The next two weeks or so are going to be really busy for me. I'm really jazzed. This Friday morning Greg and I are going to be presenting for the Religious Diversity Conference at the college. We'll be representing Pagan and Reconstruction religions and on the panel dealing with Religious Stereotypes and Consequences.

Next Thursday I'll be presenting my Honor's Project at the college. For those who don't remember, it was the extended breastfeeding paper that was also submitted to a paper competition. I have no idea what the evening will hold but it includes a reception of some sort.

The Thursday after that I'm going to be honored for being one of the few chosen at LCCC for the American Who's Who in Two Year College Students. Wheee! There will be a dinner reception at the Days Inn Conference Center.

If anyone wants to attend the Honor's Presentation, let me know. It doesn't cost anything and I can have about 3 or 4 more guests.

Tickets to see the His Holiness The Dalai Lama sold out in 10 minutes. He is scheduled to lecture in our area this spring. Fuck. I wanted to see him.

With everything going on today I forgot it was National Reading Day (Dr. Seuss's birthday). I love to celebrate this day every year and I just plumb forgot about it. Oh well. Happy reading everyone. Go open a book.

The only time I've ever heard of this being done is in Voodoo ceremonies where it is the primary focus of many rituals. Now, since this was written by Raven Kaldera I'm not going to give it any real consideration (the word "quack" comes to mind) but I was curious if this was ever done in Norse history or in current Asatru practices. I'm gonna say "no" from the gut and from the fact that I've never heard anyone ever speak about it, but so that I don't denigrate myself or succumb to "fluffy bunny" status, I'd like the experts to chime in and provide me with the correct information. Thank you all. Oh, and the "God's Wife" issue was already discussed last year, so my query is into the horsing.

http://www.cauldronfarm.com/writing/horsinggods.html

P.S. And if anything, this article might provide a giggle in the middle of a stressful day at work...

Hello friends. I'm currently in Charleston South Carolina as most of you know. My mother in law works for a company that travels internationally and helps governments bring their hospitals up to American standards. One of the places she goes is Saudi Arabia. She's one of the only people of her company that will go there. We aren't (as a family) happy that she goes, but in America, it's her choice. Before she goes to Saudi Arabia she is required to fill out paperwork indicating she understands Saudi law. I thought you all would like to read what she must sign. It's sort of a reminder that no matter how crappy we think our government is, it is still the best in the world.

I hereby certify that during my stay in Saudi Arabia, I shall abide by all the laws and regulations of the kingdom and I shall respect the morals, customs, values and feelings of Saudi society. I also should not smuggle in any prohibited items. I am aware that alcohol, drug narcotics, pornographic materials and all types of religious, political or cultural leaflets, pamplets, magazines, books, audio tapes, video tapes, films, or other references of all sorts contradictory to Islam are prohibited from entering the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, whether for personal use or otherwise. I should not participate in or call for gatherings, whether for sectarian, religious, or political purposes. Any types of illegal drugs and narcotics smuggling in and distribution inside the Kingdom of Saudia Arabia is punishable by DEATH (on the original paper, "Death" is indeed in capitals and bold print). I agree that if I am convicted because of violation of the laws and regulations of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, I shall be subject to penalty.

In Saudi Arabia, there is no set penalties guidelines. One judge can give you life for wearing a Minnie Mouse shirt (if he personally hates her) and another can let you off (if he likes Disney). This is what the terrorists want the world to be like. Just food for thought.

Happy Thanksgiving.

OK, well, not really. I had to interview a local Rabbi for my English argumentative paper (Jesus of Nazareth being a man, a Rabbi, and married). I had the most awesome conversation with the Rabbi about Biblical Jewish culture. I'm really into history and theology so this was an extraordinary opportunity. I was really upfront about my religion and my personal position on Jesus being HISTORICAL and not supernatural. He was really cool with that cuz that was his position as well. We talked about the Roman culture in the Middle East at the time, Rabbinical training, marriage, the three sects of Jews at the time (and the Zealots), etc... There was even a tiny bit of Christian bashing (sorry to all my Christian friends...not that I have too many left). He mentioned that he and his ancestors have been murdered for 2000 years for not believing in the Christian doctrine. I mentioned the almost total erradication of indiginous religions world wide. It was a nice interfaith bonding moment. LOL What a phenomenal day.