Where are the simple joys of maidenhood?

November 30, 2006 | 1 Comment

“Where are the simple joys of maidenhood?
Where are all those adoring daring boys?
Where’s the knight pining so for me
he leaps to death in woe for me?
Oh where are a maiden’s simple joys?”
THE SIMPLE JOYS OF MAIDENHOOD ~ Alan Lerner & Frederick Loewe’s CAMELOT

 Explore the myth of King Arthur on Stage this year at the Ordway in St. Paul. Two musicals are coming to town. The first is the classic “Camelot” staring British stage and film Legend, Michael York:
CamelotPic

Here is the idyllic and lyrical version of the myth we are all so familiar with: Lerner and Loewe’s Camelot… March 6-17,2007

But wait, there’s more!

July 24-Aug 12, 2007 are the dates to remember for Flying cows, killer rabbits and taunting Frenchmen!  It’s the 2005 Tony Award Winner for Best Musical, Monty Python’s SPAMALOT.
Spamelot Picture

Live and in-your-face this musical comedy is a loving rip-off from the film classic “Monty Python and The Holy Grail.” If you have any doubts, you can See the Spamalot Video! or for just the info, just visit the Ordway page for Spamalot.

Posted by Jane Hansen | Filed Under Fresh News, Mystic & Magic MN 

“If come from inside, always right one”

November 27, 2006 | 2 Comments

A Philosophical Approach to the Karate Kid
 
by Illiani Eldorath

Growing up I found that I was always one step outside of the normal crowd. When The Karate Kid came to the movie theatre I found a character that I could identify with and a teacher that I came to admire and respect. It is a philosophy that many quote tongue and cheek but holds deep words of wisdom deeply ingrained with Asian beliefs, even if not seen so as done intentionally. In the next several essays I want to focus on a few of the wise sayings that come from the Karate Kid movies and the timeless wisdom of Miyagi.

When we are first introduced to Mr. Miyagi we see a quirky old man with an odd sense of humor. It is this Yoda like humor that is found throughout the movie but all with a sense of purpose. We’re brought into his philosophical world when after being asked by Daniel about his bonsai and his response is “If you like see, come inside”[1]. This seems to be a basic rule of thought in Asian wisdom. If you wish to learn from the Master then the Student must approach and show his interest.

There is a basic understanding that Miyagi seems to have of the world around him, the belief that there is always truth if it comes from inside the person. In a sense his words “If come from inside, always right picture”[1] models the basic Buddhist belief that a person must live his path free of outside influences. Read more

Posted by Jane Hansen | Filed Under New Age 

Here Comes the Sun (Signs) - Romance, Astrology and You - Fire Signs

November 25, 2006 | Leave a Comment

By Heidi Richards

Is it easy for you to get close to someone or do you take your time in developing meaningful relationships? What does your partner bring to your relationship that either helps it blossom or keeps it from going anywhere? Are you finding love elusive or does it come easy? How do you relate to those you are romantically attracted to? What kind of relationship are you looking for? What kind of partner are you seeking?

While reading about your sun sign is not the entire answer to the age-old challenge of finding the right partner, it can be a start. Your sun-sign is only one aspect of your persona, what makes you, you. Your Rising and Moon also determine the life you were born to lead. Romance, Astrology and You will shed some light on sun signs and romance. Beyond that, you may wish to you seek professionals who can prepare your chart and give you a more in-depth personality/life reading.

The signs are divided into the four elements which represent them. They are the elements of Fire, Earth, Air and Water. This first page covers the Fire signs - Aries, Leo and Sagittarius. The Earth signs - Taurus, Virgo and Capricorn are on the next page, Air signs - Gemini, Libra and Aquarius, the next and the last page is dedicated to the Water signs – Cancer, Scorpio and Pisces.

Fire Signs

Fire signs represent enthusiasm and energy. The hallmark of fire is inspiration. With a joy for life, they can be ardent, forceful and have a tendency to be extremely impulsive.

ARIES - (March 22 - April 20). Aries is ruled by Mars, and its symbol is the Ram. Aries is a Fire sign, impulsive and energetic. You are bold and impatient, easily infatuated, and often lose interest if boredom sets in. You tend toward impulsive rather than cautious when it comes to matters of the heart, making your interest known (sometimes too quickly), and you tend to be very direct – shy is not a word to describe the impetuous Aries. You quickly bounce back from rejection, although it isn’t something you are use to, as you like to get your way. Quips and quarrels are often seen as foreplay with the direct Aries. You like the conquest in romance and can play “hard-to-get”. You find it stimulating when the object of your affection plays the same game. However, in the long run you love to let yourself be caught, to be “swept away” with desire. You gravitate toward the confident, rather than those who appear needier. Aries loves to be caressed and told that you are the best.

LEO - (July 23 – August 22) Leo is ruled by the Sun and its symbol is the lion. As a Fire sign, Leo’s world revolves around the principles of identity and drama. You love to be the center of your partner’s adoration and attention. You tend to be flamboyant and melodramatic when it comes to matters of the heart. You crave attention and find ways to announce that you have arrived, whether it be with a look, the way you “waltz” into a room, the way you toss your head or even the way you walk up to someone and give them a gentle touch. You are a true romantic and have been known to write a poem or two. You have style, are generous and love to “surprise” the object of your affection with flowers and candy. In fact, surprises are second nature to you. You often sport an aristocratic air, even if you weren’t born into nobility. You love to be adored and admired and taking the lead in romance gives you a sense of power. You expect to be respected, and will act worthy of respect with one you desire. You know how to turn on the charm and raise the heat in a relationship. Leos love to be touched and admired.

SAGITTARIUS - (November 22 – December 21) Sagittarius is ruled by Jupiter and is symbolized by the archer. This Fire sign is connected with the identity. You crave variety, new ideas, and new experiences. In fact, you can be a little “excessive,” which means you can over-do things a bit - or a lot. You love to explore new places, people and foods. Change is something you simply cannot live without. Routine is not a word that sits well with you and anyone romantically interested in the archer better be ready for adventure. You are a truth seeker, love to learn and your interests are eclectic and varied. You tend to embellish things a bit (almost to the point of exaggeration) especially when it comes someone who might be attracted to you. You want them to find you as interesting as you find life itself. You love your “space” and freedom and want your partner to feel the same. You find independence in others as sexy as it is second nature to you. Playful dates are a real turn-on for someone seeking a good-time.

When it comes to love-interests, you want to be “friends first”. Honesty is paramount to you and you expect it from those in your life, especially your mate. You can be philosophical one moment and class clown the next. You are very jovial and will seek a partner who makes you laugh. When it comes to spirituality, you consider yourself a guide along the long and winding road to self-discovery. And when in the learning mode, the Sagittarius will be a “seeker” or student to those who can teach or inspire you. Sagittarians are as turned-on by a stimulating conversation as they are by sensual exploration.

© 2005 - Heidi Richards is an Author, Professional Speaker, and Business Mentor. She is the owner of Eden Florist & Gift Baskets – http://www.edenflorist.com and the Founder & CEO of the Women’s ECommerce Association, International http://www.WECAI.org – an Internet organization that “Helps Women Do Business on the WEB.” BASIC Membership is Free. She can be reached at heidi@edenflorist.com. Permission is granted to publish this article electronically or in print, free of charge, as long as the bylines are included. A courtesy copy of your publication is appreciated.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Heidi_Richards

Posted by Jane Hansen | Filed Under Astrology 

Tarot Cards Demystified: The Suit of Cups

November 25, 2006 | Leave a Comment

By Sherry Sims

There are many ways to interpret the symbolism found in Tarot Cards. There are varying points of view that exist about what each card means or represents. This is just one way of interpreting them. When you understand this method you will find it to be extremely accurate.

Tarot Cards have a lot in common with Regular Playing Cards. Both types of cards have four suits. However, the Tarot also has some additional cards that a Regular Playing Card Deck does not have. A Tarot Card Deck has seventy-eight cards.

The suit of Cups is similar to Hearts in a deck of regular playing cards.

The Element for the suit of Cups is Water.

Some of the qualities and meanings for the suit of Cups are:

* Water

* Emotions

* Feelings

* Feminine

* Love

* Beauty

* Hearts (Regular Playing Cards)

* Hearts (Romance, Affection)

* Subconscious Mind

* Passion

* Caring

* Instincts

* Intuition

* Empathy

* Emotional

* Deeply Sensitive

* Ruled by the Heart

Read over this list several times while trying to get a sense of the type of energies associated with the suit of Cups.

Generally, when there are many Cups cards in a reading, or Cups cards appear in important key placements within a spread of tarot cards, love or relationship situations are probably emphasized in that particular reading.

In the Rider – Waite Tarot deck the Cup resembles a large Chalice or Loving Cup.

Cups symbolize love and romance. Cups are symbols for the heart and therefore represent anything that has to do with emotions, love, caring, relationships, good-will, joy, desire, truth, honesty, giving, sharing, trust, commitment, romance, marriage and partnerships of all types.

Cups represent anything on the emotional plane, but can also represent the physical heart. Cups represent feelings, which can be both positive and negative. An example of positive feelings are love, joy and happiness while negative feelings could be depression, sadness, instability and vulnerability.

Cups also can indicate someone who is “sensitive” as in psychic, intuitive or impressionable.

Most musicians and artists will tend to have quite a few Cups in their reading due to their usually sensitive nature.

Copyright © 2005 Sherry Sims

Sherry Sims has spent the last 20 years assisting people as a professional psychic, intuitive counselor, energy healer and teacher. Helping people to resolve personal and relationship issues has been at the core of her work. She gently assists her clients to accept their true power which allows them to begin taking control of their lives through healing, awareness, and self-love.

To learn more about creating happiness and fulfillment in your life you will want to sign up for her free newsletter: SIMPLE MAGIC - Creating the Life You Want

For more about Tarot Cards and Tarot Readings, or for more articles by Sherry Sims please visit http://Mystic-Hearts.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sherry_Sims

Posted by Jane Hansen | Filed Under Tarot 

Pagan Voices on the Web

November 15, 2006 | Leave a Comment

We’ve added some new Links to our Links Section! It’s time to explore the offerings for Pagan Radio and Podcasts available. Just scroll on down to the bottom for the list of Magical Radio & Podcast links. Why listen to some oldies station when you can get Pagan talk radio or the best in pagan and witchie-themed music? There’s quite a variety to chose from, and our list is by no means complete. A couple of our favorites are:

Lance and Graal Pagan Podcast: Pagan Talk Radio with an Attitude!

They have interviews with authors and recording artists, their website also has links to lots of other pagan podcasters.

For music, we suggest you check out The Pagan Radio Network which has a forum and a wonderful news site as well.

Posted by Jane Hansen | Filed Under Fresh News 

Esoteric Book Lovers discover true temptation

November 11, 2006 | Leave a Comment

Join the BookWyrms Egghead book club!

This Month: Contemporary Pagans and the Search for Community

Earthly Bodies, Magical Selves Sarah Pike’s engrossing ethnography is the outcome of five years attending neo-pagan festivals, interviewing participants, and sometimes taking part in their ceremonies. Earthly Bodies, Magical Selves incorporates her personal experience and insightful scholarly work concerning ritual, sacred space, self-identity, and narrative. The result is a compelling portrait of this frequently misunderstood religious movement.

Earthly Bodies, Magical Selves explores larger issues in the United States regarding the postmodern self, utopian communities, cultural improvisation, and contemporary spirituality. Pike’s accessible writing style and her nonsensationalistic approach do much to demystify neo-paganism and its followers.

You are invited to attend Prof. Murphy’s BookWyrms Egghead Book of the Month Club discussion in our store on the 2nd Tuesday each month (Earthly Bodies, Magical Selves is our book for the November discussion). Come prepared to discuss the book, already read.

If you are not local, join our online community, and take part in the follow-up discussions following our in-store meetings. For monthly updates on Professor Murphy’s Book of the Month Discussion:

 Sign up for the BookWyrms Newsletter!

If you are already a newsletter subscriber, click the link above and enter your subscriber e-mail and you will be able to edit your options and subscribe to BookWyrms, our new newsletter just for the scholarly sort, focussing on the best and most interesting books. Be notified of local and online discussions, reviews, or start your own specialty discussions group.

Of course, your e-mail info is kept confidential. We won’t share it with anyone else, ever.

Posted by Jane Hansen | Filed Under Books, Features 

Pendulum Dowsing: Easy To Learn Techniques

November 9, 2006 | Leave a Comment

By Sherry Sims

Pendulum Dowsing is a very fun and simple way to begin to measure energy fields. Since we all live in a world that is comprised of energy, and since we all have energy in and around our physical bodies, the ability to recognize and measure energy can be valuable and useful.

In order to begin to learn the art of Pendulum Dowsing you will need a Pendulum. You can purchase a beautiful Pendulum at a metaphysical store or you can make one yourself. Actually, a pendant on a necklace chain makes a fine Pendulum. It’s a good idea to make sure that the pendant has a little weight to it. If it is too light you will not be able to experience the energy readings as easily.

Simply hold your Pendulum with one hand and allow it to dangle straight. By doing some deep breathing for a minute or so you will prepare yourself to begin your Pendulum reading.

You may find that your Pendulum may actually already be moving by itself. Begin by asking silently “which way means yes?” Your Pendulum may begin to rotate or begin to move back and forth or from side to side. Observe what direction your Pendulum moves in when asked “which way means yes?”

Next, mentally say “thank you” and allow the Pendulum to come to a rest. Now, silently ask “which way means no?” Observe what pattern of movement your Pendulum makes when asked “which way means no?” Again mentally say “thank you” and allow your Pendulum to come to a rest.

It is best to remain open-minded and relaxed when attempting Pendulum dowsing.

Now, begin to ask the series of questions listed below, each time after receiving the answer, mentally say “thank you” and allow your Pendulum to return to a neutral state before proceeding to the next question.

Exercises:

1.) Ask the Pendulum the following questions: Is today Monday? Is today Tuesday? Continue to ask the Pendulum about all of the different days of the week. You want to experience what happens and how the Pendulum responds when the answer is “yes” as opposed to when the answer is “no”.

Since you already know which day of the week it is, it will be easy for you to observe the accuracy of your Pendulum reading.

2.) If you have a dog or a cat, hold the Pendulum over the head of your pet and observe what your Pendulum does.

3.) Hold your Pendulum over a healthy green plant and observe what occurs.

4.) Hold your Pendulum over a dead plant and observe what happens.

5.) Hold your Pendulum over a healthy food, like fresh fruit, for example, and ask “Is this food beneficial to my health?”, and observe what happens.

6.) Hold the Pendulum over a non-healthy food and ask the same question.

Experiment with your Pendulum. Remember that it is vital that you phrase your questions so that the answer will be either yes or no.

Copyright © 2005 Sherry Sims

Sherry Sims has spent the last 20 years assisting people as a professional psychic, intuitive counselor, energy healer and teacher. Helping people to resolve personal and relationship issues has been at the core of her work. She gently assists her clients to accept their true power which allows them to begin taking control of their lives through healing, awareness, and self-love.

To learn more about creating happiness and fulfillment in your life you will want to sign up for her free newsletter: SIMPLE MAGIC – Creating the Life You Want.

For more articles by Sherry Sims please visit http://Mystic-Hearts.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sherry_Sims

Posted by Jane Hansen | Filed Under In-Depth 

Tarot Cards Demystified: The Suit of Pentacles

November 9, 2006 | Leave a Comment

By Sherry Sims

There are many ways to interpret the symbolism found in Tarot Cards. There are varying points of view that exist about what each card means or represents. This is just one way of interpreting them. When you understand this method you will find it to be extremely accurate.

Tarot Cards have a lot in common with Regular Playing Cards. Both types of cards have four suits. However, the Tarot also has some additional cards that a Regular Playing Card Deck does not have. A Tarot Card Deck has seventy-eight cards.

The suit of Pentacles is similar to Diamonds in a deck of regular playing cards.

Some of the qualities and meanings for the suit of Pentacles are:

* Earth

* Money

* Diamonds (as in regular playing cards)

* Diamonds and other Minerals

* Feminine

* Mother Earth

* Fertility

* Female

* Physical Body

* Material Plane

* Matter

* Industry

* Ego

* Motherhood

* Power

* Dark

* Yin Energy

* Riches, Wealth

* Business

* Banking

* Real Estate

* Land

* Possessions

* Investments

* Income

* Nurturing

* Home

* Security

* Grounding

Read over this list several times while trying to
get a sense of the type of energies associated
with the suit of Pentacles.

Generally, when there are many Pentacle cards in a reading, or Pentacle cards appear in important key placements within a spread of tarot cards, finances or financial situations are probably emphasized in that particular reading.

In the Rider – Waite Tarot deck the Pentacle resembles a large coin. Coins symbolize money and finances. Coins are usually made of gold, silver, copper, nickel or other types of minerals found in the earth.

So the Pentacle represents money, finances and wealth, minerals and metals of all types, the land, earth, and real estate or property ownership.

Pentacles represent anything on the material plane, including the physical body. Pentacles represent physicality, that which is solid, real, grounded, secure, concrete, stable, etc.

When I see the King of Pentacles in a prominent place within a tarot spread, it usually indicates to me that real estate matters are at hand, or the possibility of a real estate transaction, a real estate loan or a move of some sort is coming up shortly.

Copyright © 2005 Sherry Sims

Sherry Sims has spent the last 20 years assisting people as a professional psychic, intuitive counselor, energy healer and teacher. Helping people to resolve personal and relationship issues has been at the core of her work. She gently assists her clients to accept their true power which allows them to begin taking control of their lives through healing, awareness, and self-love.

To learn more about creating happiness and fulfillment in your life you will want to sign up for her free newsletter: SIMPLE MAGIC - Creating the Life You Want

For more about Tarot Cards and Tarot Readings, or for more articles by Sherry Sims please visit http://Mystic-Hearts.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sherry_Sims

Posted by Jane Hansen | Filed Under Tarot 

Here Comes the Sun (Signs) - Romance, Astrology and You - Air Signs

November 9, 2006 | Leave a Comment

By Heidi Richards

Gemini - (May 22 – June 21)

Gemini is ruled by the planet Mercury and is symbolized by the Twins. An Air sign, Gemini is connected with communication. You have a way with words. You’re good at flirting and teasing, and can be a real sweet talker. Because of your “twins” influence you are clever at adapting your style to suit the seduction. You can be witty and clever and easily are attracted to good conversationalists. You love the power of suggestion and using double entendres. In fact, you use them proficiently when you are flirting with others, whether they be romantic interests or just passing fancies. You adapt easily to most situations and love to share stores of people, places and experiences, which you skillfully use to arouse the interest of one you desire.

Because you are so tuned into communicating, you can see both sides of a situation. You know there are always at least three sides to every conflict. The sides of each party involved and the truth; which you have a knack for discovering. You can be a prolific writer. Love letters, poetry and notes are easily used to seduce the object of your affection. And mind games are beyond your realm of romantic antics. Internet chat rooms and forums stir your interest. Who knows, you may even find your future mate online. You have been known to give “good phone,” and enjoy long conversations that revolve around romance and sexual innuendos. Flirting is second nature to you and you are almost shameless when it comes to practicing your flirting style. Because of their sometimes short attention span, Gemini lovers are more likely stay around if they feel mentally stimulated.

Libra - Romantic. (September 23 – October 23)

Libra is ruled by Venus. An Air sign, Libra is connected with social relationships and its symbol are the scales. Known as a diplomat to those closest to you, you have an incredible sense of objectivity and seek harmony and balance in relationships and life. Happiest when you are in love, you can be sweet and sensitive. You love talking about things relating to love and romance such as novels, movies or songs. It is your way of flirting with the object of your desires. You are a charming, gracious and considerate lover and can adapt your style to attract the one you desire. In fact, you like to be partners in most aspects of life and will find ways of including those you love and admire in your plans, whether it be at work, home or play.

Although crowds of people don’t seem to bother you, you prefer spending time with your love interest alone rather than in a group setting. You may start out at a big gala affair, but will look for an appropriate time to get away so the two of you can spend time alone together. You are a thoughtful partner and lover and give your full attention to your mate. Giving your undivided attention is your way of flirting. You have a keen interest in others and can lend an ear or a shoulder to cry on. You love courting and or being courted by the object of your affection. Hearts and flowers go a long way in the romance arena of your life. Librans do not like to be manipulated, fair play is an absolute must.

Aquarius - (January 21 – February 21)

Aquarius is ruled by Uranus. An Air sign, Aquarius is very social, and is symbolized by the water bearer. An inventor at heart, you can be seen by others as a little “quirky,” often gravitating toward the future and progress of humankind. You are considered a visionary and open-minded looking for less conventional ways of being and doing than the other signs. You don’t generally break down under peer pressure; you prefer to be different from others. You are highly liked and surrounded by friends because you know how to be one.

A humanitarian, you long for social reform and prefer those who share your thoughts on life over those who easily conform to societal pressures. You tend to be more attracted to the outrageous than one who looks and act like everyone else. You are sometimes thought of as a “rebel with a cause” and will be attracted to a partner who you shares your desire to change the world. You are a free spirit who needs his or her own space, but don’t mind sharing that space with the object of your affection, as long as you don’t get pushed into a corner. You enjoy sharing your vision of the future with the one you desire and consider it your way of flirting. Sometimes you appear aloof or unemotional, which can be a turn-off for some. Not to worry, the right person will find it attractive and be curious to know what lies beneath that detached exterior. It seems an odd way to “flirt”, but it can be attractive to those who are curious and have a similar demeanor. It is the game of “intrigue” that can often turn someone on and make them want to know more. The Aquarius is a creative and imaginative in lover and will often seduce the object of their desire in unusual ways (and places).

© 2005 - Heidi Richards is an Author, Professional Speaker, and Business Mentor. She is the owner of Eden Florist & Gift Baskets – http://www.edenflorist.com and the Founder & CEO of the Women’s ECommerce Association, International http://www.WECAI.org – an Internet organization that “Helps Women Do Business on the WEB.” BASIC Membership is Free. She can be reached at heidi@edenflorist.com. Permission is granted to publish this article electronically or in print, free of charge, as long as the bylines are included. A courtesy copy of your publication is appreciated.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Heidi_Richards

Posted by Jane Hansen | Filed Under Astrology