la Vie Sirene volume 1 issue 4 - THE NATURE OF NYMPHS

September

the magazine of the sirens . by the sirens . for the sirens

2013

Hope & Healing Going into the woods —and living deliberately

Sacred Gardening

The Nature of Nymphs Volume 1, Issue IV Published by SirenSchool.com Cover Model: Schylar Rene, Photographer: Apryl Ann, Floral Design: Bows and Arrows

Art,s, Poetry, Events, Recipes, Music, Interviews, quirky tidbits in every issue

September 2013

CELESTIAL NYMPHS 5 6 7 14 17 18 20 23

Inner Beauty - art

by Sanndi Thompspn Celestials - a poem by Marc Prudhon (Nymph series Part I) The Colors of Creativity - with artist Donna Antonucci Apsara Sky Dancer Celestial Berry Salsa recipe Ultralights Cuffed by Fantasy - with artisan Mandy Roncalio-Meyer Heavenly Peaches & Cream Pie recipe

UNDERWORLD NYMPHS 25 26 28 31 32 36 37 38

A story of what lies beneath by Marc Prudhon (Nymph series Part II) The Tour by Lyle Dagnen with Marc Prudhon Spelunking, or rather, Caving Waitomo Glowworm Caves Interview with artisan Kate Rootiebird Lasilla Hot as Hades Brownies recipe Fra Diavalo recipe Shinto, Anime & Hayao Miyazaki by Shannon Lopez

WATER NYMPHS

44 Cycles of Forever - by Marc Prudhon (Nymph series Part III) 45 Healing Waters Everywhere 48 The Face of Love - with actress & activist Karen Henning

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NATU RE NYM PHS

LAND NYMPHS

63 The Nymphs of Samhain by Marc Prudhon (Nymph series Part IV) 64 Founding Atlantis with Jenny Yemaya Cook 68 Ballad of a Mountain Nymph by Lyle Dagnen 69 Of Lotus & Love - by Perzaia

WOOD & PLANT NYMPHS

52 The Fountain Nymph - by Bonnie Ramsburg 54 Bubbling Over with Love - with Weeki Wachee’s Marla Spellenberg 59 Naiad Springs Respite 60 Frozen water craft 61 Salmon & Brie Pizza recipe

73 76 80 81 84 86 88 89 90 91

The Dryad & Her Knight by Marc Prudhon (Nymph series Part V) When You’re Strange - with perfume alchemist Jill McKeever Oil & Herbs shared by Bonnie Ramsburg What Tree Are You shared by Bonnie Ramsburg A Wood Nymph Picnic - courtesy of Lyle Dagnen Out ‘n’ About Treesort Dryad Treehouse Retreet A Nymph’s Revenge by Lyle Dagnen Sweet Porutabutter Bliss recipe Apple Cinnamon Bites recipe

ETC. 92 The Ones That Got Away 93 Siren Sign-Off

A nymph in Greek and Latin mythology is a minor female nature deity typically associated with a particular location or landform.

There are 5 different types of nymphs:

• Celestial • Water • Land • Plant • Underworld We’ll be exploring them all.

Different from goddesses, nymphs are generally regarded as divine spirits who animate nature, and are usually depicted as beautiful, young nubile maidens who love to dance and sing; their amorous freedom sets them apart from the restricted & chaste wives & daughters of the Greek polis.

They are believed to dwell in mountains and groves, by springs and rivers, and also in trees and in valleys and cool grottoes.

Although they would never die of old age nor illness, and could give birth to fully immortal children if mated to a god, they themselves were not necessarily immortal, and could be beholden to death in various forms.

Charybdis & Scylla were once nymphs. [source: Wikipedia]

A Nymph in the Forest, Charles-Amable Lenoir (1860–1926)

Celestial Nymphs • Aurae (breezes), also called Aetae or Pnoae • Asteriae (stars), mainly comprising the Atlantides (daughters of Atlas) • Hesperides (nymphs of the West, daughters of Atlas; also had attributes of the Hamadryads) • Aegle ("dazzling light") • Arethusa • Erytheia (or Eratheis) • Hesperia (or Hispereia) • Hyades (star cluster; sent rain)

• Pleiades (daughters of Atlas and Pleione; constellation; also were classed as Oreads) • Maia (partner of Zeus and mother of Hermes) • Electra • Taygete • Alcyone • Celaeno • Asterope • Merope • Nephele (clouds)

Inner Beauty

by Sanndi Art Mystical Expressions -5-

Will you turn away from the steel, concrete, and works of mankind.

A loving, peaceful place awaits any and all of pure soul and mind.

The cathedrals of Night , the blessings of Day, are there, they await.

The Celestial Nymphs wonder why so very few have come of late., Enter unto one of those palaces of joyous health, from times of old.

Step within that holy place, open your heart, let them take hold..

You will be joined and blessed by the sisters of the Pleiades, Here is Aurea, and you feel the caress of her gentle breeze.

Her sweet touch opens you, you are ready now to heed the call.

To leave all troubles of the world, free to become one with all.

Next comes Aegle, Descending to you in her dazzling light.

Yet it does not blind, it opens all your very being to sight.

You're not here alone, spirits of the past also call this home.

The other Nymphs arrive, coming from the heavens they roam.

"Sisters, here is one who came to us, like those have passed the testing.

Now tis our time to join ourselves to you, to give you all our blessing" Your spirit soars, your heart about to burst, and your soul set free.

You have been given a blessing, an assurance of immortality.

Celestial Nymph

by Marc Prudhon -6-

The Colors of Creativity

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WITH ARTIST DONNA ANTONUCCI

Midnight Moonlight Fairy

Donna Antonucci’s life is easily as colorful and whimsical as any of the ethereal creatures she depicts. Today we feature her celestial art, as we conduct a meet and greet with this ebullient artist.

Donna, I absolutely adore your signature hair, which brilliantly mirrors your art. When did your current multi-colored palette become your coiff of choice?

Thank you Queen Siren. I have had it for maybe 3 years or so?? I have a fab stylist, Krista Inzinga.

She is on

Facebook too. She is very talented.

I have had always wanted to add purple, and another hairdresser tried quite some time ago, but it was not a good look at all!! But Krista got it right!!

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I've seen you as Edwina Scissorhands, Elvira, a pirate... and so much more... Which of your many personas describes you best? Or are you a bit of each?

Oh I love dressing up for Halloween so much! I have also done a Marie Antoinette, Cleopatra, Fairies... lol. I guess I am a little of everything ..I wish I could dress up everyday! I am not that adventurous, so maybe this satisfies that, to some degree. I wish I was a rock star so I could really dress over the top all the time!! lol... I guess I am a bit of a dreamer...I hate reality I really do!

You have a very distinct style. What inspires you in the way of subject matter?

What inspires me? So many things!!

Nature, with a twist most times... especially animals. I love animals so much. They bring me great joy. My kitty Millie is the love of my life besides the husband. The little chipmunk who has gotten brave and takes peanuts from me gives me the biggest cheap thrill... to the Mama and fawns who visit my yard everyday. I love to pick dried up flowers and pods, and see the beauty in the dead ones. I Love dried poppy pods and dead ferns! lol...

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I love sparkles and purple and wings...

The moons and stars and Dark and Gothic.

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My collection of Gothic Dolls also inspires my creativity... I love to make props for them and Halloween inspires me too, the whimsical, fun silly side... not the gory, gross or scary. I HATE Zombies but LOVE Vampires and I have never seen one Twilight movie lol. The older I get the more I like the dark side of things. I have an overactive imagination which is not necessarily a good thing sometimes. All of this and more has a place somehow, somewhere in my work!

Have you always focused on 'fantasy'? And if not, what sorts of things have you drawn over the years since you first found you had a gift for art?

I have always drawn since I was a small child. My mom used to just give me paper and whatever and I would sit and draw for hours. I always loved fanciful things and drawing animals, and I liked to do mixed media even then. I still have many of my drawings. One fave of mine was a porcupine I drew when I was maybe 7 or 8?? I cut up an old bristle brush and glued the pieces on the paper for his quills.

I discovered Fantasy art when I was about 12 while in a bookstore. I discovered the most wonderful Fantasy artist named Brian Froud and I saved up my own money and bought my first art book, The World of Froud. That poor book is falling apart now, but it introduced me to the realm of Fae and I was hooked... and greatly inspired.

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I took art for 3 years in high school and won many awards for my fantasy art.

Some of my paintings went to NYC for national competitions. I Love painting animals from domestic to wildlife. I often make my animals into fairy animals of course because everyone should have a pair of wings!

Are there any projects on the back burner you can tell us about?

Well not really. I have old WIPs (Works In Progress) I would love to finish and things I want to make for my dolls lol. I would love to get some things for Halloween and I need to work on costumes! I will share I have a few health issues that keeps me from painting, creating as much as I want.

So it takes me longer then usual to get things done... and I'm a Queen Procrastinator!

Here's my favorite question to get to know someone... one that speaks volumes... What are your 3 favorite movies?

Oh that is tough. I love so many from really old to new... newer I should say. I really don’t see a lot of new movies.

Some like it Hot, The Princess Bride, Raiders - the first one, Legend, Planes Trains and Automobiles..lol ok so thats five... Way too many — I really love old movies from the 30's and 40's.

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Last, if you could live in the realm

I love my yard so much in the

of one of your works, which

Springtime/Summer when it is so

would it be?

green and looks so inviting, and all the deer come with their fawns and

I think it would be my Daydreamer

the chipmunk. This year I got him to

painting.

trust me enough that he comes up

A beautiful fairy sleeps

upon a lush green spot

in the

and lets me give him peanuts...

woodlands... She fell asleep while reading a fairytale and she is

Visit Donna’s enchanting

dreaming of her prince

world on Facebook. You

her away on a pegasus.

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who takes

may never want to leave.

Apsaras

Cambodia’s Sky Dancers “They fly together through the sky like a little cloud of miniature birds (so they are sometimes known as sky dancers), and appear to humans in their clouds at special points in their lives, especially weddings, where they bless the new couple by flying over them. They are said to inhabit trees as their homes, most notably fig trees, and sometimes protect virgin areas from probing eyes.

Some stories say that apsaras can distract and drain the energy and memory of any intruding human who tries to venture into their protected areas.” by swankivy on Everything 2

vanishing cultures photography

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Apsara Dance: Traditional Khmer Dance-Drama from CanbyPublications.com

No visit to Cambodia is complete without attending at least one traditional Khmer dance performance, often referred to as 'Apsara Dance' after one of the most popular Classical dance pieces. Traditional Khmer dance is better described as 'dance-drama' in that the dances are not merely dance but are also meant to convey a story or message.

As evidenced in part by the innumerable apsaras (celestial dancers) that adorn the walls of Angkorian and pre-Angkorian temples, dance has been part of Khmer culture for well more than a millennium, though there have been ruptures in the tradition over the centuries, making it impossible to precisely trace the source of the tradition. Much of traditional dance (especially Classical) is inspired by Angkorian-era art and themes, but the tradition has not been passed unbroken from the age of Angkor. Most traditional dances

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seen today were developed in the 18th through 20th centuries, beginning in earnest with a mid-19th century revival championed by King Ang Duong (reigned 1841-1869). Subsequent Kings and other Khmer Royals also strongly supported the arts and dance, most particularly Queen Sisowath Kossamak Nearireach (retired King Norodom Sihanouk's mother) in the mid-20th century, who not only fostered a resurgence in the study and development of Khmer traditional dance, but also helped move it out of the Palace and popularize it. Queen Sisowath Kossamak trained her grand daughter Princess Bopha Devi in the art of traditional dance from early childhood, who went on to become the face of Khmer traditional dance in the 1950s and 60s both in Cambodia and around the world. Many traditional dances that are seen in performances today were developed and refined between the 1940s and 1960s under the guidance and patronage of Queen Sisowath Kossamak at the Conservatory of Performing Arts and the Royal University of Fine Arts in Phnom Penh. Almost all of the Theatrical Folk dances that are presented in modern performances were developed during

The Apsara Dance is a Classical dance inspired by the apsara carvings and sculptures of Angkor and developed in the late 1940s by Queen Sisowath Kossamak. Her grand daughter and protégé, Princess Bopha Devi, was the first star of the Apsara Dance. The central character of the dance, the apsara Mera, leads her coterie of apsaras through a flower garden where they partake of the beauty of the garden. The movements of the dance are distinctly Classical yet, as the dance was developed for theatrical presentation, it is shorter and a bit more relaxed and flowing than most Classical dances, making it both an excellent example of the movements, manner and spirit of Classical dance and at the same time particularly accessible to a modern audience unaccustomed to the style and stories of Khmer dance-drama.

See this elegant dance art form for yourself on Youtube.

this period. Like so much of Cambodian art and culture, traditional dance was almost lost under the brutal repression of the Khmer Rouge regime of the late 1970s, only to be revived and reconstructed in the 1980s and 90s due, in large part, to the extraordinary efforts of Princess Bopha Devi.

Classical dance, including the famous 'Apsara dance,' has a grounded, subtle, even restrained, yet feather-light, ethereal appearance.

Distinct in its ornate costuming, taut posture, arched back and feet, fingers flexed backwards, codified facial expressions, slow, close, deliberate but flowing movements, Classical dance is uniquely Khmer. It presents themes and stories inspired primarily by the Reamker (the Cambodian version of the Indian classic, the Ramayana) and the Age of Angkor.

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Celestial Berry Salsa adapted from Food-Management.com

INGREDIENTS: • ¼ cup rice wine vinegar • 2 Tbsps. fresh lime juice • 1 Tbsp. sugar • 1 Tbsp. red onion, finely minced • 1 Tbsp. fresh cilantro, rinsed, finely minced • 1/8 tsp. ground coriander • 1/8 tsp. ground cumin • ½ cup mango, peeled, cut into ¼ inch dice • 1 pint red raspberries • 1/4 cup diced bell pepper DIRECTIONS: 1. In a small bowl, combine vinegar, lime juice and sugar. Whisk until the sugar has completely dissolved.

2. Gently stir in red onion, cilantro, coriander, cumin and mango. Cover and refrigerate for one hour.

3. At service time, carefully fold in berries and gently mix with a rubber spatula so as not to damage berries.

Carnivores may serve with grilled chicken.

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Have you ever been asked which you would pick from a list of fantasy super powers?

When I’ve been posed such a momentous question, invariably, before the asker can even finish the query, I belt out “FLYING!!!”

I’ve always wanted to fly. I started taking small craft aviation lessons a few years back, but had to quit thanks to high maintenance employees at work who demanded the bulk of my attention. I’ve considered taking it up again, but my real desire is not to take to the skies in a metal machine decked out with all the latest high-tech gadgetry, but to soar on my own, as unencumbered as possible, the wind in my hair, the sun in my face.

Thanks to the diverse world of ultralight aircraft, that dream can finally come true.

Below are the classifications of options currently available. While ultralight-type planes date back to the early 1900s, three generations

are recognized when it comes to modern, fixed-wing ultralight aircraft designs. These are generally classed according to their type of structure. There are several types of aircraft which qualify as ultralights, but which do not have fixed-wing designs. These include: •Weight-shift control trike: while the first generation ultralights were also controlled by weight shift, most of the current weight shift ultralights use a hang glider-style wing, below which is suspended a three-wheeled carriage which carries the engine and aviators.

These aircraft are controlled by pushing against a horizontal control bar in roughly the same way as a hang glider pilot flies.

Trikes generally have impressive climb rates and are ideal for rough field operation, but are slower than other types of fixed-wing ultralights.

•Powered parachutes: cart mounted engines with parafoil wings, which are wheeled aircraft.

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•

Powered paragliding: backpack engines with parafoil wings, which are foot-launched.

•Powered hang glider: motorized foot-launched hang glider harness.

•Autogyro: rotary wing with cart mounted engine, a gyrocopter is different from a helicopter in that the rotating wing is not powered, the engine provides forward thrust and the airflow through the rotary blades causes them to autorotate or "spin up" to create lift. Most of these use a design based on the Bensen B-8 gyrocopter.

•

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Helicopter: there are a number of singleseat and two-place helicopters which fall under the microlight categories in countries such as New Zealand. However, few helicopter designs fall within the more restrictive ultralight category defined in the United States of America. Two examples that do are the Mosquito Air and XEL designs from Innovator Technologies, Inc.

•

Hot air balloon: there are numerous ultralight hot air balloons in the US, and several more have been built and flown in France and Australia in recent years.

Some ultralight hot air balloons are hopper balloons, while others are regular hot air balloons that carry passengers in a basket.

Electric powered ultralights Research has been conducted in recent years to replace gasoline engines in ultralights with electric motors powered by batteries to produce electric aircraft. This has now resulted in practical production electric power systems for some ultralight applications. These developments have been motivated by cost as well as environmental concerns. In many ways ultralights are a good application for electric power as some models are capable of flying with low power, which allows longer duration flights on battery power.

So which would be your choice? [excerpted from Wikipedia]

Cuffed by Fantasy From hobbyist to housewife to hot commodity, Amanda Roncalio-Meyer has parlayed her love of all things elven into a thriving business — How did you first get into wire artistry?

Well, when I was about 12-14 years old, I remember looking through a copy of the Pyramid Collection catalog and seeing a sterling silver earcuff and thinking to myself, "Wow, I love that, and can’t afford it… but that looks like something I could make for myself!"

My grandma and mom are both crafters, and I used to go to craft fairs with my mom, so I had a little experience making and selling homemade items. Plus I, of course, inherited the crafting hobby. Once I told my mom that I had found something I wanted to make, she immediately bought me my first craft wire, and I started making a few simple earcuffs (like the ones I just released in my shop recently) to sell at her craft fair booths.

This is how I picture myself looking, when donning a pair of Mandy’s Fantasy Earcuffs

How long ago did you go full-time?

In my adult/parent life, crafts have been something I've wanted to do, something to contribute to the household funds while keeping me sane, but unfortunately, I wasn't very motivated, nor did I have much time for extra-curricular hobbies. One day last year (in March or early April, I think), I found some of my old craft wire and was inspired to create elfshaped earcuffs for myself. As soon as I posted the pictures of my project on my personal Facebook page, my friends immediately started asking me where I had bought them, and, once I told them I had personally made them, they began asking if they could purchase some from me. Therefore, Fantasy Earcuffs by Mandy (originally Elf Earcuffs by Mandy) was born!

And what made you take the leap to starting your own business?

I guess, in the beginning, I never really intended to start my own business. my Elf Earcuffs started as a self-project, and I had SUCH AMAZINGLY AWESOME positive feedback on my private set that I HAD to start making these to sell! Plus, being a stay-athome mom, I needed to find an income source to help out with the house-hold funds. I felt like such a bump-on-the-log before I started Fantasy Earcuffs by Mandy! The fact that I can get my crafting-addiction out as well as add to the house-hold funds is UNBELIEVABLY AWESOME!!!

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From whence do you derive inspiration for your designs?

FANTASY!!!

My original Elf Earcuffs were inspired by both my favorite graphic novel series, ElfQuest (which I’ll talk about a little later in the interview), as well as my all-time favorite pixie, Tinkerbell, which was my nickname with my grandma (who was EXTREMELY important to me, growing up). I even had Peter Pan and Tink as my imaginary friends as a kiddo! For any other styles, I look to fantasy art and other different fae creatures.

I am ALWAYS looking for new inspiration for different styles and designs, so if anyone has an idea for a design, CONTACT ME!!

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making very tree-like. I have half of a prototype ready, but I'm not happy with it yet... In any case, I have LOTS of ideas for future items!!

What sorts of customers do you attract most?

It seems that I attract more women, around the age of 16-40, though I would LOVE to make a more masculine designs. I'm having troubles with that one, seeing as I'm female and don't have much taste in masculine designs. If anyone would like to contribute a solution to this problem, I can promise them a free set of earcuffs for their design/suggestion if I decide on it!

Are there any designs you've been dying to tackle that appear too daunting at present?

What has been the most gratifying aspect of your business?

There are too many to list!! i'm constantly thinking of new designs, but between the current orders and being a mommy to a 3 yearold, it's tough finding time to make new designs! I currently would LOVE to make something more Dragon-like, and something that resembles leaves, though I've also had people request that I start a cat-like or horselike ear design... I think that would also mean making a more headband-like style, which is intimidating to me... as well as my Dryad design, which, of course, I'm planning on

FINALLY finding a hobby/craft that others love enough for me to start my own business! it's always been a dream of mine to be able to make and sell something that people love, so Fantasy Earcuffs by Mandy has been an absolute Dream Come True for me! I love hearing compliments on my designs and ideas for new items, so I am ALWAYS open to suggestions!! I love reading both the feedback on my Etsy shop and the suggestions/ comments section that I provide as an entry to my giveaways. They’re both very helpful!

What about the most challenging?

Actually, keeping up with orders is my biggest challenge. I never intended for Fantasy Earcuffs by Mandy to be so popular, and the fact that it is has kept me VERY busy. In fact, I have SEVERAL orders I need to do now! i'm totally shocked that I have to have a 2-4 week waiting period on EVERY order. I seriously NEVER thought my designs would be this popular. So I’d have to say that keeping up with orders while still designing new items is my biggest challenge, all while being a good mommy to my 3 year-old boogie-girl!!

What sorts of fantasy genres are you most a fan of?

I absolutely LOVE elves, fairies, and dragons, but I also love just about anything Fantasy! my biggest influence growing up, in both life and art, was ElfQuest. It was started by an independent husband-wife publishing team, and not-only have the stories touched my heart so deeply that my life has been dramatically altered by reading them, but the fact that it was independently started by a husband-wife team showed me that you can truly do ANYTHING if you only put your mind to it!! They have changed my lifestyle, my way of thinking, and my view on art from a VERY early age, and I have always been extremely appreciative of it!

ElfQuest has definitely made me more open to other ideals and feelings, and I am convinced that I am a MUCH better person for reading the series!! The entire series is available to read online for free here.

I am also a HUGE fan of the Vampire, Werewolf, and Zombie genres, though please don't mention Twilight to me... The ONLY good part of those movies is the tree-climbing scene in the very first movie! VAMPIRES ~DO NOT~ SPARKLE! What can we look forward to as Fantasy Earcuffs by Mandy grows and evolves?

A LOT of new items, designs, and options, and hopefully faster shipping times. I've been trying REALLY hard to bring quality gemstones as an option to my shop; I've had a LOT of requests for them! I'm hoping to continue bringing out more fantasy-themed designs, based on both my follower's input and my own creativity!

Hopefully pendants, bracelets, and more made to match my earcuff designs will be also in the semi-near future!

Siren School is proud as can be to have been a supporter of Fantasy Earcuffs by Mandy since the company’s inception... even before! We love perusing her Etsy shop and she almost always has a fabulous offer posted on her Facebook page.

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Heavenly Peaches & Cream Pie Recipe from Celestial Seasonings Tea company... which they suggest serving with a glass of their iced Country Peach Passion Herbal Tea. INGREDIENTS • 1 9-inch pie crust, unbaked • 8 bags Celestial Seasonings Country Peach Passion Herbal Tea • ¾ cup heavy whipping cream • 3 Tbsp. all-purpose flour • ½ cup sugar • dash salt • ½ tsp. ground nutmeg • 4 cups fresh peaches, sliced DIRECTIONS 1. Preheat oven to 400 ºF. 2. Gently heat cream over low heat until very warm but not boiling. Add tea bags, remove from heat and allow to cool to room temperature (about 10-15 minutes). Remove tea bags and reserve liquid.

3. Prick pie shell with a fork.

Bake for 5 minutes.

4. Combine flour, sugar, salt and nutmeg. Slowly blend in peach cream mixture until smooth. Arrange sliced peaches in prepared pie shell and pour liquid over fruit. Bake for about 40 minutes or until set but still soft.

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Underworld Nymphs • Cocytiae, daughters of the river god Cocytus • Lampades - torch bearers in the retinue of Hecate • individual underworld nymphs: • Gorgyra • Leuce (white poplar tree), lover of Hades • Minthe (mint), lover of Hades, rival of Persephone • Orphne • Melinoe(μήλινος) Daughter of Zeus and Persephone, bringer of nightmare and madness

Companions of Hecate, the Greek titan goddess of witchcraft and crossroads, the Lampades were a gift from Zeus for Hecate's loyalty in the Titanomachy. They bear torches and accompany Hecate on her night-time travels and hauntings. Some accounts tell of how the light of the Lampads' torches has the power to drive one to madness. The Lampads were probably the daughters or sons of various Underworld gods, Daimones, river gods, or Nyx. The Lampads' Roman name is Nymphae -24-

A story of what lies beneath

by Marc Prudhon Sirens and Mers, gather here at the shore, I have a story for you.

Pagans, Witches, and Children of Gaia, you're welcome here too.

The tale you may believe or disbelieve, whatever you are able.

Think of it as full truth, or consider it to be merely a fable.

I awakened from a dream, today, ‘ere this morning had broken.

But not just a dream, I believe to me, a warning was spoken.

The tale begins, after my ship sank in a storm.

Walking and seeing, yet I seemed to have no form.

Seeing three women, one untangling what the first was spinning.

The third looked at me, and judged, as she cut each threads ending.

Placed a coin and sigil in my hand, told me "Keep these in tight hold.

You will need the coin first in your journey, lose it at peril of your soul.

Later the sigil will tell of your judgement, nothing less or more.

You will be told what to do with it, when reaching that other shore.”

With no break in time, i stood on the shore of the dark fogged land, A boatman stood there before.me in his boat , holding forth his hand.

We crossed that water, my thoughts of the world grew faint and fading.

My eyes graced by sight of three Nymphs, most beautiful Maidens.

The first caught my eye,said. "I am Ophne, Nymph of ultimate darkness.

Along with my sister Nymph Melinoe, she of nightmares and madness.

We two have powers granted from the gods of all times.

We make your punishment fit all of your crimes.

Now we shall see where you belong in this land.

Give me your sigil, place it on the stone where i stand.''

I set it on the rock, and it began to glow in that place.

The third Nymph came forward, loving smile on her face.

Saying "I am Leuce, Nymph of the Elysium Fields, You belong with me now," her voice a joyous peal.

Outside of Elysium, there will come to your sight, Soul waiting peacefully, in neither darkness or light.

These souls are in balance, not bad or good, no joy or pain.

So these, must return to the world, to be born once again.

The Nymph Lethe, gives each a small drink, ere they are reborn.

The waters of oblivion, the previous life memories are shorn.

I woke from my sleep, thought, strange dreams surely invaded my rest.

Yet one white poplar leaf was there in my bed, a coin on my chest.

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“Before you take the tour of the Underworld you must make an adjustment in your way of thinking about the Underworld. In mythology, the Underworld was just a place where the dead go to spend eternity. It falls within the natural scheme of things. The three judges there, Aeacus, Minos, and Hermeschthonius, they judge the people who enter here.

Some like Tantalus are punished. Some like Aecus are rewarded. The three fates are in the Underworld; Clotho spins the thread that is your life, Lachesis puts knots or keeps the thread untangled, and Atropos cuts that thread at the right time. No living person could enter the Underworld but as usual there are and have been exceptions. Hercules and Orpheus entered and left. I have limited access through special permission of Hades. It is not only a place of eternal damnation, it is not only a place where only sinners are tortured. Yes, there are demons, there are Hell hounds, but the blessed Elysium Fields are also here. A domain of good, righteous, heroic, and those whose life choices have granted them admittance. . Give yourself a minute, then go buy a ticket for the Underworld Trolly Tour. I'm your tour guide, we'll leave in just a minute.

The

“The Underworld is the domain of the dead, since we are still a part of the land of the living and hope to return there, we will not reveal names. For your safety, please, keep your hands inside the trolly, do not get off the trolly for any reason once we begin to move. Be aware that no light from Apollo's orb passes the gates once we begin the descent. You also need to be aware that in the Underworld what you will see is in the The Venus Grotto at King Ludwig II's realm of Hades and his Queen Persephone. Although we do not worship them, as they were revered in the days of old, he is a mighty god, sometimes brooding. If you violate the rules of the tour, you might end up spending eternity with him. Once you become a part of the population here, there is no escape. True, there have been rumors and the occasional story of travelers who made it out, Orpheus for one, that was a special one time deal. At last check there were no deals out there waiting for any of you.. Now that I really have your attention I'll restate the rules. Keep your hands inside the trolly, do not touch anything or take anything from the inhabitants, do not get out of the trolly as it moves through the darkness of Hades. Any questions? Very well.

“This will be a once in a lifetime adventure for you. We ask that you take no flash pictures. The bright illumination will startle the residents. It also might reveal somethings best left hidden within the shades. Even though the Elysium Fields are well lit, peaceful and beautiful, your camera will not work there and will remain permanently damaged. As we enter the gates, you will notice that the air is not necessarily hot. The breezes here are neither gentle nor are they horrendous, except where they need to be. The ancients came to the Underworld after they died. Hades, being and omnipotent being, like his brothers Poseidon and Zeus, knew what each individual had done when alive on surface of the earth, the section of the Universe ruled by his sisters. If necessary, people pay for their unfortunate actions; if not, they simply take up residence here in the realm of the dead, or if warranted, spend eternity in Elysium The water you hear is the River Styx. The river completely surrounds the realm of the dead. It must be crossed to enter, it is always considered a one way trip. Charon, the boatman will accept the coins you have each donated and ferry the trolly to the other side. The waters are special, sacred, many rites have been performed here.”

A hand is raised, “Why did we pay with coins?”

“When he began his job, there was no paper money. Second, the dead had coins because the coins were used as weights to keep their eyes closed before they made the trip here. Need I say more?”

“The terrifying, deep growl you hear is Cerberus, he is the Hell Hound of all Hell Hounds. He isn't here to keep us from getting in; he's here to be sure we don't get out. You will notice as you look at him, where he ever vigilantly stands, the number of his heads is in constant change. Most of the time he has three heads but it does vary. He only has a taste for live meat; hence the directions I gave you when we began. He's only been out of the area once. Hercules was -26-

Tour

assigned to capture the beast, Hades said he could take him as long as he didn't kill his pet. Hercules had been purified in the rites of Elysium, being half immortal, he could move into and out of the realm of his Uncle Hades.

For those of you who may be squeamish, turn your heads as I give him what he requires to grant us passage.

“If you look about, you will notice the beautiful glowing lamps on the trolly.

These are designed in honor of the Underworld nymphs the Lampades.

The lovely shape is based on the lights that they carry to provide illumination for travelers in the Underworld. If you like them they are for sale in the gift shop at the end of the tour, these lamps are available here, no where else. Ah! Look down the path at the beautiful glow of the nymphs as they come to escort us as we make the tour. We will drop first to the lowest realm of the Underworld. Tartarus was the primeval god of the dark. This pit was not dug, the pit was Tartarus himself and used as prison for the Titian gods. It predates Hades realm which is up on the next level. As we travel into the pit and turn around, I'll introduce the nymphs that wish you to know their names. The young lady front right is Daeira, she is a companion and friend to Persephone. She is the contact nymph if you are interested in participating in the Eleusinian Mysteries, that is a weekend venture. You can get your application at the Gift shop at the end of the tour. Front left is Gorgyra she was wife of the god of the River Of Pain, Acheron. Back left is Orphne, she is the present wife of Acheron.

We would prefer that you just accept this information, sometimes Linderhof Palace relationships with immortals gets complicated. Just look at Zeus...but that is another tour. You can buy tickets at the Gift Shoppe. Two of the group of Lampades were transformed. Leuce was brought to the Eleusininan Fields by Hades; there she was transformed into a white poplar. Minthe was in love with Hades; Persephone was, a bit miffed and changed her into dust. Hades transformed the dust to a lovely mint plant that you will see in various places in the Underworld. The Lampades are not immortal, and the smaller lights you see moving with us are the young ones who are in training. All of the Lampades are followers and companions of the goddess Hecate. They are with her as she wanders the night participating in her revels and hauntings. Hecate is the goddess of necromancy and the haunting ghosts of the dead. She can also call forth Furies to haunt and punish the living.

Hecate is usually in charge of the Hell hounds, ghosts and demonic Laminae. The nymphs-in-training will learn to guide the individuals who enter the realm of the dead. They will learn from the guiding nymphs the rite of the Eleusininan ceremonies led by our Queen Persephone, other goddess and the Lampades.

These rites take place in Eleusis, conducted by the cult of Demeter and Persephone. The rites are agrarian in nature; they are ancient: they are secret; they are believed to give the participants a reward in the after life. Since the mysteries involve visions of the after life, some modern scholars believe that psychedelic agents were used in the ceremonies. It was believed that the mysteries “were designed to elevate man above the human sphere into the divine and to assure his redemption by making him a god and so conferring immortality upon him.” Lampades are the ladies you will meet and work with if you should choose to delve into the two part ceremony. The rites have a deep, long, involved history and should be undertaken by only serious students.

“As your tour guide I thank you for your kind attention. The Lampades will answer any questions that you might have about who and what you see here. Remember to stay in the trolly, don't touch anything, and keep your hands inside the trolly. My ability to travel here is limited; the trolly has the special protection of Hades himself. Since he is often grumpy and brooding, don't push your luck. See you in the Gift Shoppe at the end of the tour. One last rule for you to remember, as you ascend keep your eyes focused on the front of the trolly. Under no circumstances should you look back Those who look back have a way of not making it out. Goodbye, perhaps this tour will help you decide to make some changes in your future life choices, having said that I will leave you and begin my assent to the surface.

Enjoy the tour.

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Spelunking! ...or, The practice of caving (nicknamed ‘spelunking’ in the 1940’s as a derivation of the Latin spelunca) was pioneered in the late 1800’s by Édouard-Alfred Martel. By the 1930s, caving had gained significant popularity, especially in France. In 1941 Americans created the National Speleological Society and international interest in the activity has grown in concert with developments in techniques and equipment. The following is a list of famous underground caves, as compiled by Turopia: #10 - Eisriesenwelt Cave The Eisriesenwelt (German for “World of the Ice Giants”) is largest ice cave in the world, extending more than 42km (26 miles). The cave is inside the Hochkogel mountain in the Tennengebirge section of the Alps in Austria. Eisriesenwelt was formed by a river, which eroded passageways into the mountain.

The ice formations in the cave were formed by thawing snow which drained into the cave and froze during winter. #9 - Reed Flute Cave Reed Flute Cave known as “the Palace of Natural Arts” is located in the northwest of Guilin in southern China. According to a legend, Reed Flute Cave got its name because people believed that the reed by the cave’s mouth could be made into flutes. The limestone cave offers a majestic fairyland of stalactites, stalagmites, stone pillars, stone curtains, birds, plants and animals in fantastic shapes and colors. #8 - Cave of the Crystals The Cave of the Crystals was discovered in 2000 by miners excavating a new tunnel for the Naica Mine in northern Mexico. The main chamber contains some of the largest natural crystals ever found in any of the underground caves around the world. The cave’s largest crystal found to date is 11 meters (36 feet) in length, 4 meters (13 feet) in diameter and 55 tons in weight. The crystals became so large because of the extremely hot temperatures inside the cave, reaching a steamy 58 degrees Celsius (136 degrees Fahrenheit), that allowed microscopic crystals to form and grow. The result is an underground cave that Superman fans have been looking for.

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for the snooty, Caving “Caves have been explored throughout history. In prehistory they were used for shelter, burial, or as religious sites. Today researches study caves because they can reveal details of past climatic conditions. Cavers explore them for the enjoyment of the activity or for physical exercise. For the less adventurous, a number of the most beautiful underground caves have been converted into show caves, where artificial lighting, floors, and other aids allow the casual tourist to experience the cave with minimal inconvenience.” #7 - Puerto Princesa Underground River The Puerto Princesa Underground River is located in a jungle covered mountain range on the northern coast of the island of Palawan in the Philippines. Until the 2007 discovery of an underground river in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, the Puerto Princesa Underground River was reputed to be the world’s longest underground river and is still the longest navigable underground river. The underground river is 8.2 kilometer (5 miles) long that winds through a spectacular cave before emptying into the South China Sea. #6 - Waitomo Caves The Waitomo Caves are one of New Zealand’s top tourist attractions, located just outside the main Waitomo township. The underground caves are home to the famous Waitomo glowworms, tiny creatures that radiate their luminescent light.

These glowworms are found exclusively in New Zealand and around the size of an average mosquito. Formed over 30 million years ago, Waitomo Glowworm Caves have majestic and ornate cave decorations, deep limestone shaft known as the Tomo and the equally magnificent Cathedral cavern known for its superb acoustics. #5 - Majlis al Jinn Cave Majlis al Jinn is one of the largest underground caves in the world located in a remote area of the Selma Plateau in Oman. Majlis al Jinn is a single cave chamber measuring about 310 meters by 225 meters (1,017 by 738 feet), with a domed ceiling 120 meters (393 feet) high. The deepest part of the cave is 178 meters (584 feet) below the top. To put the size in perspective: 12 Boeing 747 jumbo planes would fit inside the cave chamber. The cave is only for experienced climbers although there are some plans to develop Majlis al Jinn into a more easily accessible tourist cave.

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#4 - Skocjan Caves The Skocjan cave system includes the highest cave hall in Europe, a massive underground gorge, waterfalls and a bridge over the gorge that looks like something out of The Lord of the Rings. The caves have beautiful stalactite and stalagmite structures. The Škocjan Caves are the creation of the sinking Reka River. The river remains on the surface for the first part but suddenly disappears underground, where it continues its way through the caves. The water appears on the surface again after flowing underground for 34 km (21 miles) not far from the Adriatic coast. #3 - Carlsbad Caverns Carlsbad Caverns is a National Park located near Carlsbad, New Mexico. Carlsbad Caverns includes the Big Room, a natural limestone cave chamber which measures 1,219 by 190 meters (4,000 by 625 feet), and 107 meters (350 feet) high at the highest point. It is the seventh largest cave chamber in the world. The caverns are decorated with stalactites, stalagmites and an incredible variety of other formations that can be seen by several easily accessible trails. #2 - Jeita Grotto The Jeita Grotto consists of two separate but interconnected karstic limestone caves: the upper grotto and the lower grotto. The upper gallery houses the world’s largest stalactite – a mineral deposit that hangs from the ceiling of a limestone cave The lower gallery which has an overall length of 6,200 meters (20,300 feet) is located 60 meters (200 feet) below the upper gallery. It is traversed by a smooth underwater river and a lake. #1 - Mulu Caves The Mulu Caves are located in the Gunung Mulu National Park in Borneo and are one of the top tourist attractions in Malaysia. The park encompasses incredible caves and karst formations in a mountainous equatorial rainforest setting. The Sarawak chamber found in one of the underground caves measures 700 by 396 meters (2,300 feet by, 1,300 feet) and at least 70 meters (230 feet) high and is the largest cave chamber in the world. It has been said that the chamber is so big that it could accommodate about 40 Boeing 747s, without overlapping their wings.

The enormous colony of Wrinkle-lipped bats in the nearby Deer Cave exit almost every evening in search of food in a spectacular exodus.

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http://www.waitomo.com/waitomoglowworm-caves.aspx

WAITOMO GLOWWORM CAVE

Waitomo Glowworm Caves

The massed delicacy of the millions of stalactites in Aranui Cave is probably without equal in the world. The cave was formed on an earthquake fault, which means the rain water that creates the limestone crystals enters more readily. As a result, almost every corner of the roof and walls is adorned with fragile, sparkling forms in pale brown, pink and white. There is very little of the ceiling that has not been decorated by the dripping water.

The Waitomo Glowworm Caves were first explored in 1887 by local Maori Chief Tane Tinorau accompanied by an English surveyor Fred Mace.

Local Maori people knew of the Caves existence, but the subterranean caverns had never been extensively explored until Fred and Tane went to investigate. They built a raft of flax stems and with candles as their only lighting, floated into the cave where the stream goes underground.

As they entered the caves, their first discovery was the Glowworm Grotto with its myriad of tiny bright lights dotting the cave ceiling. As their eyes adjusted to the darkness, they saw a multitude of lights reflecting off the water. Looking up, they discovered that the ceilings were dotted with the lights of thousands of glowworms. Debris and logs littered the waterway, but by poling themselves toward the embankment they were able to leave the raft and explore the lower levels of the cave. Here they found themselves surrounded by the glorious cave decorations.

Jubilant at their discovery, they returned many times to explore further, and on an independent trip Chief Tane discovered the upper level of the cave and an easier access. Only after many subsequent visits did they discover an entry point on land. This is the same entry point used today by thousands of visitors annually. By 1889 Tane Tinorau had opened the cave to tourists. Visitor numbers soared and Chief Tane and his wife Huti escorted groups through the cave for a small fee.

In 1906 the administration of the cave was taken over by the government.

In 1989, almost 100 years later, the land and the cave was returned to the descendants of the original owners. Many staff employed at the caves today are direct descendants of Chief Tane Tinorau and his wife Huti.

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“A bird does not sing because it has an answer.

It s ings b ecau s e it has a song.” ~Maya Angelou

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Artisan Kate Lasilla channels her talent and connection with the treasures of the earth’s core to overcome anxiety and depression. In the process, she makes beautiful jewelry and inspires others to use their own creativity in tangible, healing ways.

You've been called the gemstone whisperer.

How did you earn this monicker?

Basically, I have been channeling gemstone patterns and combinations as well as simple messages from the Ether...this last 'channel' i entered the world of a crystal. I am looking forward to the next time I am honored with another journey.

I was dubbed the Gemstone Whisperer by [friend] Tracie Nichols last year just after I had 'officially' opened for business... I wrote a blog about it here.

You also have a relationship with metals, something many people may not exactly view as a warm and fuzzy type of material. How did you first develop your interest in metals?

Metals are actually warm and fuzzy....each metal vibrates at different frequencies...such as copper is a very male energy and silver a very female energy...this is why they go so well together..yin/yang n all that! I decided to branch out a bit and try my hand and wire work...my next curiosity will be metal work...i am really looking forward to the energies and things that will come from combining molten metal energies with botanicals and animal totems as well as complementary crystals... soooooo very intriguing...how we can use the tools nature gave us, not only as decoration to show our spirit or soul, but also to enhance the light body AND the physical body.

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You've mentioned that your "mission is to assist other souls living with depression, anxiety and agoraphobia." What can you share about this mission?

Ahhhh...the mission...two or three years in its infancy as yet. Once upon a time I was riddled with depression, anxiety and agoraphobia. I would like to help others start support groups in their areas by helping out with fees and such associated with these things. Another facet of this is to take part in using creativity as an excellent tool for depression. I am in touch with the local art gallery in my area and we are planning on a class and also awareness.

How did you first get into jewelry making?

And what does the activity do for you?

I first got into jewelry making while working as a janitor...one of the other gals was working on a project and i was immediately addicted to 'beading' ...then when I first laid my hands on a strand of gemstones that is when my longest standing love affair began..with the energies of gemstones. the act of beading and wiring (apart from the channeling part of it) is very meditational and soothing to me. I get lost and live in that moment, with the labor intensive aspect of my art, it is difficult to focus on anything else when I am in the midst of this process.

The name of your business, Rootiebird's, is adorable. Where did it come from?

RootieBirds....everyone asks the question...such a simple answer... My middle name is Ruth...and my father called me RootieBird... He has since passed...

What are you looking forward to next?

I look forward to what is around each corner...If i plan on something it is guaranteed it will not work out as I had arranged. So...I simply love to fly by the seat of my pants...see what happens!

(But I really really want to work more with metal, leather, wood carving....and explore the vast and fascinating world I have only dipped my toes into ...botanical and animal totems) -34-

To see more of her trove of purchasable treasures, visit Kate’s Rootiebirds Etsy store, or visit her new website or Rootiebird Facebook fan page.

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Hot as Hades Brownies submitted by Bonnie Ramsburg

1 Box of your favorite brownie mix (or see from-scratch recipe from Food.com below)

1 4 oz can Finely Chopped Jalapenos, drained Follow Mixing instructions on back of Brownie box Add Jalapenos (drained or not, your choice) Bake according to package directions and Enjoy!

Brownie batter from scratch:

INGREDIENTS • • • • • • • •

6 ounces bittersweet chocolate chips (about 1 cup) or coarsely chopped bittersweet chocolate 8 tablespoons unsalted butter (1 stick), cut into 8 pieces 2 large eggs, at room temperature 1 cup granulated sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/2 teaspoon baking powder 1/4 teaspoon fine salt 1 cup all-purpose flour

INSTRUCTIONS 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Heat the oven to 350°F and arrange a rack in the middle. Line an 8-by-8-inch metal baking pan with aluminum foil.

Combine the chocolate and butter in a medium saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring frequently, until melted and smooth. Remove from the heat and let cool slightly, about 5 minutes. (Alternatively, melt the chocolate and butter in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds.)

Combine the eggs, sugar, vanilla, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl and stir with a rubber spatula until just evenly incorporated. Add the chocolate mixture and stir until evenly combined. Add the flour and fold in until just incorporated, about 20 strokes (no white streaks should remain).

Pour the batter into the prepared pan, push it to the edges in an even layer, and smooth the top. Bake until a cake tester or skewer inserted into the center comes out clean, about 25 minutes. Remove to a wire rack and let the brownies cool for at least 20 minutes.

To remove the brownies, grip the excess foil and pull it out of the baking pan. Transfer to a cutting board and cut the brownies into 2-inch squares.

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Fra Diavalo from allrecipes.com

INGREDIENTS • 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided • 6 cloves garlic, crushed • 3 cups whole peeled tomatoes with liquid, chopped • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt • 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes • 1 (16 ounce) package linguine pasta • 8 ounces small shrimp, peeled and • deveined • 8 ounces bay scallops • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

DIRECTIONS 1. In a large saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of the olive oil with the garlic over medium heat. When the garlic starts to sizzle, pour in the tomatoes. Season with salt and red pepper. Bring to a boil. Lower the heat, and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

2. Meanwhile, bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook pasta for 8 to 10 minutes, or until al dente; drain.

3. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over high heat.

Add the shrimp and scallops. Cook for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently, or until the shrimp turn pink. Add shrimp and scallops to the tomato mixture, and stir in the parsley. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, or until the sauce just begins to bubble. Serve sauce over pasta.

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Shinto, Anime, & Hayao Miyazaki

by Shannon Lopez

A Traditional Japanese gate called a “Torii”.

Usually located at the entrance as well as within a Shinto shrine.

Photo by Shannon Lopez, 2009

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To those unfamiliar with the art form, Japanese Animation or otherwise known as “Anime” has a very unique look. Characters are often drawn with exaggerated features such as large heads, long limbs, big eyes, and colorful, usually gravity defying, hair. It’s something that once you have seen you will immediately be able to identify the differences between Japanese and Western style animation.

More than just artistic taste, there is a certain style that Anime uses to address the issues of the world. Be it war, corporate greed, the rapid advances in science and technology, the supernatural, all things are acknowledged and are given dialogue through various stories and adventures. This particular article, in keeping with the theme of the spirits of nature, will address the work of one particular celebrated Japanese animator and film director, Hayao Miyazaki. His style of both visual art and storytelling serve as an excellent example of the perception of the fragile harmony that exists between the world of humanity and that of Nature.

To narrow our focus, this article shall summarize and review two of Miyazaki’s most popular and highly acclaimed works and its depiction of the relationship between mankind and nature. Following in chronological order these two shall be: My Neighbor Totoro (1988), and Princess Mononoke (1997). However, before we can address the subject of Nature through Anime it is important to first understand the historical religion and traditions of Japan and how the reverence of nature is reflected in its philosophy.

What is Shinto?

Shinto itself is very difficult to classify in terms of religion but it can best be described as both a pantheistic and polytheistic “folk religion” that developed exclusively in Japan. The name Shinto literally translates to “the way of the Kami”, the word “Kami” can be loosely translated to mean “god” or “spirit”. These gods can reside in any shape or object, be they -39-

Hayao Miyazaki

living or inanimate and though there is a social hierarchy amongst them, even the greatest and most powerful Kami are neither omnipotent nor omnipresent.

In Shinto, it is believed that everyone and everything is the result of a Kami birth, that all origins can be traced back to the first gods, and thus everything in existence possess a “Kami nature”. With that belief, it is expected that everything, including humanity, has the potential to become a full-fledged Kami. It is therefore desired that humanity lives in harmony with its surroundings as they may be living in the presence of a future deity. Also, as a result of being Kami-born it is thought that all things are in fact brethren to one another and that the same Kami blood flows equally through the veins of humans, animals, plant, rivers, mountains, etc..

*WARNING* If you have not seen either of these movies: SPOILERS AHEAD! My Neighbor Totoro (1988) In order to be closer to their sickly mother, two young sisters named Satsuki and Mei move with their father into an old house built adjacent to an ancient forest. While exploring their new home and the surrounding woods, the youngest sister Mei comes across two strange

harmony between man and nature is shown to be not only possible but can even thrive in a modern day society so long as people are willing to open their eyes and see the world through the eyes of a child.

Princess Mononoke (1997)

My Neighbor Totoro by Studio Ghibli

rabbit like creatures who lead her through a secret tunnel under a gigantic camphor tree. At the end of the tunnel, she enters a massive chamber in which she meets an enormous yet sleepy rabbit like spirit named Totoro. When she tells her father what she had seen he replies that Totoro is a protector of the forest and that he can only been seen when he wants to. Totoro and his fellow spirits, later appear to the sisters throughout the film as helpful and friendly guides, willing to play and protect the children who at times struggle to adjust to their new home as well as the absence of their mother. In the end, the mother is discharged from the hospital and is able to return home; as a result the sisters are no longer able to see Totoro as they are overjoyed that their family has once again been reunited.

As part of Shintoism, many spirits can be benevolent and kind, especially to the pure of heart. Miyazaki’s portrayal of the children and the spirits of the forest is a celebration of innocents. Sastuki and Mei’s exploration of the woods with Totoro showcases the beauty of unblemished nature. In their adventures the girls observe the spirits as they plant seeds and enact rituals in order to cultivate the forest.

Eager to help, the sisters join in on the festivities and aid the spirits, mimicking their movements, and watch in wonder as the forest grows before their very eyes.

Peace and

In contrast to the tranquility of My Neighbor Totoro, Princess Mononoke depicts a bleak and violent world where the realms of humanity and spirit-kind clash in a bloody struggle for survival. The story takes place during the Muromachi period of Japan, between 1337 and 1573. After his village is attached by a colossal boar god, a young prince named Ashitaka manages to slay the corrupted spirit in defense of his people. However, the corruption of the boar god infects Ashitaka’s right arm and though the curse grants him increased strength and agility, it causes him agonizing pain and will inevitably kill him. Taking the advice from the local wise woman, he leaves his home and travels south to discover what led to the corruption of the boar god and hopefully discovers a cure for his curse.

During his journey, he finds himself in the middle of a war raging between the inhabitance of a fortified village known as Irontown and the angry gods of the nearby forest whose territory has been cut and burned to feed Irontown’s industrial forges. Ashitaka is surprised to learn that on the side of the forest gods is a young woman known as Princess Mononoke otherwise called San. Raised by a pack of wolf spirits, she has been taught to hate mankind and the destruction they bring to her forest.

Irontown and the destruc9on of the forest.

(Screenshot from Studio Ghibli’s Princess Mononoke.)

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In Conclusion…

San and her wolf brothers being greeted by friendly tree spirits called Kodama.

(Screenshot from Studio Ghibli’s Princess Mononoke.)

The war between the gods of nature and mankind is brutal, with characters both good and bad perishing on both sides. Miyazaki’s theme on pollution and the destruction of nature through industrialization is however multifaceted. The main villain of the story is not mankind despite what one might think. As it turns out, the inhabitance of Irontown are outcasts of society, such as lepers and liberated brother workers. The residence of the town care for each other as family, and that they destroy the forest not out of malice, but in order to help their village survive and defend themselves against rival towns.

In that regard, the defenders of the forest are not all saints. Similar to the spirits of My Neighbor Totoro who endeavored to help the spirit grow, the kami of Princess Mononoke could prove extremely violent. In one instance, in a duality of character, a clan of primate spirits who struggled to plant new trees resolved themselves to eat the flesh of humans in the hope that they might gain man’s strength and use it against them.

I will not spoil the end of this spectacular film. If you have not seen it already, I highly recommend that you either rent or borrow a copy as soon as possible. The power and ferocity of nature as it fights for its survival can be vicious as it is beautiful.

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Harmony between humanity and nature is fragile. In both My Neighbor Totoro and Princess Mononoke we see the success as well as the struggle for both sides to coexist. Miyazaki masterfully depicts the duality of nature and its ability to help and hinder mankind. As part of the belief in Shintoism both worlds are connected and must be respected. To quote Miyazaki as he made his pitch for Princess Mononoke, he said “There cannot be a happy ending to the fight between the raging gods and humans. However, even in the middle of hatred and killings, there are things worth living for.”* He makes mention of love between both sides and we see by the end of the film that even if forgiveness is not achieved there is always hope for peace. *Quote Taken from IMDB.com

Other recommended related works of Hayao Miyazaki: • Spirited Away • Nausicca of the Valley of the Wind • Ponyo

The spirits of the forest ride to war.

(Screenshot from Studio Ghibli’s Princess Mononoke.)

Hydriades or Ephydriades •Haliae {sea and seashores} •Nereids {50 daughters of Nereus, the Mediterranean Sea}

•Naiads or Naides {fresh water} •Crinaeae {fountains} •Eleionomae {wetlands} •Limnades or Limnatides {akes} •Pegaeae {springs} •Potameides {rivers}

•Oceanids {daughters of Oceanus and Tethys, any water, usually salty}

•see List of Oceanids

Oceanid by ~Chrisgiz12 on DeviantArt; model Laura

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The Naiades, along with Artemis, were regarded as the divine nurses of the young, and the protectors of girls and maidens, overseeing their safe passage into adulthood. Similarly Apollon and the River-Gods (fathers of the Naiades) were the patron gods of boys and youths.

Many of the Naiades married local kings and played a prominent role in the genealogies of the royal families of myth. Others, such as the beautiful Naiad daughters of Asopos, were loved by the gods. They often gave their names to towns, cities and islands, and as such were most likely regarded as the goddess-protectors of the community's water supply, which usually consisting of a spring, stream-fed fountain, or well.

The Pegaiai with their distinctive natural springs, and the Krinaiai who presided over town fountains, were the mostly commonly worshipped and individualised of the Nymphs. Those who possessed waters with some special property (or which were believed to have some special property), often had proper cults and shrines established in their honour. Examples of these include the Anigrides of Elis whose waters were believed to cure disease, and the Nymphs of Helikon and Delphoi whose waters were thought to bestow poetical and prophetic inspiration respectively.

The Naiades were depicted in ancient art as beautiful, young women, either seated, standing or reclining beside their springs, and holding a hydria (water jug) or branch of lush foliage. [source: theoi.com]

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Cycles of Forever

by Marc Prudhon

Rising unborn, pulled forth from the seas and oceans by sun rays.

Gathered by Nephelea, sky riders, flying over the land for days.

Some fall short ere reaching the icecapped mountains so deep.

Those who do arrive, come down in white splendor, then fall into sleep.

Auroras' dawn and the Spring comes to them, with days so warm.

From that embrace, they awaken, each finding themselves, reborn.

Greeted by Nixie, water sprite, chuckling and laughing down sparkling rill.

As she sends them on tumbling with joyous abandon down every hill.

Nymph Nerissa, of small streams, gathers these children as one.

She has learned not to tell them, their journey has barely begun.

Nymph Talula of leaping waters, caresses them with rapids and waterfall.

As they rush happily onwards, for they hear another Nymphs call.

Kallan, she of flowing waters awaits, gathering each, growing older and strong.

She tends them, thru lake, marsh and fen, but never does she hurry them along.

They age as they flow, nearing the lowland, they have become older and slow.

Questioning, what could be next?, What's ahead? very soon they will know.

That journey is finished now, ahead they hear the voice of the Sea, Saying, 'Welcome my children, you have returned unto me.

Concern yourselves not, here there is peace, no hurt nor pain.

And I tell each of you a great truth. soon you will rise once again.

Oceanids by Ora Moon -44-

Healing Waters Everywhere and lots of drops to drink

When Coleridge’s ancient mariner and crew are stuck out at sea, surrounded on all sides by water, but far from the fresh water they needed to survive, he is famously quoted as saying, Water, water everywhere, And all the boards did shrink Water, water everywhere Nor any drop to drink.

Mankind has long been fascinated by and dependent upon water. The composition of our very bodies is more than half water! Throughout time, healers and everyday individuals have sought water as a means of cure and solace. In Back to Eden Jethro Kloss explains why: Water has been used from time immemorial for remedial purposes. The world’s oldest medical literature makes numerous references to the beneficial use of the bath in treating various diseases. The learned Greek, Hippocrates, who lived about five hundred years before Christ and is referred to as the “father of modern medicine,” was the first to write much on the healing of diseases with water. He used water extensively, both internally and externally, in treating illness of all kinds. “When pain seizes the side, either at the commencement or at a later stage, it will not be improper to try to dissolve the pain by hot applications...A soft large sponge, squeezed out of hot water and applied, forms a good application...A soft fomentation like this soothes pains, even such as shoot to the clavicle.”

Hippocrates goes on to say: “...for the bath soothes the pain in the side, chest and back; concocts the sputa, promotes expectoration, improves the respiration, and allays lassitude; for it soothes the joints and the outer skin, and is diuretic, removes heaviness of the head, and moistens the nose. Such are the benefits to be derived from the bath.”

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Long before Hippocrates recorded his experiences with the healing properties of water, we have learned from the study of ancient history that the Egyptians enjoyed bathing in their sacred river, the Nile.

Pictures of ancient Egyptians, found in the tombs, show people preparing for a bath. The baby Moses was found in the rushes when Pharaoh’s daughter went down to the river to bathe. Bathing held a prominent place in the instructions that were given by Moses, under divine guidance, for the government of the Hebrew nation. The relations of the bath to the treatment of leprosy would lead us to believe that it was used for its curative effects, and it would seem likely that an agent held in such high regard as a useful remedy would also be highly esteemed as a preventive of disease.

The ancient Persians and Greeks erected stately and magnificent public buildings devoted to bathing. The baths of Darius I (about 558-486 B.C.), one of the earliest Persian kings, are spoken of as being especially remarkable. The Greeks were probably the first nation to use the bath for personal cleanliness as well as for health reasons. Records show that they were using the warm bath more than one thousand years before the birth of Christ. In the ruins of King Nestor’s palace in Greece there was found a built-in-bathtub and drainage system more than 3000 years old. Rome, however, surpassed all the older nations in the costliness and magnificence of her bathing facilities. The first public bath was erected in Rome in the year 312 B.C. and it used only cold water. It was not long, however, until warm water baths replaced all those using cold water alone. Some of the greatest works of architecture in Rome were the warm public baths, which were supplied with every convenience for increasing the use and luxury of bathing as well as having many rooms for social gatherings. Kings and emperors

each endeavored to construct a larger and more ornate public bath than their predecessors. The baths of Diocletian, completed in 302 A.D., were the largest in the world and could accommodate up to 18,000 bathers at the same time. It took 10,000 Christian slaves nearly seven years to complete their construction. When the baths were completed, the slaves had the choice of renouncing their religion or suffering martyrdom. At one time the number of public baths in Rome reached nearly one thousand.

Two noted physicians of the Roman Empire, Celsus and Galen, praised and glorified the bath as being invaluable for the treatment of a number of specific diseases. Galen said that exercise and friction must be used with the bath in order to have a perfect cure. If only the physicians through the following centuries had continued the practice of Galen, as described in his works, what a lot of suffering would have been avoided.

Doctors would have refreshed and revived their feverstricken patients with the use of God-given water, instead of giving them drugs like quinine, mercury, arsenic, etc, and letting them be consumed by fever that parched their lips and disorganized their blood. The Emperor Augustus was said to have been cured by water remedies of a disease that had resisted all other methods of treatment.

The Arabians have sometimes been looked upon as a wandering horde of wild men, but about one thousand years ago they had physicians among them that were some of the most learned men of that age. They were very sensible and enthusiastic about the benefits of the bath. Rhazes, one of the most prominent among them, described a method that is scarcely outdone by presentday water treatments. Baths were also used during pestilences.

In Constantinople, Turkish baths were very popular during the fifteenth century.

In the year 1600 A.D., public vapor baths were numerous in Paris, France. They were connected with the barber shops, as many still are in that country at the present time. Dr. Bell, of Paris, states that in connection with the city hospitals nearly 130,000 baths were given in a single year to outside patients. Undoubtedly, patients in the hospitals were steamed and bathed as well. What a marked contrast with present-day hospitals in this country where the use of water treatments is most sadly neglected. Such neglect is inexcusable.

The Germans in olden times were very fond of bathing. According to the records of history, during the Middle Ages when there were many cases of leprosy, it

was a religious duty to bathe because of the national faith in bathing. History also tells us that Emperor Charlemagne, who was a giant of a man over seven feet tall with long blond hair, held court while relaxing in a huge warm bath.

During the early part of the eighteenth century, water was used medicinally. Floyer published a history of bathing in which remarkable cures were reported, and he recommended the bath for numerous diseases. A Mr. Hancock, who was a minister, published in 1723 a book called “Common Water, the Best Cure for Fevers.”

Another book, whose author is unknown, was called “Curiosities of Common Water.” It was also published in 1723. In this book water was said to be an “excellent remedy which will perform cures with very little trouble, and without charge, and may be truly styled a universal remedy.” French and German writers were also advocating the use of water as a remedy during this same time.

In the early part of the nineteenth century, Vincent Priessnitz popularized the use of cold water as a curative measure. He was a peasant who lived in the Austrian part of Silesia from 1799 to 1851. In the small Austrian town where he grew up, water was used by the people to treat many ailments. When only a young man, Priessnitz suffered a severe injury. Several of his ribs were broken and his chest was caved in on the left side by a loaded wagon. Several of his teeth were also knocked out. The doctors who came to see him did not offer any hope for a cure. But he remembered several years before when he had successfully treated a badly crushed finger by holding it in cold water until the bleeding stopped and the pain was relieved, and he decided to treat his broken ribs in the same way. So by taking deep breaths while leaning over a chair to expand his ribs and using cold water, he was gradually completely cured.

It was not long after this that Priessnitz began to use this cold water treatment on others. His routine course of treatment consisted of cold baths and compresses, along with friction. He used this form of treatment for all manner of disease, since this was what had cured him. He combined the cold water therapy with exercise, deep breathing, and a diet of dark bread, meat, and vegetables that he grew in his own garden. His success greatly encouraged, but he met with considerable opposition from the doctors when he treated some of their patients and cured them, after the doctors had given them up.

Although Priessnitz had no formal education, he developed various ways of applying cold water to the

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body to treat different diseases. His fame increased rapidly and in a few years he was known throughout the world. Today he is called the father of modern hydrotherapy. He succeeded in restoring hundreds of people to health who had been pronounced incurable. His friends claimed that he was a great discoverer, but he really didn’t discover anything that had not been known for at least a century, if not for thousands of years before.

A famous neurologist in Vienna, Dr. Wilhelm Winternitz, went to observe Priessnitz’s water cure treatment center in Graefenberg, Austria. He was so impressed with what could be accomplished with such simple means that he spent the rest of his life working to develop new methods of water treatment. The influence of Dr. Winternitz was felt by such well-known American water cure advocates as Dr. Simon Baruch and Dr. John Harvey Kellogg. It was Dr. Baruch who was chiefly responsible for the passage of laws in the state of New York that required the establishment of municipal baths in that state. Dr. Kellogg was the director of the Battle Creek Sanitarium in Michigan, the largest hydrotherapy treatment center in the United States until it was destroyed by fire on February 18, 1902. He developed many new treatments, including the electric light bath, that used natural methods.

The “water cure” spread to America about 1850 and until about 1854 it prospered greatly, but most of the doctors were opposed to this treatment. It seemed almost as though they did not want the people to get hold of any remedy that was practical, inexpensive, and could be used in any home. About 1870 they successfully had a law passed that prevented the water cure practitioners from practicing in New York. Since New York City was the headquarters, as soon as these treatments were stopped there, their use was abandoned nearly everywhere for a while.

Sebastian Kneipp, a Catholic priest in Bavaria who cured Archduke Joseph of Austria of Bright’s disease during the late nineteenth century, gained a wide reputation because of his success with the water cure. He also had his patients return to nature, as far as possible.

He used herbs with great success because he combined their use with other natural remedies.

The North American Indians used baths for many diseases. They developed original ways of giving both water and vapor baths. The vapor bath was the most commonly used, and it was followed by a plunge into a cold stream. This is similar to the custom so widely practiced at the present time in

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Finland, of jumping into either the snow or ice-cold water following a hot sauna bath.

The native Mexicans also use a hot-air bath (sauna).

They confine themselves in a brick house that is heated by a furnace located on the outside. They seem to have implicit confidence in the efficiency of the sauna bath to destroy disease, using it with much success when ill.

Water is one of the most powerful and yet one of the simplest remedies that can be used by an intelligent mother who understands the effects of hot and cold on the body. If you cleanse and nourish your body properly, and leave nature to itself, it will renovate and heal the body.

Lately, people have been led to believe that there are remarkable virtues in certain spring waters (this refers to water from certain hot mineral springs that is used for external treatments). The claim that these waters are possessed of a miraculous healing power is not true. The healing virtue is in the moist heat that is obtained from the water.

The whole thing in a nutshell is that the use of water, combines with an abundance of fresh air, sunshine, proper diet, exercise, rest, recreation and pleasant surroundings, effects a cure.

Unfortunately, in the early days the reputation of water as a remedy was injured because people such as Vincent Priesnitz used it to extremes. Such practitioners did not understand the human body, the use of hot and cold water, or the useful and powerful reactions that are produced in the body when it is properly used. People were led to believe that it was a cure-all, and that cold water was the only remedy no matter what the condition of the disease might be. Rest, pure air, nourishing and simple food, sunlight, and exercise are of equal importance to water in all cases. Although water is not a specific, it is one of the most valuable remedies. This is true not only of water, but also of all the other natural remedies. There may be a specific remedy for a particular disease, but there is not one and only one remedy for every disease. Several remedial agents must be combined to suit the condition, and not a single one used to the exclusion of all the others. But even so, water is an important agency in the treatment of nearly every disease when it is correctly applied and used with other forms of treatment.

The Face of Healing

As a field advocate for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, actress Karen Henning has faced up to intense personal heartache, and used it to foster hope. Here, she reveals what she’s learned and what she strives to impart to her daughters.

Karen, you seem to have a rare ability to connect with others in profound ways.

When you first saw your husband you told your cousin you knew you were going to marry him. 2 years later you did so. What was that experience like, having inside information and getting to watch the situation unfold?

I’m not sure how I knew in that moment that he was the one but I just did. My cousin said it was the $3 pitchers of beer. Haha! It’s always a fun story to tell people when they find out

we’ve been married for 12 years. It’s been quite an adventure being married to my best friend and also the longest “thing” I’ve ever done. My relationships before him were a matter of a few months. We connected so easily and quickly that it really made me believe in soul mates and love at first site. I love looking back on our relationship and knowing it was meant to be. That while our marriage has had it’s ups and downs, we have prevailed so beautifully.

I’ve always felt that I had strong intuitions on things and I believe it’s kept me out of trouble a lot of times. I think I can connect with people because I am so open and I don’t judge others.

Until I can say that I’m a perfect person, than who am I to say a person is wrong or bad. I try to always see the good in others and to forgive easily. I believe in second chances and that we all deserve them. I feel that’s what people see to make them comfortable enough to open -48-

themselves up to me and let me in. My husband and I laugh sometimes because I will meet people and they will just start telling me intimate details about their lives and he gets so confused about why. Even that person will say, “I’m not sure why I just told you all of that. I’ve never said that to anyone else.” I just think they see that no matter what they’ve done in their past, I will like them for them. It makes me feel good that others are comfortable enough to do that. For me, speaking about things is very cathartic so when they speak to me, I hope I am helping them in some way to get through difficulties.

How did your interests in holistic medicine and organic foods develop?

My youngest daughter had a bad reaction to her 4 month immunizations and I started researching what was in them which led to other inquiries into health and well being. I no longer have my children immunized after learning that they contain such chemicals as formaldehyde and mercury and there have been links to giving our children so many immunizations when they are young to autoimmune disorders and other health issues.

I feel like we overload our systems now with meds and chemicals when all those do is make our bodies weaker. I want to be the healthiest I can be and give my kids a good start in life and to do that we need to get back to nature.

Putting things in our bodies that are as close to their natural state as possible is the best thing you can do for your health. I’m also working on a blog on living an organic and holistic lifestyle called Love Me Organically I have just started this so there’s not much going on right now but stayed tuned. I will be giving lots of advice and recipes for staying healthy through holistic and organic living.

Karen & Dad

instead of taking you with them, you will forever have an emptiness inside of you. You will never fully be the person you could have been because they’re gone. When my dad took his own life I was crushed, heartbroken, completely devastated. And then to lose my friend, whom I was fighting for so hard to not end up the same way, left me wrecked. There are no words to really convey how it feels, other than, that you want to die, too. It hurts that much.

You're no stranger to suicide, having faced it with your father more than a decade ago and again this year with a dear friend. How have those experiences shaped the way you view life and relationships?

Suicide is probably the worst way to lose someone you love. You will live the rest of your life wondering what you should have done to prevent it, you wonder why they didn’t love you enough to stay, why they left you here to suffer

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RIP Lizzy, 2013

But the brightness in all of it is that I have learned to cherish those that are here with me now. To hold them a little tighter, tell them I love them more often, spend as much time with them as I can because tomorrow isn’t guaranteed. I don’t take my days for granted anymore and I have found the courage to finally follow my dreams. I understand that I have one shot at this life and I don’t want to waste it.

I was lucky that the last words I said to my dad and my friend were “I love you.” And that gives me some peace....

What made you take the plunge in getting involved with the AFSP and what does your role as a field representative entail?

I found out about the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention while we were living in Las Vegas. I was really feeling like I needed to keep my dad’s death from being just a statistic.

I wanted to take my heartache and make it into something positive. I didn’t want other daughters, mothers, friends to feel the way I do. This organization raises money to fund research into mental illnesses and taking away the stigma that society has about suicide and also, helping those, like myself, who have been left behind. One of the ways they raise money and awareness is through community walks.

Las Vegas didn’t have one organized yet and so I decided that I would help to do that.

Unfortunately, I just don’t think I was ready to face the memories and hurt I still had. I became very depressed and had to remove myself from the organizing committee and the walk itself. It took me about 2 years after that to

feel ready to participate in a walk again. My first Out of the Darkness walk was November 2, 2012 in Atlanta, GA. My husband, my girls and I walked in memory of my dad and in honor of my friend, Lizzy, as she was in the hospital getting treatment for her Bipolar Disorder. It was very emotional but also very healing and I realized then that this was what I was meant to do. To help end suicide once and for all. I will be walking again this year in my dad’s and my friend’s memory. Here is a link to my fundraising page. I am grateful for any and all donations or just spreading the word.

The next step for me in my fight to end suicide was becoming a field advocate for AFSP which means I will be working with my senators and representatives in Washington to help pass laws for suicide prevention and mental health awareness. I communicate through emails, social media and community events to help bring about change for mental disorders and suicide. It’s a great way for me to help others and make the tragedy of losing my dad and friend into something positive. I know deep in my heart that they would want me to do this and it’s through their love that I have found that strength.

What do you hope to impart to your own children about the value of life?

I want my children to know that life is worth saving, whether it’s human or animal. That no matter what we are told or hear, we are all here to do something amazing. I want them to understand that life isn’t easy but it’s worth it.

It’s worth the struggles, the heartache, the failures, the disappointments because you will have moments when you see the most beautiful and lovely things and you think, “I’m so grateful I’m here to witness this!”

Any advice for those who have loved ones who are dealing with depression or thoughts of suicide?

Depression and suicidal thoughts are horrible, debilitating issues. I deal with my own depression every day. And there are days when I wonder how I’m gonna go on feeling this way. But then I wake up one day and it’s beautiful outside and my kids come in and hug me and tell me how much they love me. I can -50-

and motivation. I think we often set limitations on ourselves and until you force yourself out of your comfort zone and try, you will always be selling yourself short. Most of these things I thought I would never be able to do, acting, sewing, cooking, writing, but once I really tried I found that I was actually pretty good at them.

Am I the best? No, but I’m not horrible either.

It’s been so much fun to prove myself wrong!

get through those dark days because I know there will be days filled with light and joy eventually. I also take an antidepressant each and every day. People need to know that they are loved, heard, supported, understood, accepted, appreciated so the best thing you can do for someone who deals with depression and/or has suicidal thoughts is to let them know those things. Also, 90% of all people who commit suicide have one or more treatable mental disorders. GET THEM TREATMENT! It’s so important for them to talk to a qualified doctor that knows how to treat them properly.

And don’t give up on them! Helping someone with mental disorders is difficult, hard work and extremely draining but the alternative is devastating. Keep trying! Keep encouraging!

And keep hope! They can get better. It just takes some time. In the end, when they are happy and healthy and you no longer have to worry as much, you won’t care about the battles you had to fight. You’ll only appreciate that you made it to the other side. Keep the faith, you’ll get there!

What lessons have your various interests (acting, cooking, writing, going to concerts) taught you about yourself and our world at large?

Well, they’ve all taught me that I can do anything I put my mind to with a little hard work -51-

I think the thing that has taught me the most about the world is going to concerts. Music really is the universal language! For me, music is felt deep into my soul. I need it to breathe, to live. When I go to a concert, I am surrounded by other people who feel the same way and it’s exhilarating! My favorite band is Thirty Seconds To Mars and they don’t call their fanbase, fans, they are family. And it really is! I have friends all over the world that I absolutely love. My friend who passed away earlier this year lived in South Africa and I met her through Mars. She was my little sister in every sense of the word except by blood. How amazing is it to bond with someone like that through a love for music?! I have taken my oldest daughter to 4 concerts since the age of 4 and this month I will be taking my youngest to her first. She is 6 and her favorite band is Mars, too! It’s going to be one of the most amazing nights ever....

After just moving to a new state and getting an acting agent, what are you looking forward to next in your new life adventure?

Wow...I am looking forward to taking my career to the next level and giving my girls a good small town to grow up in. It’s the best of both worlds!!

The Fountain

From his earliest memory, his dreams were shared with others. He didn’t see them, these others, but he knew there was more than one. He didn’t know how many, but it always seemed as if one of the many was in trouble, and needed help, yet he could never find them to give aid.

As he got older, his dreams began to get more and more vivid. He kept seeing an overgrown garden with a fountain in the center. In the middle, there was a beautiful female statue, poised as if waiting for some one to help her step down from her perch. He also began hearing a female voice calling for help.

He wondered if he was going crazy, until his twenty-first birthday. On that day, after the elaborate celebration had wound down, and all the guests had left or retired for the evening, his parents sent for him.

The look on his parent’s faces had him worried; they looked as if they were carrying the weight of the world instead of just the kingdom on their shoulders.

“Son, there is something you need to know, tonight,” his father started the conversation with a long sigh and an even longer look.

“Father, if this is about my finding a bride, I promise…..” he replied.

At this, his mother broke in, “In a way it is yet isn’t,” she said with a shake of her head.

“What do you mean?” he asked.

“All we can tell you is.” his mother began.

“Mora.” His father gave her such an intense stare it was as if they were talking to each other without even saying a word.

“Duncan, we are allowed to tell him. At least this much, is his to know!” Mora exclaimed.

“What?!? What am I supposed to know?

What is going on?” he asked, looking at both parents in confusion, concern and with a bit of fear.

“Fine, but you do it Mora. I will not anger them on this point.”

“Son, Jaysin….Please don’t ask any question until I’m done. As a matter of fact, you won’t be able to ask anything even then, for I can’t tell you any more than this. You will need to listen carefully to what I do say, for your own safety, and ours. You will be shocked, you may even feel hurt by what you find out, but please remember, your father and I both love you and there are rules that we had to follow.” She gazed at her son and husband with love as she paused to gather her thoughts. “Twenty-five years ago, I met your father. He had dreams, exactly like yours. On his twenty-first birthday, his father told him the same things as I tell you now.

The kings of this castle are only allowed to marry one type of woman. We are only allowed to tell our sons about it and yet we can only tell them some of it, when they come of age. It is a sacred binding. A deal made between the forefathers of our peoples. Your father was sent on a quest to find his bride, just as we will send you on yours. You stand here before us, the next king to our people, our pride and joy, so it is obvious that he was successful. You are to go in search of a Sacred Fountain, this fountain is where you will find your bride my son.” Mora paused to take a drink and watched as Jaysin absorbed what she was telling him. “You will bring her back to us, along with a casket of water from the fountain, and some piece of the stone that lies within. This is your proof that you completed your journey. You must leave tonight. Before dawn crosses the horizon, you must be off of castle grounds. Your gear is packed and a horse is waiting for you near the North Gate. Jaysin, we can tell you no more, just remember, head North and follow your dreams, they will lead you in the direction you need to go.”

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N y m ph

Mora looked at Duncan with a raised eyebrow, “Fine,” he said. “She is reaching out to you, it is up to you to find her and if the need is worse than when I went after your mother, you must fight to save her and vanquish the evil that threatens both our lands. Now go, change your clothes and leave. But know this, we don’t send you on this journey lightly. If it weren’t preordained, you would have more leeway. God speed son, and be safe!”

Jaysin was so shocked that he mutely left the throne room and headed back to his chambers to change. He then headed out to the North Gate of the Castle and mounted his horse. Unbeknownst to him, his mother and father watched him from the window of their bedchamber, Duncan with his arms wrapped around Mora, she with tears silently streaming down her face.

As they stood there watching their one and only son begin his journey, they both flashed back to the very first time they met.

Duncan had followed his dreams, and Mora had led him into the deepest, darkest forest her father could find away from their native land. He had to find where she waited for him and break the spell that was laid upon her by the jealous water sprites. What they couldn’t tell their son, what he had to find out for himself, was that the bride destiny had handpicked for him was a water nymph, and there was a battle going on between the nymphs and sprites. With the birth of every new king, a nymph was imprisoned in stone in the Sacred Fountain until the prince came of age and was ready to marry. Jaysin’s journey wouldn’t necessarily be the same as theirs, so they could only give him the basic knowledge and hope for the best.

When Duncan finally found the fountain in his dreams, he didn’t know what to expect,

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by Bonnie Ramsburg

but when he gazed upon the lovely statue, he felt as if he had loved her several lifetimes.

He felt compelled to touch her hand, and after that caress, to bestow a kiss upon it. While he was marveling at the strength of his feelings for this lifeless stone, he didn’t realize that the kiss had started a transformation-she wasn’t lifeless any longer- until she spoke his name and brushed a soft hand over his head to get his attention. He helped her from her perch in the center of the fountain, gathered the items he was required to take home, and left that forest never to return. This was their story, and they couldn’t wait for Jaysin to bring his nymph home to them where she belonged, not only as his bride, but also as a lost daughter of the waters that flowed through the fountains in the castle grounds.

Nymph Fountain at Riga, Latvia

Bubbling over with love

Photo by Sparky Schumacher, 1970

Water baby Marla Spellenberg has enjoyed a lifelong love affair with nature, and her condition is contagious. Dive into her world of tranquility and wonder with us, but be forewarned — you may never want to return to the surface.

We've learned in this issue that a nymph is a divine creature who is tied to a particular locale. Clearly you are a water nymph, tied to fresh water Weeki Wachee Springs.

What first drew you to Weeki Wachee?

I was born from placental waters, to the winding, rushing, rarely calm rivers of life. My mother was a swimmer, I come by loving water rightly! As a toddler, Mom would find me splish splashing, playing paddy-cakes in the toilet!

Bath time was a horror for my Mom as this water child would throw a tantrum if she tried to take me from the tub. Growing up in Michigan, I was surrounded by the Great Lakes, closest to L. Huron, with many ponds and lakes around our home.

Choosing where to swim was always the question. Swimming in L. Huron, my sister and I wouldn't want to leave even tho Mom said we were blue from chilly water.

Swimming came naturally to me, and I swam before I walked.

All Mom could do was succumb to giving me lessons on her own (no swim instructor would take on a toddler at the time), then as soon as possible my folks put me in swim programs. As a youngster, my babysitter Trudy, who lived across the street, also swam in our local High School's swim program. She was one of the first to take the synchronized swimming course offered there.

Following her lead, I joined the team and swam synchro for 3 years. Vacationing in Florida one summer, visiting my grandparents, we discovered Trudy was at Weeki Wachee, so of course we had to go see her swim. Watching her in a show, I knew I was hooked.

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On one visit, Trudy said “If I ever find myself living in Florida, come for a test, I'll make sure you get a chance to swim at Weeki Wachee”.

Little did I know that in 2 years, we'd be living in Florida, due to Mom's health. I was so upset at having to move from my friends and not graduate from the same HS that Dad did. The first thing I did was go visit Trudy, bathing suit and towel in hand. Trudy gave me the water test and I passed with flying colors! I knew noone at the new HS so I left as early as possible every Friday to drive the hour to the Springs.

Small cottages on the grounds were shared by the Mermaids there, so I had a place to stay for the weekends. I eventually moved in with a senior Mermaid after HS graduation. I spent every weekend and all my Holidays at the Springs.

Training began with a senior Mermaid, and I was out of training in two weekends. I was the fastest trainee they had! Now I had to learn all the parts of a show, and perfect the ballet moves for each routine. It's one thing to have gravity to use in ballet (of which we had a ballet bar for daily exercises on, stretching and positioning with our choreographer) and another to perform those same moves suspended in the and adjust for the current from Springs. Hose breathing was another technique to perfect!

Buoyancy using only your lungs, another!

Eating and drinking underwater was fun to do. Deep Dive was my favorite, especially performing it in our gold suit and tail!

I eventually broke a Deep Dive record, holding my breath for 4 min 12 sec while my grandfather was watching!

Photo by Melody Craven

Photo by Sparky Schumacher, 1969

My water home will forever be Weeki Wachee Springs. Spring reunions are more important to me than my HS could ever be. I get to visit with the few women remaining that swam in 1947, see my MerSisters, some of which are still performing as the “formers” in a show they perform a couple times a month.

Barbara Wynns, our MerQueen and spokeswoman, is a wonderful, beautiful, caring woman, a dear friend, and forever Mermaid! I have become involved with the younger mers of MerNetwork, in hopes that some of my experience of over 2 years performing is helpful. I love watching the young mers grow into their tails and begin a lifelong love of Mermaiding.

And what do you personally get from being in the springs?

What do I personally get from being in the Springs? Cold! LOL! Now, 40 years later, it seems even colder!

The Springs are a constant 74 °F year round. I love it, so I just grin and bear it! What do I really get from being in the Springs? Of many things: Love and respect for our MerSisterhood, love for the environment and animals that call the Springs home. But mostly, Love for the weightless freedom and stress-free balance it imparts on my soul. My water nymph spirit draws me so hard to return to those life giving waters.

Sometimes it brings me to tears, the desire is so strong. I feel fulfilled when submersed in those waters both sharing and receiving restorative gifts. I am truly home. What closer way could you get, than to be in the life giving waters boiling forth from deep within Mother Earth. My spirit becomes immersed in the placental waters of her life blood. Without her waters, no life would exist. I respect and love her life offering. I am but a small part, but a part of Her. Not only are you a SCUBA diver, but you actually helped build an underwater reef, that is hugely popular with divers today.

Please, oh please tell us about that unique experience.

Earning enough money from working at the Springs, allowed me to go to the Jr. college near home. At St. Petersburg Jr. College (now a full 4-year college), I was drawn to the Marine Biology courses. Our instructor was instrumental in developing and getting permits to find an appropriate location for a planned reef. It was just an experiment to see if it could be done and follow its growth and population of fish, sharks, dolphins and eventually divers.

Having earned two SCUBA diving certificates from the Springs, I was able to join the collaborative effort to bring old ceramics, like toilet bowls, sinks, tubs, and rubber tires and weight them down to the Gulf floor.

The location of the reef is about 3 miles off Clearwater Beach, in about 30 feet of water.

On many occasions while placing these objects we would see fish starting to habitate the nooks and crannies offered by the protection -56-

provided there. A couple of times, Spotted Dolphins came to investigate what we were doing! We'd end up hoarse from squealing to them, trying to get them to respond to us! One time as we were snorkeling there, a female with a young calf approached me squawking and whistling.

She stopped about 10 feet away, but her calf kept coming closer, almost within arms reach. I was overjoyed at the honor that she would let her calf come so close to me.

It didn't last long as her whistles changed and calf swam back to her mother, and they merged back into their pod. I will never forget that honor.

Snorkeling in fresh water rivers, like Crystal River afforded me the opportunity to free dive with manatees that swam there. They are huge and gentle, but can be quite playful, especially among their herd-mates. So getting too close can be problematic if they are in the mood to play! On occasion manatees would find their way from the Gulf of Mexico, up the 7 miles to Weeki's headwaters, altho that was an infrequent occurrence, when I swam there.

Now, manatees routinely show up and “steal the show”!

Swimming with those gentle mermaids is an awesome experience! Unlike dolphins, a snorkeler or diver can for the most part keep up with them, but manatees can move out with speed if necessary. As grazers, they are the Gentle Giants of our precious Springs and rivers, and also close in- shore in Gulf herds. Communicating with manatees, like dolphins, is a body language of respect and open mindedness, always being mindful of their space.

Photo by Weeki Wachee State Park

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Weeki Reunion 2012, Photo by Steve Spellenberg Edited from video source by Marla

Given that you're forced to co-habitate with those on land, are there any land animals you're drawn to?

As much as I am addicted to water, I also love turtles, birds (both wild and domestic), kittehs, and horses.

I have two turtles, Sami, my aquatic Southern Map turtle, and the other is an Eastern Box (land) turtle, Lady. Sami is nearly 40 years old, I've had him since a wee turtle-ling! Lady I've had about 45 years, she was a rescue as was Sami. My Vet says she is nearly 100 years old, as she hasn't grown in the years I've had her.

I also enjoy the company of my Cockatiels. I got my first pair in 1969. Taji, my oldest 'Tiel passed away at nearly 30 years old! My two current Cockatiels are Ari'in and Ryssa. Ari, the male, talks and knows about 25 phrases.

He is quite the entertainer!

Ryssa keeps him in check squawking at him if he gets carried away! I have one loving kitteh, Ashes, who picked me as her human at a barn where I used to work. I rescued her as the barn manager was just going to let them go in the woods as she was closing her business and barn. All three kittens were found good homes. Ashes has been my constant companion for 12 years now! My horses are my other avocation. I own two at the moment. My heart and soul mare Ketaki, who was part of my family for 17 years, passed away three days after Thanksgiving last year, she was 32. My rescued gelding Cassidy, is 25 and he's now retired. He is such a love! He really missed Ketaki for a few months after she passed away. My current mare, Savannah is in Dressage training at the farm just down the road from my house.

I was in Dressage training, too! She progresses faster than I.

What fun to feed mosquitoes (not!), at a down river get-together, then enjoy a quick skinny dip in the River to rid of their nuisance. Cool skin is a great mosquito deterrent! Swimming down river or at a night show was one of the great pleasures of performing at Weeki, the water sooo dark, the lights ethereal, the bubbles seemed louder and music was heavenly to dance to! Almost alien, definitely unreal in its stunning beauty!

As a regular visitor of Siren Lagoon, any thoughts on the water there?

Savannah, Photo by Tony DeCosta

Savannah is half-Andalusian (other half is Percheron), pinto patterning, bright chestnut and white, with lovely movement and willingness to please. She is very easy on my old bones!

Rumor has it you and your aquatic friends have been known to skinny dip in the Weeki waters. Bonding around the campfire, etc.

That must be heavenly. Can you paint the picture for us of what this is like?

Oh! You found us out! We would enjoy a few evenings of role playing and entertaining ourselves with costume making and on-the-spot script writing. On several occasions we'd take our towels, costumes, swimsuits and food (marshmallows, butter, popcorn, corn-on-the-cob, foil, etc) and “play in the woods”! Most of these “all fins” meetings would degenerate into after dark swims, and we'd doff the clothes for a swim in the Weeki's river, a ways down from our Spring. Towels brought for sitting on, were quickly used to dry off, a campfire lit, and food cooked and served. Skinny dipping made us really hungry for some reason! Sometimes the Weeki guys would find us and bring fresh caught Springs' catfish! O, they were sooo good! Prepared with just butter, wrapped in foil and cooked in the campfire with corn-on-the-cob! Delicious!

These catfish are free swimming and sometimes meet us on Deep Dive during nite shows! They get to be about 20 or more inches long! They could be so curious to come see us, gently brush against you as you were waiting down in the deep hole. Catfish are not scared of anything, and would swim up to you and stare you in the face mask. Some Mers were really unnerved with them and would use the provided “stick” to chase them away! They were quite harmless! Just BIG!

Come on in the water's fine! Just beware of the Lagoon-atics! We are a crazy, happy group of Siren sisters, ever to gather in a pod!

Such camaraderie, playfulness, puns, and light-hearted fun welcomes all our Siren sisters and new comers! I enjoy splish-splashing newbies, and instigating threads of Siren silliness! Missing any time there leaves you to the mercy of Lagoon antics! My muse generally only helps with oneliners, after that I am on my own! I thoroughly love participating in the Lagoon, it's a happy place for this Mermaid!

This mermaid is dry from scribbling in the sand!

She needs to flip her flukes and dive back into the blue lagoon. I am a mermaid, drawn to water.

Weeki Wachee is my Mer-birth waters. My water nymph is tied to her eternal spirit. She flows from the depths of the earth to gift to those who are willing to receive. The gift of Life.

Marla at Weeki 2012, Photo by Julie Komenda

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"Everybody needs beauty as well as bread, places to play in and pray in, where nature may heal and give strength to body and soul." ~John Muir That’s what participants in Siren School’s Naiad Springs Respite can look forward to, along with swimming with gentle manatees, floating down pristine rivers, strolling to waterfalls... wildlife encounters, a dinner cruise and more. Visiting Florida’s famed Rainbow, Crystal River and Homosassa springs, the weekend getaway affords opportunities for women to indulge their inner water nymph.

Activities include instruction in naiad history, culture, language, and elective aquatic excursions in and out of the water, both for swimmers and non-swimming enthusiasts.

Come get back to nature... and get back to yourself.

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“Is this really what happens to water when it gets cold?”

—Madison the mermaid, Splash FROZEN BOWL from tasteofhome.com Ingredients • Assorted herbs and edible flowers such as mint, chamomile, pansies, nasturtiums, etc. or colorful silk flowers and leaves • 1-quart and 2-1/2-quart freezer-proof glass bowls • Ice cubes • Freezer tape • Wooden skewers

from Kitchen Vignettes by Aubergine

Directions 1. If you are using herbs and edible flowers, wash blossoms and leaves and pat dry.

2. Fill the 2-1/2-qt. bowl half full with water. Arrange herbs and flowers or silk flowers and leaves to completely cover surface of the water. Place the 1-qt. bowl on top of flowers so there is about 1 in. of space between the bowls. Fill the 1-qt. bowl with ice cubes. Place freezer tape across both bowls to hold them in place.

3. Place the taped bowls in the freezer for 30 minutes or until ice crystals form on top to the water.

4. Using a wooden skewer, place additional herbs or leaves and flowers between the sides of the bowls. Return bowls to the freezer.

5. Checking periodically on the bowls, continue to add and reposition flowers as the water freezes. Freeze overnight.

6. Remove freezer tape and ice cubes. Fill the 1-qt. bowl with lukewarm water, then remove it. Dip the 2-1/2-qt. bowl in warm water and twist to loosen. Remove the ice bowl and return to the freezer until ready to use.

Yield: 1 floral ice bowl (6 inches in diameter and 3 inches high).

FROZEN BOTTLE

• Test bottle height in freezer to ensure it will fit • Put the vodka bottle in the center of a fully opened half-gallon juice or carton. You may want to cut it at the fold • Place flowers and/or fruit slices around bottle • Pour in water half way, using a skewer to sink any items that float • Add additional fruit and flowers and pour in remaining water up to bottle neck, making sure to cover the fruit and flowers • Place bottle in freezer, standing up • Remove from freezer just before serving; cut away milk carton with a utility knife.

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Salmon & Brie Pizza [tweaked from Food.com]

Ingredients • • • • • • •

Basic pizza dough (1 pie serving) 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil, approximately 1 lb brie cheese 12 ounces smoked salmon 1 small red onion Fresh dill garnish to taste Scallion garnish to taste

Directions 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

To prepare the Brie, discard the rind and cut the cheese in small pieces.

Slice the onion very thinly and quarter the slices. Separate the onion pieces.

Cut the salmon into small pieces.

Prepare the dough and preheat the oven as directed in the basic recipe. Shape the pizza dough.

Divide the dough and roll into small pies, about 3 to 4 inches in diameter. Prick dough all over with the tines of a fork, then brush with olive oil.

6. Transfer the pie to the preheated baking surface and bake until the crust just begins to brown, about 6 minutes.

7. Remove from the oven and cover with the cheese, leaving a 1/2 inch border around the edges.

8. Arrange the salmon and onion on top and drizzle evenly with olive oil.

9. Return to the oven and bake until the crust is golden brown and puffy, the cheese begins to melt and the salmon is heated through, about 4 minutes.

10. Remove from the oven to a cutting tray or board and lightly brush the crust with olive oil.

11. Garnish with the dill and scallions.

Or try this twist on the traditional recipe, courtesy of Sammy Munt, author of The Marked Ones: • Cover a pizza base with a thin layer of marinara sauce and thinly sliced red onion, spaced evenly • Cover with mozzarella • Add salmon slices, ripped to shred and scatter • Then cut a wedge of creamy Brie. Place evenly all over the top • Sprinkle more mozzarella • Season with fresh dill and diced spring onions -61-

Land Nymphs

'[The mountain nymphs] rank neither with mortals nor with immortals: long indeed do they live, eating heavenly food and treading the lovely dance among the immortals, and with them the Sileni and the sharp-eyed Slayer of Argus mate in the depths of pleasant caves....'

~ Homeric Hymn to Aphrodite

• •

Alseides (glens, groves) Auloniades (pastures) - Eurydice, for whom Orpheus traveled into dark Hades, was an Auloniad, and it was in the valley of the Thessalian river Pineios where she met her death, indirectly, at the hands ofAristaeus. Aristaeus, son of the god Apollo and the nymph Cyrene, desired to ravish Eurydice. Either disgust or fear made the nymph run away from him without looking where she was going. Eurydice trod on a poisonous serpent and died.

•

Leimakides or Leimonides (meadows)

• • •

Napaeae (mountain valleys, glens) Oreads (mountains, grottoes), also Orodemniades

Orpheus Leading Eurydice from the Underworld, by Camille Corot, 1861

The Nymphs of Samhain

by Marc Prudhon

Follow your heart to the Mountains, the new growths of this Earth.

Where Napaea, of the valleys, greet you in joy and with mirth.

At this turn of the seasons, under the stars, it is worth any chance.

To be be granted the blessing of seeing them gather and dance.

The Alseides often arrive first, from their cool shadowed green glen.

Whose sides soar upwards, to Mountains like cathedrals without end.

The Oreads, only of the grottos and caves, Never from a mine.

With them travels Klaia, for this she leaves her cavern Shrine.

The Sphragitides know when to tell them all to gather for celebration.

On the first night of the Autumn, crowning Falls annual coronation.

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One who arrives next, you might think sad, but she is love ever grown.

For she is now with her sisters, Sweet little Echo. No voice of her own.

The Dryads always remember this day, gather beforehand, and each does her part.

Though not part of the dance, They paint each red and gold leaf with glorious art.

At moonrise it begins, Worshiping Athena, They dance to send up their praise.

If you are blessed to see it, that joy will be part of you, all the rest of your days.

Mosaïcultures Internationales Competition at the Montreal's Botanical Garden

Leave it to the mother of the ocean to find the missing lands of idyllic Atlantis.

Jenny Yemaya Cook tells of the extraordinary journey that led her to the founding of The Atlantis Rejuvenation Center (The ARC).

What has the civilization of Atlantis taught you about the world we live in today?

14 years ago, when I first arrived in Bimini, I had an experience at The Atlantis vortex, an area 45 miles east of the island where it is said that the giant crystal that powered Atlantis sank

beneath the ocean bed. On approaching the area by boat, you can feel a distinct change in the energy, like moving though a dense wall of energy. My experience then, and other groups that I have facilitated there since, all experience a similar recollection and range of emotions. All the navigation equipment breaks down and the compass just spins randomly with no direction. Time loss or gain is normal, losing or gaining an hour in time while there.

On my first journey there i remembered my time during Atlantis and my role then, in a parallel to the life i am leading now. I learned that we are living in a parallel reality, that just as during Atlantis things got out of control with a divided population, some following the law of the One and some just concerned with material and financial gain for selfish purposes. This life time, we come with the experience and knowledge of the devastation this caused -64-

during Atlantis, so we were given a "choice point", or timeframe, within which to make a difference this time around. Those who heard the call have been moving into personal positions of "being the change" and bringing about a different outcome from the one we lived through (or died during) in Atlantean times.

The rewards of running The ARC must be profound.

Are there any experiences guests have shared with you that have been unexpected or stand out most?

Being of service is the greatest calling that we can attune to. The rewards are many and every day I give thanks for the opportunity to be fulfilling my vocation. I have seen a child with autism speak for the first time after swimming with the dolphins. Another child with cerebral palsy start to swallow food again and get up out of their wheelchair and take steps again.

These kind of experiences stay with you forever. More recently I had the honor to host a lady recovering from breast cancer, who with her husband found the peace, quiet and simple style of living here at ARC just the tonic they needed to reset their lives in a new direction. A number of women have joined us who are at a crossroads in their lives and relationships, so we are able to provide a safe space to just "be" in order to find the next step. Many people come to us new to raw foods or veganism, and go home inspired and ready to begin a healthier way of living. Transformations happen at every retreat, it is a blessing to witness and I will be eternally grateful for the ability to provide a safe space for this to happen.

You started out your career in Bimini with a fear of water and now practically live in it. How did you overcome your fear? Is there any advice you can offer to those facing that phobia?

A fear of water is actually very common and we often have people come who arrive terrified of swimming in the open ocean. My own fear was extreme and if someone had told me the rest of my life would mainly be spent underwater I would never have believed them! I was offered a job with the dolphins when I fist came to the island and the owners wife upon hearing of my -65-

fears took me each day to the beach to practice swimming in shallow waters and getting used to the snorkel and fins. As I gained confidence in water I could stand up in, I then advanced into deeper waters with her showing me how to dive. The irony is that instead of sinking without trace as I had imagined, I actually was too buoyant and kept bobbing back up to the surface! Its almost impossible to sink with fins and snorkel on, so once you learn how to relax and float the rest comes just naturally. Soon I became half mermaid! And as soon as the dolphins show up you forget all about your fears and just "be in the moment". What was once your greatest fear becomes a real breakthrough, as you realize that life begins at the end of your comfort zone ;-) How has going raw changed your relationships with both food and your body?

Being originally from the UK and traveling to Central America to study Mayan culture, then off to the US and Bahamas, what sorts of commonalities have you noticed that tie mankind together and cross the barriers of years and miles?

Raw veganism is nature's diet, as you align with natural foods your body naturally aligns with its optimum state and weight. The great thing is you can have your cake and eat it!

When I first went 100% raw I did so in combination with a severe detox whilst doing my training at HHI (Hippocrates Health Institute). Once the detox training was over it was a case of finding a simple diet/lifestyle that worked for me. You tend to start of craving slightly heavier transition type foods, such as dehydrated foods that take the place of cooked foods. Once on that journey you naturally start to eat more simple foods and these days when left to my own devices my diet consists mainly of smoothies, fruit, salads, nuts and seeds. I do eat a little cooked vegan food too at times when I feel like something warm. My weight is the same as it was when I was 18, I have a lot of energy and seem to not need so much sleep as I used to. I walk on the beach and swim every day and never seem to get sick. I'm 45 now and notice people younger than me struggling with dis-eases that I now know can be eliminated with diet. I only use natural body products and cosmetics, The ARC is cleaned with green products, and we are blessed with fresh air and good water to drink here as well as plenty of coconuts, natures miracle food :-) Purifying your world and inner temple makes for a beautiful lens through which to see the world :-)

Living here on a 7 mile island inhabited by 3000 people brings a real sense of community spirit. At The ARC we live communally, sharing meals and experiences, just like I did while I was backpacking and staying in hostels. I've had the good fortune to also stay in 5-star resorts, but give me a real life experience any day above that! There is something sacred in shared experiences, bringing people together, living in situations that are outside our normal comfort zones, where maybe the water pressure goes off and you learn what it is like to be without water, or the electric goes off in a thunder storm, all these things bring a sense of survival and community getting together to make it work. This is real life and in these experiences comes Love for one another and our similarities across multi cultural experiences. We are often a real mix of cultures here at ARC, we all come from very different backgrounds and social groups, yet Love for one another and a desire to create peace and a place to rejuvenate the spirit brings us all together in one universal family that feels very special.

Bimini is so absolutely rife with magical and spiritual locations. Can you tell us a little about them and your experiences at any of them?

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I mentioned the Atlantis Vortex earlier, it really is a sacred place where many planes and boats have disappeared and recollections are common. Bimini also has an underwater "roadway" known as The stones of Atlantis, about half a mile off shore where we snorkel. It was prophesied by Edgar Cayce that it would be discovered in 1968 and that is when a pilot flying over the island spotted it. Over in the mangroves on the east of the island is the Healing Hole, an area in the mangrove that is a pure spring of mineral water full of lithium. We take guests there to do sound healings in the water. There are many stories of miraculous healings here on the island from people who go there to soak in the waters. On the south island is the Fountain of Youth, a well of spring water from a deep underground source. But for me the most special experience here is the wild dolphin interactions, it takes you purely into the moment when you come eye to eye with such sentient beings showing pure unconditional love and play to another species.

dreams, no matter how big they may seem. I feel like a "gatekeeper", here to facilitate extraordinary trips for people's personal transformations and The ARC is a very special place where that can happen. Everyone comments on the "energy" of this place. It's other worldly.

Based on your ever growing success, have you any words of encouragement for someone who, like you, cherishes a dream of benefitting others and healing the world?

Hold tight to your dreams, there is truth in the "fake it till you make it" term :-) Start imagining what it will feel like, see the people who will come to you, feel the feeling of what it is you wish to create and don't get disheartened if it doesn't happen in the timeframe you want it to.

I can assure you, it will happen in the perfect timing even if it doesn't seem like it to you.

Keep working towards it. Being proactive is key. Others may try to put you down, but use it as a way to strengthen yourself. For me I knew I wasn't prepared to forsake my dreams and live a life wondering "what if", so trying was my only option. To try and fail is better than to not try at all....and in that trying is the magic, you just never know where it might take you :-)

Join Jenny at The ARC to realize your own dreams And follow the center on Facebook for upcoming events & information

What does The ARC mean to you?

The ARC is a culmination of a 13-year vision that was given to me at The Atlantis Vortex. I was told the name and given an insight into what was to be created and restored back here on the island, the likes of which has not been seen since the fall of Atlantis. On a personal level, it is the living proof of believing in my dreams and my dedication to my spiritual purpose here this lifetime. For others I believe it has become an inspiration for just what can be achieved when you stay focused on your -67-

A Mountain Nymph Ballad

by Lyle Dagnen In the spring time, when the roses bloomed, He came a wooing, and he won her heart.

Swearing his love by the moon and stars, She gave him her heart, with all of her love.

They wandered the valleys and the paths around, Found them a place and they claimed the ground.

They would marry at the summer’s end, Built them a home by the river's bend.

At a summer dance, in her father's barn, A new girl arrived and the fellas were stirred.

She had curls that were golden as bright as the sun, And blue eyes that sparkled and were blue as the sky.

Bound to the mountains she found love there, Her golden haired mountain boy, a love so fair.

They built them a cabin, a place for to share Bound to the mountain, she'd always be there.

Late one evening she had finished a quilt, Wedding rings twined around hearts of true red She walked to her cabin to leave it there She heard a noise and she went to stare.

There on their new bed with sheets and such Lay down her true love with the girl so fair.

Choosing a knife was the easiest thing Their blood now covers every new thing.

The mountains were shocked, she shed not a tear, They were buried together on the hillside there She cut them some roses with the knife she used Laid them together on the grave so bare.

The cabin it burned all the way down, Now she walks in the mountains, so alone and so fair.

She smiles in the moonlight, when the roses they bloom, She carries a knife, her heart as her own.

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Nymphs are characterized by their attachment to a specific locale. Siren contributor Perzaia tells of her transformative trip to India, and her attendant attachment to this magical land of beauty and grace.

Bahá'í House of Worship in Delhi, India, popularly known as the Lotus Temple

The Sutra of India

by Perzaia Dance behind perfumed veils of lotus petals, in a garden full of eternal ponds; there welcomes a golden peeper, croaks once for me; twice for luck, in the land of ten billion colored lights.

Afternoon’s heat drops a leathery wing, from every balboa tree; to catch the scented swami wind, arresting the skies, pigmented as never seen.

Oleander’s blossoms glow shocking white littering the fragrant walk, Kama down in colored Holi strewn in tinted kites fluttered down, down, down to touch the golden beaches.

Lord Ganesh my reincarnated lord of Ganas, I seek your wisdom to overcome, the cobra that keeps me far away; away from spice, your heated Namasté one.

I tear away from my moment’s pant, my heart— a refreshed starved, in the golden temple of Krishna and Radha; she the flower, he the dew, await until drawn by their next breath.

Think of me my beloved India, until our next chanced meet; rumored once for me, twice for luck embedded within my skin.

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Lord Ganesha statue, 72ft, Bahadurgarh,Hariyana,India

Stepping out of the cold canned air of a Boeing 747, my known world, my world of sterile, over processed and ‘normal’, my life flipped one hundred and eighty the moment the stewardess ushered me out the door, on to the hot tarmac. India is a brick wall of humid heat persuasion mingling in an exotic atmosphere. A heavy, hot air that sucks your worth the moment you breathe in its scented skin. I have seen people swoon when taking their first breath of Indian air.

This is not a travel blog or the latest guide to India, this is the testimony of how India pushed out the cobwebs of my consumer predictable life and replaced it with the priceless glow that encompasses unpredictability, compassion, humility, and history. India had taken a spoiled, arrogant girl and transformed me into a woman who learned that I am not the bellybutton of the world, yet still a precious gift. I learned that if anything can go wrong, it would. So laugh. Have another cup of sweet tea and carry on. In a word, acceptance of the things I couldn’t change. India is a land that gives more than it takes.

India is a catalyst, a scent, a bell, the blue divine and ten-headed demons, elephants and painted ponies, holy men parading for coins or bits of saffron rice, the gentle sway of a glittering sari, the rush to see the latest action movie, spiced in winds that encompass a plethora of many things. India is a desire.

The love of desire.

The Kama of desire.

A lush, I cannot breath without the steamy colored richness of sari stalls and perfume dealers, gold intoxicating me in the heady persistent swooning that only musk can possibly revive. That, ‘ special deal for only you Madame’ that falls like a giggle even from the most

stalwart of men. They sell you more than a language that spans the Silk Road to the borders of Indus. I am under your spell.

Leaving my life in the hands of my friend, Devika’s brother Rahul’s driving abilities, we went on yet another, ‘where can we get lost this time’ adventure tours Rahul seemed to specialize. One lost trip was spent wandering the voluptuous fonts that scripted the walls in illustrations of love. The Khajuraho temples of Lakshman and Chaturbuj, Ghantai and Devi Jagadambi armed in flaunting ample bosoms, curvy contours gyrating on impossible penises covered in covetous jewelry and immortalized in stone. These positions of love stood in various states from active worship to columns lying flaccid and spent upon dry weeds.

Yet, as true love never dies, they continued to trance and liquefy even after a thousand years. I cannot help think about the precise caresses it took to shape the eternal beauty of carved love. I have returned here a few times, drawn not by the erotic stories these sentinels tell, but of the trust that their exposed poses portrayed. The book of the Kama Sutra isn’t a book of lust, it is a book of trust.

Although I have lived in India and visited many times since the age of sixteen, my Hindi and Urdu are not what they should be, everyone wants to practice their English, including Devika’s family. I was adopted as one of their own six daughters and three brothers of my school chum’s family, they too practicing their perfect English on me, embracing me in everything, loving me enough to include trying to marry me off as part of their parental duty.

Devika’s family lives a roomy house in the Old District of New Delhi not too far from the university. I love them.

They are British Indians. Proud to be Indians, however they have been sent to school in England to broaden the mind. Minds broaden but still insist that because I have been single for far too long they knew the most perfect man for me.

I walked into their home for the first time, blessed in a blaze of incense and a slash of red bindi powder, my friend’s family introduced me as their long lost daughter.

I was welcomed by the whole family living like a princess in their large boisterous home. The house was filled with family pictures and honored teachers lazing about on carved little tables. The living room a riot of colorful cushions and couches that enveloped in tints never to be used back home. In the rear, heavenly

Sculptures at Khajuraho temples in India: by Rajan Atrawalkar, Jalgaon, India

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scents emanating from the kitchen as there always seemed to be endless stream of sweetly spiced dainties and limeade or sweet tea, dinners as riotous as my own family’s. Upstairs, the whitewashed bedrooms, mine an airy tiled guest loft, scented by incense always suspended on the humid air originating from the family shrine below.

Off the living room, the family shrine was housed in a small stone grotto, fresh flowers strewn daily on statues of elephant headed Ganesh hands raised his blessing along side sacred blue Krishna both in his child form and as a shepherd, worshiped with his love Radha looking so peaceful and full of benevolence. There, behind, stood a monkey god grinning mockingly to remind of us of our human folly and last but not least, the beauteous Lakshmi to bless with prosperity and grace.

When not being dressed like a bejeweled doll for the never-ending weddings that went on for days, we prepared for birthdays or holidays. We always seemed to be going to weddings, a subtle yet poignant reminder to us single girls as to what we were missing not being married.

My favorite holidays became Diwali, the festival of lights, and the riot of enthusiastic color of Holi. Only in India, can they turn fire and ash and cow poo into color and dance through another festival dedicated to Radha and Krishna. Any chance to celebrate these two divine beings, I partook, and they became my favorites.

I escaped on my own. Risking life and limb on crazy bus rides, which are safer if you ride on top away from the goat and chicken passengers, to witness the real India and what was considered the lower orders of Indian society.

dance. Learning that I was a ballet dancer at home, they took over my dance training. Waking me every morning at my hotel, always at an ungodly hour, we would kindle the sun from the parapets of local temples as they taught me the finer skills of Indian dancing midst the carved stone shrines that doted the landscape. They improved my correct ballet hand positions with the exaggerated hand positions of an Scheherazade storyteller.

India is in my blood now. There is a silk string colored red that connects me to India. I cannot hide from the lessons I learned there. India’s memories are mine to lean on whenever I want. India flavors my days.

As we close an another day, India evenings splashes more than falls brilliantly staining the skies in colors found only in India, while the fruit bats drop as if on queue, in search of food.

This is when I chanced to meet Teresa from the mean streets of Calcutta, an untouchable according to customs.

For me she was a guide and friend, a tiny dry woman, frail from a lifetime of starvation, her skeletal wrists smaller than a child’s, she was kind and giving. Although by our terms she had nothing, however, the awakening I received from this shrunken lady whose own family were responsible for the cleaning of Poo Street, (yes, it was an actual street for this function), helped put my privileged and spoiled life into perspective. She had nothing but gave me everything. She became my guide and mentor, always making sure I got the best deals or the first seat.

In Odisha, the land of a thousand temples, two little twin girls, Preeti and Parvati adopted me as well, their parents owning a dance studio that taught tradition Lord Jaganath temple , Puri, Odisha,India

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Wood & Plant Nymphs THE DRYADES & OREIADES were the beautiful Nymphs of the trees, groves, woods and mountain forests. They were the ladies of the oaks and pines, poplar and ash, apple and laurel. For those known as Hamadryades, trees sprung up from the earth at their birth, trees to which their lives were closely tied. While the tree flourished, so did its resident nymph, but when it died she passed away with it.

There were several classes of Dryades associated with a particular types of tree: • The Meliai were the Nymphs of the ash-trees.

They sprang up from Gaia the Earth when she was impregnated by the blood of the castrated Ouranos. The men of the Silver Age married these Nymphai (in the time before women were created) and from them all of mankind was descended.

• The Oreiades were the Nymphs of the mountain conifers. The first of these were offspring of the five Daktyloi and the five Hekaterides. Subsequent generations were descended from these elder Oreiades and their brothers the Satyroi. (NB The old forests of ancient Greece were primarily found high in the mountains, since the majority of the lowland forest had been cleared for farming. It was therefore natural for the Greeks to think of the Dryades as mountain-dwelling).

• The Hamadryades were the Nymphs of oak and poplar trees. These were usually associated with river-side trees and sacred groves.

• The Maliades, Meliades or Epimelides were Nymphai of apple and other fruit trees. They were also protectors of sheep. The Greek word melas from which their name derives means both apple and sheep.

• The Daphnaie were Nymphs of the laurel trees, one of a class of rarer tree-specific Nymphai. Others included the Nymphai Aigeiroi (black poplar), Ampeloi (grape vine), Balanis (ilex), Karyai (hazelnut), Kraneiai (cherry-tree), Moreai (mulberry), Pteleai (elm), and Sykei (fig).

• Others with simply associated with a location: Oreiades were nymphs of the mountain heights, Alseides of the sacred groves, Aulonides of the glens, Napaiai of the vales. [source: theoi.com]

•

Mossy Dryad Girl by PlastikStars on DeviantArt

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The Dryad & Her Knight

by Marc Prudhon

The Baron had a visitor to the castle, welcomed to his presence the wandering old Knight.

The Knight and his armor were battered and scarred, his axe and sword, sharpened and bright.

"Sir Knight, I crave a boon of you, a small task, do it, I swear on all the powers of old.

I will give you the weight of your axe, matching it in total with coinage of pure gold.

No great distance to the south of my Castle, there are ancient woods and a high towering hill.

No Knight or man of my realm has ever entered those woods and all swear they never will.

Now come with me, Sir Knight, to the battlements, from there we can both see.

At the crest of that hill, near the edge, see there, that old and massive oak tree'?

That tree holds the power of protection for all those woods, or so I've been told.

Cut down and burn it, so I can take the woods and the land as part of my hold."

"Yes," answered the Knight, "For in my life, in battle and war, over valley and hill.

Naught has stood before me that my sword or my axe, ever once failed to kill.

He entered that forest, walked in shifting shadows, blocking out the sunlight, Yet up on that hill, strange to his eye, that tree still seemed to shine bright.

A noise behind him, made him turn round, one hand on sword, raising his.axe.

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Seeing the path that was behind him, now blocked with no way to go back.

Going on, nearing the crest, he saw standing between himself and the tree A small lady, unclothed in full glory, hair of brown satin, blowing in the breeze.

Young and winsome, sweet and strong, beauteous and pleasing to his eye.

Yet with her an air of great age and of wisdom, of centuries passed by.

"Spare this tree, Sir Knight, for it will not sit much longer upon this crest.

The hill wears away, from its root, then it and I will go to our rest.

You see up the hill, a young oak is growing, for it is my daughter.

To her I grant my power of protection, all she needs is sunlight and water.

If you spare her and me, I cannot offer you great riches or wealth.

What I can grant you in return is your youth and your health.

As long as you remain within these woods with me.

Time and the ages will have no power over thee.

Off came his visor and armor. He threw down his axe and gave his word.

Then he knelt before the dryad, at her feet he laid his battle sword.

At last he found what he searched for — peace, from battles forever free.

As the days passed into seasons, he tended that young tree.

He knew not pain or age. The old tree shielded him with her power, Caused the other plants and trees to build him a weatherproof bower.

Then came a night, he awakened in storm, heard her voice on the wind.

Saying "My time is upon me, life and the centuries have come to an end.''

Standing and watching that oak fall, He saw two lights float free.

One light up to the heavens, the other went to the young tree.

The Knight thought, I kept my oath. Now she has gone to her rest.

I must go and tell the Baron how I failed him in his request.

As he left the forest, as if never felt before, there were aches and pains. ''Tis nothing but the weather, this is the season of winter and rains.'' he asked for the Baron, when he reached the castle wall.

The baron was not there. A different man answered his call.

"Sir Knight, You cannot be alive, you can be naught but a shade.

I'm the Baron. My father, the old baron is twenty years in his grave."

The Knight turned and left, with but one wish as his guide.

To return to those ancient woods, before his time came to die.

He got back to the hill and the tree, spending his fast fading strength.

Laying on the hill just below her, resting his body at full length.

"Young oak, a wish comes to me, but now it's too late.

I should have built so you could avoid your mother's fate."

For the first time, he heard that oak, a young woman's voice.

"If truly you mean that, there is a way, a terribly hard choice.

I can call forth all the others, and together, our powers can change thee, But fair warning, Sir Knight, from this choice you will never be free.

The centuries shall pass, we will forever be part and bound into one.

Till my time is upon me, and the life of this oak in this forest is done."

Model Marie Cadieux as photographed by Frederico Borges

The Knight answered. "Ere I came here, I knew only battle, without surcease.

Your Mother banished my nature and gave my heart, nothing but peace.

So do as ye will, all I am and have is surrendered, given to you.

Something beckons to me now, something beautiful and new.''

The young oak sent out her call through all that small forest's world.

And from every tree came forth a dryad, each a beautiful young girl.

All gathered around him, told him, "Fear not. All will be well."

They linked hands, and called forth their most powerful spell.

The Knight felt a change, beginning deep inside him, in his bones.

As he began to alter and change into the hardest of stones.

Lying on his back ,pure moonlight shining down on his face, He felt the oak, knew she reached out in loving embrace.

On the downhill side of the tree, his body is now a great stone.

His soul joined with that tree, the two have become one.

Now people through the years gaze up from the castle, or look up from some field.

They always wonder, why that huge oaks shape seems to form a great shield.

The image that inspired the young dryad to share this tale -75-

W h e n Y o u ’ re S t r a n g e

Self-described ‘natural scent alchemist’ Jill McKeever of For Strange Women combines a passion for purity with an acutely artistic aesthetic to concoct a product line that quietly delights and indulges all the senses.

Everyone knows the adage, "A picture's worth a thousand words."

What about aromas?

How does our olfactory sense inform us?

If a picture's worth a thousand words then a scent is worth a thousand pictures.

You mention on your site that "doing things the way they were done over a century ago is once again progressive and necessary". I'm captivated. Can you expound for us?

We have gone through all the stages of the post-industrial/modern

society that relies far too heavily on chemistry and technology. Humans in this society have built a synthetic reality that assaults our souls on every level and tears us apart from the Earth that is here to nurture us.

It is sad and strange and time to return to our roots as an integrated part of nature.

Your scents are notably sans 'synthetic ingredients.' What impact does that have on your customers?

Using purely natural materials to me is just a thousand times more satisfying than synthetics. They are -76-

way more complex and yet they are not overbearing to our senses. And again, in order to connect the wearer with nature, they must actually be experiencing the gifts of nature and not another synthetic reality.

In my youth I was mildly obsessed with alchemy, but never thought to employ it in relation to botanicals and scents. How did you learn your magical trade?

I learned through curiosity...

How has your background in the arts shaped your approach to perfumery?

My background is other non-visual art for the most part, like video, experimental audio, music, and dance. The process is the same for these. I think visual art is a little bit different in process for me, and although I also have experience in graphic design and photography, these are more of a means to an end for me.

To put it crudely, your prices are incredibly low. How on earth is that possible?

Well for one thing, I do little wholesale. I rely more on direct online sales, which is the largest profit margin. If I relied on wholesale or even if I had my own physical storefront with all that overhead, my prices would have to be double what they are. I also do -77-

everything from PR to customer service to packaging design to product development to photography myself, not to mention all the order fulfillment, product development, and production in one little studio room. I also live in Kansas City, where space and living expenses are a fraction of some other cities. Although I have wanted to move to San Francisco, I would have to make a higher income to do so, which means raising my prices to be similar to the other San Francisco perfumers.

I have a sneaking suspicion that companies like yours can save the world. Is this absurd, or am I onto something?

Thank you for the compliment, but I don't think any company is going to save the world. The only thing that will truly save the world is the demise of capitalism and consumer culture altogether, in my opinion. But in the meantime, I want to make my corner of this society as meaningful and heartfelt as I possibly can. I do feel happy to have created so many connections to so many like minded people (strange women), and this in itself will surely lead to very good things. It already has.

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How would you describe a 'strange woman'?

A strange woman is one who challenges conformity and all the pressures that have been placed on her to be something she isn't.

A strange woman rejects the synthetic reality that is forced upon her, and the millions of advertisements aimed to make her feel as if she isn't good enough so that she will buy some meaningless product. My perfume is not designed to make you more attractive or even make you smell better. They are created to comfort you through memories and the natural world that we have been removed from. They are meant as a source of inspiration, a way to express yourself, and a way to celebrate your eccentricities without apology. Maybe you want to wear the scent of a Winter Kitty or a Horse or a Violin in the Attic.

If other people don't understand, that's their problem.

And are you one?

I'll let you be the judge of that.

For a truly scentsational experience, visit Jill’s site, which is far more elegant than strange.

As is her luscious Facebook page.

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From Bonnie Ramsburg [source: thekitchen.com]

Do you have an overabundance of fresh herbs such as rosemary, sage, thyme or oregano to use and not enough time to use them?

Hate to waste such a bountiful harvest yet don’t know how to save them?

Not to worry!

You can take your fresh herbs from this: 1. Choose firm, fresh herbs, ideally from the market or your own garden.

2. If you wish, you can chop them fine. Or leave them in larger sprigs and leaves.

Here I froze a combination of finely chopped and whole herbs such as rosemary, fennel stalk, sage, and oregano.

3. Pack the wells of ice cube trays about 2/3 full of herbs.

4. You can mix up the herbs, too; think about freezing a bouquet garni of sage, thyme,

To this... in eight easy steps! and rosemary to add to winter roast chickens and potatoes!

5. Pour extra-virgin olive oil or melted, unsalted butter over the herbs.

6. Cover lightly with plastic wrap and freeze overnight.

7. Remove the frozen cubes and store in freezer containers or small bags.

8. Don't forget to label each container or bag with the type of herb (and oil) inside!

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What Tree Did You Fall From? from Bonnie Ramsburg Find your birthday and its corresponding tree.

Then, see the meaning behind it below.

Do you recognize yourself?

Jan 1 Jan 2 - Jan 11 Jan 12 - Jan 24 Jan 25 – Feb 3 Feb 4 – Feb 8 Feb 9 – Feb 18 Feb 19 – Feb 28 Feb 29 Mar 1 – Mar 10 Mar 11 – Mar 20 Mar 21 Mar 22 – Mar 31 Apr 1 – Apr 10 Apr 11 – Apr 20 Apr 21 – Apr 30 May 1 – May 14 May 15 – May 24 May 25 - Jun 3 Jun 4 - Jun 13 Jun 14 - Jun 23 Jun 24 Jun 25 - Jul 4 Jul 5 – Jul 14 Jul 15 – Jul 25 Jul 26 – Aug 4 Aug 5 – Aug 13 Aug 14 – Aug 23 Aug 24 – Sep 2 Sep 3 – Sep 12 Sep 13 – Sep 22 Sep 23 Sep 24 – Oct 3 Oct 4 – Oct 13 Oct 14 – Oct 23 Oct 24 – Nov 11 Nov 12 – Nov 21 Nov 22 – Dec 1 Dec 2 – Dec 11 Dec 12 – Dec 21 Dec 22 Dec 23-31 -81-

Apple Tree Fir Tree Elm Tree Cypress Tree Popular Tree Cedar Tree Pine Tree Poplar Tree Weeping Willow Tree Lime Tree Oak Tree Hazelnut Tree Rowan Tree Maple Tree Walnut Tree Poplar Tree Chestnut Tree Ash Tree Hornbeam Tree Fig Tree Birch Tree Apple Tree Fir Tree Elm Tree Cypress Tree Poplar Tree Cedar Tree Pine Tree Weeping Willow Tree Lime Tree Olive Tree Hazelnut Tree Rowan Tree Maple Tree Walnut Tree Chestnut Tree Ash Tree Hornbeam Tree Fig Tree Beech Tree Apple Tree

APPLE TREE (the Love) - of slight build, lots of charm, appeal and attraction, pleasant aura, flirtatious, adventurous, sensitive, always in love, wants to love and be loved, faithful and tender partner, very generous, scientific talents, lives for today, a carefree philosopher with imagination.

ASH TREE (the Ambition) – uncommonly attractive, vivacious, impulsive, demanding, does not care for criticism, ambitious, intelligent, talented, likes to play with fate, can be egotistic, very reliable and trustworthy, faithful and prudent lover, sometimes brains rule over the heart, but takes partnership very seriously.

BEECH TREE (the Creative) – has good taste, concerned about its looks, materialistic, good organization of life and career, economical, good leader, takes no unnecessary risks, reasonable, splendid lifetime companion, keen on keeping fit (diets, sports, etc.)

BIRCH TREE (the Inspiration) – vivacious, attractive, elegant, friendly, unpretentious, modest, does not like anything in excess, abhors the vulgar, loves life in nature and in calm, not very passionate, full of imagination, little ambition, creates a calm and content atmosphere.

CEDAR TREE (the Confidence) – of rare beauty, knows how to adapt, likes luxury, of good health, not in the least shy, tends to look down on others, self-confident, determined, impatient, likes to impress others, many talents, industrious, healthy optimism, waiting for the one true love, able to make quick decisions.

CHESTNUT TREE (the Honesty) – of unusual beauty, does not want to impress, well-developed sense of justice, vivacious, interested, a born diplomat, but irritates easily and sensitive in company, often due to lack of confidence, acts sometimes superior, feels not understood, loves only once, has difficulties in finding a partner.

CYPRESS TREE (the Faithfulness) – strong, muscular, adaptable, takes what life has to give, content, optimistic, craves money and acknowledgment, hates loneliness, passionate lover which cannot be satisfied, faithful, quick-tempered, unruly, pedantic and careless.

ELM TREE (the Noble-Mindedness) – pleasant shape, tasteful clothes, modest demands, tends not to forgive mistakes, cheerful, likes to lead-but not to obey, honest and faithful partner, likes making decisions for others, noble-minded, generous, good sense of humor, practical.

FIG TREE (the Sensibility) – very strong, a bit self-willed, independent, does not allow contradiction or arguments, loves life, it’s family, children and animals, a bit of a social butterfly, good sense of humor, likes idleness and laziness, of practical talent and intelligence.

FIR TREE (the Mysterious) – extraordinary taste, dignity, sophisticated, loves anything beautiful, moody, stubborn, tends to egoism but cares for those close to them, rather modest, very ambitious, talented, industrious, un-contented lover, many friends and foe, very reliable.

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HAZELNUT TREE (the Extraordinary) – charming, undemanding, very understanding, knows how to make an impression, active fighter for social cause, popular, moody and capricious lover, honest and tolerant partner, precise sense of judgment.

HORNBEAM TREE (the Good Taste) – of cool beauty, cares for its looks and condition, good taste, is not egoistic, makes life as comfortable as possible, leads a reasonable and disciplined life, looks for kindness and acknowledgement in an emotional partner, dreams of unusual lovers, is seldom happy with its feelings, mistrusts most people, is never sure of its decisions, very conscientious.

LIME TREE (the Doubt) - accepts what life dishes out in a composed way, hates fighting, stress and labor, dislikes laziness and idleness, soft and relenting, makes sacrifices for friends, many talents but not tenacious enough to make them blossom, often wailing and complaining, very jealous but loyal.

MAPLE TREE (Independence of Mind) – no ordinary person, full of imagination and originality, shy and reserved, ambitious, proud, self-confident, hungers for new experiences, sometimes nervous, has many complexities, good memory, learns easily, complicated love life, wants to impress.

OAK TREE (the Brave) – robust nature, courageous, strong, unrelenting, independent, sensible, does not like change, keeps its feet on the ground, person of action.

OLIVE TREE (the Wisdom) – loves sun, warmth and kind feelings, reasonable, balanced, avoids aggression and violence, tolerant, cheerful, calm, well-developed sense of justice, sensitive, empathetic, free of jealousy, loves to read and the company of sophisticated people.

PINE TREE (the Particular) – loves agreeable company, very robust, knows how to make life comfortable, very active, natural, good companion but seldom friendly, falls easily in love but its passion burns out quickly, gives up easily, everything disappoints until it finds it ideal, trustworthy, practical.

POPLAR TREE (the Uncertainty) – looks very decorative, not very self-confident, only courageous if necessary, needs goodwill and pleasant surroundings, very choosy, often lonely, great animosity, artistic nature, good organizer, tends to lean toward philosophy, reliable in any situation, takes partnership seriously.

ROWAN TREE (the Sensitivity) – full of charm, cheerful, gifted without egoism, likes to draw attention, loves life, motion, unrest and even complications, is both dependent and independent, good taste, artistic, passionate, emotional, good company, does not forgive.

WALNUT TREE (the Passion) – unrelenting, strange and full of contrasts, often egotistic, aggressive, noble, broad horizon, unexpected reactions, spontaneous, unlimited ambition, no flexibility, difficult and uncommon partner, not always liked but often admired, ingenious strategist, very jealous and passionate, no compromise.

WEEPING WILLOW (the Melancholy) – beautiful but full of melancholy, attractive, very empathetic, loves anything beautiful and tasteful, loves to travel, dreamer, restless, capricious, honest, can be influenced but is not easy to live with, demanding, good intuition, suffers in love but sometimes finds an anchoring partner.

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A Wood Nymph courtesy of Lyle Dagnen How do you visualize a picnic? A basket of food on the ground? Nice idea, maybe not the best one, but it is an idea. The basket on the ground thing is safe if you are doing the simple “snack in the woods” Some bread, cheese, fruit, wine or other drinks of your choice. Most people want some kind of meal.

Here are some rules for carrying food with you to another place to consume the meal • Mayonnaise is not the enemy, most likely the meat you choose to bring with you is the enemy. Meat is very sensitive to temperature. It must be kept cool.

Pack it in an ice chest with ice • If you want potato salad, be sure it is loose in the bowl and not packed or formed into something cute • Pack your ingredients in the original containers and open them at the place you picnic. Discard unused food before you return to your point of departure.

• If you plan a cookout at the picnic place, someone needs to go ahead to have the fire ready for cooking when you get there These are just some basic rules for keeping the food safe which means that you won't be up with food poisoning later.

Handling food in this day and age requires careful, thoughtful planning. You can still have fun, just don't shoot yourself in the foot. All of the recipes below are meant for you to supply the amount needed for the number of people. Talk to the people going, see what they like and prepare accordingly. You will notice I do not include salt in the recipes. I no longer have a sense of using salt. My cardiologist told me I wasn't to even look at a salt shaker. I don't use it. Salting the food it totally up to you.

This is a vegetarian picnic.

Pimento Cheese for sandwiches or can be stuffed in celery • A food grater • 1 block of Kraft Sharp Cheddar Cheese slices (when you grate the slices it make a nice size piece of cheese for the salad) • Choose a cheese that appeals to you.

Do this the easy way: buy pre-shreaded cheese to make the pimento cheese • 1 small jar pimentos (chopped) • 3 Tbs. mayonnaise (use more, adjust to taste) • An itty bitty squirt of yellow mustard • Mix together, put in a plastic storage container, place in refrigerator Egg Salad • Hard Boil 4 – 6 eggs. Add one egg for any number over four people • Shell and peel cooled eggs. (Use cold water) • Cut the eggs into quarter sections • Add Pickle relish (I use dill to avoid sugar, You may use sweet) I add about ¾ of a cup because I like the dill flavor.

Reduce to ½ cup you prefer that taste.

• Optional additions: Bell pepper, celery or celery seeds, onions. All finely chopped • Once again the mayonnaise should be to suit your taste.

• ½ cup mayonnaise • 1 Tbs. mustard • Blend together until the egg salad is the consistency that appeals to you. Put it in a plastic storage container and place in the refrigerator.

Choose bread types that the picnic guests like. Egg salad in very tasty on Pumpernickel. I usually pack a loaf of Italian style white loaf bread.

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Picnic Fruit Sandwiches: Pack small jars of condiments, mustard, mayonnaise. You pick the ones that your participants want and consume. Unless you are sure of the storage temperature, discard these after use. When handling food, particularly in warm weather, in an outside environment, BE SAFE, NOT SORRY. Pineapple Sandwich Easy and so tasty.

• Spread mayonnaise or cream cheese or both on to selected bread • Drain the pineapple slices on a napkin. Place the napkin away from you. The bugs, and they're out there, will be drawn to the napkin Banana Sandwich Assemble the sandwich at the picnic place. You can add a slice of cheese to both pineapple and banana sandwiches. Peanut butter with banana is always tasty.

Assembling the food at a picnic provides opportunities for group interaction. Kids usually don't complain about what they prepare themselves. Picky eaters can treat themselves to all the pickiness they live with on a daily basis. A picnic is a way to enjoy nature, don't allow the food preparations to remove your ability to enjoy the experience.

Various kinds of chips, cookies, apples, dried fruit make a nice meal.

Remember, on a picnic you are out in the air enjoying nature with the wood nymphs. Food just tastes better.

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It doesn't have to be elaborate, I've eaten meals and sworn they were the best food ever. At home in the kitchen, I can't stand the stuff.

Maybe the wood nymphs work their magic and the food tastes better when they put the outdoor spell on the menu.

A good cooler with ice packs, and ice makes a good carry container for the picnic. Be sure you have hand sanitizer and soap and water (if possible) for washing hands.

If you are on a walk/hike in the woods, packing some food bars and a bottle of water may be all you need. If you are doing serious backpacking into wilderness situations, check into the specialized food sources that are available.

Background: Dancing Trees by Igor Zenin

How did you originally learn of the place and what was your reaction when you initially saw the property?

Truth be told, I can’t remember the first time I learned of Out N’ About Treehouse Treesort, but it was probably either during a InTreePenDance party (4th of July), or one of Michael Garnier’s classes in civil disobedience.

In either case, I was probably very young (2-6 years) and my reaction was probably something like this. 0.0 (Wide eyed wonder) How did this amazing treeline hotel get started?

Michael Garnier was a Green Beret in Viet-Nom, and whenever he was done he moved to the Takilma area to help start a clinic. He was known as Dr. Birch then.

Afterwards, he bought a little piece of property to start a bed and breakfast resort on, and he was going to offer horse rides through the wilderness. Once he was done building, nobody came. The property was far out of the way and there were plenty of closer alternatives for visitors. He couldn’t figure out what to do to draw-in more people, until he was about to start a tree house for his children. He thought “Treehouse bed and breakfast with horse rides through the wilderness? Yup, that’s it” and off he went. Unfortunately the children did not get their own tree house, they got something even better.

What sorts of amenities should one expect at a treesort?

One should remember that a treesort falls under the category of glorified camping (Glamping). That being said, amenitrees include (but are not limited to) breakfast in the kitchen, seasonal freshwater pool access, a community cook area including barbecues, public bathrooms (though some of the treehouses have their own showers and/or toilets), and all-you-can-eat blackberry bushes and apple trees (seasonally). You can also expect access to a multitude of activitrees including massage therapy, horseback rides, and ziplining.

Is it true there are no locks on the doors?

Why would we need them? First of all, good luck finding us unless we have given you directions. Second, I don’t think there is a person within 100 miles of us who has not benefited from our existence. And third, good luck getting past the owner or camp hosts without notice (they have ninja skills). Besides all of that, the guests and employees are very trustworthy, and we’ve had little-to-no problems with thievery in the past. ONA has been open since the 70’s, and there has never been a need for locks on the doors.

That is very cool in this day and age. What do your guests make of it?

People’s reactions tend to be of a polar nature; they either leave immediately, or they will never stop coming back. Sometimes people don’t understand what it is that we are trying to advertise, and they don’t like what they see when they show up. Everyone else has their minds blown. I don’t understand which experiences end up impressing them, but most people have an almost lifealtering experience here (sorry for the horn toot’n).

Rumor has it your lovely siren wife used to work there, but got too busy with her own booming business to continue. What was it like working with her?

Please don’t remind me, I miss my wife at work horribly.

It was the coolest place in the world while I got to work with her, now it’s just the best job in the world. I laugh and have fun with the people at work, and the whole time I’m thinking “I wish my wife was here”. People used to accuse her of being better than me at what we did.

She probably would be if she were still there.

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I am guessing your daughter has visited the place on more than one occasion. What does she think of the place?

Well she can’t exactly communicate perfectly yet, but it was a lot like my reaction when I first discovered the place, plus a lot of gabbing (her language). Whenever we take her, she usually runs amok and then sleeps VERY well that night. She’s been on the ziplines a few times (starting at 6 months old, riding with her mom!), and every time she’s enjoyed it! We hope that she’ll be the first nextgen zip guide!

Can you tell us about the activities available for participation around the property?

Oh my gosh, I could probably write a book with all of the time it would take to describe all of our activities, so I’ll settle for listing them. On a day-to-day basis we have board games, wi-fi, rope swings, Frisbee golf, horseshoe toss, massage therapy, tie-dyeing, tile mosaic creating, pony rides, horseback rides, the giant pendulum swing (aka the famous Tarzan Swing), rope climbing with rappelling, and zip lining. We also hold our annual treehouse conference in the fall, and our 4th of July InTreepenDance party. And that’s not including all of the stuff to do in Cave Junction, the tourism capital of Oregon.

I imagine staying at Out n' About is more of an experience rather than just a place to lay your head.

Are there any comments from guests that you can share about their stay?

Almost everyone who visits Out N’ About absolutely loves it, we’ve even had families say “This is better than Disneyland!” and/or cancel their trips there to stay at ONA! We’ve had families become long-time friends with each other around the campfire-pit at night, trading stories of their lives. There are multiple families who make YEARLY trips because they have loved the experience so much! It’s always sad to see those families leave, but at least we know we’ll see them again the next year.

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Why should our readers choose a treehouse for their next vacation?

Staying at Out N’ About Treehouse Treesort is, as you said, quite an experience. I’d have to say that staying at Out N’ About isn’t just a vacation, it’s a valuable lifeexperience that everyone should witness at least once.

The trustworthiness of the employees and fellow guests, the friendliness of everyone, the fresh air and beautiful nature around, it’s something you can’t find anywhere else! And that’s just the area! The actual stay in a treehouse, several feet (anywhere from ground level to about 45 feet up) off of the ground, is not only a VERY unique experience, but it brings back memories of being a child and playing in the trees! I have had several guests tell me that their sleep in a tree seems to induce dreams of flying! It’s definitely a place everyone should try to visit at LEAST once in their lifetime…

IF THEY CAN FIND US!

Fortunately, you can find them by visiting their Treehouses.com website or Facebook page

"It is not so much for its beauty that the forest makes a claim upon men's hearts, as for that subtle something, that quality of air that emanation from old trees, that so wonderfully changes and renews a weary spirit." ~Robert Louis Stevenson

Go out on a limb and give into the irresistible lure of the woods and the winds at Oregon's famous Out 'n' About treehouse 'treesort,' as part of Siren School’s DRYAD TREEHOUSE RETREET. Getaway includes theme activities, optional zipline, tree-climbing, horseback riding and rafting expeditions, and lots of opportunities to commune with nature at its purest. Siren School doings involve instruction in dryad lore, culture, crafts, language, and elective nature outings.

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submitted by E J Sankey, author of the NaLee Mermaid trilogy INGREDIENTS • 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled • 1 medium rutabaga (2 pounds), peeled and halved lengthwise • 1 large Butternut squash (2¼ pounds), peeled and seeded • 2 large beets (if desired. If using red beets, remember that they will bleed.)

• Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper • ¾ cup reduced-sodium chicken or vegetable broth • ¼ cup heavy cream • 1 heaping cup plain or lemon-pepper Panko breadcrumbs • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil • ¼–½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese (optional) DIRECTIONS 1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Slice the vegetables no more than ¼ inch thick. (A mandolin or food processor is really useful for this dish.)

2. Spray an 8- by 12-inch glass baking dish (or similar baking dish) with cooking spray. Arrange about ¼ of the vegetable slices in the dish, overlapping them slightly; season with salt and pepper. Add remaining vegetable slices — about ¼ of the slices at a time, seasoning each layer. Pour the broth over and around the vegetables 3. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 1 hour, until the vegetables are almost tender when pierced. Remove the foil and pour the cream over the gratin. Bake for about 30 minutes longer, until the liquid has thickened.

4. Preheat the broiler. Mix the panko with the oil and season with salt and pepper; add Parmesan cheese if using, sprinkle mixture over the gratin. Broil 3 inches from the heat for 2 minutes, until golden, rotating for even browning. Let the gratin stand for 10 minutes, then serve.

Serves 12 -89-

Apple Cinnamon Bites from the Jey of Cooking

Ingredients ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

1 1/2 Cups Flour 1 3/4 tsp. Baking Powder 1/2 tsp. Salt 1/2 tsp. Nutmeg 1/2 tsp. Cinnamon 1/2 Cup Sugar 1/3 Cup Butter, cold 1 Egg 1/3 Cup Milk 1/4 Cup Apple Cider 2 Small Honeycrisp Apples, shredded Melted Butter 1/3 Cup Sugar 1 tsp. Cinnamon

Directions 1. Preheat oven to 350. Spray a mini muffin pan with cooking spray.

2. Combine flour, baking powder, salt, nutmeg, cinnamon, and sugar in a food processor. Process for 30 seconds, then add butter and process again another 10 seconds.

3. Mix together the egg, milk, apple cider and shredded apple then add to the processor and process for 10 seconds.

4. Scoop a small spoonful of batter into each muffin tin and bake for 12-14 minutes.

Allow to cool for 5 minutes. Mix together the sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl then dip each muffin top into melted butter and roll in the cinnamon sugar mixture.

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This is a poem about a nature nymph who was badly treated by her human lover. She bargained with the gods for the power to destroy him.

A Nymph's Revenge

by Lyle Dagnen

She stands alone on a jagged rock, high up on the cliff, The lightening strikes and the thunder rolls, She draws power from the storm, her eyes glint hatred, The words spew forth, she's turning his heart to stone.

She loved him once, with a pure, true soul, The skies were blue and the grass was green, She opened her heart and poured forth her love, The man took it and crushed it under his heel.

Wood Nymph by Evgeny Freeone

She vowed she'd give her sweet soul for just an hour, The power to curse him and destroy him was her request, She now stands holding her desire, the power to destroy, The man is destroyed and she laughs with glee.

Some fools think love is a tender thing, to be enjoyed, Some fools take love and destroy it, and never understand, Some one will not stand the pain that a faulty heart delivers, She stands for the hour of bartered power, she destroys him.

Is it worth it you might ask yourself, all warm and safe below, To give up your soul just to seek out revenge Just ask her, she now sits alone, looking at his stone cold face.

She wears a smile like the sun's new day, her sacrifice a joy.

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y a w a t o g t a h t The ones were ed capture. While they ud el at th s lk fo e th e ar e es Th they just plain e, in az ag m e th r fo ed w ie rv keen on being inte g for the month. So in pp ra w us to r io pr e tim ran out of em, we share their th on t ou s is m u yo ve ha rather than will visit their sites u yo s pe ho in , re he ns tio interview ques and find the answers for yourself.

Green Water by Elena Kalis

The Music of Elaine Silver

Santa Catalina Island

• Music is something that speaks to everyone's soul.

What do you think it is about music that affects people so profoundly?

• You've managed to create an entire ministry with music at its base.

How does music help you impart metaphysical ideas?

• Similarly, authors of note routinely seek you out to work with them. What is it about your music that attracts authors specifically?

• With 18 CDs to your credit, you're well versed in the art of recording. What have you learned about yourself in the process of taking your music from inspiration in your mind and soul, to a product created for others to enjoy?

• What musical instruments are most evocative for you?

• Are there any locations that you retreat to for inspiration when in writing mode?

• Do you have a goal for your music?

• What can you tell us about the Passion Test?

• A forest nymph mentioned you purvey Magic Dust.

How do you go about collecting it and what can one expect from it once they have it?

• Your career is so diversified and you've done so much, are there still projects on your drawing board?

• How did the island's early aboriginal denizens, the Tongva, shape what we see on Catalina today?

• Is it true gold was found in the island's hills?

• Like many coastal areas of Southern California, the island was commandeered during WWII as a training ground for troops.

Have there been any long term effects from those years?

• Many people are confused as to exactly what the Catalina Casino is and what it is used for. Can you clear that up?

• Is there an era that is considered Catalina’s heyday or golden age? If so, what can you tell us about it?

• The Wrigley family of chewing gum and Chicago Cubs fame took over ownership of the island in 1919. How did the island grow and evolve after the Wrigleys became involved?

• In 1975, son Phillip Wrigley deeded 40,000+ acres of the island to the recently formed Catalina Conservancy, arranging for a staggering 90% of the island to remain protected. What exactly does that mean for the families and businesses who make their home on the island?

• What projects and conservation activities are the Conservancy especially proud of?

• What is the primary message you would like to impart to visitors?

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