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Yule Season: Reflect

By Blog, Wheel of the Year
The Wheel of the Year is turning towards the Winter Solstice in the northern hemisphere and the corresponding celebration of Yule. Acknowledging the eight “spokes” of the wheel of the neo-Pagan year gives you the opportunity to tune into and honor the Earth’s solar cycle, the natural world around you, and your inner cycles of change and growth. While Wheel…
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Episode 138: The Hermit

By My Shamanic Life Podcast
Winter is coming. It is time to turn inward and get cozy. Jen VanBenschoten shares how to do that with the Scandinavian concept of hygge. Then she pulls The Hermit out of her Tarot deck and guides you through a spread that helps you discover your best approach to the winter season. Grab your favorite fluffy blanket and have a…
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Episode 137: The Give-Away

By My Shamanic Life Podcast
As the months flow from November to December, I reflect on the spirit of Turkey, the “Give-Away Eagle.” I say some stuff about my privilege and the economic and social systems that give me that privilege, which was uncomfortable to talk about. And I share some wandering thoughts on shifting from gratitude to give-away. In the second half of the…
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Episode 136: The Wisdom of Sage

By My Shamanic Life Podcast
Sheri Kurdakul is back with another engaging talk about her herb of the month. This episode is all about sage – the plant, the lore, and the wisdom. Sheri focuses on garden sage, which came from Europe, like my family did. She got me thinking about what it means to be naturalized, which I touch on before introducing Sheri. Listen…
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Handfasting by the Fireplace

By Handfastings, Infinity Knot
This simple handfasting ceremony was held in the couple’s living room by the fireplace with immediate family and a few friends. A little bit of customization made the standard ceremony meaningful and memorable.  Ceremony Script  Ring Warming and Singing Bowls Welcome! It’s wonderful to be here with you today. I’m Reverend Debbie Philp and I’m so happy to be officiating…
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Enchanted Rite in the Woods

By A Magical Rite, Handfastings
This same-sex couple wanted to capture the fun and enchantment of “The Princess Bride” and “The Lord of the Rings” in a meaningful ceremony. 75 guests were meant to gather in a clearing in the woods to witness the rite, but rain forced the ceremony into the reception barn. Ceremony Script Processional Flower guy walks down aisle, scattering petals. Family…
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Pagan Rite in the Mountains

By A Magical Rite, Handfastings
The couple desired a dramatic Pagan ceremony that celebrated their deep connection to the land. The ceremony took place by the shore of a lake in early fall with about 100 guests. Ceremony Script Processional Attendants enter and make circle (this is quick, coming one after another without pause in between). Fire couple (Maid of Honor and Best Man) walks…
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Casual Vow Renewal by the Lake

By Handfastings, Tying the Knot...Again
The couple celebrated their 25th anniversary by renewing their vows at a park overlooking a lake, witnessed by some family and friends. Everyone wore casual clothes and enjoyed the summer day by the lake. Ceremony Script Group gathers in designated spot. Welcome Bride and Groom, it’s a pleasure to share today’s very special occasion with you, your daughter, and your…
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Earthy Religious Ceremony with Handfasting

By Handfastings, Interfaith and Nature-Based
This ceremony, held in a park, honored the couple’s Protestant and Catholic upbringings with their deep connection to nature. The couple included several family members in their Christian ceremony that included a handfasting. Ceremony Script Private Purification Ceremony  12:45pm As guests are arriving, Bride, Groom, Maid of Honor and Best Man gather in park pavilion with officiant to sign marriage…
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