British Traditional Wicca 101, Group Vortex Healing, Goddess/Angelic Healing, A Tale of Two Genres, The Order of the Sacred Wheel, 13 Moon Introductory Series, Sonoma County Pagan Network Yule Celebration, Christmas Revels, Paper Toy-Making Workshops, Save the Paintings!, Gaskell Ball, Christmas Nipples, Chinyakare Ensemble, The Great Dickens Christmas Fair!, Awan Olokun, CAYA Sprouts Winter Solstice, Diamonds of Light, Spiral Yule Celebration, Persian and Middle Eastern Dance, Iron Cupcake, South Bay Pagan Salon, Women’s Visioning Circle, Dream Group
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British Traditional Wicca 101
with Lady Argante
Wednesday, December 14, 7:00-9:00PM - final class!
The Sacred Well, 536 Grand Avenue, Oakland, 510-444-9355
$10 per class
http://www.sacredwell.com/classes-events
“Lady Argante, a third-degree Gardnerian Elder and the High Priestess of the Coven Daoine Sidhe, comes to The Sacred Well to offer a class that will provide students with a spiritual and practical introduction to Wicca from a British Traditional perspective.
This 14-week course includes an introduction to British Traditional Wicca's history, cosmology and Wheel of the Year; meditations on the Goddess, the God, and the four elements; basic magical ethics and methods; and informal rituals for Samhain and Yule.
Class space is limited, so call The Sacred Well today at 510-444-9355 to sign up for the entire course, or for any individual class.”
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Group Vortex Healing
with Dragonfly
Wednesday, December 14, 7:00PM
Body Energy Center, 2939 Summit Street, Suite 301, Oakland, 510-467-8841
$20
Please RSVP to Dragonfly at 510-467-8841 or Exlibrys13@yahoo.com
http://www.arunabliss.com
http://www.vortexhealing.com
Dragonfly says:
“Blessing's star family!
This week at ArunaBliss we will be nurturing are spirit with the angels. An Angelic Heart group healing bridges you deeply into the angelic realm allowing an angel help to facilitate the session. During the healing, you will feel,sense,see,know angels communicating with you in the way that is most helpful in unfolding your natural gifts. Angelic presence will infuse your system to create new energy and clarity.
Old emotional patterns and blocks will fall away to open the way for new possibilities and the joy of creation to unfold. It is through inner improvement that we are able to cultivate the skills,wisdom and knowledge that will aid us in creating the Age of Light upon the Earth.
For the session, establish a clear intention in your heart of what you would like to ask from the divine and stay with that intention throughout the healing. Angels were created solely to serve the divine and are empowered by the divine to work directly in the manifest world. Angels come to deliver messages and guidance, to act as protectors, to bring hope, to give relief from adversity, to strengthen and support.”
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Goddess/Angelic Healing
Having It All
with Chris Beals
Thursday, December 15, 10:30-11:30AM,
and two more third Thursdays, January 19 and February 16
The Mystic Dream, 1437 N Broadway, Walnut Creek, 925-933-2342
$15 per session
Please pre-register by phone or at the website below
http://www.themysticdream.com
http://www.pathwayslt.com
“Women, Money and Love. How to have a career and loving relationship at the same time. How does your relationship with yourself limit your ability to have it all? Chris will incorporate Angel Wisdom/Healing with powerful meditations to assist you in achieving ALL your goals. Come and attune with the loving, caring, prosperous, abundant woman that you truly are!
Chris Beals of Pathways is dedicated to facilitating and nurturing the inner spirit. Chris Beals has been a radio talk show host and meditation teacher in the SF Bay Area for 25 years. Chris also does clairvoyant readings by phone Monday, Tuesday, and Sundays noon-7:00PM! My personal goal is to empower every person I meet. I look forward to meeting you!
Each week the topic and information will vary, attending all of the sessions is encouraged, but not required.”
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The Un-Scripted Theater Company presents:
A Tale of Two Genres
Thursday-Saturday, December 15-17,
Thursday and Friday 8:00PM, Saturday 3:00PM and 8:00PM
and Tuesday-Wednesday, December 20-21, 8:00PM - Final week!
SF Playhouse, Stage 2, 533 Sutter Street, San Francisco
see website for detailed schedule and ticket information
http://un-scripted.com/about/2011-season
“The Un-Scripted Theater Company is reprising 2010's successful improvised musical, A Tale of Two Genres, performed in the style of the audience's choice - as if written by Charles Dickens. The audience supplies the genre: it could be a post-apocalyptic drama, a western on the American prairie, a Tarantino heist story, or whatever else strikes their fancy. The Un-Scripted Theater Company uses that genre to improvise a full-length musical, as filtered through an absurd, complex, Victorian world, with quirky characters and sly narration that Dickens himself might have created.”
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The Order of the Sacred Wheel
presents an Open Ritual
Friday, December 16, 6:30-8:30PM,
The Mystic Dream, 1437 N Broadway, Walnut Creek, 925-933-2342
donations accepted
http://www.themysticdream.com
http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Order-of-the-Sacred-Wheel/194679893899440
“The Order of the Sacred Wheel is a collective of public pagan clergy who offer free open rituals to the public. All are welcomed from all paths and level of training.
Meet and greet/ introduction will begin at 6:30 and ritual will begin promptly at 7:00. The door will closed and those who are late will not be permitted access to the ritual.
For this ritual we will be honoring the changing of the seasons.”
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13 Moon Introductory Series
Friday, December 16, 7:00-9:00PM (and the third Friday of every month)
Aphrodite’s Closet, 1201 Park Street, Alameda
$55
Please call 510-521-3313 to pay and reserve your space
http://www.13moonmysteryschool.org/aphrodites_closet.html
“Learn more about the 13 archetypes of the Divine Feminine and how to live and be seen as the Goddess you are! Go away with practical ways to connect with your authentic Divine self. This is a bite-sized taste of the 13 Moon Mystery School's journey into the Divine Feminine. Come add YOUR magic to the mix!”
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Sonoma County Pagan Network Yule Celebration
Friday, December 16, 7:00PM
Luther Burbank Art and Garden Center, 2050 Yulupa Avenue, Santa Rosa
$3-$5 donation requested, no one turned away for lack of funds
http://www.scpagans.org/yule.html
“What makes Yule special for you? Is it the music; those unforgettable songs that weave their way into our hearts? Maybe it's the light of hope that radiates from the candle flames? Stories shared, memories made and bonds of friendship linked by the act of giving and receiving. Many of us tie our fondest memories to the aromas that are conjured up in the kitchen.
We have so much to celebrate! Let us count our blessings and bask in the joy of the season. Our potluck feast will feature an old fashioned, oven-roasted turkey. Surely this will inspire you to bring your favorite dish for the potluck. We will spread the joy of giving and our waistlines with both a gift exchange and a cookie exchange. You might bring a song or a story to tell the group. (Please feel free to participate in any or all of these activities at your discretion. It is your presence and the spirit of the season that brings meaning to this gathering.)
Come and celebrate the joy of the season this Yule - Reclaiming Style. Bring your favorite traditions story telling, chanting, playing music to share with your extended SCPN family. We will be taking these and, together, craft them into this year's Yule Ritual. We request that these contributions be Pagan-based, Yule seasoned and family appropriate. Helen/Hawk will be facilitating this event.”
Thanks to Ximena for letting me know about this event!
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Christmas Revels
A Theatrical Celebration of the Winter Solstice
Friday-Sunday, December 16-18
Fridays at 8:00 PM, Saturdays and Sundays at 1:00 and 5:00PM
Scottish Rite Theater, 1547 Lakeside Drive, Oakland
See website for detailed ticket prices and parking information.
http://www.calrevels.org
“As the winter solstice approaches in King Arthur's court, the legendary king summons his lords, ladies, knights and knaves to Camelot. Complete with magic, Knights of the Round Table, legendary creatures and spectacular costumes, this interactive visit to the mythical kingdom will delight children and adults alike.”
My experience with The Christmas Revels is that it is both ridiculously fun and sublimely moving.
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Paper Toy-Making Workshops
with Marilyn Scott-Waters
Saturday December 17,
10:00AM-12:00PM - Pre-school to Kindergarten age children accompanied by adults
1:00-4:00PM - Children grades 1-6
Charles M. Schulz Museum, 2301 Hardies Lane, Santa Rosa
Museum admission: Adults $10, students and seniors $5, children under 4 Free
http://www.schulzmuseum.org
http://www.thetoymaker.com
“Join the Toymaker, Marilyn Scott-Waters, to cut, paste and create a koi kite, paper butterfly, miniature fairy book, cornucopia, and a coupon folder holder! Learn tricks and tips for creating your own paper toys at home.”
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Save the Paintings!
Saturday December 17, 12:00PM
1430 32nd Street, Oakland
Free
http://grayladyart.blogspot.com/2011/12/save-paintings.html
Mistress Ladybug says:
“To make room for new creative ventures, I will be putting almost all of my paintings out on the sidewalk at noon on Saturday, free for anyone who wants them. Most of this work is more than 5 years old and has not sold in the past, but it seems too harsh to just throw it all in the trash, especially since I am rather fond of some of it. If you want any of these paintings, show up on time, because this neighborhood, known as the Dog Town Arts District, picks up random art offerings quickly.”
See website above for videos showing the paintings - you may have seen and admired some of these paintings during Ladybug’s show at The Sacred Well!
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Gaskell Ball
Saturday, December 17, 7:30PM
Oakland Scottish Rite Center, 1547 Lakeside Drive, Oakland
$20
http://www.gaskellball.com
http://www.gaskellball.com./flyer/current.pdf
http://www.scottish-rite.org
http://www.brassworksband.com
"Ye Gaskell Occasional Dance Society has been sponsoring Victorian Ballroom dances for over 20 years. We currently sponsor 6 balls a year at the Scottish Rite Temple in Oakland.
We have live music played by the Brassworks of San Francisco, a group of 5 brass horns and a
drummer led by Frank Davis. The dances feature Victorian Waltzes, Polkas, Schottisches, Mazurkas, and set dances such as the Sir Roger de Coverley and the Congress of Vienna.
The general format of the dance is three 40 minute and one 30 minute sessions of live music, with three 20 minute breaks. We also occasionally have other entertainment during the breaks such as Morris dancing. The first set starts at 8:30 PM, with the last set ending at Midnight. Starting at 7:45 PM is a dance workshop where members of the Society quickly cover the basics of waltzing, polkas and the schottische.
As a special bonus, we'll conclude the evening with a sing-a-long of the Hallelujah Chorus from Handel's Messiah.
Of course, the usual 19th, 20th and 21st century formal wear is always welcome.
Dress is 19th, 20th, or 21st Century Formalwear
Admission may be refused for those inappropriately dressed.
Refreshments are potluck finger food with the Society providing both fruit punch and ice water."
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Christmas Nipples
Saturday, December 17, 8:00PM,
followed by DJ dance jam, 9:30PM-1:00AM
Radiance Oak, 278 4th Street, Oakland
$15
http://www.aiyuinstitute.com/sacred-soul-marriage-ceremony
http://www.radianceoak.org
“An Audacious and Bodacious Jaunt into the Wildly Cavorting Mind of an Irrepressible Social Activist
An Eclectic Marriage of Sacred Interactive Theatre, Social Activism and Comedy, showcasing quirky takes and comedic rants, shooting straight from the breast. Expect the unexpected, life will never be the same again.
Veenaa Saynana has a whole new show this year! After the successful debut of the first Christmas Nipples last year, Veenaa has a lot to get off her breast, er, chest. She will regale her tittering audience with cutting flashes of tit, we mean wit, on diverse topics relevant to today’s world.”
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Chinyakare Ensemble
Saturday, December 17, 9:00PM
Ashkenaz Music and Dance Community Center
$12 in advance, $15 on the day
http://www.ashkenaz.com
http://www.chinyakare.com
“The Chinyakare Ensemble boasts a collection of diverse and experienced musicians from both Africa and the U.S. under the direction of Zimbabwean dancer and musician Julia Tsitsi Chigamba, who started the group when she moved to Oakland in 2001. True to its name, "deep traditional," the ensemble represents traditional music and dance from Shona, Ndebele, and other tribal groups from around Zimbabwe. Some of the main instruments the Chinyakare Ensemble plays are mbira, hosho (shakers), ngoma (drums), marimbas, and chipendani (mouth bow). Its performances feature the complex weaving of all of these instruments into beautiful melodies and polyrhythms that are still performed regularly at spiritual ceremonies throughout Zimbabwe.”
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The Great Dickens Christmas Fair!
Saturday-Sunday, December 17-18, 11:00AM-7:00PM - final weekend!
Cow Palace Exhibition Halls, 2600 Geneva Avenue, Daly City
$25.00
(various discounts may apply, and season tickets are available - see website for details)
Parking fees are $10.00 per car (charged by the Cow Palace).
http://dickensfair.com
https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Great-Dickens-Christmas-Fair/163474283688469?ref=ts
http://www.youtube.com/user/DickensFair?feature=mhum
http://www.cowpalace.com
Aphrodite’s Closet is offering a free ticket to the Dickens Fair with any purchase of $75 or more!
1201 Park Street, Alameda, 510-521-3313, info@sanctuaryoftheopenheart.org
http://www.13moonmysteryschool.org/aphrodites_closet.html
“Celebrate the Holiday Season in Victorian London!
The bustling streets of London, immortalized for all time by the mighty pen of Charles Dickens, form the living backdrop of your excursion into Christmas Past. You are a living part of a Victorian Christmas card come to life!
A Bay Area tradition since 1970, the Great Dickens Christmas Fair returns to the San Francisco Cow Palace Exhibition Halls for four weekends in 2010, including the Friday after Thanksgiving, from Friday, November 25 through Sunday, December 18 from 11:00AM 'til 7:00PM.
Created by Ron and Phyllis Patterson, the fair is now produced by Kevin and Leslie Patterson and Red Barn Productions, who continue the family tradition of theatrical excellence through authenticity, participation, and playfulness.
Come wander the lanes of Victorian London, as the glow of twilight settles upon the city, with the scent of pine boughs and freshly baked scones floating in the air and the sound of carolers and holiday merrymakers accompanying your stroll.”
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Awan Olokun (Year End Cleansing)
with Ile Orunmila Oshun
Please note that this special ritual replaces the Ile Monthly Temple Service!
Sunday, December 18, 11:00-1:00PM
The Sacred Well, 536 Grand Avenue, Oakland, 510-444-9355
$28, space is very limited, please call to reserve your space today
http://www.sacredwell.com/classes-events
http://www.ileorunmilaoshun.org
“Olokun is the west African deity of the Ocean. It is customary in all indigenous systems for individuals and communities undergo purifications in order to prepare for the next phase of any journey. We cleanse with the power of the ocean in this ritual at the end of every year in order to meet the year fresh, open and with enough emotional, mental and spiritual room to receive our blessings in the coming year.”
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CAYA Sprouts Winter Solstice
Sunday, December 18, 12:00PM
Aquatic Park, 80 Bolivar Drive, Berkeley
Meet at the picnic table in the open field area next to the playground.
Please RSVP to CAYASPROUTS@yahoogroups.com
Event may be moved to an alternate location in case of rain.
http://cayacoven.org/sprouts.html
http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=231143800271740
“Come As You Are to Sprouts Winter Solstice!
Come and honor the past year and celebrate the rebirth of the sun We will make wish ornaments for the new year to hang on our Yule tree and light candles to sing up the soon.
Please RSVP to: CAYASPROUTS@yahoogroups.com with the size of your family if you plan to attend.
What to Bring: A candle to light and a yummy holiday treat to share
CAYA Sprouts offers Sabbat rituals that are specifically designed for children up to age ten. However, the all self identified families are welcome to attend. Come and celebrate the Wheel of the Year with us!”
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Diamonds of Light
A Solstice Event
Sunday, December 18, 3:00-5:00PM
$10-20
The Dream Institute of Northern California, 1672 University Avenue, Berkeley, 510-845-1767
http://www.dream-institute.org/idx_calendar.htm#Solstice_Event:_“Diamonds_of_Light”_
“This dream-based performance features seasonal themes of darkness and return of the light, set in our lovely candle-lit historic building. Join us for refreshments, conversation, and a moving experience of universal motifs that come to life in this dream-based performance.
The Dream Institute is an experimental cultural center founded in 2003. It has come into being during this time known as the shift or the great turning. Our offerings include weekend workshops, daylong seminars, evening salons, film series, professional training, art exhibits, retreats, and dream-based performances. We are also the West Coast center for Culture Dreaming. Programs and events are open to the public; continuing education seminars are for professionals in the healing arts. We do not advocate any single philosophical, psychological, spiritual, or religious viewpoint toward dreams or personal growth.”
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The Fellowship of the Spiral Path welcomes you to attend….
Yule Celebration
Sunday, December 18, 4:00-7:00PM
BFUU Main Hall, 1924 Cedar Street, Berkeley
Donations gratefully accepted
http://www.thespiralpath.org
“Please join us for Yule!
The Fellowship of the Spiral Path (also known as "Spiral") is a non-profit religious corporation registered under the laws of the State of California. We are an association of neo-pagan groups in Northern California that acknowledge that we share traditions, beliefs, and/or lines of descent in the Old Religion (including but not limited to reconstructed European traditions, Earth religion, and Goddess religion). We have joined together for purposes of inspiration, mutual solidarity, support, and protection. Our purpose is to provide religious and spiritual services to the community, sponsor special interest groups and projects, and encourage diversity of religious expression. We are supported by donations from those who participate in our activities and benefit from our services.”
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Persian and Middle Eastern Dance
featuring Zaryab Ensemble, Ballet Afsaneh and Hala Dance Company
Sunday, December 18, 7:00PM
Ashkenaz Music and Dance Community Center
$10-$15 sliding scale
http://www.ashkenaz.com
http://www.dancesilkroad.org/zaryab/index.htm
http://www.dancesilkroad.org/ballet_afsaneh.html
http://www.haladance.com
“Three colorful acts make this a special night of Persian and Middle Eastern dance and music. Zaryab Music Ensemble plays a blend of contemporary and traditional Persian music, with authentic and modern dance by Ballet Afsaneh and Hala Dance Company.
Zaryab Ensemble brings a contemporary re-interpretation of Persian traditional roots, melding ancient Persian modal qualities and traditional instruments with modern musical systems. The band features a renowned international cast that specializes in both Persian and Western music. In cooperation with Afsaneh Art and Culture Society - Ballet Afsaneh dance artists, choreographers, and collaborators, Zaryab Ensemble has developed numerous original compositions that are inspiring juxtapositions of music, dance, visual art, and poetry. The band of seasoned world performers includes singer Sonja Drakulich, a specialist in Turkish, Arabic, Balkan, and Medieval European music traditions, and the creator of the group Stellamara; santur player Neema Hekmat, an expert in Persian modal systems and improvisation; violinist and Persian-Western classical expert Pourya Khademi; and cellist Moses Sedler of the group Davka, specializing in Western classical, Eastern European folk, and Indian music.
Ballet Afsaneh, the professional performance ensemble of the Afsaneh Art & Culture Society, presents performances and activities featuring dance, poetry, and music of the Silk Road - the historic trade route stretching 7,000 miles across Eurasia from the China Sea in the East to the Mediterranean in the West. Now in its 25th year, Ballet Afsaneh features a wide-ranging repertoire ranging from the glittering lyricism of fairytale to incisive, thought-provoking contemporary work.
Hala Dance Company presents authentic Egyptian and Middle Eastern belly dance shows.”
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Iron Cupcake
Monday, December 19, 7:00PM
Leland Tea Company, 1416 Bush Street, San Francisco
$10, RSVP required
http://ironcupcakesf.com
http://www.meetup.com/Iron-Cupcake-San-Francisco-Challenge/events/43868552/
http://www.lelandtea.com
“The Iron Cupcake SF Challenge is a local Bay Area meet-up group where any local bakers, friends and food enthusiasts can join for a monthly cupcake face off. Each month a new ingredient is presented and all participants bake their interpretation of the ingredient in cupcake fashion.
All bakers meet on the last Monday of each month where the live challenge begins (with pre-baked/prepared cupcakes in hand). Friends, family and other contestants take part in the taste testing as well as voting for the winner. By the end of the evening a winner is chosen and random prizes are awarded.
The goal is to gather together as many cupcake lovers and expand their cupcake horizons, their baking skills and ultimately have a great time. Leland Tea hosts the events each month and a committee organizes the prizes and settings.
This month's challenge is: Bakeoff
All past and new bakers are encouraged to attend. The challenge is to bake your signature cupcake. The cupcake friends and family know you by. This will be the ultimate cupcake bakeoff to wrap up the year. As such there will be special guests, prizes, and other fun surprises!
Tasters MUST RSVP and purchase a ticket through this Meetup. A paid ticket is required for entry for all tasters. Bring your ticket or receipt with you, we are expecting a large turnout and just as a reminder there will be NO admittance without a receipt sorry if this causes an inconvenience.
Bakers do not require a paid ticket to bake, but any guests that accompany you will need to purchase a ticket. Bakers MUST confirm their attendance by email to ironcupcakesf@gmail.com.
There will be first, second, and third place prizes for Taste and Appearance, a separate prize for Most Creative cupcake, and a Bakers Choice Award.”
Thanks to Pixie for letting me know about this event!
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South Bay Pagan Salon
Tuesday, December 20, 7:30PM (and the first and third Tuesday of every month)
Kapp’s Pizza, 191 Castro Street, Mountain View
for more information, contact Jason Mankey at panmankey@gmail.com
Jason says:
“We'd like to formally invite you to join us the first and third Tuesdays of every month for the South Bay Pagan Salon. The SBPS is a discussion and networking group, dedicated to talking about "Pagan Things" and networking in the Bay Area. Generally we'll start each meeting with a specific topic to get the discussion rolling along, but after we get started it'll be rather open ended with the participants dictating where the discussion will go.
Upcoming Meeting Dates and Discussion Topics:
December 20: Yule/Holiday Traditions
We hope you'll join us.
No donations required, heck, if you show up I just might buy you a cup of coffee.
If you've got questions, I might have answers. Email me (Jason) at panmankey@gmail.com”
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Women’s Visioning Circle
with Evalena Rose and Afia Walking Tree
Saturday-Sunday, January 7-8, Saturday 10:00AM-9:30PM, Sunday 10:30AM-5:30PM
LoveJourney Temple, Sebastopol
exact location given upon registration
$255 if paid by 12/28, $295 thereafter
Saturday only: $160 if paid by 12/28, $185 thereafter
$75 Deposit due by December 28 to hold your space, Non-refundable after January 1st
http://www.tantraforwomen.com/visioning.html
http://www.evalenarose.com
http://www.spiritdrumz.org/leaders.htm
“Two Days of Visioning and Manifesting with Evalena Rose and percussionist Afia Walking Tree
A powerful gathering of women working on our goals and businesses, lending combined prowess to the fulfillment of your dreams.
The enchanting rituals of Saturday culminate in Sunday's work to make key goals concrete and measurable, so you leave with workable action plans and new skills to implement them.”
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Dream Group
Saturday, January 7, 10:00AM-12:00PM,
and 4 more Saturdays, January 14, February 4, February 25 and March 3
in Albany - exact location given with registration
Free
please RSVP to Laura Prickett at 510-848-8749 or prickett_L@yahoo.com
http://www.spiritmirrorstudio.com/dreamwork.php
“Explore the meanings and gifts that dreams can bring into our waking lives. The group will be led by Laura Prickett, a candidate for certification in dreamwork and spiritual direction. There is no charge, since leading the group is in partial fulfillment of dreamwork certification from the Marin Institute for Projective Dreamwork. Sessions will be on Saturday mornings, from 10 to noon, in Albany, on the following dates: Jan 7, Jan 14, Feb 4, Feb 25, and Mar 3. This is not a drop-in group. Participants are asked to commit to attending at least four sessions. To register or ask questions, please contact Laura, prickett_L@yahoo.com or 510-848-8749.”
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Have a Scintillating, Sacred Week!
Molly Blue Dawn
________________________________________
British Traditional Wicca 101
with Lady Argante
Wednesday, December 14, 7:00-9:00PM - final class!
The Sacred Well, 536 Grand Avenue, Oakland, 510-444-9355
$10 per class
http://www.sacredwell.com/classes-events
“Lady Argante, a third-degree Gardnerian Elder and the High Priestess of the Coven Daoine Sidhe, comes to The Sacred Well to offer a class that will provide students with a spiritual and practical introduction to Wicca from a British Traditional perspective.
This 14-week course includes an introduction to British Traditional Wicca's history, cosmology and Wheel of the Year; meditations on the Goddess, the God, and the four elements; basic magical ethics and methods; and informal rituals for Samhain and Yule.
Class space is limited, so call The Sacred Well today at 510-444-9355 to sign up for the entire course, or for any individual class.”
________________________________________
Group Vortex Healing
with Dragonfly
Wednesday, December 14, 7:00PM
Body Energy Center, 2939 Summit Street, Suite 301, Oakland, 510-467-8841
$20
Please RSVP to Dragonfly at 510-467-8841 or Exlibrys13@yahoo.com
http://www.arunabliss.com
http://www.vortexhealing.com
Dragonfly says:
“Blessing's star family!
This week at ArunaBliss we will be nurturing are spirit with the angels. An Angelic Heart group healing bridges you deeply into the angelic realm allowing an angel help to facilitate the session. During the healing, you will feel,sense,see,know angels communicating with you in the way that is most helpful in unfolding your natural gifts. Angelic presence will infuse your system to create new energy and clarity.
Old emotional patterns and blocks will fall away to open the way for new possibilities and the joy of creation to unfold. It is through inner improvement that we are able to cultivate the skills,wisdom and knowledge that will aid us in creating the Age of Light upon the Earth.
For the session, establish a clear intention in your heart of what you would like to ask from the divine and stay with that intention throughout the healing. Angels were created solely to serve the divine and are empowered by the divine to work directly in the manifest world. Angels come to deliver messages and guidance, to act as protectors, to bring hope, to give relief from adversity, to strengthen and support.”
________________________________________
Goddess/Angelic Healing
Having It All
with Chris Beals
Thursday, December 15, 10:30-11:30AM,
and two more third Thursdays, January 19 and February 16
The Mystic Dream, 1437 N Broadway, Walnut Creek, 925-933-2342
$15 per session
Please pre-register by phone or at the website below
http://www.themysticdream.com
http://www.pathwayslt.com
“Women, Money and Love. How to have a career and loving relationship at the same time. How does your relationship with yourself limit your ability to have it all? Chris will incorporate Angel Wisdom/Healing with powerful meditations to assist you in achieving ALL your goals. Come and attune with the loving, caring, prosperous, abundant woman that you truly are!
Chris Beals of Pathways is dedicated to facilitating and nurturing the inner spirit. Chris Beals has been a radio talk show host and meditation teacher in the SF Bay Area for 25 years. Chris also does clairvoyant readings by phone Monday, Tuesday, and Sundays noon-7:00PM! My personal goal is to empower every person I meet. I look forward to meeting you!
Each week the topic and information will vary, attending all of the sessions is encouraged, but not required.”
________________________________________
The Un-Scripted Theater Company presents:
A Tale of Two Genres
Thursday-Saturday, December 15-17,
Thursday and Friday 8:00PM, Saturday 3:00PM and 8:00PM
and Tuesday-Wednesday, December 20-21, 8:00PM - Final week!
SF Playhouse, Stage 2, 533 Sutter Street, San Francisco
see website for detailed schedule and ticket information
http://un-scripted.com/about/2011-season
“The Un-Scripted Theater Company is reprising 2010's successful improvised musical, A Tale of Two Genres, performed in the style of the audience's choice - as if written by Charles Dickens. The audience supplies the genre: it could be a post-apocalyptic drama, a western on the American prairie, a Tarantino heist story, or whatever else strikes their fancy. The Un-Scripted Theater Company uses that genre to improvise a full-length musical, as filtered through an absurd, complex, Victorian world, with quirky characters and sly narration that Dickens himself might have created.”
________________________________________
The Order of the Sacred Wheel
presents an Open Ritual
Friday, December 16, 6:30-8:30PM,
The Mystic Dream, 1437 N Broadway, Walnut Creek, 925-933-2342
donations accepted
http://www.themysticdream.com
http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Order-of-the-Sacred-Wheel/194679893899440
“The Order of the Sacred Wheel is a collective of public pagan clergy who offer free open rituals to the public. All are welcomed from all paths and level of training.
Meet and greet/ introduction will begin at 6:30 and ritual will begin promptly at 7:00. The door will closed and those who are late will not be permitted access to the ritual.
For this ritual we will be honoring the changing of the seasons.”
________________________________________
13 Moon Introductory Series
Friday, December 16, 7:00-9:00PM (and the third Friday of every month)
Aphrodite’s Closet, 1201 Park Street, Alameda
$55
Please call 510-521-3313 to pay and reserve your space
http://www.13moonmysteryschool.org/aphrodites_closet.html
“Learn more about the 13 archetypes of the Divine Feminine and how to live and be seen as the Goddess you are! Go away with practical ways to connect with your authentic Divine self. This is a bite-sized taste of the 13 Moon Mystery School's journey into the Divine Feminine. Come add YOUR magic to the mix!”
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Sonoma County Pagan Network Yule Celebration
Friday, December 16, 7:00PM
Luther Burbank Art and Garden Center, 2050 Yulupa Avenue, Santa Rosa
$3-$5 donation requested, no one turned away for lack of funds
http://www.scpagans.org/yule.html
“What makes Yule special for you? Is it the music; those unforgettable songs that weave their way into our hearts? Maybe it's the light of hope that radiates from the candle flames? Stories shared, memories made and bonds of friendship linked by the act of giving and receiving. Many of us tie our fondest memories to the aromas that are conjured up in the kitchen.
We have so much to celebrate! Let us count our blessings and bask in the joy of the season. Our potluck feast will feature an old fashioned, oven-roasted turkey. Surely this will inspire you to bring your favorite dish for the potluck. We will spread the joy of giving and our waistlines with both a gift exchange and a cookie exchange. You might bring a song or a story to tell the group. (Please feel free to participate in any or all of these activities at your discretion. It is your presence and the spirit of the season that brings meaning to this gathering.)
Come and celebrate the joy of the season this Yule - Reclaiming Style. Bring your favorite traditions story telling, chanting, playing music to share with your extended SCPN family. We will be taking these and, together, craft them into this year's Yule Ritual. We request that these contributions be Pagan-based, Yule seasoned and family appropriate. Helen/Hawk will be facilitating this event.”
Thanks to Ximena for letting me know about this event!
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Christmas Revels
A Theatrical Celebration of the Winter Solstice
Friday-Sunday, December 16-18
Fridays at 8:00 PM, Saturdays and Sundays at 1:00 and 5:00PM
Scottish Rite Theater, 1547 Lakeside Drive, Oakland
See website for detailed ticket prices and parking information.
http://www.calrevels.org
“As the winter solstice approaches in King Arthur's court, the legendary king summons his lords, ladies, knights and knaves to Camelot. Complete with magic, Knights of the Round Table, legendary creatures and spectacular costumes, this interactive visit to the mythical kingdom will delight children and adults alike.”
My experience with The Christmas Revels is that it is both ridiculously fun and sublimely moving.
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Paper Toy-Making Workshops
with Marilyn Scott-Waters
Saturday December 17,
10:00AM-12:00PM - Pre-school to Kindergarten age children accompanied by adults
1:00-4:00PM - Children grades 1-6
Charles M. Schulz Museum, 2301 Hardies Lane, Santa Rosa
Museum admission: Adults $10, students and seniors $5, children under 4 Free
http://www.schulzmuseum.org
http://www.thetoymaker.com
“Join the Toymaker, Marilyn Scott-Waters, to cut, paste and create a koi kite, paper butterfly, miniature fairy book, cornucopia, and a coupon folder holder! Learn tricks and tips for creating your own paper toys at home.”
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Save the Paintings!
Saturday December 17, 12:00PM
1430 32nd Street, Oakland
Free
http://grayladyart.blogspot.com/2011/12/save-paintings.html
Mistress Ladybug says:
“To make room for new creative ventures, I will be putting almost all of my paintings out on the sidewalk at noon on Saturday, free for anyone who wants them. Most of this work is more than 5 years old and has not sold in the past, but it seems too harsh to just throw it all in the trash, especially since I am rather fond of some of it. If you want any of these paintings, show up on time, because this neighborhood, known as the Dog Town Arts District, picks up random art offerings quickly.”
See website above for videos showing the paintings - you may have seen and admired some of these paintings during Ladybug’s show at The Sacred Well!
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Gaskell Ball
Saturday, December 17, 7:30PM
Oakland Scottish Rite Center, 1547 Lakeside Drive, Oakland
$20
http://www.gaskellball.com
http://www.gaskellball.com./flyer/current.pdf
http://www.scottish-rite.org
http://www.brassworksband.com
"Ye Gaskell Occasional Dance Society has been sponsoring Victorian Ballroom dances for over 20 years. We currently sponsor 6 balls a year at the Scottish Rite Temple in Oakland.
We have live music played by the Brassworks of San Francisco, a group of 5 brass horns and a
drummer led by Frank Davis. The dances feature Victorian Waltzes, Polkas, Schottisches, Mazurkas, and set dances such as the Sir Roger de Coverley and the Congress of Vienna.
The general format of the dance is three 40 minute and one 30 minute sessions of live music, with three 20 minute breaks. We also occasionally have other entertainment during the breaks such as Morris dancing. The first set starts at 8:30 PM, with the last set ending at Midnight. Starting at 7:45 PM is a dance workshop where members of the Society quickly cover the basics of waltzing, polkas and the schottische.
As a special bonus, we'll conclude the evening with a sing-a-long of the Hallelujah Chorus from Handel's Messiah.
Of course, the usual 19th, 20th and 21st century formal wear is always welcome.
Dress is 19th, 20th, or 21st Century Formalwear
Admission may be refused for those inappropriately dressed.
Refreshments are potluck finger food with the Society providing both fruit punch and ice water."
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Christmas Nipples
Saturday, December 17, 8:00PM,
followed by DJ dance jam, 9:30PM-1:00AM
Radiance Oak, 278 4th Street, Oakland
$15
http://www.aiyuinstitute.com/sacred-soul-marriage-ceremony
http://www.radianceoak.org
“An Audacious and Bodacious Jaunt into the Wildly Cavorting Mind of an Irrepressible Social Activist
An Eclectic Marriage of Sacred Interactive Theatre, Social Activism and Comedy, showcasing quirky takes and comedic rants, shooting straight from the breast. Expect the unexpected, life will never be the same again.
Veenaa Saynana has a whole new show this year! After the successful debut of the first Christmas Nipples last year, Veenaa has a lot to get off her breast, er, chest. She will regale her tittering audience with cutting flashes of tit, we mean wit, on diverse topics relevant to today’s world.”
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Chinyakare Ensemble
Saturday, December 17, 9:00PM
Ashkenaz Music and Dance Community Center
$12 in advance, $15 on the day
http://www.ashkenaz.com
http://www.chinyakare.com
“The Chinyakare Ensemble boasts a collection of diverse and experienced musicians from both Africa and the U.S. under the direction of Zimbabwean dancer and musician Julia Tsitsi Chigamba, who started the group when she moved to Oakland in 2001. True to its name, "deep traditional," the ensemble represents traditional music and dance from Shona, Ndebele, and other tribal groups from around Zimbabwe. Some of the main instruments the Chinyakare Ensemble plays are mbira, hosho (shakers), ngoma (drums), marimbas, and chipendani (mouth bow). Its performances feature the complex weaving of all of these instruments into beautiful melodies and polyrhythms that are still performed regularly at spiritual ceremonies throughout Zimbabwe.”
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The Great Dickens Christmas Fair!
Saturday-Sunday, December 17-18, 11:00AM-7:00PM - final weekend!
Cow Palace Exhibition Halls, 2600 Geneva Avenue, Daly City
$25.00
(various discounts may apply, and season tickets are available - see website for details)
Parking fees are $10.00 per car (charged by the Cow Palace).
http://dickensfair.com
https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Great-Dickens-Christmas-Fair/163474283688469?ref=ts
http://www.youtube.com/user/DickensFair?feature=mhum
http://www.cowpalace.com
Aphrodite’s Closet is offering a free ticket to the Dickens Fair with any purchase of $75 or more!
1201 Park Street, Alameda, 510-521-3313, info@sanctuaryoftheopenheart.org
http://www.13moonmysteryschool.org/aphrodites_closet.html
“Celebrate the Holiday Season in Victorian London!
The bustling streets of London, immortalized for all time by the mighty pen of Charles Dickens, form the living backdrop of your excursion into Christmas Past. You are a living part of a Victorian Christmas card come to life!
A Bay Area tradition since 1970, the Great Dickens Christmas Fair returns to the San Francisco Cow Palace Exhibition Halls for four weekends in 2010, including the Friday after Thanksgiving, from Friday, November 25 through Sunday, December 18 from 11:00AM 'til 7:00PM.
Created by Ron and Phyllis Patterson, the fair is now produced by Kevin and Leslie Patterson and Red Barn Productions, who continue the family tradition of theatrical excellence through authenticity, participation, and playfulness.
Come wander the lanes of Victorian London, as the glow of twilight settles upon the city, with the scent of pine boughs and freshly baked scones floating in the air and the sound of carolers and holiday merrymakers accompanying your stroll.”
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Awan Olokun (Year End Cleansing)
with Ile Orunmila Oshun
Please note that this special ritual replaces the Ile Monthly Temple Service!
Sunday, December 18, 11:00-1:00PM
The Sacred Well, 536 Grand Avenue, Oakland, 510-444-9355
$28, space is very limited, please call to reserve your space today
http://www.sacredwell.com/classes-events
http://www.ileorunmilaoshun.org
“Olokun is the west African deity of the Ocean. It is customary in all indigenous systems for individuals and communities undergo purifications in order to prepare for the next phase of any journey. We cleanse with the power of the ocean in this ritual at the end of every year in order to meet the year fresh, open and with enough emotional, mental and spiritual room to receive our blessings in the coming year.”
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CAYA Sprouts Winter Solstice
Sunday, December 18, 12:00PM
Aquatic Park, 80 Bolivar Drive, Berkeley
Meet at the picnic table in the open field area next to the playground.
Please RSVP to CAYASPROUTS@yahoogroups.com
Event may be moved to an alternate location in case of rain.
http://cayacoven.org/sprouts.html
http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=231143800271740
“Come As You Are to Sprouts Winter Solstice!
Come and honor the past year and celebrate the rebirth of the sun We will make wish ornaments for the new year to hang on our Yule tree and light candles to sing up the soon.
Please RSVP to: CAYASPROUTS@yahoogroups.com with the size of your family if you plan to attend.
What to Bring: A candle to light and a yummy holiday treat to share
CAYA Sprouts offers Sabbat rituals that are specifically designed for children up to age ten. However, the all self identified families are welcome to attend. Come and celebrate the Wheel of the Year with us!”
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Diamonds of Light
A Solstice Event
Sunday, December 18, 3:00-5:00PM
$10-20
The Dream Institute of Northern California, 1672 University Avenue, Berkeley, 510-845-1767
http://www.dream-institute.org/idx_calendar.htm#Solstice_Event:_“Diamonds_of_Light”_
“This dream-based performance features seasonal themes of darkness and return of the light, set in our lovely candle-lit historic building. Join us for refreshments, conversation, and a moving experience of universal motifs that come to life in this dream-based performance.
The Dream Institute is an experimental cultural center founded in 2003. It has come into being during this time known as the shift or the great turning. Our offerings include weekend workshops, daylong seminars, evening salons, film series, professional training, art exhibits, retreats, and dream-based performances. We are also the West Coast center for Culture Dreaming. Programs and events are open to the public; continuing education seminars are for professionals in the healing arts. We do not advocate any single philosophical, psychological, spiritual, or religious viewpoint toward dreams or personal growth.”
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The Fellowship of the Spiral Path welcomes you to attend….
Yule Celebration
Sunday, December 18, 4:00-7:00PM
BFUU Main Hall, 1924 Cedar Street, Berkeley
Donations gratefully accepted
http://www.thespiralpath.org
“Please join us for Yule!
The Fellowship of the Spiral Path (also known as "Spiral") is a non-profit religious corporation registered under the laws of the State of California. We are an association of neo-pagan groups in Northern California that acknowledge that we share traditions, beliefs, and/or lines of descent in the Old Religion (including but not limited to reconstructed European traditions, Earth religion, and Goddess religion). We have joined together for purposes of inspiration, mutual solidarity, support, and protection. Our purpose is to provide religious and spiritual services to the community, sponsor special interest groups and projects, and encourage diversity of religious expression. We are supported by donations from those who participate in our activities and benefit from our services.”
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Persian and Middle Eastern Dance
featuring Zaryab Ensemble, Ballet Afsaneh and Hala Dance Company
Sunday, December 18, 7:00PM
Ashkenaz Music and Dance Community Center
$10-$15 sliding scale
http://www.ashkenaz.com
http://www.dancesilkroad.org/zaryab/index.htm
http://www.dancesilkroad.org/ballet_afsaneh.html
http://www.haladance.com
“Three colorful acts make this a special night of Persian and Middle Eastern dance and music. Zaryab Music Ensemble plays a blend of contemporary and traditional Persian music, with authentic and modern dance by Ballet Afsaneh and Hala Dance Company.
Zaryab Ensemble brings a contemporary re-interpretation of Persian traditional roots, melding ancient Persian modal qualities and traditional instruments with modern musical systems. The band features a renowned international cast that specializes in both Persian and Western music. In cooperation with Afsaneh Art and Culture Society - Ballet Afsaneh dance artists, choreographers, and collaborators, Zaryab Ensemble has developed numerous original compositions that are inspiring juxtapositions of music, dance, visual art, and poetry. The band of seasoned world performers includes singer Sonja Drakulich, a specialist in Turkish, Arabic, Balkan, and Medieval European music traditions, and the creator of the group Stellamara; santur player Neema Hekmat, an expert in Persian modal systems and improvisation; violinist and Persian-Western classical expert Pourya Khademi; and cellist Moses Sedler of the group Davka, specializing in Western classical, Eastern European folk, and Indian music.
Ballet Afsaneh, the professional performance ensemble of the Afsaneh Art & Culture Society, presents performances and activities featuring dance, poetry, and music of the Silk Road - the historic trade route stretching 7,000 miles across Eurasia from the China Sea in the East to the Mediterranean in the West. Now in its 25th year, Ballet Afsaneh features a wide-ranging repertoire ranging from the glittering lyricism of fairytale to incisive, thought-provoking contemporary work.
Hala Dance Company presents authentic Egyptian and Middle Eastern belly dance shows.”
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Iron Cupcake
Monday, December 19, 7:00PM
Leland Tea Company, 1416 Bush Street, San Francisco
$10, RSVP required
http://ironcupcakesf.com
http://www.meetup.com/Iron-Cupcake-San-Francisco-Challenge/events/43868552/
http://www.lelandtea.com
“The Iron Cupcake SF Challenge is a local Bay Area meet-up group where any local bakers, friends and food enthusiasts can join for a monthly cupcake face off. Each month a new ingredient is presented and all participants bake their interpretation of the ingredient in cupcake fashion.
All bakers meet on the last Monday of each month where the live challenge begins (with pre-baked/prepared cupcakes in hand). Friends, family and other contestants take part in the taste testing as well as voting for the winner. By the end of the evening a winner is chosen and random prizes are awarded.
The goal is to gather together as many cupcake lovers and expand their cupcake horizons, their baking skills and ultimately have a great time. Leland Tea hosts the events each month and a committee organizes the prizes and settings.
This month's challenge is: Bakeoff
All past and new bakers are encouraged to attend. The challenge is to bake your signature cupcake. The cupcake friends and family know you by. This will be the ultimate cupcake bakeoff to wrap up the year. As such there will be special guests, prizes, and other fun surprises!
Tasters MUST RSVP and purchase a ticket through this Meetup. A paid ticket is required for entry for all tasters. Bring your ticket or receipt with you, we are expecting a large turnout and just as a reminder there will be NO admittance without a receipt sorry if this causes an inconvenience.
Bakers do not require a paid ticket to bake, but any guests that accompany you will need to purchase a ticket. Bakers MUST confirm their attendance by email to ironcupcakesf@gmail.com.
There will be first, second, and third place prizes for Taste and Appearance, a separate prize for Most Creative cupcake, and a Bakers Choice Award.”
Thanks to Pixie for letting me know about this event!
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South Bay Pagan Salon
Tuesday, December 20, 7:30PM (and the first and third Tuesday of every month)
Kapp’s Pizza, 191 Castro Street, Mountain View
for more information, contact Jason Mankey at panmankey@gmail.com
Jason says:
“We'd like to formally invite you to join us the first and third Tuesdays of every month for the South Bay Pagan Salon. The SBPS is a discussion and networking group, dedicated to talking about "Pagan Things" and networking in the Bay Area. Generally we'll start each meeting with a specific topic to get the discussion rolling along, but after we get started it'll be rather open ended with the participants dictating where the discussion will go.
Upcoming Meeting Dates and Discussion Topics:
December 20: Yule/Holiday Traditions
We hope you'll join us.
No donations required, heck, if you show up I just might buy you a cup of coffee.
If you've got questions, I might have answers. Email me (Jason) at panmankey@gmail.com”
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Women’s Visioning Circle
with Evalena Rose and Afia Walking Tree
Saturday-Sunday, January 7-8, Saturday 10:00AM-9:30PM, Sunday 10:30AM-5:30PM
LoveJourney Temple, Sebastopol
exact location given upon registration
$255 if paid by 12/28, $295 thereafter
Saturday only: $160 if paid by 12/28, $185 thereafter
$75 Deposit due by December 28 to hold your space, Non-refundable after January 1st
http://www.tantraforwomen.com/visioning.html
http://www.evalenarose.com
http://www.spiritdrumz.org/leaders.htm
“Two Days of Visioning and Manifesting with Evalena Rose and percussionist Afia Walking Tree
A powerful gathering of women working on our goals and businesses, lending combined prowess to the fulfillment of your dreams.
The enchanting rituals of Saturday culminate in Sunday's work to make key goals concrete and measurable, so you leave with workable action plans and new skills to implement them.”
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Dream Group
Saturday, January 7, 10:00AM-12:00PM,
and 4 more Saturdays, January 14, February 4, February 25 and March 3
in Albany - exact location given with registration
Free
please RSVP to Laura Prickett at 510-848-8749 or prickett_L@yahoo.com
http://www.spiritmirrorstudio.com/dreamwork.php
“Explore the meanings and gifts that dreams can bring into our waking lives. The group will be led by Laura Prickett, a candidate for certification in dreamwork and spiritual direction. There is no charge, since leading the group is in partial fulfillment of dreamwork certification from the Marin Institute for Projective Dreamwork. Sessions will be on Saturday mornings, from 10 to noon, in Albany, on the following dates: Jan 7, Jan 14, Feb 4, Feb 25, and Mar 3. This is not a drop-in group. Participants are asked to commit to attending at least four sessions. To register or ask questions, please contact Laura, prickett_L@yahoo.com or 510-848-8749.”
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Have a Scintillating, Sacred Week!
Molly Blue Dawn
