Repertory Theatres, A.C.T. and La Jolla Playhouse. He was the original Zazu in the Broadway cast of The Lion King and appeared off-Broadway in Bill Irwin’s Mr. Fox and in Tony Kushner’s and Maurice Sendak’s adaptation of the children’s opera Brundibar. His many film appearances include Popeye, during which his son, Dan, was born. Last summer, he performed his fabled three-legged dance in the oldest theatre in Italy, the Teatro della Pergola, built in Florence in 1656. Critics have remarked at the sheer joy Hoyle’s character finds in mastering his extra limb!”
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Goddess of the Month: Cerridwen
with Phoenix LeFae
Friday, January 24, 7:00-8:30PM, and the fourth Friday of every month
The Sacred Well, 536 Grand Avenue, 510-444-9355
Free
Women only

“Goddess for January: Cerridwen

Together we will gather once a month and listen to the words of the Great Mother. We will do this through song, dance, trance, storytelling, and joyful community celebration.

Each month we will learn about and dive into the energy of a different Goddess from around the world. Our hope that is by meeting these different energies you will find one that resonates with your heart and you will walk away with the potential for a greater relationship with a Divine One.

In the cold of winter we gather around the bubbling cauldron to meet the dark mother Cerridwen. Goddess of transformation, initiation, and magic; we ask her how to stir the cauldron and emerge renewed.

Phoenix LeFae is an eclectic magickal practitioner, Tarot reader, and professional Priestess, who has been walking the path of the Witch for many years. She is driven by a love for myth and Deity, working to help people connect to the Mysterious Ones in their daily lives. She believes that magick and ritual can transform our inner landscapes and change the world. Phoenix teaches in the Reclaiming Tradition of Witchcraft and she is the founder of Brigid's Hammer Mystery School. Above all else, Phoenix is a spiritual seeker looking for ways to deepen her practice every day.

Ella is a Reclaiming witch and life coach, helping people to change their lives by finding their path and true calling. She works with mystery in a myriad of forms and embodies magic in every cell of her being. She has a spark of energy that infuses her magick and inspires those around her. Ella recognizes that there is magick in even what seems mundane and helps others to see this for themselves.”
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East Bay Pagan Meet and Greet
at The Mystic Dream
Friday, January 24, 7:00-8:30PM, and the fourth Friday of every month
The Mystic Dream, 1437 N Broadway, Walnut Creek, 925-933-2342
donations accepted

“Come and join other witches, warlocks, and pagans as we come together in community to some food, and maybe a few laughs. Come and meet some of the other magically minded people in the East Bay area. Coffee and tea will be served. Feel free to bring a small food item to share.”
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Pity Party
Friday, January 24, 7:00PM
Towne Center Books, 555 Main Street, Pleasanton, 925-846-8826
Free

“Indulge those January blues at our Pity Party!
Yes, it's true. January is the saddest month of the year - holiday let down, detox pressure,  unpredictable weather, etc. We think it's healthy to acknowledge those feelings and poignant books can help.

Here's we'll do at the party: share the saddest line from a favorite sad book and bring a comfort food to share if you'd like (we'll have extra). Wear comfortable clothing (black is good but not required) and we'll have a great time being sad because misery loves company!

Reservations are helpful so give us a call at 925-846-8826 or e-mail at info@townecenterbooks.com and let us know what book you are mentioning. We want to be prepared.”
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History Mystery Tour
on board the USS Hornet
Friday, January 24, 7:00-10:00PM
USS Hornet Museum, 707 W Hornet Avenue, Pier 3, Alameda, 510-521-8448
must be age 12+
$35, must book in advance at the website below

“Is the USS Hornet really haunted? Come and see for yourself! Do you dare explore Hornet after hours?

Beat the crowds and receive a special tour of areas onboard Hornet that have not yet been opened to the public or have been reported to host unseen visitors:
Combat Information Center (CIC)
Message Center (Radio Central)
Mess Deck
Sidewinder Missile Assembly Room
Brig
Catapult Machinery Room
Sick Bay
Captain and Admiral’s In Port State Rooms
Flight Deck and Island
Focsle and Secondary Con

Upcoming dates:
Thursday, February 13, 2014
Friday, March 21, 2014
Friday, April 24, 2014
Friday, May 30, 2014
Friday, June 6, 2014
Thursday, July 17, 2014
Friday, August 15, 2014
Friday, September 5, 2014
Thursday, October 23, 2014

The three-hour guided tour is 7:00-10:00PM.
Everybody must bring their own flashlight. Hornet does not supply individual lights.
Cameras are welcome, but must have a neck strap.
Tour participants must wear comfortable shoes. Heels and open-toed shoes are not allowed.
Tour participants must be in good physical health as there will be lots of walking and climbing.
Due to safety reasons, children 12 and under are not allowed on History Mystery Tours.
The USS Hornet reserves the right to cancel a tour if less than 8 people sign up. Tours may be rescheduled or a refund will be issued.”
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Year of the Wood Horse 2014
with Susan Levitt
Friday, January 24, 7:30PM
East West Bookstore, 324 Castro Street, Mountain View, 650-988-9800
$10 in advance, $12 at the door

“The Year of the Wood Horse 2014 starts with a bang! We're off to the races when Horse, Tiger, Dog, and Pig have the best luck. Join Susan Levitt, astrologer and author, at her annual Chinese New Year talk to learn all about the strong and spirited Horse, and how Horse year energy influences you, your family, your community, and the world. Includes your personalized fortune for Horse year and feng shui tips for a lucky New Year.”
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Downtown Martinez Ghost Walk
Friday, January 24, 8:00PM, and the fourth and fifth Friday of every month
tour starts at Main Street Martinez, 649 Main Street,  Suite 106, Martinez
$25

“Take the 90 minute guided walking tour through Historic Downtown Martinez to discover the hidden past, little known facts and tales of days-gone-by.

Tours conducted by Central Valley Paranormal.

Tours are limited to 25 people. Advanced ticket purchase recommended. No children under 12 years allowed. Teens 12-17 years must be accompanied by an adult. Bring a flashlight, wear comfortable shoes. Bring jacket and wear comfortable clothing.”
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Vintage Invasion
Friday, January 24, 8:00PM-Midnight and the fourth Friday of each month
The Finnish Brotherhood Hall, 1970 Chestnut Street, berkeley
$7

“Vintage Invasion - where the old dances invade a new generation
Our crowd is growing and thriving... a really positive atmosphere!

Have you ever waltzed to Metallica or danced a polka to Lady Gaga? Yes?  Then you know what a great time it is, and we will see you there!  No?  Well it's never too late to start.  Since we have hundreds of years of waltz music to choose from, the variety makes a wonderful, festive evening.  This is a casual, neighborhood party: a chance to meet people, bounce around, and generally make merry.  We'll have a potluck; you are welcome to bring snacks if you like.  Your hosts always bring the punch and water.  No alcohol, please, as we sometimes have dancers under 21 attending.

All are welcome for the lesson, so we can get you moving and ready to sail across the floor.  If you're new to dancing we promise to be patient with you, and if you have waltzed before we will improve your technique.  After class, during the dance party, we will still be available to help you with what we taught you, and introduce you to some of our regulars.  They are well skilled, but don't be shy about asking them to dance with you too.  They'll probably be happy for the chance to show off. :)

8:00-9:00PM = Lesson in Vintage Waltz - no partner or experience needed
9:00PM-Midnight = Dance to Persephone and guest DJs playing lots of waltzes, and a little bit of many other partner dances.”
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Healing the Divide: A Reconciliation Ritual for Men and Women
with The Sacred Future Collective
Friday-Sunday, January 24-26
Sonoma County  location given upon registration
$150

“Dominant culture has promoted an agenda for thousands of years of dividing men from the feminine energies, in women, in the Earth, and in themselves. Currently, human consciousness is taking a powerful turn towards the reclamation of the feminine. Women are stepping more into empowerment and men are stepping more into their hearts. Men and women are recognizing once again that we're more powerful together than apart. It's time to heal the divide. There are wounds on both sides, as the patriarchal paradigm has distorted and insulted both sexes through toxic shaming, promoting blame and feeding the realms of narcissism and victim consciousness.

The Sacred Future Collective is devoted to the uniting of the feminine and masculine energies on the planet on all levels. That is why we're hosting this three-day retreat focused on this crucial work, which is also deeply liberating and joyful!

At this retreat we will focus on:
Union between the inner male and female archetypes.
Men holding men through forgiveness and elevation.
Women holding women through forgiveness and elevation.
Daily Sacred Council circles.
A day-long ritual of reconciliation between women and men.
Visioning the potentials for planetary awakening and healing together! How can we help our communities heal through inviting men and women into reunion?

We Are Two Halves Of One Whole.
We Are Here To Be Each Other's Greatest Allies! Not Enemies.
Let's Lift Each Other Up And Elevate Consciousness Together.”
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The Princess Bride Quote-Along
Friday-Sunday, January 24-26,
Friday-Saturday 7:30PM, Sunday 3:00PM
The RetroDome at Century 21, 3161 Olsen Drive, San Jose
$15 in advance, $18 at the door

“The Princess Bride Quote-Along  

Don't miss it on the big screen! Come quote your favorite lines OUT LOUD! Don't forget to dress for success for our pre-show costume and trivia contest.”
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Return to the Forbidden Planet
Friday-Sunday, January 24-26,
Friday-Saturday 8:00PM, Sunday 3:00PM
playing through January 26
NTC Theater, 5420 Nave Drive, Novato
$25

"Return to the Forbidden Planet re-launches… and it is more fun than ever!!

The hit musical that had critics raving and audience members dancing in the aisles in Mill Valley last June is back, with new staging, choreography, puppetry, and videography! The Curtain Theatre and Marin Onstage's production opens at the NTC theater in Novato and runs from January 9th-26th - ten shows only. Book your tickets now and join the crew as we re-launch this Olivier award-winning show (1990) and ‘Get Out Into Space’!

Set aboard the blinking, interactive bridge of a spaceship, Shakespeare meets sci-fi and a host of classic rock ‘n roll tunes in this high energy jukebox musical. The script draws from the best of Shakespeare's plays, often with tongue firmly in cheek, and the score features one famous rock hit after another from the Beach Boys, Jerry Lee Lewis, Roy Orbison, Gary Puckett, James Brown, the Animals, and more.

Some of the Bay Area's top talent is on and behind the stage. At the helm is multi-award-winning director Carl Jordan. The show is a dance explosion, with 10 numbers choreographed by Steve Beecroft, who also plays Cookie. James Harman leads a three-piece rock band that supports the tight harmonies of the multi-talented 13 member cast. Amanda Morando, a rising star also playing the beautiful Miranda, doubles as vocal director.

The cast also features Phillip Percy Williams, long time star of Beach Blanket Babylon and a true triple threat performer, as Captain Tempest. Joining the cast as Gloria is the superbly talented SFBATCC nominee Amy Lizardo, a well known performer in the area who is auditioning for a Broadway musical as we write. Melissa Claire, another multiple SFBATCC nominee, repeats her star turn as the roller-skating robot Ariel. Paul Abbott brings Shakespearean gravitas to the role of Prospero and superb comic actor Phillip Swanson returns as the Bosun.”
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Tartuffe
presented by Shady Shakespeare
Friday-Sunday, January 24-26,
Friday-Saturday 8:00PM, Sunday 7:00PM
playing through February 8
Hal Todd Studio Theatre, Hugh Gillis Hall #103, San Jose State University,
220 E. San Fernando Street, San Jose
see website for ticket details

“Religious hypocrisy has never been as hilarious (or as sexy) as in Tartuffe, one of the crowning jewels of French comedy. Monsieur Orgon, a prominent Parisian gentleman, has unwittingly invited religious con man Tartuffe into his home and family life where the impostor immediately makes designs on Orgon's fortune, a mercenary marriage to Orgon's daughter, Mariane (already engaged to her dashing young lover, Valere)... and the womanly charms of Orgon's wife, Elmire. Perhaps only Elmire's good sense and the aid of the family's whip-smart and delightfully sassy maid, Dorine, can expose Tartuffe and save Orgon from self-destruction. But will their efforts be enough to overcome Orgon's monumental buffoonery before it's too late? Moliere's fast-paced, seductive satire will leave you guessing till the very end.

Tickets range in price from $10 for students, $15 for seniors 65+, and $20 general admission. Prices include all service costs - no hidden fees! Tickets are available online will also be available at the box office.

Thanks to the generosity of our donors, kids 17 and under will be admitted FREE with a paid adult. Kids must still obtain a physical ticket to gain entry.”
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The Sunflower Center 2 Year Anniversary Celebration!
Saturday, January 25, 11:00AM-11:00PM
The Sunflower Center, 1435 N. McDowell Boulevard, Petaluma, 707-792-5300
Free

“Come Join us in the celebration of our 2nd year anniversary at The Sunflower Center!
Community and Cultural Diversity
20% Off Everything in Store Including Food!
Great Musicians! Jazz, Folk, Funk, Flamenco, Classical Indian, Bollywood!
Performances! Dance Jam, Drummunity Circle, Hula Hoopers, Didgeridoo!
Kids Crafts, Face Painting and Nature Connection!
Speakers on Health and Detox!”
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Tour of PLACE for Sustainable Living
Saturday, January 25, 12:00-1:30PM
PLACE for Sustainable Living, 1121 64th Street, Oakland
Free, please RSVP to info@WildOakland.org

“Join us to learn how a group of people have been transforming a vacant industrial lot into a hub for urban sustainability. This walking tour will cover the history of PLACE and their current efforts to bring urban permaculture, green infrastructure, community place-making and education into this North Oakland neighborhood.

Stops on the tour will include Spokeland, a non-profit bike shop, an urban millers solar kiln, an electric bicycle and bicycle food cart fabrication space, a community worm bin, portable landfill devices, a greenhouse, bees, a cob oven, a doghouse, and a vertical raingarden.  As we walk we will also discuss the plantings, habitat efforts and how, so far, we have attracted three species of native amphibians to the site.  

PLACE is an all volunteer run organization, so come and learn how to get involved, or just come and learn, or come and teach!”
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Be your Bliss!
with Sarah Skotvold
Saturday, January 25, 12:00-3:00PM
The Mystic Dream, 1437 N Broadway, Walnut Creek, 925-933-2342
$95

“Be Your Bliss is a workshop where you learn to use tools such as oracle cards, dreamwork and unique self-discovery exercises to tap into your inner guidance. The tools learned will help you learn to listen to your heart and soul to find what you truly desire, so you can start living the life of your dreams now.

Sarah is an intuitive who has studied dream work, personal development and oracle/tarot readings for 15 years. She is a certified Soul Coach, Past Life coach and holds a professional certification in dream work. She received professional training from Hay House author Denise Linn and courses at the HCH institute.  E-mail her at Sarandipity17@gmail.com or call her  925-989-4489.”
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Crafts for Kids On Board the Balclutha
Saturday, January 25, 3:00-4:00PM, and the fourth Saturday of every month
Hyde Street Pier, San Francisco
included with Balclutha admission, Adults $5, 15 and under free
For more information, please call 415-447-5000.


“Learn a little about life at sea and make a maritime craft! Meet at the entrance to Hyde Street Pier.”
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Make Salsa
with Josah Perley
Saturday, January 25, 5:00-7:00PM
Handcraft Studio School, 5885 Doyle Street, Emeryville, 510-332-6101
$50, limit 10 students

“Just like there are hundreds of chilies, there are hundreds of salsa recipes, each one complimenting a different dish in Mexican cuisine. In this workshop Josah will teach you how to make three different traditional salsas, introduce typical cooking and blending materials used in Mexico, and give you ideas of when to use each technique. You will also learn about chilies and how to use them in a variety of ways. Each student will leave with a comal (the typical roasting pan and tortilla warmer), three jars of salsa that we will make during the class, and a small recipe book. There will also be a small Mezcal tasting with a bit of information on the agave used and the general process of making Mezcal.

Josah Perley is a cook and salsa maker, selling her salsas and other Mexican condiments and drinks at the Phat Beets Farmers Market in Oakland. She lived in Mexico for nine years, traveling and tasting food wherever she went. Josah found art and culture in the cuisine and works hard at mastering her skills. She aspires to open a business one day with Mexican cuisine at the core.”
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Jesse Moore in concert
Saturday, January 25, 7:00PM
private home, 685 1/2 Fairmount Avenue, Oakland
Suggested donation $15-$20
Reservation required, please e-mail shmoover@comcast.net
For more information, please call 650-327-5493

“Singer/Songwriter Jesse Moore has performed at The New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival, French Quarter Festival and many clubs in New Orleans. He has toured extensively throughout the U.S., Canada, Europe and the Far East.”
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Sukhawat Ali Khan
in concert
Saturday, January, 25, 7:00PM
Rhythmix Cultural Works, 2513 Blanding Avenue, Alameda
$30

“Kicking off this event is the very talented Raq Filipina - A world-class Filipino singer.

Sukhawat Ali Khan and his fusion band Mirchaiya bring music from his new album Laaj to this beautiful modern venue in Alameda.

Mirchaiya is a world music collective of artists dedicated to bridging tradition with a fresh sound. Band members play a variety of ethnic and western instruments including tabla, dhol, upright bass/cello, electric guitar, keys, bansuri and sax.

Sukhawat Ali Khan is an 11th generation Sufi singer from the Sham Chaurasi Gharana (family) of music that has been performing traditional North Indian classical music for over six centuries.
Trained at a young age by his legendary father - the late Ustad Salamat Ali Khan, Sukhawat Ali has perfected the art of soulful Sufi singing. His universal themes of peace and compassion appeal to audiences from around the world. Sukhawat Ali considers music to be a sacred experience that unites the performer with the listener.
Sukhawat Ali collaborates with a wide variety of musicians - from DJ Cheb-I-Sabbah and composer James Newton Howard to popular world music ensembles such as Baraka Moon and Yuval Ron. On his latest release Laaj, he comes together with master bansuri player Deepak Ram to weave a magical tapestry of Indian folk music.”
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Do We Understand Pain?
with Allan Basbaum, M.D., Professor of Anatomy, UC San Francisco
Michael Rowbotham, M.D., Scientific Director, CPMC Research Institute
A Wonderfest event
Saturday, January 25, 7:00PM
Sens Restaurant, Promenade Level, Embarcadero 4, San Francisco
Free, please register at the website below
http://www.sens-sf.com (website starts video)

“Pain speaks as forcefully and as personally as any human experience. While the ability to experience pain is essential for survival, chronic pain is the scourge of sentient existence. As a topic of research, pain presents a formidable challenge for scientists. Why can it be so hard to control? Why does individual perception of pain vary? Come join the discussion as two outstanding neuroscientists reply both ‘yes’ and ‘no’ to our title question: Do we understand pain?”
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Macintosh 30th Anniversary Celebration
Saturday, January 25, 7:00PM
Flint Center, 21250 Stevens Creek Boulevard, Cupertino
$99-$125

“MAC@30 Anniversary Celebration
In honor of the original Macintosh Development Team, All Planet Studios, the Computer History  Museum and Macworld/iWorld announce a celebration of the 30 year anniversary of the Macintosh.

On January 24, 1984, Apple launched the Macintosh personal computer. The event, immortalized by Steve Jobs’  presentation and Ridley Scott’s legendary ‘1984’ television commercial, propelled this insanely great little machine into the limelight and forever changed the world.

On January 25, 2014 the public is invited to celebrate and acknowledge the extended team whose efforts popularized the graphical user interface and WYSIWYG software and defined computing for the rest of us.

The event will be held at the beautifully appointed Flint Center in Cupertino, a few miles from the Apple campus, in the since-renovated 2,300 seat auditorium where Steve Jobs introduced the Mac.

In a series of panel discussions, members of the original team will share memories about the conception, birth and coming of age of the Apple Macintosh. Previously unreleased video will recreate those early days. And Ridley Scott will participate regarding the iconic ‘1984’ commercial conceived by Steve Hayden, Brent Thomas and Lee Clow. Stage events, testimonials and surprise guests will offer a treasure trove of recollections about the era.

In some of the evening’s highlights, Mike Markkula will be part of a presentation acknowledging the unsung heroes of the computer revolution - the original Mac team. Currently there are 7 of the 10 single-digit original Apple Employees confirmed and over 17 double-digit badge numbers.

Daniel Kottke is one of the main hosts. Daniel, together with author Steven Levy, Randy Wigginton, George Crow, Rod Holt, Larry Tesler, Bill Fernandez, Bruce Horn, Ron Nicholson, Larry Kenyon, Jerry Manock, Donn Denman, Bill Bull, Martin Haeberli, Bryan Stearns, Bob Belleville, David Beaver, Sam Lyall, Carolyn Rose, Joe Sheldon, Debi Coleman, Brian Robertson, Pamela Wyman and many other original team members comprising the panels and telling their stories.”
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Introduction to the Shamanic Journey
with Anne Hatfield and Stuart Dole
Saturday-Sunday, January 25-26, 10:00AM-5:00PM
exact location in Santa Rosa given upon registration
$125 for both full days, Saturday morning session is free
for more information, please call 707-570-0111 or e-mail info@annehatfield.com

“What is shamanism?
Shamanism is the world’s oldest system of spiritual healing and divination, practiced by indigenous peoples all over the world. The shaman makes ecstatic flights into the world of the spirits to obtain information and bring back healing.  Shamanism is an effective way to expand your awareness and access spiritual guidance directly for yourself.

What will I learn?
What shamanism is and how it works, including an overview of the spirit worlds
How you can travel safely to the worlds of the spirits, using gentle drumming
Who your power animals and spirit teachers are - and how to work with them
How to expand your consciousness and obtain direct spiritual guidance
How to increase power, creativity, and humor in your life - and how to help your friends do the same

We will use the traditional sounds of repetitive drumming to facilitate the journeys. There will be ample time for background discussion, practical instruction, journey exercises, and questions.

Note that this workshop (or equivalent experience) is required for many of the other workshops that we teach.

About the Workshop
The Journey Initiation Class is taught in four sessions - the mornings and afternoons of a weekend.  During the first session, we cover the basics of what shamanism is, and how to journey - including a practice journey to the lower world to actually meet your power animal. This part is FREE! It will give you a taste of what shamanism is, and help you decide whether you want to take the rest of the workshop or not. (Almost everyone takes all four sessions.)”
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Winter Cheese Making Intensive
with K.Ruby Blume
presented by The Institute of Urban Homesteading
Saturday-Sunday, January 25-26,
Saturday 12:00-6:00PM, Sunday 10:00AM-2:00PM
North Oakland, address given upon registration
Sliding scale $160-$220 includes supplies

“This two-day intensive course will cover everything you need to get started making simple cheeses that are easily created in a home environment. We will learn about cultures, equipment, ingredients and cheesemaking concepts and will work with both cow and goat milk to complete a number of cheesemaking projects including: Yogurt, Yogurt Cheese, Feta, Ricotta, Brie, Buttermilk, Sour Cream, Chevre, Mozzarella and Cultured Butter. We will also learn about the hard cheese process. You will receive hand-outs outlining the major concepts, recipes and resources to help you along once you try your hand at home. Each day will culminate in a community feast in which we share food, sample the cheeses and enjoy the friends we have made working together through the weekend. This course is the equivalent of Cheesemaking 101, 102 and 103 together.”
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Family Day at Sienna Ranch
Sunday, January 26, 12:00-4:00PM, (and the last Sunday of every month)
Sienna Ranch, 3232 Deer Hill Road, Lafayette, 925-283-6311
$85 includes up to five people, advance registration required - see website

“On the last Sunday of each month, Sienna Ranch will open its doors for a special family and community day.  Come enjoy the activities, good company, healthy food, and the wholesome environment at Sienna Ranch.  Family Day is fun for all ages.  

Horse and pony rides, sustainability education and projects, archery, hayrides, survival skills activities, and more.  Bring your own picnic lunch or buy from one of our healthy food vendors.  

Family Days are on Sundays, 12:00-4:00PM.  
Family Day Pass is $85.

With the purchase of a family pass, you will get
admission to Sienna Ranch family day for up to 5 people
3 horse ride tickets
3 archery tickets
5 hayride tickets
participation in the featured hands-on sustainability or survival skill activity
unlimited animal visits to goats, sheep, chickens
special demonstrations, entertainment, or hands-on projects (vary from month to month)

Note: Food and special services offered at an additional cost.  For additional archery and horse ride tickets, please purchase a second family pass.

Family Days are limited to 40 families, so register soon!”
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Visioning Circle at The Home of Truth
Sunday, January 26, 12:30-1:15PM, and the fourth Sunday of each month
The Home of Truth Spiritual Center, 1300 Grand Street, Alameda
Free
For more information, please contact Rev. Ouida at 510-350-6249 or revouida@yahoo.com

“The Visioning Process as founded by Rev. Dr. Michael Beckwith allows us to tap into the Divine for insights, answers and awareness. As THOT is moving into this new phase, I invite the community to come together as we ‘catch the vision’ of what THOT is, and can be. What is the highest vision for THOT? What does that feel like? Who/what must we become? Visioning allows us to catch the highest possibilities.
We will also have time for personal visioning. What are you calling forth? What is the highest vision for your Life? This process is a meditative one that invites us to go within, listen, and receive insights about our Heart's desires.
Please join us!”
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Tamerlane, Stalin, and the Great Fatherland War:
The Prehistory and Afterlife of a Soviet Ghost Story
Sunday, January 26, 1:00-3:00PM
Silk Road House, 1944 University Avenue, Berkeley
Free

“On June 20, 1941, the grave of Tamerlane was exhumed by a team of Soviet scientists in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. Two days later the German army invaded the USSR, launching the Great Patriotic war and Soviet Central Asia's best known ghost story: that the 14th century ruler's ghost had triggered the Nazi invasion in response to the violation of its final resting place. This presentation explores how this ghost story emerged and analyses why it became so widespread. It places these events into the greater context of Soviet preservation of Islamic architecture and the legitimacy of Soviet rule in Central Asia.
 
Charles Shaw is a Ph.D. candidate in history at UC-Berkeley specializing in modern Russian and Central Asian history. He is writing a dissertation comprising several episodes from the Central Asian experience in World War II, including that of soldiers, laborers, and cultural workers within the larger Soviet war effort. His research interests include the creation of Soviet borders, the politics of architectural preservation, and the Cold War as viewed from Tashkent.
Silk Road House events are sponsored by the Silkroad Foundation.”
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The Seven African Powers
with Nimat Shakoor-Grantham
Sunday, January 26, 2:00-4:00PM
The Mystic Dream, 1437 N Broadway, Walnut Creek, 925-933-2342
$25

“This initial class will serve as an introduction to the basic concepts and principles of The Seven African Powers, better known as the Orisha from the Yoruba spiritual diaspora. There will be an introduction of associated ancestor homage, traditional stories (Patakis) and fundamental rituals to benefit one's life force (Ache). Bring an item for the Ancestor Altar representing one of your ancestors (pictures are best).

Nimat Shakoor-Grantham, an initiated Yoruba, Santeria and Palo Priestess has been honoring the ancestors and Orishas for over 30 years. She is also a Spiritual and Life Advisor who lives in Benicia with her Spiritual allies, Walnut, Papi, Buster and Shabba Ranks.”
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Tea and Tarot
with Charlie London and Chas Bogan
Sunday, January 26, 4:00-6:00PM, and the fourth Sunday of every month
The Mystic Dream, 1437 N Broadway, Walnut Creek, 925-933-2342
Donations accepted to cover cost of tea

“Tarot lovers of every skill level will enjoy Tea and Tarot. Each month we will explore a new facet of working with the cards, examining multiple meanings, layouts, and learning how to express our insights with others.”
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Freedom from Anxiety
with Dr. Marcey Shapiro
Sunday, January 26, 4:30-6:00PM
Three Stone Hearth, 1581 University Avenue, Berkeley, 510-981-1334
$10-$20 sliding scale.  Broth bar $3.

“Dr. Marcey Shapiro will discuss her new book Freedom from Anxiety as well as her personal journey with health and healing.

Lecture will take place at the kitchen on 1581 University Avenue. Enjoy our broth bar 20 minutes before the event begins. Tickets at the door are $10-$20 sliding scale.

Marcey Shapiro, MD is a family physician with extensive training in natural medicine including Western and Chinese herbal medicine, and acupuncture, to name a few. Marcey promotes WAP nutritional values. She is author of Transforming the Nature of Health: A Holistic Vision of Healing That Honors Our Connection to the Earth, Others, and Ourselves, and Freedom From Anxiety to be published in Winter 2014.”
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Hrafnar Oracular Seidh
presented by Fellowship fo the Spiral Path
Sunday, January 26, 5:00PM
BFUU, 1924 Cedar Street, Berkeley
Donations accepted to pay for the space

"Now, as in the ancient North, seers and seeresses find answers to the pressing questions of folk in their communities.

Seidhjallr, the working seidhr group associated with Hrafnar, will be performing this rite at the Berkeley Fellowship of Unitarian Universalists (BFUU), located at 1924 Cedar Street in Berkeley. This practice comes from the heathen (Germanic pagan) tradition, but all are welcome.

Questions appropriate to an oracular seidh presentation are any that one might consider appropriate to address to a tarot, rune, or other reader, as well as many questions that work best in the more open, oracular format, including contact with ancestors and gods.

Doors for the event will open at 7:00PM, with the ritual expected to start at 7:30PM. Once the ritual begins, the doors will be locked; please be prompt. While there is no admission fee, we will be taking a collection (suggested donation $5) to help defray expenses, especially hall rental.”
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Crystal Workshop
with Susan Diamond
Sunday January 26, 7:00-8:30PM
Serpent's Kiss, 2015 N Pacific Avenue, Santa Cruz, 831-423-5477
$25
Please call 831-423-5477 to pre-register.

“Join Susan Diamond on a journey through the Chakras and discuss the use of Crystals and Color in Healing and Magic. No need to memorize ‘properties’ or buy books! You will discover how to work easily and effectively with any and all of these ancient guides. We will also take a look at the use of enchanted jewelry, an old and traditional element in most forms of magical practice.”
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Visioning 2014
with Katrina Martin
Monday, January 27, 6:00-8:00PM
in the Fireside Room, BFUU, 1606 Bonita Avenue, Berkeley 94703
$10
To RSVP, please email katrina@katrinadreamer.com

“In this two-hour workshop, we'll ask ourselves what we want to cultivate this year. We'll do a guided meditation to help us clarify our intentions, goals and visions for 2014. The rest of the time will be spent creating vision boards! I'll provide all the materials. Part of the Intuitive Leadership Training group on Meetup.”
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Tea and Chanting Sangha - please note new time
Tuesday, January 28, 8:00PM, and the fourth Tuesday of each month
The Sacred Well, 536 Grand Avenue, Oakland, 510-444-9355
$5 suggested donation

“As we enter our fourth year of our journey together, our group is ready to deepen into a unique aspect of Tibetan Buddhist practice.

Over the course of the year we are progressively learning a Tibetan ritual designed to awaken and purify all of creation in the many directions, to confer blessings of relief and happiness upon all beings throughout all space and time, and to magnify our sangha's collective aspiration toward the enlightened liberation of all beings.  
Open to beginners as well as current sangha members.”
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Standing with the Watershed
Closing Reception
presented by Wholly H2O
Thursday, January 30, 6:00-8:00PM
Lobby of Sherwood Design Engineers, 58 Maiden Lane, San Francisco
Free

“Many thanks to the throngs who enjoyed December 5th's opening reception, touring through the art, and hearing Patrick Keopele of Tuolumne River Trust, Bill Sears of the SFPUC and Elizabeth Dougherty of Wholly H2O's brief presentations about the Tuolumne River Watershed and Rim Fire.  

Best of all was that so many of you took the opportunity to hang out with the artists, with one another, listen to great tunes and donate extra amounts of money to Wholly H2O.  The gentleman who pulled a wad of twenties out of his wallet and threw them into the donation jar gets extra brownie points!

Sherwood Gallery reports are that folks are regularly coming in to Sherwood Gallery at 58 Maiden Lane in San Francisco to tour this extraordinary show while it's hanging through January 30th. Please continue to drop in when you are in San Francisco during the week. It's open daily from 12:00-5:00PM.

For those of you who missed the opening and only a party will get you out of the house, Standing with the Watershed's closing reception is Thursday, January 30th, from 6:00-8:00PM.  We'll have a few storytellers to enhance your experience of the Tuolumne Watershed and the Rim Fire.  We promise it will be an evening well spent.

It will also provide you another opportunity to purchase a piece of artwork from the show (40% of proceeds goes to Wholly H2O), to donate in person to Wholly H2O and to RIM: River In Motion Education Center.

The fragile relationship between San Francisco Bay Area residents and their water supply was heightened by the recent events of the Rim Fire that tore through the protected watershed in and around Yosemite that provides the Bay Area with much of its water. Wholly H2O, in partnership with Sherwood Gallery, has assembled a provocative group of 17 artists working to address the environmental issues surrounding this interrelationship.

Presenting works in a variety of media, the show Standing with the Watershed opened in the Sherwood Gallery on December 5, 2013 and continues through January 30, 2014.  The artists share their interpretations and experiences defined by the nature-urban interface and the dynamic transformative element of wildfire that brings the tension in this relationship to the fore. Both the physicality of the Tuolumne River Watershed and the use of these waters in San Francisco and Silicon Valley are the launching points for all of the artists’ work. Grappling with the dynamic and unpredictable variables of ‘natural disasters’ provokes a corresponding response exhibited in the paintings, photographs and installations on view in the gallery.

The two-month exhibit aims to expose the energy and vitality of this watershed and water system before, during, and after the Rim Fire.  The stories and impressions exhibited use the Fire as a point of reference but extend deeper into the human relationship with this watershed and the causal relationships behind environmental disasters. The show is inspired at times by the tragic beauty of the natural landscape engulfed in flames and its people reeling in the fire’s path and aftermath. Other moments, the show draws us in to the urban side of the water system, sharing impressions where this water is used by 2.5 million of the urban residents in the Bay Area.

Standing with the Watershed at Sherwood Gallery offers a new perspective in our series of exhibitions in the space that strive to reinterpret the modern urban condition and redefine our relationship with nature.”
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Sacred Burlesque: The Art of Prayerformance
with Veenaa Saynana
Friday, January 31, 7:00-10:00PM,
and six more Fridays, February 7, 14, 21, and 28 and March 7 and 14
Equinox Celebration and Performance Friday, March 21, 7:00-10:00PM
Dance Jam, 2525 8th Street, Berkeley
Sliding Scale $320-$280
Space is limited, registration required

“Sacred Burlesque: The Art of Prayerformance
Unique Dance/Choreography/Creativity Genre led by Veenaa Saynana
Gender Inclusive

Come transform your life by exploring your sensual and sexual essence through the amazing techniques of Sacred Burlesque, where you symbolically (and seductively!) shed that which is no longer relevant in the story of your life. You will learn how to come back to your core essence through Prayerformance, the art of combining the field of sacred intention with that of your infinite potential. Participants will perform their pieces in front of a live audience at the end of the course which will mark the Spring Equinox. Their progress will also be documented through live, mentored interviews in a television documentary.

Highlights in brief:
Prayerformance
Shamanic Techniques
Unleashing Creative Fire
Sacred Story-Telling
Sensual Dance
The Art of Seduction
Sacred Burlesque
Burlesque Choreography - no nudity, you choose how much you wish to take off, or how little.
Performance Skills
Interview in a television documentary
To register, please send an email to veenaasaynana@gmail.com with your details. A deposit is needed to reserve your space. Space is limited to 15.

This course is led by Veenaa Saynana Laughing Dolphin, a creative powerhouse of shamanic magic, dance, Prayerformance and ceremony. She is the author of Mary Magdalene Speaks: Gateway to Empowerment. She holds a Gold Medal in the performance of poetry and prose, is an unashamed seductress and a sensual mentor. She revels in the bliss of sensuality and sacred dance. She is well-known for her one-woman shows which are raunchy, comedic and purring with fun! She has facilitated in 3 continents, from Asia to Australia to North America. She leads retreats to major sacred sites of the world.

She runs a successful healing and coaching practice, empowering thousands to lead lives of blissful sensuality and abundance. She is available for private sensuality mentoring sessions and DNA Sequencing Therapy, a powerful modality utilizing deep trauma release and sacred journeying.”
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Have an Intensely Free Week of Visionary Manifestation!

Molly Blue Dawn

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