If you recall, I said this would be a year of struggle- you own this year or it owns you. In my personal case, I'm not sure who came out the winner at this point. The fact that I survived it means I can at least declare it a draw. Our Chefs have prepared you a lovely Reflection Stew, with a base of Lessons-Learned, topped with a sprinkling of "2013's Unsung Pagan Influencers" to which many of you contributed.
Let's send this year off with a healthy dose of relief and good riddance, and look forward to a better year to come!
Happy Birthday this week to: The Faery Enchantress, Karen Tatro, Nancy-ann Sorrell, and Trisha Sanders. May this be your best birthday ever, and may your next year of life bring you joy, peace, happiness and all of the very best of good things in abundance!
In the News
The Political Economy of Gender Fairness: Witch Camps in Ghana
Soroti Christians Told to Shun Witchcraft
Man kills brother's wife over witchcraft allegation
Scottish Witch Report Shows Executioners' Crisis
Assam alert on witch doctors: Officials asked to step up vigil
Pagan Lore with Karen Szabo
Sunday, December 29
During this period, the eight-day Jewish Festival of Lights (also known as Hanukkah or Chanukah) is observed by Jews throughout the world. On each night of the festival, one additional candle is lit on a ceremonial nine-branched candelabrum called a menorah.
In ancient Greece, a Pagan religious festival called the Day of Nymphs was celebrated on this day in honor of Andromeda, Ariadne, and Artemis (the Greek counterpart of the Goddess Diana).
Monday, December 30
On this date in the year 1916, Rasputin (a famous Russian mystic monk, occultist, and court magician) was assassinated by his enemy Prince Feliks Yusupov. Rasputin, who was drowned in the frozen Neva River, presaged his own death.
Tuesday, December 31
New Year's Eve. The modern custom of ringing bells and blowing horns to usher in the new year at midnight is actually derived from the old Pagan custom of noisemaking to scare away the evils of the old year.
In certain parts of Japan, young men put on grotesque demon masks and costumes made of straw and go door to door collecting donations of money, rice cakes, and sake. This traditional New Year's Eve custom serves to drive out the demons of misfortune and ensure an abundant harvest for the new year.
Wednesday, January 1
This day is sacred to the Goddesses known as the Three Fates, the German Goddess Bertha, the Morrigan, the Parcae, and the Japanese household gods.
Many modern Witches and Wiccans around the world traditionally start off the new year with a spell for good luck and a ritual to bless the new year with peace, love, health, and prosperity for all. This is a traditional time for ending bad habits and beginning New Year's resolutions. The first day of January was dedicated by the ancient Romans to the god Janus. Janus possesses two identical faces looking in opposite directions: one to the past, and the other to the future. He is a god of gates and doorways, and a deity associated with journeys and the beginnings of things.
Thursday, January 2
The birth of the Pagan Goddess Inanna has been celebrated annually on this day since ancient times. Inanna is the Sumerian queen of heaven and earth, and a deity who presides over both love and war. Every year on this date, the Perihelion of the Earth takes place. When this occurs, the planet Earth reaches the point in its orbit closest to the Sun. Many astrologers consider this to be a highly significant event. In ancient Egypt, a religious ceremony known as the Advent of Isis from Phoenecia was performed yearly on this date in honor of the goddess Isis.
Friday, January 3
On this day, an annual fertility ceremony known as the Deer Dances is performed by the Native American tribe of the Pueblo in the southwestern United States. The ceremony, which includes sacred ritual dances performed by shamans wearing deer headdresses, is centuries-old and dedicated to the great female spirit-goddess known as the Deer Maiden.
In ancient Greece, a Pagan religious festival called the Lenaia was celebrated each year on this date in honor of Dionysus, the god of wine and fertility.
Saturday, January 4th
In Korea, the annual Sacrifice to the Seven Starts (Chilseong-je) is performed on this date at midnight. To receive good fortune and divine blessings, water and white rice are offered to the god who rules the constellation Ursa Major.
Happy New Year, everyone, and I'll see you next week with more Pagan Lore!
Karen
Sparkle and Shine with Sosanna
2013 - Retrospection & Black-eyed Peas
This year has brought forth many changes in my life. I’ve come into my own at work. I’m feeling more confident in what I do professionally and I have begun to notice that my co-workers seem to be reacting in a positive manner to my changes. Another year of top ratings on my performance reviews and extra duties on some recent projects are paying off. I applied for a job that would have moved me out this state but I was not picked for the role. I believe everything happens for a reason. I’ve seen some changes in that department and am glad, very glad, I did not get the job.
I was involved in a situation in social media related to plagiarism. Some of the fallout from the experience was negative however it opened up a new area for me. What started out as a fight for justice, (at which point I lost people I thought were friends) in retrospect, I see as the natural culling that takes place sometimes; and I believe I’m better for it.
I’ve found focus in my art, which was I have to admit all over the place at times. I make EVERYTHING. I needed to calm that down a bit. I’ve found that I really enjoy the clay work. Hubby and I picked up a potter’s wheel and a kiln in November and I’m really feeling it. I love the feel of the clay in my hands. I’m not a master potter yet, but I do believe I’ll get there. I’ve decide to pull away from the polymer clay and work on hand building with the wet. I will continue to make wreaths to order but for the most part, I think I’m going to try my hand at the wire wrapping. For an upcoming show, I needed some gift ideas for the mundane. I found that I really enjoyed making the wire wrapped rings. These will probably be my focus. I will clean out my inventory either with a huge supply sell or maybe just make up a few items just to finish up the “house cleaning”.
As this New Year rolls in, I take out my bag of black-eyed peas and start them to soak. After a loved one passes, every day seems like there is a new “first” without them. This will be my first time making our New Year’s lunch without my grandmother. She passed on in July. I’ve felt her here more so in the last two months than ever before. I’ve started baking and cooking out of nowhere. Hubby did most of it before but now I feel inspired to spend more time doing it. I’ve felt my intuition expand and even felt more in tune with things that are happening in the family. Just before Thanksgiving, I woke from a dead sleep, sat straight up in the bed and told hubby, grandma told me they’re touching her things. Last week we found out that someone took all the towels from my grandma’s house that she used to put the Thanksgiving Dinner serving dishes on.
I’m feeling very connected.
So today my beans soak. Tomorrow, they’ll go on the stove and simmer all day. I’ll skip the ham hock and just add my veggie stock. My collards will boil in veggie stock as well. I’ll wrap up the meal with a bit of corn bread. After it’s prepared, I think I’ll make up a plate and take it over to the cemetery. She told me she is really going to miss our New Year’s black-eyed peas.
Wishing you all a very happy and prosperous New Year.
Namaste & Blessed Be
Sosanna
)O(
Mid-Air Moxie with Adelina Soto Thomas
“Tradition is a fragile thing in a culture built entirely on the memories of the elders.” Alice Albinia
When the year comes to a close, I find myself saying ‘Good riddance! Out with the Old; In with the New!’ Following almost every Yule /Winter Solstice, I feel giddy with the promise of the return to lighter and brighter days. The end of a year contains the anticipation of a blank slate and a fresh start. Each year we break out the new wall calendars with their pretty pictures to motivate us. Last year at home we had ‘Cats and Kittens’; this year we have ‘Dark Literary Classics’ and at work, I have ‘The Witches Calendar’. It’s a little tradition we follow to mark the passage of days by replacing one themed calendar each year for a new one. That thought led me to consider other traditions that we have. There are daily, weekly, monthly, and yearly traditions which often are repeated because they have been handed down through generations but not because we have consciously chosen them. My reflections of this past year have led to me decide that some will stay, some will go, and new traditions will be created.
With the loss of both my parents this past year, many holiday traditions have now taken on a different meaning. My parents celebrated Christmas, Easter, Thanksgiving and always expected us at their home for family dinners. The gatherings did not involve religious worship, but simply a time when we broke bread, told stories and laughed together. Since my mom’s passing last year and dad’s passing earlier this year, the long-strained relationship with my siblings reached a head and we are now estranged. My husband’s parents are also deceased and he, too, is estranged from his siblings. We find ourselves on common ground with no other immediate family but ourselves. Now left without my parents to continue these holiday traditions…we felt lost, adrift and unsure of ourselves. Time marches on and like it or not, we needed to learn how to move forward.
“Go back?” he thought. “No good at all! Go sideways? Impossible! Go forward? Only thing to do! On we go!” – J.R.R. Tolkien
Uncharted Seas with Cap'n Dave
Letting Go and Living
The year 2013 is drawing to a close, and many people are quite happy to see it go – myself included, or so I thought, given the horrible things that have transpired over these past 365 days. But what of the good things?
The problem that we seem to have, as human beings, is that negative emotions stain our lives so dramatically, that no amount of good will overcome it. Even if we have a fantastic year of wonderful things, what we will inevitably remember come December 31st are all of the bad things that happened.
Well, my pledge, my resolution for the New Year, is to focus on the good things and let the bad ride as they may. This conscious awareness and conscientious choice in my attitudes toward life in general has brought to the forefront those things in 2013 that were wonderful for me.
In 2013, my wife and I began planning for our eventual move out of a cramped, over-priced, soon-to-be gentrified apartment, and onto a boat where we would be living by our own terms, not those of an apartment community. It was frustrating, finding again and again boats that met our needs but were outside of our means for transportation to visit them. It was by a sheer stroke of luck that, in the middle of the year, a posting that I had seen twice before graced my screen…but for nearly half of what the initial price had been.
Fortune was with us and we were able to talk the owner into accepting payments over the next month, with half down immediately. The Benjamins did the talking and he agreed, and Serenity became ours!
By the end of June, we had moved aboard. We’re still bumping into one another as we try to figure out the best use of space, but it’s working out wonderfully.
As we have progressed through the year, my wife has begun daily rituals in her studies toward becoming a priestess of Hermes and Hecate. I, myself, taking a cue from her, have done likewise and have devoted myself fully to Yemaya (and Papa Legba, of course! We can’t forget Him now, can we?), with my rituals out on the waters of San Francisco Bay…even if it’s just in the cockpit of Serenity.
I have learned many things over this year. Patience, appreciation, understanding, awareness, trust, mortality, pain, and growth. Some of the lessons have been harsh and unpleasant, but what was learned from them is golden and wonderful.
Were I still land-locked in Texas, I would never have experienced any of this. I would have, instead, been stuck in a cubicle, eking out a bare living in a job that I do only for the money to get by in this world.
That’s not living. It’s not even really surviving. It’s simply existing, and that’s not what we were ever meant to be as human beings.
I am now living on a boat that I can sail away at any time of my choosing. I am in two jobs that I love doing. I am getting by, financially, but my life doesn’t revolve around my work.
I am not existing…I am living.
As we enter 2014, I am not focusing upon what to improve from 2013. I am not even focusing upon all of the horrible things that happened in 2013.
Why bring that negativity with you into the new year? Why start something fresh and immediately scar it? That’s no way to live either.
I will remember the good times, learn from the bad times, and continue to live my life to the fullest, experiencing everything that I am able to experience.
Isn’t that what living is all about?
Blessings, and ashé!
Saga's Spirit with Loren Morris
New Year Superstitions and A Spell For You
First of all, I hope that each and every one of you found happiness in your holidays in however you chose to celebrate this season.
Today I'm going to list a few superstitions and beliefs concerning New Year's and that led me to thinking of a spell. So, I came up with a New Year's spell for you.
A few of the beliefs I have heard my whole life, not really knowing the reason behind them until I was able to find out for myself and some are just plain silly. But, I thought it would be fun to explore them and their reasons.
My Mamaw liked to follow superstitions and rituals for the New Year. She always made sure that she made black-eyed peas, collard greens, and corn bread. She never really said why she made this meal other than good luck for the coming year. The wonderful interwebs offers a wealth of information concerning this meal. The black-eyed peas and collard greens represent money. The peas are the coins and the greens are the paper money. So ingesting it guaranteeing yourself money for the coming year.
She would also sweep out the Old Year so that her home could welcome the New Year. This is a custom that many follow. I have made my spell to put this belief to good use.
On January 6th, no laundry was done because it was Old Christmas. Again, no explanation was ever given by my grandmother other than it was bad luck! My grandmother did everything she could to avoid bad luck.
Read more at Saga's Cottage
My store:
https://www.etsy.com/shop/SagasCottage
My spirit boards:
http://www.lapuliabookofshadows.com/Spirit_Ouija_Weejie_Board_s/1856.htm
My facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/SagasCottage
There and Back A-hen: Just a Bunch of Clucking Nonsense with Melissa Chicky Cassick
Look at us silly humans: trying to bundle time into a package, based on numbered squares on a piece of paper. We mark the days between one late, shrimp-and-alcohol-and-board-game-filled night, and the similar one occurring 12 solar months later. We ask ourselves, what has changed? Am I better off? Has my family prospered and grown? And what will Miley Cyrus be sort of wearing on “New Year’s Rocking Eve”?
What hath 2013 wrought in my wee coop?
At the beginning of January, I headed to our brand new YMCA, and took up happy residence in the Child Care room. The rocking chair in Baby Corner was my place of contentment, and a smiling Chicky could be found draped in Ethan and Gavin and Troy and Bailey, and quite often in spit-up as well. I reluctantly resigned in July, when the woman for whom I had previously provided at-home child care, at last re-gained full-time employment. My little buddy Bug, with his big brown eyes and cheerful smile, returned to be a happy fixture in our house.
We added a new species to our menagerie: guinea pigs became family members. Checkers came first, and when that fluffy black and white gentleman needed a buddy, he and Granola became cage-mates. But when I optimistically added handsome Sherlock, Granola and Chex began scuffling. Granola and Sherlock bonded beautifully, and Mr. Fuzzy came home to keep Checkers from being lonely. I love those piggies: their inquisitive faces, their soft noises, their bright eyes. They are wonderful additions to our household.
I also surprised myself by getting a dog of my very own. Our local news carried a story of 45 filthy and malnourished Chihuahuas and terriers, jammed into three small cat carriers, and abandoned on a farm. I went to the shelter with food, towels, and dog beds; I left with sweet Rosie Biscuit. It was love at first sight, no question: she simply looked up at me as if to ask, “Can we go home now, Mom?” and that was it. The shelter paid for surgeries to repair her broken teeth, damaged claws, and hernias, and removed a couple of benign tumors. Every day she brings me joy, my little vanilla cookie dog.
Our household changed in a different fashion when a member moved out abruptly in June. She was family to us, and her sudden departure was a tremendous shock and disappointment. It has taken me months to recover, and work through my anger.
In August, our elastic walls were put to the test when a dear friend fell on hard times, and needed sanctuary. I invited her family to stay with us while they saved money. In spite of the incredulous responses from family, friends, and school administration, we are still making two-families-jammed-in-a-one-family-house work pretty nicely.
It has been a year of many additions, and one departure. I want to think of myself as a solitary, curmudgeonly type, but my home belies that concept. There is enough space under this roof for many friends, two- or four-legged, and there is enough room in this heart for many, many more.
Happy New Year, my friends!
Pawsitively Witchcraft with Tiffanie Dovich
I’m sitting here at the keyboard staring at a blank screen trying to figure out where to start. I’m bursting with thoughts I want to share about what I’ve learned this year. About life, love, business, family, and lifelong friendships (four-legged or other-wise), I could go on but I’m going to keep it short for your reading pleasure. Luna also just reminded me that I’m writing a blog post here and not a novel. She also says she wants a cookie and I need to get my butt in gear.
So without further ado.
For the last couple of months I’ve been dealing with a severe bout of lethargic depression . I’d lost my pick up and go so to speak. I couldn’t bring myself to do anything. I mean nada.
Fill orders? Nope. Design yummy new treats and products for the store? Nothing doing. Bust out my camera and work on my photography skills or edit photos? Not happening. Take my little one to the library for story time? Ding, ding, ding, the answer is no. It was rather pathetic. I was just so tired all the time.
It didn’t matter what I did, what I ate or how much I slept or didn’t sleep. My poor little Luna and Firebird. Neither could understand why mommy was so sleepy and grumpy. My relationship with them and my other half took a dive because I just had no energy. Housework wasn’t getting done, errands and deadlines where getting pushed to the way side. My business was suffering. I found myself forgetting the simplest things.
Episodes like this I’ve dealt with all my life yet never had they lasted this long or been this intense. My life was pretty much falling pieces around my ears and I didn’t know what was wrong with me. I started to get depressed. I also was gaining more and more weight. I was so tired all the time and there didn’t seem to be an end in sight. Being depressed made me more lethargic which made me more tired which made me even more depressed.
After months of this series of being depressed about being depressed, finally, I gave into seeking medical help. (I’m a bit stubborn incase you hadn’t noticed). I had lab work, blood work, and a multitude of types of tests done. I waited weeks to get results. At last I would have an answer as to why this was happening! They had me come back in for more tests and blood work. ( I know yay right?) After about a month of being poked and prodded I received the call I had been waiting for! Yay! They finally had an answer! However, they said, could I come into discuss the test results with doctor today? . Uh oh. That never means anything good. So, I went in.
Diagnosis?
Diabetes.
I was horrified. Diabetes? All the horrible stigmas that are associated with it ran through my head. But then she started to explain what it really meant and how it affected me. How many bodily functions it screwed with. How no matter what I ate or how much I exercised I would never lose weight cause my body could not turn any food that I ate into fuel and was stuck on lifesaver mode. Seems my doc also thinks that I’ve been diabetic since forever. This also explains a number of health issues, like my constant battle with weight and chronic skin issues and my serious case of cantremembercrap-its…
One tiny pill a day to keep the doldrums away…
It’s been only 3 weeks since I started medication and I’ve already feel a million times better! Not only have I lost 3 pounds in that time frame but I’ve also gotten a huge backlist of things completed that had been neglected. I’m not completely up to snuff yet but I can see the light now and that my friends makes all the difference in the world!
I learned a very important lesson from this and I think it’s something that I should share with you all. I learned that sometimes, something as small as a smile or a high blood sugar level can change your whole world and color how you see and interact with everything you come in contact with. How the simplest of things can have far reaching effects on things you’d never imagine and more importantly something as un-noteworthy as a tiny little pill can cause earthshaking changes for better or worse.
On the business side of things, I have a new game plan for Paws Out Boutique. This is the 1st year I’ve really sold to the public and it’s been a steep learning curve. I’ve learned a good bit about what doesn’t work and what does. I’ll be adding new products this upcoming year and will also be sporting a new look. I can’t wait to see you all in the new year!
Sunshine's Meanderings with Kathleen Lane
Another year has come and is now going and with it, I was determined to get rid of a lot of old baggage that I hadn't realized was still with me. Every year I celebrate the Solstice with a ceremony to rid myself of "stuff". Most of it is surface things so it is easy to recognize and purge, but this year I did some deep soul searching for things I was carrying around that needed to be gone.
I looked at old family pictures and seriously considered how I felt about those people and the why of those feelings. I dug deeply and found that I was still harboring hostile feelings toward people whom I had not seen for years. Why would I want to be harboring a grudge after all these years? After a lot of meditating and pondering and reliving old pains it became clear to me that none of these old feelings and hurts still had any power over me. They didn't matter and the people didn't matter. They were no longer a part of my life.
Once I had unearthed all of the old garbage that was still cluttering things up, I used a pack of sticky notes and jotted down a reminder of each one of those old hurts or angers and then put them away for a week. At the end of the week, I took them out and reread them and realized that the simple act of writing them down had made me see just how silly they all were and how unimportant in my life. So on the solstice, along with the surface things, the deep ones were destroyed, too. They are gone forever!
This new year is unscarred by the old angers and weight of hostility and feels so much lighter. It is fresh and clean and my goal is to keep it that way. The old has been burned and sent away with the smoke and this year I will not allow myself to bury angers deeply and then gnaw them over like a dog with a bone.
Blessings everyone for our new year!
The Spice with La'Trice Lott
Black-Eyed Peas
As the secular year draws to a close, thoughts turn to ways to celebrate the end of the old year and start of the new. These celebrations almost always involve food. It is believed that eating certain foods on the first day of the new year will bring about prosperity. In my family, and many others with roots in the southern states, those foods include: black-eyed peas, greens (traditionally, collards, turnip or mustard), and cornbread. Each food is symbolic; peas for pennies, greens for dollars and cornbread for gold. Eating a meal comprised of these 3 dishes on New Year's day is said to make on prosperous during the coming years.
Here is a recipe for black-eyed peas that was handed down to me from my mom.
1-lb black-eyed peas (I prefer to use fresh but dried are fine it will take a bit longer to cook and make sure you rinse them an pick out any broken peas and stones)
1 large smoked ham hock or meaty ham bone
1 tablespoon olive oil1 large onion diced
1 stalk celery, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups of chicken broth
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/ 2 teaspoon black pepper
Heat oil in heavy bottom pot over med-high heat. Add onions and celery. Cook until onions are translucent. Add garlic and cook for 1 minutes. Add ham hock/bone, and peas. Cover with chicken broth. Add seasonings and bring to a boil. Skim off any foam that forms. Cover tightly and lower heat and cook for 30 minutes to 1 hour depending on how tender you like your peas. If you're using dried peas, increase cooking time by 30 minutes but check often to make sure your peas do not get to mushy. Serve with the greens and cornbread.
HAVE A HAPPY AND PROSPEROUS NEW YEAR!
This Week in Astrology
 |
| Capricorn, Josephine Wall |
Sunday, December 29
Balsamic Moon- 12:18am
Moon Void of Course from 8:54am until 12:36pm- moves into Sagittarius
Monday, December 30
Moon Void of Course from 6:36am through the rest of the day
Tuesday, December 31
Moon Void of Course until 1:01pm - moves into Capricorn
Wednesday, January 1
New Moon in Capricorn 6:14am
Supermoon article
Thursday, January 2
Moon Void of Course 7:59am-12:02pm- moves into Aquarius
Friday, January 3
Moon Void of Course from 8:46pm through the rest of the night
Saturday, January 4
10:40am Waxing Crescent Moon
Moon Void of Course until 11:58am-moves into Pisces
Great day for business, purchases and important projects after 11:58am
Sunday, January 5
Great day for business, purchases and important projects- all day
Weekly Horoscopes from DarkStar Astrology
2014 Astrology Forecasts:
DarkStar Astrology
Astrology.com
Tarot.com
Planets in Retrograde: Venus (ends Jan 31), Ceres (ends Feb 4), Jupiter (ends Mar 4)
Weekly Divinations with Kallan Kennedy
Tarot for the Week: The Lovers
"A caring and trusting relationship. Beauty and inner harmony. A decision calling for emotional control and faithfulness to spiritual values."~facadeThe Lovers represent perfection, harmony, and trust. Each one of the two depends upon the other for strength and the confidence to overcome. This does not necessarily represent a sexual relationship, but it can. On a personal level, this is more about establishing your beliefs and values, and/or making decisions that will impact your life dramatically.
This is a decision not made lightly, and should be considered with the long-view in mind. It could be a moral decision where your beliefs and values are being challenged. Consider all consequences, and examine your motives before acting. Be true to yourself above all things.
Weekly Totem: The Owl
Owl, in Greek Mythology, sat on the shoulder of Athena, the goddess of wisdom, battle and the arts. Owl helps you see through deceptions, make wise choices, and start your life anew. In my Phi Theta Kappa induction, Athena is the goddess that is honored for her intellectual assistance. It isn't just intellectual, though. Intuition is high with those who carry the owl totem. They just seem to know where to be and when to be there. They have a sense of being "an old soul".
Owl in Native Nations of the Americas is usually seen as a harbinger of death.. but, not necessarily in the physical sense. It's about clearing away old habits, destructive cycles and patterns to clear the way for you to start on a new adventure. It seems appropriate that owl would show up just as we start our secular New Year.
Call upon Owl to help you see what needs clearing in your life. Take stock, clean house (whether that's physical or spiritual) and when you are through, you can make plans for the next beginning of your life-song.
Honoring our Unsung Pagan Influencers of 2013
On a personal note, it was a bit strange for me to see my own name in this list of folks, and it seemed a bit self-aggrandizing to post the nominations for me here. I am grateful for all of you who did, and I didn't want to dishonor you by not posting them, but I admit to being a little "weirded out" in this process.
Without further adieu, here are the people you've chosen to sing about in alphabetical order:
Your 2013 Pagan Influencers
Influencer: Adelina Soto Thomas
Nominator: Debra Press-Costello
Lina has been my spiritual mentor since 1997, when I first started on my Pagan path. This year she has been my constant spiritual and emotional support during my two year old granddaughter's battle with cancer, and my husband being out if work the entire year Lina is there with energy work, suggestions, prayer, helping me as I struggled with my faith as I watch my granddaughter go through chemotherapy. Lina has been my constant spiritual rock, and is my best friend.
Influencer: Adelina Soto Thomas
Nominator: Kallan Kennedy
Adelina is one of the shining lights of wisdom in our community. She is a brilliant writer, grounded, no-nonsense, loving, loyal, and compassionate to all of her friends. She’s a fantastic listener, and she gives advice but does not push others to do things her way. She likes marching to her own tune and is happy to let you dance along with her. She has been a great influence on me this year, and I am honored to know her.
Influencer: Annwyn Avalon
Nominator: Diane Bailey-Beger
She's a wonderful mentor and role model. Although many years younger than myself, she has inspired me to reach down deep and honor who I really am and enhance my gifts from the Goddess thru constant study and therefore greater knowledge. She's been a true blessing in my life.
Influencer: Autumn Earthsong
Nominator: Kallan Kennedy
Autumn is someone I consider a wise woman of her community, and it’s a rarity nowadays. She is patient, kind, gentle and caring with her friends and students, and she conducts herself with grace. She’s been through so much over the last two years, and yet she is resilient and strong and displays the kind of courage that others can emulate when the going gets tough. The Pagan community is lucky to have her.
Influencer: Autumn Earthsong
Nominator: Sunshine Fae
Autumn has been my mentor, strength and sister witch for a number of years. She has taught me so much about what it looks like to walk the walk and not just talk the talk! Autumn deeply cares for everyone and show it by the way she reaches out on facebook, her blog and in her daily life! She means the world to me and I think she is very deserving of this honor!
Influencer: Autumn Earthsong
Nominator: tam/Rogue dow/Riversong
Autumn is always kind and cheerful and her posts are always followed by helpful comments due to her huge following. She is truly genuine and caring and I think that may be the very best example of a true pagan.
Influencer: Beth Lynch
Nominator: Heather Freysdottir
Beth's a godspouse, wed to Odin, and a Sacred Queen. In the midst of the great Pop Culture Pagan meltdown, she was a voice of wisdom, sanity, respect, and moderation.
Her candor in writing about her experiences with Odin have helped me understand my own with Loki, and I admire her for her grace under pressure, and as an example of how to lead without being overbearing. Her writing is at http://wytchofthenorth.wordpress.com/.
Influencer: Bianca Tyler
Nominator: Deb Hillman
Bianca has disabilities and lives alone, but she always reaches out to others and helps where she can. She has shown me how she how she reaches out to others on a Goddess Healing Page. She is always the first to respond, support and show her love through her words and actions. She also made me a walking staff with runes as she knew how I adore my walks and she wanted to send me her Spirit to walk with me. She is deserving of this honor!
Influencer: Bri Saussy
Nominator: Jen Rue
Fiercly hard worker and loving wife and mom, Bri has got it all going on. She's sweet and kick-ass all at the same time. I've beyond loved getting to know Bri this year. We've got some common ties, but I've also learned a great deal from her - she is a fount of knowledge and treats everyone with such love and respect. She is one of the true beauties of our community - inside and out.
Influencer: Cat Chapin-Bishop
Nominator: Robin Ward
Cat walks the paths of both pagan and Quaker, integrating elements of both realms into a dynamic vision of the world. Her written meditations (which she kindly shares online) provide candid views of her triumphs and her stumbles, and she invites others to consider how their experiences can be seen through a variety of lenses. Additionally, in her less esoteric moments, she wrestles with the joys and frustrations of teaching English, but also manages to share her spiritual observations about these experiences. Knowing Cat helps me to keep looking for the touch of the divine, even in the dust bunnies.
Influencer: Cat Treadwell
Nominator: Victoria Gorrell
Cat has written two books, both of which have helped me tremendously in my life and in my faith. Plus she's a rather lovely lady!
Influencer: Cindy Maluna
Nominator: Jackie Talley
Maluna has been an influence since I met her in 2009; but 2013 was particularly rough for me with loss of job, marriage, and my dog Stella. Cindy would not let me wallow in self-pity, rather she guided me to a closer walk with the Goddess - especially The Morrigan and Hecate. She is unfailing in her spiritual workings for people in need, and a "tough love" advisor. She walks the talk of her path every day; and her tender care of and respect for the deceased epitomizes the beauty of the "circle of life." I don't know a stronger, truer, smarter Witch, and I'm proud to call her "friend."
Influencer: Christopher Penczak
Nominator: Lori Perdue
This year especially, Christopher supported his community and his TOW Temple of Witchcraft with further efforts to create a space. His leadership not only in his local community, but national and global, is a constant inspiration and example to me and to the Pagan community.
Influencer: Cory Hutcheson
Nominator: Jen Rue
Although he could be considered a "big name" in the Pagan community, to me he's simply been a dear friend to a fellow blogger. His willingness to shine the spotlight on others and offer cheer or support is a rare quality, and something that endears him to many. I adore him for many reasons, not the least of which are the multitude of kindnesses he's shown me and also, because he lets me pick at his brilliant brain on occasion.
Influencer: Danni Suplicki
Nominator: Jen Rue
Talented and sassy, I've watched Danni navigate through having to move far away from her beloved home state, and deal with family issues, not the least of which is her sister's lung transplant process. Through all this, she remains sweet and caring, launches herself into her painting and still finds time to celebrate with her gods and her dear husband. I think she's rather amazing.
Influencer: Deborah Martin
Nominator: Jen Rue
Debra - The Herby Lady - has been a joy to get to know this year. Not only is she a herbal genius, but she's generous with her time, information and products. I've loved being a customer, a fan and an online friend of hers!
Influencer: Donna Petterson
Nominator: Sparrow (Tavin) Robinson
Donna is the Lady of the Caer Seren Tradition. This Tradition has been constant for more than 15 years. Donna built a Tradition that now has 4 covens and 1 grove. Together with her High Priest she was untiring for all those years. She led in a loving and strong manner. I would like for Donna to have some recognition now that she has retired from "active service". She is still The High Priestess of the Trad.
Influencer: Good Greenwitch (Rhonda)
Nominator: Kallan Kennedy
GGW is a true green witch- she champions daily for saving the earth and educating folks on issues regarding pollution, climate change and population control. She is a warrior for the planet and is a strong influence for earth-preservation within the Pagan community.
Influencer: Heather Brooks Ray
Nominator: Kallan Kennedy
Heather is a seeker of spiritual truth, and is a phenomenal writer. Her blog, "I'm Not Hannah" and her Facebook postings are always filled with amazing insights and spiritual morsels upon which to chew. She likes to view all the sides of an issue, and she loves a good debate. She's taught me so much about handling one's self in a way that respects others, but also stays truth to the self. She is a great influencer!
Influencer: Ikinde Skreja Ominsaer
Nominator: Shannon Ryan
Ikinde is a teacher, guide and friend. Whether it is pagan or not if you need her she is right there. She truely does not know her own worth and I believe thats a major part of makes her so special. Always the first to lend a hand and a gentle nudge on the right direction. One of the most self-less people I know that deserves way more than she receives.
Influencer: Ivo Dominguez
Nominator: Elizabeth Thornley
Brave . Strong. Works for the betterment of the community daily.
Influencer: Janet Morrissey
Nominator: Kallan Kennedy
Janet is a quiet influencer in the Pagan community. She utilizes social media to bring people the best in inspirational memes, articles and news stories. She's someone I admire very much, and definitely deserves a song.
Influencer: Jeffrey pierce
Nominator: pierre kellogg
Jeffrey has influenced my path so much. Between his fb page and old ways page he teaches us to think. He has a mission and live to give away his knowledge to all. He is a truly wonderful person who wishes everyone to excel on their path.
Influencer: Jen Rue
Nominator: Tracey Donnelly
Jen Rue has been part of my life for many years now. She is just an awesome person all round. She is always there to talk about issues and to give insight. She is an inspiration to me with her blogging and how she simply follows her own path. She was one of the group who helped me start The Sacred Tree when it was a place to talk for like minded people. Love her!
Influencer: Kallan Kennedy
Nominator: Adelina Soto-Thomas
She invited me in...welcomed me into the warm and wonderful circle of spiritual gurus that have become a strong resource for my spiritual learning. Never for a moment has she withheld information or access to anything. She has always opened her heart and knowledge with humility and love. She has encouraged me to dare, to will, to know....her influence is branded on my heart....and I love her dearly.
Influencer: Kallan Kennedy
Nominator: Autumn Earthsong
Kallan has influenced me from the day I met her..with her knowledge of her Path and other paths, her blog and the discussions that often erupt on her page LOL. She often posts statuses that are thought provoking and I can learn something constantly from that. Now, she has influenced me by bringing me into her Circle..introducing me to a lovely group of genuine people who I find inspiration from also. I'm blessed to call her friend and Sister...in Spirit. Oh and she introduced me to Ly De Angeles books! I love Kallan!
Influencer: Kallan Kennedy
Nominator: Jennifer Rasmussen
Kallan has always been an excellent example for the Pagan community, and the greater social community as a whole. She conducts herself with integrity and class, and gives those who interact with her something to strive for.
On a personal level, Kallan has helped me "come out of the broom closet," and learn to accept myself regardless of whether or not I am accepted by others. She has also encouraged me to "live my bliss" even when faced with obstacles.
Finally, Kallan has sponsored Samhain's Sirens for two years in a row now, which is a tremendous undertaking. Samhain 2013 was extremely tumultuous, but Kallan refused to throw in the towel. She persevered, because she believed in giving small Pagan businesses a chance at exposure to a larger audience.
She is truly an amazing woman and more than worthy of this award.
Influencer: Kallan Kennedy
Nominator: : Katy Creager
She has been a wonderful person to talk to, and a library of knowledge!
Influencer: Kallan Kennedy
Nominator: Loren Morris
Of course I am going to nominate you. You try to your best to further our community in positive ways. You have morals and principles and you are a leader for our community. Thank you for everything you have done. :)
Influencer: Kallan Kennedy
Nominator Steve Spellane
Her Blog "The Secret Life of the American Witch" is full of tips and insights
Influencer: Kallan Kennedy
Nominator: Tracey Donnelly
Yes, Kallan I am nominating you. You are an inspiration to the community and I have enjoyed getting to know you this last year. You bring issues to the front that I had not thought about and made me think. You introduce new ideas that have me wanting to learn more. I enjoy and love reading your thoughts and ideas in the projects you are part of. Thank you.
Influencer: Karen Szabo
Nominator: Lacy Spagnuola
I nominate Karen Szabo because of many reasons. First off, I will tell you that she is my mother in law. Because I spend a ton of time in her home and in her presence, I have learned a lot about what a Pagan woman is like. I am a curious person by nature, and any question I have ever had about her beliefs...she has answered me in a way I was able to understand. There have been many times in the past few years that she has taken time out of her day to teach me the ways of a Pagan. This past year, I decided to take the knowledge I was given and apply it to my life. I went though some pretty hard personal challenges this year, which left me feeling alone and not sure where to turn. I started wondering if there was any hope for my life turning around and if I would ever truly be happy again. As I sat on my front porch...on a crisp fall day this past October, a leaf fell from the tree across from me. It caught my attention. I stopped feeling so overwhelmed and cleared my head enough to just listen to the message nature was trying to tell me. Just then, more leaves began to fall...but then began to swirl in a beautiful, tranquil motion. For the first time in weeks, I felt peace in my heart. It was from that moment on, that I knew the earth was still there for me...to remind me in one of my weakest moments, that chaos can take control if we let it but we don't have to. The earth is full of so much good. There is always so much to be thankful for. It was then that I realized we are all children of the earth and its bounty. And if it wasn't for Karen teaching me to read nature like an open book, I never would have listened to its call that day. Anytime a bird chirps, or the wind soars...I will forever be changed and listen for its message. So for this, I thank Karen Szabo for her time and knowledge in making me more aware of my surroundings and I nominate her as a Top Pagan Of 2013!!
Influencer: Kellia Ramares-Watson
Nominator: David Watson
Her dedication to her faith and her daily rituals and meditations have pulled me out of my lethargy. I now do rituals on a NEARLY daily basis (it's been too cold the past couple of times for my sunrise ritual...yeah, that's me just being a wuss) and because of my working, she is inspired to work all the more, which inspires me to work all the more...we're just a happy little witch family. :-)
Influencer: Kyrja Withers
Nominator: Elizabeth Thornley
Under harassment and duress she continued to do the right thing and was successful educating not only the bullies but also the local police department. She continues to educate and entertain pagan children.
Influencer: Laura Wildman-Hanlon
Nominator: Kaitlin Creed
Laura Wildman-Hanlon constantly inspires me by 'walking her talk'. She is the co-author of a groundbreaking study on generational retention within the Pagan community which is being conducted via UMass. For years, Laura has advocated for the serious inclusion of Pagan traditions in all public religioius activities, including academia. Laura and her husband, Tom, were the first couple in their area to proclaim themselves 'Pagan' during an adoption procedure, thus creating an educational opportunity for the social workers evaluating their application. The Wildman-Hanlons successfully added three children to their family and paved the way for other Pagans seeking to adopt.
Laura Wildman-Hanlon also served as a key member of the 2013 Merry Meet (COG) committee. Additionally, she volunteers at EarthSpirit's Rites of Spring, assisting Tom with children's programming.
Influencer: Lisa Bodo
Nominator: Joseph Prisco
Lisa led two amazing workshops at a private Pagan gathering - one calling for healing for Margot Adler and a baby blessing for a pregnant woman. She is filled with compassion, energy, and presence. She inspires me to be a better person.
Influencer: Lora O'Brien
Nominator: Kathleen Lane
Lora is an Irish witch who is also an amazing writer. Her book "Irish Witchcraft from and Irish Witch" is fantastic. She is a very good writer with a sense of humor and her book is well done and informative. Coming to Celtic witchcraft after I was already an adult became a matter of looking for what fit into the niches in my Native American beliefs and her book was a great fit for me.
Influencer: Loren Morris
Nominator: Adelina Soto-Thomas
Loren has been so inspirational in so many ways. Her artistic talent is able to pull forth images that excite my spirit and make me cheer. She is generous with her knowledge and experience and I've learned so much from her already. She has a loving heart and it contains a powerful vibration I can feel across the miles. She inspires me to laugh, to learn, to dream, and to grow more into the potential of my true self. I consider her a role model, mentor and inspiration.
Influencer: Loren Morris
Nominator: Jennifer Rasmussen
I got to know Loren in the spring of 2013, and was immediately impressed by her. She has a fierce sense of dedication to her craft both spiritually and artistically, which is something I greatly admire.
Loren has also influenced me by being an example for thinking for yourself. She doesn't go along with popular opinion if it is against something she believes in. I see so many people oscillate back and forth, because they want to stay in the good graces of the majority. I would rather be an outcast than compromise my values, and seeing Loren do that has made it even easier for me.
Finally, Loren always fights for the underdog. When she sees an injustice, she will speak out even if she doesn't care for the individual in question. This speaks volumes about her character, and strong character is something we as individuals should hold in high esteem.
Influencer: Loren Morris
Nominator: Kallan Kennedy
Loren is a true influencer in that she leads by example. She's really been focused on her magic, particularly this last half of the year. She is loyal, loving, supportive- a terrific friend, and she lives her life in a way that causes others to want to emulate her. I'm proud to know her.
Influencer: Marie Bargas
Nominator: Kallan Kennedy
Marie Bargas, aka The Hollywood Witch, has been such a loving support and guide to me this year. Whenever I get frustrated or have an issue, she's been there to remind me to stay classy (like she does), because being an online personality does have its unique issues. She's taught me to hold my head high, and to stand strong and remember who I am. She is amazing to me.
Influencer: Nimue Brown
Nominator: Naomi Jacobs
Nimue's inspiring daily blogs have kept me focused on spirituality, activism, social justice and community during a difficult year. This druid leader truly redefines the word 'leader' for the modern age, when so many of us find Pagan community largely online. Without people like her, leading us where we can find them, so many of us would be adrift in a tough world. The funny thing is, I'm not sure she thinks of herself as a leader at all. And isn't that always the way with the greatest leaders? Thank you, Nimue, for all you've done for the community in 2013.
Nimue's blog can be found at http://druidlife.wordpress.com/
Influencer: Nimue Brown
Nominator: Cat Treadwell
Nimue is a writer and Pagan blogger (http://druidlife.wordpress.com) but also works tirelessly in her local community. She is a volunteer for her local Green party as well as The Druid Network and the Order of Bards, Ovates & Druids. Through her writing she inspires so many; through her hands-on work she helps those in need and various political awareness movements for the environment and grass-roots aid.
Active Druidry/Paganism is embodied by Nimue. Sometimes it can take its' toll, but she is honest about this in her blog - and so it is important to reinforce the good work that she does! Hence my nomination for this award.
And thank you for such a lovely idea to help our community. Long may it continue (and please do keep me posted on results!). xx
Influencer: Patrica Anderson Peters
Nominator: Amanda James
Patricia....is a poet. A mother. A sister. A wife (a few times over). She has struggled with her health (and maybe a little with her sanity), but even in the darkest times, she's always there to listen and offer a hand or a listening shoulder. (Can't say ear, she's deaf!) Whether as a sister, a friend, or a fellow witch, anyone who knows her, knows how truly beautiful this fantastic lady is, inside and out. She credits me with helping push her to write publicly (she has written articles/blogs and books of poetry that have been published)....but I think she's inspired me to continue on more than I've pushed her to do what she is wondrously blessed in already.
Influencer: Peter Dybing
Nominator: Elizabeth Thornley
Brave. Honorable. Right priorities. Helps people daily.
Influencer: PB Owl
Nominator: Mary Boozer
Lord Owl is a founding member of the Wynddragon Family, a seminary training priests and priestesses in Knoxville, Tennessee. This year has held many personal challenges for him. Rather than making excuses for himself, he served his community. He continues to serve by performing rites of passage, performing ritual, teaching and mentoring, hosting and still managed to publish a book of Pagan poetry. His influence teaches me that witches DO. They PRACTICE and CRAFT. Believing is one thing, being is another.....
Influencer: Renee Olson
Nominator: Jennifer Rasmussen
I had seen Renee online for quite a few years now, but did not get to know her until this year. Renee is the one who is usually quiet until she finds something worth speaking out about. Renee is an excellent example of what it means to be proud of who you are and stick to your guns. She has helped me believe in myself even when it seems like many are against me. She is not afraid to fight for what she thinks is right, and that is a lesson many of us can benefit from learning.
Influencer: Renee Olson
Nominator: Katy Creager
She has been there to give good advice on directions to go, and has also been there as a good person to talk to.
Influencer: Revolutionary Lady
Nominator: Rommy Driks
I don't want to use her real name, because I don't know if she is out to her community (if she appears on the list I will forward her a link privately). But Revolutionary Lady was a rock of strength when a good friend of mine was in his last stages in his fight against Lou Gherig's disease. She was at his nursing home regularly, keeping him company and being his advocate when he needed one. She was also a warm and comforting presence to his wife and children when they needed it. She handled the whole thing with grace, right down to delivering a touching eulogy at his funeral. All of us were blessed with her presence as she helped my friend - and the rest of us - handle this transition. For that, I will always be grateful. Thank you Revolutionary Lady.
Influencer: Rita Digilova
Nominator: Loren Morris
Rita Digilova is one of the most influential leaders of witchcraft that I know. She is an amazing friend, exceptional businesswoman, and so influential to our community with the sales of her beautiful Books of Shadows and Grimoires. She carries herself with grace and poise in the public eye. She has also introduced to me the magic and wonder of Runes and Seidr. I am proud to call her my friend.
Influencer: Saffron Celtic Moon
Nominator: sunny Stillwater
She is the most knowledgable hedge witch I know and she is always willing to share her gifts.
Influencer: Sandi
Nominator: Tracey Donnelly
Sandi owns the local shop, Soul Journey, (https://www.facebook.com/SoulJourneyNJ) I met her when I first moved to the US, and instantly felt comfortable in her shop. Over the last three years we have chatted and gotten to know each other well, and when I'm feeling off, I will often pop in to say and feel grounded once in the store. This last year Sandi has encouraged me to simply be me. I have become more vocal about my beliefs, and rarely hide them anymore. She has taught me much and I look forward to learning much more.
Influencer: Sarah Ann Lawless
Nominator: Jennifer Conaway
Sarah has a blog and a small internet foundry/apothecary. Her approach to witchcraft is very refreshing in that she doesn't skirt around the darker aspect of it. I think so many witches today are all about love and light. They forget that there needs to be a balance. Sarah beautifully embraces the darker side of witchcraft and guides others through it with her beautifully written blog, her artwork, and the products she sells. I am so happy to see that there are so many choices for a 2013 which of the year but honestly, Sarah Lawless is standout among these individuals.
Influencer: Sedna Morrigan
Nominator: Renee Olson
Sedna aka Mermaid Morrigan is an amazing soul. I first met her at an event at Truely Unique in Wilson. We ran into each other several times at a few events and ended up becoming friends on facebook.
As we got to know more and more about each other we found that we had so much in common. Our love for Yorkies, the desire for dreadlocks. She found out where I lived by accident by driving past our house and seeing the logo on our truck. She actually stopped and came back to just say hello.
She is one of the most spiritual people I know. She is loving but firm and I aspire to be like her in so many ways. This year she's had struggles around her and had held up her head with grace. To me she is the stern voice or reason and the giggle of whimsy in a sometimes harsh reality. I adore her.
Here she's playing her hand hammered dulcimer. http://sednaseternalcove.com/About_Mermaid_Morrigan.html
Influencer: Sue Peters
Nominator: Jen Rue
Sue has been a teacher and a dear friend to me for a good half-dozen years now. She's wise and kind, giving and has a heart for the land that I've not seen in many others. She's been an inspiration and I'm thrilled to have a friend to wander hills and rivers with, who loves the spirits of this place as much as I do. My path would not be what it is today without her influence.
Influencer: Sunshine Fae
Nominator: Autumn Earthsong
I have watched her since she was new to her Path...and watching her grow and learn and become such a Light for others. She embraces the Goddess every day and has overcome much sadness and heartache in the past. She's strong and powerful in her beliefs!
Influencer: Teresa J Christy
Nominator: Josey Tyler
TJ Christy has brought more love and light into the lives of more sisters around the world than I can count. I met her one night when all of fb hated me for no reason. She brought loving sisters into my life and helped me fix my roof because I am disabled and couldn’t afford it. She lights the life of many sisters around the world
Influencer: Two Eagles
Nominator: Lisa Butkiewicz
This is my father. I did not know him until I was 18. He has taught me how to see the beauty in nature, and how to respect our mother earth. He has counselled me many times and helped me through hard times. He counsels young people on a daily basis, He considers helping people as something he needs and wants to do. He is a very spiritual man. He took me into my first sweat. When I first met him he was living in a tipi, and had been for years. He showed me and my children that nature and good friends is all we really need. We don't need all these material things (the wants). We can be happy in a simple, back to nature life. I love him, for who he is and what he has taught me.
Influencer: Two Eagles
Nominator: Olufunke Olise
He finished raising me along with our Brother Bill who died a few years ago. We were not family from the same parents but we have remained family this past 32 years.
Two Eagles has helped out many....getting several people off hard drugs, advising/counseling, visits to the jailed, community volunteer work....he is very busy.
I have been going through a rough time this past year and he has always taken the time to listen, give moral support, and remind me I am a much loved little sister. He was willing to take my baby and I in if need be. (It has been many many years since I even had to consider "moving home") He even sent me an ipad mini so I can keep in touch better!
What he has done for me spans a life time and cannot be limited to one year.
Thank you to all of the nominators who gave your heroes a song this year. We hope to continue this tradition for many years to come.
That's it for this week's stew. Mull. Digest. Enjoy!
The Sunday Stew is a free, e-publication delivered every Sunday as a loving gift to the Pagan community. All submissions are the intellectual property of their authors, and opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the blog owner. All photos used are either copyrighted to their owners and are used with permission. Astrology, Tarot and Totem are for entertainment purposes.
We welcome your feedback! Please be sure to tell us how we're doing and give us suggestions for improvement. You can leave a comment here (remember, they are moderated so it may take some time for yours to appear), use the contact form at the top of the page, email Kallan, or comment on Kallan's Facebook page. We look forward to hearing from you!