Wheel of Wonder

Wheel of Wonder January 15, 2012

2012-01-15T04:13:00.000-08:00

Once I received a call in the air studio of KAOS while broadcasting a piece about Irish Traditional Witchcraft. Irish Traditional Witchcraft is a spiritual practice passed through certain lineages, those that practice it are known to feel strongly about protecting their family practices. They don't teach them publicly. Some feel there are a lot of good spiritual practices to be gleaned from what these traditionalists make public about their processes.

The question the caller put towards me on that day: " How do you define the difference between cultural appropriation and cultural appreciation?" There was a bit of a debate going on in town about a public ritual at the time. This week I'm going to try to address this issue on Wheel of Wonder.

Many people these days are trying to find their true spirit paths, an experience of the divine that makes sense to them on a very personal level, some awakening or epiphany that cannot be found within the limitations of the faith or spiritpath they're raised in, or owe lineage to (perhaps people have always been experiencing this). Can a person's individual truth be limited to only what their race, ethnicity or social class have been taught all these years? Or is the world of Spirit much larger than that? Could perhaps, experience of the divine be beyond racial limitations?

With some insights from well written articles in Thorn Magazine (thornmagazine.com) and music from Pagan artists' expressions of what they feel is divine, we will approach this topic this week on Wheel of Wonder!

The picture "one view" to the right, can be found here

Wheel of Wonder Twelfth Night Post

2011-12-24T16:26:00.000-08:00

Welcome to Wheel of Wonder midwinter blog. I write this in the middle of the Twelfth Night Celebrations. The original "12 days of Christmas" fall between the Winter Solstice and the beginning of the Roman New Year (about December 21 - January 1). Its the time of the Saturnalia, Alban Artuan, The Festivals of Lights, and Yule! Last week I shared the silversongs of solstice, and the response was great. Nearly 1/2 dozen phone calls (unusual for an early Sunday Morning). I had occasion to share information on observances of the Solstice and neo-pagan public rituals of the modern age! It also was an occasion for Poetry, inspired by the season.

as Math, son of Mathonwy
would hear it on the wind
so do I...

The snowy whoosh of winter
skis shooshing down their tracks
Thrilling the wind as they ride
smoothly down curvaceous hillsides

The Hare has turned ivory white
The pale Lynx follows
pounces fast
Icy, wintry jaws of death
clamp down

like the crusty snow, surrounding limbs
of the sacred, naked, oaken tree
a haze of frost paints needley fingers
of the silver-blue, and dark green trees

The fir tree has its winter coat too
and bobbles, bangles, and ribbons as well
dressed for its wake
after its final, deadly fall
And yes they celebrate that too

all this, I hear
I hear it on the wind

written by Ray, solstice 2011

I hope you enjoy the blog, and Wheel of Wonder. Now going into its third year!
The picture to the right was found on a great blog: celtic queens.blogspot.com

Wheel of Wonder December 11, 2011

2011-12-11T10:52:00.000-08:00

This week we had a Lunar eclipse upon the Full Moon. The night began clear, white frost covered the rooftops glowing in a sparkling blue hue underneath the pale moonlight. Enchanting. Then a misty presence began to form in the night sky, it became cloudy. as the Lunar eclipse began, it looked as though the moon was ducking behind her ethereal vail, so far away in fact she seemed to disappear from sight. Then the misty clouds would move and there she drifted, one more portion of her surface hidden behind the penumbral shadow. I lay awake watching the shadow dance, feeling that energy and wondering..."Am I know present in a time when it would be good to work with one's shadowself?"

The penumbral eclipse, for those who follow the craft of Moon Magic is considered a strong time for craftwork. It is seen by some as a time when the sun and the moon are in perfect union. Some choose this time to work with the dark goddess, while others choose to work with the Sidhe, the Shining ones and Fairy Magic. As one watches the lunar eclipse through the lens of envisioning the threefold Goddess, one sees her go through all three of her phases from rebirth through renewal, to finally, feminine strength. Joining with the shadow of the masculine as the sun plays its part.

This week on Wheel of Wonder, we'll journey through the theme of Moon Music and the story of Pan and Artemis, ending in the ritual of the full moonlight dance. All this through independent music and sourcework of pagan writers, craftworkers, commentators on line, and in print. Enjoy the soundscape, this week on Wheel of Wonder!

The picture to the right is from Starry Skies.com

Wheel of Wonder December 2011

2011-12-04T04:08:00.000-08:00

As the year is drawing to a close, I am already resolving to post more often on the Wheel of Wonder site. As the moon and the seasons change, so is Wheel of Wonder changing. Honestly the whole world is changing, look at the occupy movement and the surprisingly recent recognition in the UK of Druidism being a recognized religion, instead of a cultural celebration, as I understand it used to be. Times like these it seems the world is out of balance, but change is afoot. In the near future of Wheel of Wonder I'll not only be covering the interesting perspectives of Bards and Earth Spiritualists, but the rather New age, but still important, ascension ideas as well. I will also try to bring you info about the economic and cultural progressives ever more common in this twenty-first century world.
I feel concepts like Geomancy, multiple dimensions, and energy work are worthwhile topics for Wheel of Wonder too! Don't worry, I'll still bring you great independent music from Bards and Earth Spiritualists, share legends and stories, and interviews with artists, but now, Interviews with writers, spiritual thinkers and environmentalists as well. This truly is a time of wonder. Thank you for taking some of your time to join me on this journey!

Wheel of Wonder October 15,2011

2011-10-15T18:08:00.000-07:00

This week on Wheel of Wonder its the Fall Membership drive for KAOS!
KAOS is the great community radio station that has enabled me to bring you Wheel of Wonder since 2009! If you like what I'm trying to do with this Pagan/New Age/Environmental outreach radio show. Please pledge money to keep the wheels turning.
The whole world is turning, I like to think, into a better more spiritual place. People are waking up and getting fed up with the status quo of Corporate Consumption, Religious Persecution, and Environmental Degradation. Independent voices, songs and stories, like you can find on this community radio station are helping to move this process of global growth along. I hope you'll support these efforts. I also hope all of these wonderful artists whether they be from America, Australia, Canada, northern Europe, or the UK,will help in these efforts to share this good message and give a greater voice to their songs and philosophies with their own donations too!
I was looking over this blog and website again before deciding what to post. Wheel of Wonder has evolved and I have also changed in the past few years. It will soon be time to reflect that in this blog. It will still be about Music, Spirituality, pagan and progressive, and wonderful independent music, but I'm beginning to see there is more poetry and philosophy to share. So it will be changing . This time though, for this membership drive, I'm going to take it back to its roots as expressed in the introduction.
This Sunday I will be sharing stories and songs in musical form throughout the whole episode. Once again you can hear Fiontullach, SJ Tucker, and yes of course Damh too, on this episode of Wheel of Wonder! Please tune in and help keep the discs turning and the message continuing on its journey this membership drive week on Wheel of Wonder!

The fine Celtic Design above and to the right was found on the website: Coolchaser

Wheel of Wonder October 2, 2011

2011-10-01T11:53:00.000-07:00

Greetings again! Thanks for your patience in waiting for my posts. At Home PC's are expensive! According to the language of nature in this part of the world, the wheel has turned and we've moved into Autumn again. The time of the Oak king is "Past and Passing" (as the Tarot readers would say). But he'll return. The Holly Lord is preparing to take the crown. Of course I'm speaking of the Dynamic, Active energy of Nature, the "Male" polarity if you will.
I've just recently come across a fine meditative/Cyclical approach to engaging the Green Man from the perspective of the honorable Druid/ Author John Matthews. Its about change and "the song of the Green Man, and how Humans engage this aspect of Nature. We''ll share some of that with you this Week on Wheel of Wonder.
And, in the spirit of change, and the past and passing aspects of this civilization we humans live in, I will also share with you some essays of activists from a book I recently found in my local Peace and Justice Library. What are the next generation of Adults and Young Adults doing to put an end to Tyranny in the 21st Century? Especially, what Non-Violent actions are they taking in the face of violence from "The Old Order?" These are Hopeful essays.
Of Course, we will also be hearing lots of great Folk Rock, Rock,New Age, and Pagan Music just as you would expect from Wheel of Wonder! The Wheel starts a'turning at 7Am PST this Sunday Morning on KAOS Olympia 89.3 fm. Streaming at kaosradio.org I hope you'll join me for the Journey.

The Picture of the Autumn Green Man/Druid (see the symbol behind?) was found on this site. Artist unknown to me.

Wheel of Wonder August - September 4, 2011

2011-09-04T04:12:00.000-07:00

Has it really been a month since I posted on Wheel of Wonder? August has come and gone, in the Northwest it was finally the month of Summer. As we're going through the clear 8o degree Farenhiet days here, the evenings are beginning to be coller and some few leaves are becoming blushed with the tinge of Autumn. But the Cedar still stands, grand in her stillness and the creak still runs, laughing across the river rocks.
The people involved in the Community Supported Agriculture movement are finally sharing their produce, bountiful enough in my opinion, to show a slow recovery from two rough summers for farmers. Many more farm stands are appearing now as people look toward their local farmers for food, a pleasent cultural movement, better for the environment.

The Earth seems out of balance sometimes. Climates changing, glaciers melting, Natural Disasters occuring, Its the 21st Century. The world's not the same as it once was. Many Lightworkers and like minded people will tell you these changes, especially the ones called Natural Disasters, are a matter of the Earth getting herself back in balance, as Gaia moves into a different physical relationship with the flow of energy in the Universe.

There is also a belief that we as Humans have the ability to relieve Gaia of some of this stress, and excess energy of the changing electromagnetic field , and the stronger shift of the continental plates, that some relate to the over mining/extraction of oil. As sure as Humans can feel the pull of the Spirit on their concepts of existence, Humans can also channel these energetic changes through their bodies, when they work in cooperation with others, in rituals often referred to as Magic, provided they then complete their ritual through creating healing energy for the Earth Mother in return.

At the same time the Human power of the intellect can adapt and create new techniques and technologies for seeing all our basic needs met, and new ways to teach ourselves, through cooperation with others to become resilient to the damage of these natural disasters. This is a balance of Science and Magic. Perhaps exactly what we need to learn in this; the 21st century.

This week on Wheel of Wonder we'll be talking about balance and adaptation, punctuated as best I am able, by the fine Earth Spiritualist and Expansive thinking styles of music you've come to expect from Wheel of Wonder!

The Picture above is called "Presence of Gaia" and is by Josephine Wall

(Promise I really will try not to ever let so much time pass again between postings!)

Wheel of Wonder July 24 -31 2011

2011-07-29T12:47:00.000-07:00

The Wheel Spins and so we've reached Lughnasadh and Lammas, The Time of the first harvest, although here in the Northwest we've had such a cold, wet Summer, just about all of our harvestable crops are running a bit behind! This reminds me of a presentation about climate change I had attended while pursuing my Masters in Environmental Science Degree. The presenter explained one of the likely results of Climate Change on the Northwest could be shorter, wetter Summers and earlier Autumns. I've been watching the trees. The trees always know what time of the year it is, and seem to stubbornly follow their usual yearly cycles at the appointed times regardless of we misguided Humans and our altering of the climate through pollution. So it was no surprise to me the other day when I saw my first advertised as "zero emissions" compact car in town and it was called the "Leaf." (put out by Nissan). Maybe, as the Druids would advocate, people can and are learning wisdom from the Trees.

But what about this obscure (to some) holiday called Lughnasadh, or Lammas? What's that about then? One thing that occurs in my experience (over and over again) is that this time of the first harvest is also the symbolic death of the Oak King, Some would call him John Barleycorn, the Green man turned Golden, or call this shift of seasons the rise of the Holly King. It is the time when the wisdom of the Paternal, the survivor, the thoughtful and insightful aspects of the male polarity of nature come into power, harsh yet wise, to help us through the winter. It is another one of those 'times in between" of ritual, and sacrifice, as referred to in song and legend and in the burning of the Wicker Man (strikingly not similar to the Hollywood movie of the same name).

We still can look forward to the great festivals of Mabon; the Autumn Harvest, and we can also still enjoy the hot, sunny days of the late summer. Last week on Wheel of Wonder I covered Lughnasadh well in song and thought and story. This week, while I'm out experiencing the long last days of Summer and perhaps some of the rituals that go with it, friend to Wheel of Wonder; Bridgit will be sitting in for me from 7am-10am, spinning Celtic Music for your listening pleasure. Still festive jigs and reels wot? I'll return next week to Wheel of Wonder. Happy Lughnasadh, Lammas, Vacation, or whatever you might call it. Thanks for listening to Wheel of Wonder, and following the blog!

Hot new tunes to check out;

Pipes of Pan (CD)

Australian Musicians Louisa John Krol, Wendy Rule, Adrienne Piggot, Dandelion Wine, and many more created this tape , produced in connection with P.A.N; The Pagan Awareness Network (International Not-for-Profit). Check out this Link

---Radio Ray

Wheel of Wonder July 10-17, 2011

2011-07-16T16:40:00.000-07:00

Ever wondered about those famous divinities the Tuatha De Danann? They are the Children of Danu, The original Irish Celtic Gods, Led by Nuada, the Dagda, and Lugh. Last week I came on the air at 6:45 am to share the stories of the Tuatha De Danann, Their Conquest of the Firbolg and the striking similarities we find between the names and legends of these Celtic Gods and some of the Legends, and Stories, and Gods of Wales. There is even a Similarity between the Cauldron of the Dagda, The Cauldron of Cerridwynn, and the Magic Sampo of the Finnish Pagan Legends! Interestingly enough, the Tuatha De Danann are described in legend as coming from the Cities to the North, with the four Talismans that helped them achieve their victory. These Treasures: The Cauldron, the Sword, The Rock of Fal, and The Spear of Lugh are universal archetypes for the ancient Treasures of the Spirit World, versions of which are even used in Rituals and Tarot readings today. They exist in both British and other Celtic traditions of Legend and Symbiology.
I enjoyed starting early to share the information. This week I aim to be starting at 6:30 am PST on KAOS, or streaming live at kaosradio.org. This week we'll have a veritable Cornucopia of good music, great legend and philosophy riding the airwaves, an amalgamation of many themes and philosophies we've met on the past two years and some months of the Journey. Please listen in on Wheel of Wonder this week from about 6:30 am to 10am on KAOS Olympia Community Radio!
The picture to the right is of a road at Cascade Pass, WA. Photograph by Ed Farell

Wheel of Wonder June 26, 2011 - July 3, 2011

2011-07-02T22:02:00.000-07:00

This week Wheel of Wonder Begins at 7am on KAOS89.3fm, streaming at kaosradio.org (though there may be a glitch in the stream around 9am, I understand. But its supposed to be a short one)
Last week on Wheel of Wonder I was inspired to share a bit of information about Druids and The Sacred Grove (A good place to revisit from time to time). This week I'll be sharing a Pagan Approach to the Fourth of July "Independence Day" in the USA.
I mentioned last year, around this time that Fourth of July, from a Pagan Perspective is much like a Fire Festival and Rite Of Passage. A Rite of Passage for the creation of a new country. Even today though this country celebrates War , even more than Humanitarianism, or Art. There have been some improvements over the past Century or so, in this but it seems like there is still a long ways to go. Let's not forget the Wars and even some injustices that led to the Independence of the United States of America.
Forgetting the past dooms one to repeat it in the Future. So I will have a section of Wheel of Wonder Today that is dedicated to the memory of what some of the Indigenous people went through as this country was formed. As well as other interesting information about Fire Festivals and Rites of Passage (from several cultures, not just modern America) . I'll have new music from Heather Dale and some great World Music for you this week on Wheel of Wonder! Join me for an ear pleasing, culturally expansive show this Week!

The picture to the right is called Fire Festival and I found it on another blog called "Secret Sun" that also speaks somewhat about Pagan and New Age subject matter.

Wheel of Wonder June 5 - June 19, 2011

2011-06-19T01:29:00.000-07:00

Time to get caught up on the Blog Again! For starters; Happy Litha! Merry Alban Hefin! This week's Wheel of Wonder is the episode closest to The Summer Solstice, so thats what this Wheel of Wonder will be about. Solstice is known by many names Vestalia, St. John's Day, Whitsuntide, and even Sun Blessing. Cold as this Summer's been most of the time in the Great Northwest so far, we sure would like to be blessed by the sun, with the occasional Rain, to keep things clean and smelling nice. The two aspects of this Sabbat I'll be focusing on both recognize the joy of celebrating the warmer days of Summer, and the strength of the Masculine Polarity of Nature"The Sun God"if you will, and bringing this sense of being part of the active outdoors into your being, to bring out your internal flame (passion, desire, creativity) and live fully in synchronicity with nature in this phase of the year. I hope our music and information this week will help you to feel this and consider this dynamic perspective so your Summer will be more fulfilling and worthwhile! This week we'll have new Music from Heather Dale too!
Time notice: Wheel of Wonder is running this week from 8am to 10am Pacific Standard(Seattle, WA. USA) time.
Heather Dale, Wendy Rule, and SJ Tucker all three put on a wonderful concert in this area last week, Heather Dale strikes me much like a traditional Celtic Bard, her music does reflect this. Sj Tucker was as wonderful as ever, and if you had the opportunity to tune in last week I hope you to heard the Interview with Wendy Rule, a woman who has a sense of Spiritual Existence as deep and rich as the voice she brings to her songs! These artists are all performing at the Faerieworlds Festival in Mt Pisgah, OR. USA this weekend.
And of course, on the weekend of the 5th, we explored the importance of Place Spirits and this belief system's incredible ability to connect people deeply and respectfully with the land they live, walk, and travel through life with. We even covered some of the importance of Genus Loci, especially as relates to the Bards of the British Druid Order within the Seattle Area, how "Pugetia and Pugetius (the Genus Loci; or place spirits)" relate to their philosophy in relationship to this region. Many fine subject matters on Wheel of Wonder, I hope you'll travel the stream or the radio waves to join us, and even expand your awareness through the many links to Music and Information you find on this site!
The picture of Stonehenge above is from paranormalutopia.com I do not know the credibility of this site, but there is a lot of information there.

Poem

2011-06-09T22:40:00.000-07:00

I am the Hero of my own Destiny and the writer of my own Mystic Story.

I travel as a Shaman, I walk the path as a Bard.

You may see me as a Hunchback

A pale, displaced Kokopelli

Walking through the Salish's Ancestral Land's

That hump on my back is the Harp I bear.

My companions you see, are

The Crow, The Raven

The Dragonfly and The Stag

I carry the seeds of Community

Intent to plant them where I walk

I seek the Elusive Awen

and carry the message of the Bard

I am one who likes the Hearth and Home

But Wait....

The Trees are beginning to sing to me

Do you hear them?

Then let us sing together..

Wheel of Wonder May 29, 2011

2011-05-28T23:49:00.000-07:00

This week on Wheel of Wonder I'll be sharing information about two Celtic Mystic traditions; that of the Ciele De and that of the Irish Traditional Witchcraft. We'll hear about some of these two paths approach to Spirituality and some striking similarities between their viewpoints, Druidic perspectives, and even ascension practices. We will also be hearing new (to Wheel of Wonder) music by Fiona Davidson; now Fiontulach: she now serves in a capacity similar to "Mother Superior" of the Ciele De tradition. She has written many articles and essays about her path, and this "Living Celtic Spiritual Tradition."
Reminder: this is the last week of Wheel of Wonder being in the 6am-9am Pacific Standard timeslot, next week, we'll be moving to the 8am-10am timeslot; but still on KAOS 89.3fm, streaming live at kaosradio.org
The beautiful Mandala to the right this time was created by Nigel Pennick. Check out his work here

"Award winning" Wheel of Wonder is moving

2011-05-27T21:50:00.000-07:00

Hello again everyone. Time for some more posting what? First I'd like to take a minute to thank KAOS Olympia Community Radio for putting together another volunteer appreciation potluck. I have to tell you, with around 100 volunteer producers at this community radio station, it is really great to have the opportunity to "find the faces that match the voice" for all the great diverse programming this little FM station in Northwest North America pumps out along the airwaves and through the computer stream! (check it out yourself at kaosradio.org) I am also thankful to my fellow Producers and the Staff at the station for voting Wheel of Wonder "Best Show in a tough time slot."(tied with the Punk Show "Campfire Island", which most Saturday nights actually, shuts down the station a few hours before I fire it up again on Sunday morning) I have a nicely framed certificate now to put on my wall, and even more good feeling for the time and energy that goes into this radio program. Hazzah!
I am thankful for the opportunity.
This Sunday; May 29, 2011 is the last time, for a while, that Wheel of Wonder will be starting at 6 am PST on Sunday mornings. The station Schedule is being modified and Wheel of Wonder will be moving to the new timeslot of 8am-10am Sunday Mornings, PST instead, beginning June 5th, 2011. That's two hours later than the current start time, but I'll still be there, perhaps with more listeners? Time will tell.
Sadly, this also means that New Dimensions, the show that follows mine will no longer be on Sunday Mornings from 9am-10am. If you regularly listen to Michael and Justine Thoms after Wheel of Wonder, and would like to hear it on at another day and time (this is a Station Management decision, not mine) please do contact KAOS General Manager Jerry Drummond at 360-867-6895 during regular business hours or Email drummonj@evergreen.edu
I am very glad to be able to keep bringing you Wheel of Wonder, even at two hours instead of three (unless I sneak in early at 7am until the 6-8am slot is filled) and it gives me a chance to move the interviews to 9am, so perhaps more people can hear them. I have interviews with Wendy Rule and Christopher Penczak coming up in June. Hope you'll catch them! Thanks for continuing to follow and comment on the Wheel of Wonder blog. Hope your catching the show on air or streaming!

Radio Ray

the picture above and to the right is a blue Triskelion from a website of Mandalas called oriscus.com

Wheel of Wonder May 8 - 15, 2011

2011-05-14T23:17:00.000-07:00

Hello again

This is another compilation post to the Wheel of Wonder blog. Last week I did a Mother's Day special on Wheel of Wonder the focus was of course on honoring mothers and the Mother goddess. It is too bad lack of easy access to a home PC circumvented my posting here for responses. I received some very good messages through my Email: radioray.wheelofwonder@gmail.com
I'll share a little of them with you, leaving the senders anonymous, unless they should contact me and say "why don't you put up my whole message?" In which case, I will.

"....the true meaning of Mother's Day. It's not how we all blew it out for Hallmark and $. I enclosing again. We should worship Mothers EVERYDAY, EVERY MINUTE, Not just once a year, as well as everyone celebration/holy day.
From Marianne Williamson: "Mother's Day started when mothers from the South who'd lost sons during the Civil War joined with mothers from the North who'd lost sons in the war, trying to inspire the women of the world to stop war altogether. Let's make Mother's Day a day when we all make a stand for peace, beginning with where we stand within ourselves..." (& you thought Hallmark Cards began it?)"
and another:
Goddess Isis – Early Egyptian Roots
One of the earliest historical records of a society celebrating a Mother deity can be found among the ancient Egyptians, who held an annual festival to honor the goddess Isis, who was commonly regarded as the Mother of the pharaohs. Her stern, yet handsome head is typically crowned by a pair of bull horns enclosing a fiery sun orb. She is most often depicted sitting on a throne.

Last week I mentioned the creator/destroyer/ rebirthing Mother Goddess Icon. In a positive way of course, Death can just be another word for the end of one cycle and the beginning of a new one. In the process of this I mentioned revisiting the Yoruban episode of Wheel of Wonder. Yoruba is of course Traditional, pre-christian African religion, and still exists though through some changes today. So this week I will be running a Wheel of Wonder with three philosophies of interest: Yoruba, Santeria, and Voodoo. Spooky huh? Well, hopefully not by the time I'm done sharing the information and music with you. Its always good to see things broadmindedly what? Misconceptions can sometimes cause greater problems down the road for people outside of mainstream religion. If something on Wheel of Wonder strikes your interest, investigate it yourself , intelligence intact, and enjoy Wheel of Wonder.

The picture above and to the right is "Isis" by Linda Hunt. Check out her Gallery here

2011-04-30T22:11:00.000-07:00

SILENCE ISN'T ALWAYS UNHEARD

The ancient woods carry a silence
A hush that feels sacred
The wind will brush the branches, needles, and leaves
Whispering the wonders of Spirit
While the Birds communicate through their songs
A sacred ancient chorus
Sacred Silence isn't always unheard
It's the sound of the Earth and her place in the Universe
Reminding we Humans we are part of the all
Yes, I understand the language of birds
It's not of normal Human talk
As ancient Eddas may seek to claim
The birds are too far removed from Human expression
It is the Humans who must interpret the birds
We are the ones who listen to the wind
The wind that brushes the branches, needles, and leaves
Carries the birds and their sacred chorus
from tree to tree to tree
This is how they honor them
The Trees in return, offer the birds their protection
They tell them "Welcome home."
" With our wisdom and our strength, we will protect you"
The sacred silence of the Forest
Broken, yet completed, by the heavenly chorus of birds
Would that Humans should listen to the Trees
How honest it seems to have lovingly tended the forests
for Holy millennium, as many have done
How disconnected it seems for some to despoil them
for a short greedy era, beneficial to few
I think this as I walk through ancient silence
In the hush that feels sacred
On a journey for the soul

Written by Ray
Beltane Eve, 2011

Wheel of Wonder April 24 to Beltane, 2011

2011-04-30T21:11:00.000-07:00

Happy Beltane! Another multiple week blog, as home PCs can be quite expensive. Its great to be blogging again on this Beltane Eve! This is the second annual Beltane show on Wheel of Wonder. Wheel of Wonder landed in its first weekly timeslot on KAOS shortly after Beltane 2009. That particular episode was not a Beltane show though. It has been my pleasure to bring you many broadcasts since then. Whoever you are, wherever you are, you can still here Wheel of Wonder streaming online at kaosradio.org just adjust your listening time to whatever time occurs at the same moment that is 6am Sunday Morning Pacific Northwest (Seattle) time. Here's a helpful site for that: world clock meeting planner.
Beltane is a time for celebrations and new awakenings! It is the time of the great dance of life between the God and the Goddess; the male and female polarity within us all. The inimitable time of the year when one can feel Nature's energy of spring, most intensely.
We began speaking of new awakenings last week through the story of the character Ayve. Ayve is an individual who walks toward us out of fables untold, he was a person who felt an acute compassion, or love of nature, but lived on a planet where people blinded by greed misused his mother planets natural resources, and he hunted down these perpetrators with the intention of bringing them to justice. Well, Ayve lives on a planet where magic is afoot and it was after a time of learning from the realm of spirit that he met other who sought to protect nature too. He then soon learned that he was part of the whole and that more people sought to protect his world than those who sought to exploit it, it was after learning this that he truly gained great wisdom and worked with this majority to begin to change his world and every person on that planet's relationship to her. Ayve lives on and his story isn't finished yet, but it began with a personal awakening. New awakenings can be part of the experience of Beltane!
There are also many myths, legends, and Archetypes related to May day within the Earth Spiritualist perspective and with some help from the works of John Matthews, Michelle Skye and perhaps Robin Williamson, I will endeavor to share some of them with you this week, on Wheel of Wonder!

Wheel of Wonder April 10, 2011

2011-04-09T20:13:00.000-07:00

This week on Wheel of Wonder is the week for the Spring Membership drive for KAOS independent , publicly accessible Radio. It appears the federal(US) funding for such stations as these is being pulled, so its very important that people who like and listen to independent voices like the ones I bring to the airwaves call during the pledge breaks this week or go online to kaosradio.org to offer financial support to this not for profit radio station.
If you call or contact KAOS during Wheel of Wonder (ph# 360 867 KAOS, or if you prefer: 360-867-5267) 8am-9am Pacific Standard Time USA to pledge, the management of the radio station will know that there are pagans and progressive expansive thinkers out there who enjoy hearing the music and philosophies of the modern earth spiritualists, Bards and Musicians like we play and share on Wheel of Wonder. So please connect and support at whatever level you can, even if its just a good comment about the show. That's how we build community!
I know, I know, sounds like a commercial, but it isn't. Membership support is what a small not for profit community radio station runs on in the USA. No Corporate salaries or commercial time for sale here.
This week I'll be here working on sharing information on the artists I play and their spiritual paths, as I understand them, not only is that interesting, but if their songs inspire you, or speak the truth to your heart/head you might be one step closer to understanding your spiritual truth, you may know what to investigate on your own, and their may very well be a link to it right here in the sidebar! Other times one just has to know what one would be losing to appreciate it better. I can't podcast, I might be the only one or one of very few people in the world running a Pagan information and music show on the FM frequency! Hope to keep it running too. Thanks for tuning into Wheel of Wonder throughout the past few years, I hope to hear from you this week. Bright Blessings!
The picture of The Green Man is a CG by Pete O' Malley. Check it out , and his other art to here

Wheel of Wonder March 20-27, 2011

2011-03-26T21:39:00.000-07:00

Its been some time since I posted here. The Urban Pagans would say I was out of balance with the Element of Fire, at my home base I've been experiencing some number of Electrical Power Surges. Some Urban Pagans say the Element of Fire is present in the Urban setting in the form of Electricity through the wires. One of these power surges seems to have fried the Home Computer, so I couldn't post. Everything's fine now (though I still don't have a working Computer at home) I'm working on my relationship with fire (always a good idea) and will soon have the functional "virtual Crystal Ball" if you will, but today will be a mixed post for last week and this week coming up.
Last week was the Ostara show, and this Ostara especially was an Equinox of great energy in this area. No disasters occurred but there was a lot of passion hereabouts surrounding The Medicine Wheel Healing Ceremony that went for three days, sunrise to sunrise in a very public area. Passion is often attributed to the Element of Fire. For more information on this issue; look to the sidebar of this blog for Medicine Wheel Healing Ceremony, if you click on that it will take you to the ritual facilitator's website. For information on the "not necessarily positive" feelings towards the event I invite you to begin your search on this website: Evergreen Native Student Alliance I'm definitely one for people making their own decisions. Ostara is a time of balance, so feel free to balance both issues in your decision.
I decided to attend the Healing Ceremony, I find it very worth while to try to add my energy as much as is possible, to the efforts of people trying to achieve positive results, even if not everyone agrees with their cultural approach to rituals.

It inspired me to write:

MOTHER LET US HEAL YOU

Even though my Ancestors are from other Lands across the Sea

Olympia is my Home. I love this place as much as one can.
I honor this land, I honor these Trees, I've found great solace traveling our woodsy waterways
And I too dislike entombing our Mother in Concrete
Mother Let us Heal You

What Mother would not be hurt, damaged and appalled
at seeing, feeling, her blood soaked children die
gasping their last breaths as they lie on her chest?
That is the bad blood conflict has been bringing us all these years
That is the only bad blood that can run through Human veins
It doesn't even earn the title bad blood until it spills out of those veins
Mother Let us Heal You

When the Children are hurt, when our Brothers and Sisters are hurt
It is our Honor to heal them.
And when we see our Mother's tears
What feeling heart is not moved to wipe them away and let her know
"This time Mother, let me heal you."
Mother let us Heal You

Well, our Mother is Crying
Her sobs and Shudders are in the Earthquakes
Her tears and pain are in the Acid Rain
Her red hot face is in the droughts we suffer
Some suffer them year after year.

Mother we can help you, we had just forgotten how.
But now we are learning.
Mother Let us Heal You

written by Ray, Ostara 2011.

Let's not underestimate the strength of Gaia though. Or our place in helping the Earth we live on and the other people who live here with us.
This week on Wheel of Wonder I will be interviewing Rainbow Lightening, a self-identified Druid who works closely with the head organizers of the Medicine Wheel Ceremonies Blue Thunder, and Christine. Blue Thunder is a registered member of the Wind River tribe in Wyoming, and there's a chance he might say a few words as well about what they are endeavoring to do with the many Medicine Wheel Ceremonies they perform around North America and other parts of the world. This will be an 8 o'clock hour Interview with the backdrop of this week's Wheel of Wonder: all about Lightworkers and some people's beliefs about the Ascension Path of Spirituality. It will include some references to Christopher Penczak's book Ascension Magick: Ritual, Myth and Healing for the new Aeon (20o8 Llewellyn Worldwide)
We will also include new Music by Denean and new to Wheel of Wonder music: Red Cedar Medicine Circle Songs from Beaver Chief.

The picture is a "re-broadcast" of Earth from The Space Brotherhood, I still don't know the artist or the Brotherhood.

Wheel of Wonder March 13, 2011

2011-03-14T11:11:00.000-07:00

Sunday's Wheel of Wonder occurred on the date closest to the first ever broadcast of the show on the Olympia Airwaves. The first ever broadcast of Wheel of Wonder was on March 18th, 2009, as a "Rookie Radio" installment. So I chose this episode to be a "2nd year Anniversary Special ," went right back to the roots and re-created a Celtic Wheel of the Year show. I followed through song, information, and ideology the meaning of Samhain, Yule, Imbolc, Ostara, Beltane, Litha, Lughnasadh (lammas) and back around to Mabon. I will hope to see posts and opinions around it soon.

The key purpose, the string of meaning through observing these ancient Holidays, beyond the harvest and fun, seems to be in living in closer awareness to the natural flow and energetic cycles of the Earth Mother. I am idealistic enough to believe this could very well be one recognizable path towards living in better relationship with the land and each other.

I think agrarian, indigenous, and environmentalist people know this, even if it does not fit their faith path to consider themselves "Pagan" or "Shamanic." That is the appeal of learning about ancient belief and perhaps even new age, ways of thinking.

I hope you have been enjoying Wheel of Wonder over the past few years, and the information I've tried to make available on this blog. The picture above and to the right is from my Garden.

Wheel of Wonder February 27, 2011

2011-02-27T02:26:00.000-08:00

A Bard I once met would tell me "if a story's worth telling, its worth telling more than once!" and isn't that at the heart of the oral tradition anyway? I say, if its new music that fits into the Wheel of Wonder radio show's genre, it should be played there. So it is this week on Wheel of Wonder. Once again, like the virtual Troubadour, I've ventured out, sought the songs, and brought them back to share with all ye listeners. Songs inspired by the Mythic Cycles of Ireland. Together, this week by the LCD lights of your chosen radio or Internet device we'll visit through word and song Mythic Ireland and the Evils of Balor, the Heroics of Lugh, the Tragedy of the Children of Lir, and the sorrowful life of the beautiful Diedre. We'll be reminded of the miraculous birth of ChuChulain, and the transition of time between the Milesians and the Fianna. We will also hear of Finn McCool and of the son of he and Sadbh; Oisin.

Perhaps with some history from The Book of Conquests and certainly new music Classical, Celtic and even edgy Metal from Robert Lamb, Anuna, and Cruachan (watch for new Artist Links to appear soon in the list on this blog). So feel free to build a fire in your fireplace, picture yourself around a campfire and think of the radio waves as smoke carrying the medium of knowledge when you tune in today to Wheel of Wonder.

The Painting to the right is called "Ossian awakening the spirits on the banks of the Lora with the sound of his Harp"painted in 1801 by French Romanticist Francois Gerard. The character Ossian is a Scottish variation of Oisin, son of Finn McCool. There is some discussion as to whether Ossian is based in History or Scottish imagination. Either way, I like this work of Classic Art.

Wheel of Wonder February 19, 2011

2011-02-20T01:23:00.000-08:00

This week on wheel of Wonder we'll be speaking about the craft practice called SpiritSong. This is also known as The Way of Song. "One important and often overlooked aspect of well-being is the unique mechanism known as the voice. the voice is built into our basic body kit for two main reasons: to release tensions and to communicate the unique expression of who we are." According to Shawna Carol, the wise woman who named it and seeks to spread the use of the Way of Song for people to find their own, powerful voice, through the use of sound. Spirit Song is about deep listening to perceive the inherent music of the universe and to remind ourselves to hear the music that represents ourselves, every heart can sing, and finding our own song is empowering. This week we'll be talking with Shawna Carol about her journey to the Way of Song and the Spirit song practice. Finding the voice of your soul.
This will also give us the opportunity to hear new music from song healer Denean, Tracks from Shawna Carol's epic sacred music work:Goddess Chant, and many other songs that come from the spirits of their singers. Expect chant, ambient, New Age, and even traditional music this week on Wheel of Wonder.

The painting above is entitled Spirit Song and was created by Mira M. White check out her work here.

Wheel of Wonder February 13, 2010

2011-02-12T09:55:00.001-08:00

So what are the Pagan origins of St. Valentine's Day anyway? Could this be a holiday that is completely and totally Catholic in origin? Not like Yule/ Christmas, Ostara/Easter, Samhain/All Saint's Day? Not a chance! According to historians, the myth in Valentine's Day is very likely that there never was a Valentine marrying people covertly when it was illegal to be Christian at all. The pagan origins of the holiday are found in ancient Rome in a festival called Lupercalia. We'll speak a bit about that this week on Wheel of Wonder, as well as, sharing songs of love, and perhaps passion.

We'll even hear new music from Celia, who will be in concert Sunday night in Olympia (see entry below). Celia may even make a guest "appearence" on Cottleston Pie between 3 and 5pm on KAOS to share with you an Irish Tale, or one of the stories she shares in her children's shows. Please join me on a journey through history and passion, this week on Wheel of Wonder.

The picture to the right is of pink bleedingheart flowers from my garden

Wheel of Wonder January 30, 2011

2011-01-28T19:27:00.000-08:00

Welcome to the Imbolc installment of Wheel of Wonder! This week I'l of course be speaking of Imbolc; the first festival of the returning light. Not only light like the light of the returning Sun King, but also Brigit's light. The Sacred flame of Bridgit, fire of wisdom, creativity and inspiration. The 10th century Cormac’s Glossary describes Bridgit as the daughter of the Daghda, the “Great God” of the Tuatha de Danaan. He calls her a “woman of wisdom…a goddess whom poets adored, because her protection was very great and very famous." Since the discipline of poetry, filidhect, was interwoven with seership, Brigid was seen as the great inspiration behind divination and prophecy, the source of oracles. (source: "Chalice Centre for Celtic and western magical traditions" Mara Freeman;chalicecentre.net)

Additionaly, this week we'll have a live, pre-recorded interview with Kellianna Chanter, singer, and priestess. She'll talk about ancient stories and the modern Pagan Path, as well as share some explanation of her take on Imbolc and the meaning behind some of her songs.

Also, in relation to the celebration of light I'll try to fit in a bit of information on a new and interesting belief system in the craft of Spirit growth the Lightworkers movement. I hope you find the time to tune in this week for Wheel of Wonder!

The Image to the right is a very popular design by Wendy Andrew, see more of her art at this site

Celia Concert in Olympia!

2011-01-28T10:43:00.001-08:00

Celia Farran, singer, songwriter, storyteller and comedienne, brings her unique and multifaceted performance skills to Olympia, Washington on February 13th for an entertaining and endearing performance to raise money for The South Sound Pagan Pride Day Celebration. Celia! Earthy, Enchanting and talented, walking the balance between the silly and the sacred, it will be a performance you won't soon forget! Sunday, February 13th, 2011 6:30 pm door, 7:00 pm performance in the sanctuary of the Olympia Unitarian Universalist Congregation. Sponsored by Olympia CUUPS and the Olympia Green Theater. Tickets: $10.00 in advance,$12.00 at the door. Tickets available now in Olympia at Earth Magic and Rainy Day Records! Pagan Pride challenges religious intolerance through educational outreach. Support this worthy cause and an independent artist while having a great time!

Wheel of Wonder January 23, 2011

2011-01-23T00:42:00.000-08:00

This week on Wheel of Wonder we'll explore the Neo-pagan Witch's solitary path. It seems that one of the main ways many Neo-pagans begin their Journey is as a Solitary practitioner, not part of , or involved with, any group or Coven, but on their own spiritual journey to wisdom and growth, according to their belief system. A witch's journey? What kind of a Journey is that? Tune in to Wheel of Wonder and I'll share some of the info I've uncovered with you. We'll speak of the rituals intent, as best as I can describe it, the Labyrinth and the rebirth to Wisdom, The Spiral Dance, a bit on Imbolc, Otherworld Journeys, and of course, the Mother Goddess belief, all with some help from Marian Green and her book: "A Witch Alone, thirteen Moons to Master Natural Magic" 1991, Aquarian Press.

I'll also share new music from Kellianna, in consideration of the interview we're planning next week for Imbolc. Please join in on the journey, this week on Wheel of Wonder!

the picture to the right is from an iinet.net.au website

Wheel of Wonder January 15, 2011

2011-01-15T22:20:00.000-08:00

This week on Wheel of Wonder Bridget returns to co-host! Together, in the Spirit of Balance, She and I will share the leadership of the Journey. I'll be speaking of Druids and the importance of the Sun as the basis for their ancient knowledge of the cycle of things. An approach often believed to be drawn from the expansive and Masculine energy of Spiritual duality. The Druids see the male embodiment of nature as both Light and Dark and have been known to teach their lessons in triads. Bridget will speak of the rites of the Moon and the triple goddess, a spiritual approach often considered drawn from the more feminine and intuitive aspects of Human Spirituality. It is often observed that Goddess teachings move forward in cyclical fashion. Bridget and I will both bring you Classic Music, Indy folk rock, New age ambient and even Rock and Roll. This week on Wheel of Wonder!

Happily, with the Sun and Moon image above, you too can see where it came from "GeoImages Clipart."

Wheel of Wonder January 2, 2011

2011-01-02T04:02:00.000-08:00

Thank you all for the calls, posts, and conversations in support of earth community radio. Wheel of Wonder is about to enter its third year on KAOS!

This week on Wheel of Wonder I'll speak a little bit more about the healing qualities of gemstones as well as honoring this icy reflective season of winter. Then we'll go on to speak of balance, and renewal; to closely related ideas to the Winter Solstice Season.

I will also be sure to introduce new Music, put out this past year by Wheel of Wonder favorites like Woodland and Dave, as well as others. I hope you'll enjoy this week's Wheel of Wonder!

The picture to the right is called Rose Quartz Crystal Dawn, an artistic CG image by Esther Johnson

Wheel of Wonder December 26, 2010

2010-12-26T05:05:00.000-08:00

This week's Wheel of Wonder will be a Healing Journey. After what some people may find a very stressful "Christmas" week, wouldn't it be nice to talk of Healing?

The Holistic healing movement: seeking to heal Humanity through energy use and the achieving of Balance between the Mind, Body and Spirit is a wonderful movement for the greater good of Humanity. There are in this world, practitioners of Crystal Healing, Reiki (energy) Healing, and Healing through sound. I'll try to cover all of these approaches to healing Cohesively, this week on Wheel of Wonder. There will still be lots of great music , and we'll try again this week to speak to Bard and Healer Jane Valencia. Tune in for a message of hope and possibility, this week on Wheel of Wonder!

I love this picture of the Healing Hands, but I've not yet found the artist who created it. Help me if you can.

December 19, 2010

2010-12-18T12:43:00.000-08:00

Merry Silver Solstice from Wheel of Wonder! This week's broadcast is the one closest to Midwinter's Eve in the Northern Hemisphere, so you can expect a Yule program!

Whether its called Alban Arthuan, Yule, or the deep midwinter, it is also known as the Winter Solstice. The shortest day of the year when all seems darkest, but as in many different cultures , on the very darkest night the Sun is reborn as the baby sun king! Bringer of light and hope! Even while the land seems to lie sleeping and in the Northern Hemisphere, the brow of the Goddess has turned pale as frost and sometimes the wind is deathly cold. Light is returning. But Winter has a quiet beauty to it also and brings many people together around the fire or into our homes, as we celebrate the Holidays.

On this week's Wheel of Wonder, we'll talk about the beliefs of solstice recognized by the Druids and Pagans, and perhaps others as well, as I take us on a journey of Celtic, Holiday Music. Music that carries the beauty of the cerulean winter sky, the calm silence of the falling snow, and the festivity of the Troubadour.

This week we will also check in again with Jane Valencia, Bard and Healer, as our live holiday guest. Jane will speak with us about Healing Harp, Medicine Animal and Medicine Plant lore, and perhaps even Home Schooling one's children to include an understanding of Earth's Sacred Nature in their educational upbringing. Hear Hope and Joy this week on Wheel of Wonder!

The beautiful picture above is from the Crystalinks the science and metaphysics Website, artist unknown.

Wheel of Wonder December 12, 2010

2010-12-11T23:58:00.000-08:00

This week on Wheel of Wonder its "Into the Starry Morn." Its a time of moonlight, starlight and early morning frost. These dark days of Washington winter one can wake up in the dark, even when its a normal morning wake-up time, go about one's day and come home when its dark again(about 4:30pm)!

Its the time of cold wind, Crows and the long , rainy, or starry night. How would the Ancients see such times? Would their views make sense to us, inform us now? This week we'll speak of Air Spirits, The symbolic powers of the birds, and awe of the starry night. What beings may dwell in them? You can also look forward to hearing Folk Music, Celtic Music, Appalachian Music, Bardic Stories, yes, Holiday Music and even New Age ambiant sound. Good for a cold Sunday morning. Please join me this week on Wheel of Wonder!

Wheel of Wonder December 5, 2010

2010-12-07T23:02:00.000-08:00

Last week on wheel of Wonder we explored the concept of place spirits, especially in the sense of that experience many of us have had of being "watched" in the Forest and having a favorite tree we like to sit by. Well, from the place Spirit perspective Trees have their favorite Humans too!

I also put forth the idea that perhaps there is wisdom in accepting the possibility of place spirits for perhaps there is some truth in the idea that if people everywhere started seeing the earth as a place of sacred Spirits, we as a whole Human Race may see ourselves living in a world of greater social and environmental justice. I also shared a story of Merlin "the Prophet" by RJ Stewart from the book Celtic Bards, Celtic Druids by RJ Stewart and Robin Williamson (1996 Blandford, UK). I post this now to give opportunity to comment for those who may have tuned in to the show Sunday. Thank you for listening to Wheel of Wonder!

The beautiful picture to the right is: A Magic Photo – River Spirits
Do you see the spirit face….and the white bird….? RiverRest magic….and Rainbow Heart Healing Arts….sharing the magic with you! From Debra Rainbow Heart, healing Shaman.

Wheel of Wonder November 28, 2010

2010-11-27T10:52:00.000-08:00

This week on Wheel of Wonder we'll be talking about the Benandanti. Often characterized as an Agrarian Cult from Northern Italy; an area called Friuli; in the North easternmost corner of Italy. The Benandanti, or "Good-Walkers" are a group of Shamanic Dreamtravellers whose Beliefs are based on travelling during Equinoxes, Imbolc and Samhain, and Catholic "Ember days" as Spirit Warriors against the Malandanti, and other Malicious Spirits to protect the people in their community and assure the health of the crops that support them. Many Benandanti are said to exist in Baltic, Germanic and Slavic areas too, and it is believed that the legends from that region of the Benevolent Werewolves are actually stories of the Benandanti who travel the Spirit world and this world, in the form of Wolves. Of course, as always, we will also listen to great independent music. This week on Wheel of Wonder!

The picture to the right was found on DeviantArt and is in Ink and Pencil and created by Artist "Komodo Vista" the artist calls this picture "Benandanti Elite"

Wheel of Wonder November 21, 2010

2010-11-20T12:58:00.000-08:00

This week on Wheel of Wonder we'll be talking about Urban Paganism. Often on Wheel of Wonder we speak about belief systems and philosophies that are believed to get one more in touch with nature and the natural cycles of the world, as well as advancing the spirit. Often I've spoken of Sacred Groves, Harvests and the rural living of the ancients. Truth is 40% or more of the Earth's population lives in cities and if current trends continue, that number is likely to increase. Honestly, most neo-pagans live in the urban environment as well. So how do the modern Pagans cope with living so close to the rest of Humanity, in an artificial environment separated from Nature by steel and concrete? Perhaps there's a different way of looking at the City in a spiritual fashion? I'll share writings from Neo-pagan and modern Druid sources this week that address just that. Also this week, we'll be having an Interview with musical, storytelling guest Celia Farran, a woman who herself has gone from Country Living to City Living and kept her spirituality intact. I will also try to fit in some information about the increase of green spaces we are seeing in American Cities these days and its effects on personal spirituality. This week on Wheel of Wonder!

The picture to the right is of a rooftop garden in present day Chicago, there is an Evergreen Alumni who has been working on rooftop garden projects in Chicago and elsewhere since graduating from TESC!

Wheel of Wonder November 13, 2010

2010-11-14T04:58:00.000-08:00

This week on wheel of Wonder we'll talk about The Hunt and The Harvest. Are these two expressions for acquiring food products of the Male Polarity for "The Hunt" and the Female Polarity for "The Harvest?" Many people Pagan and not Pagan alike have very strong opinions about whether Hunting Animals is Right or Wrong. Well, its not the intention of Wheel of Wonder to resolve that debate. Personally, I'm glad that people are discussing it. Although I'm not a Hunter myself, this week we'll be trying to look at it from a unique perspective of Pagan Myth, History and modern sustainability culture. The Harvest of course, has a brilliant energy as well, one has to get food from one of these ways or another, or perhaps even both!

This week we will also hear new Music from Pegasus (The filk award)winner Heather Dale, and from Dolmen. We may even have KAOS "all strung out" DJ Bridgit in the Studio to add her energy to the Journey! This week on Wheel of Wonder!

This weeks picture is a photograph of the Hunter's Moon from the a great blog The Domestic Pagan, check it out if you can.

Wheel of Wonder November 7, 2010

2010-11-06T18:37:00.000-07:00

What is this Pagan thing about anyway? This week on Wheel of Wonder we will focus on debunking misrepresentations of the Pagans by some of the more outspoken extremists of Monotheism past. Additionaly I'll share my observations on the real, not fantasy horrific actions and motivations of Modern Pagans. We'll also speak about the Wheel of the Year , as the Celtic New year has just begun. This week will also include new Music from Damh the Bard, Sharon Knight, and a new artist I've recently seen perform: Celia Ferran. Please tune in this week for Wheel of Wonder.

This Beautiful Golden Pentacle was created by Bradley W. Scheck, see more of/about his work at this link

Speaking of All Soul's Day and Samhain...

2010-11-01T14:57:00.000-07:00

Happy New Year! I hope you all had a Super Samhain! Samhain, or All Hallow's Eve (Hallowe'en) is considered the last day of the Celtic Year, and begins at Sunset on the 30th of October. I realize I was negligent in not posting about the Taibhsear tunes of Samhain. It was a busy day of get togethers and artistic expression. I attended Strowler's Night in Seattle's Magnuson Park and had a simple performance of my own to attend to. Strowler's Night featured Sharon Knight, Tricky Pixie, Celia, and Alexander James Adams (Faerie Tale Minstrel), in a solo set as well. You can link to all of these Artists from here see "Artist Links" to the left. Strowleres Night also offered an opportunity to meet Independent Film Makers and see lots (and I mean LOTS) of attractive young women and strapping young men engaged in Fire Dancing and the swinging of flaming swords at one another (come to think of it both the young men and young women were strapping and attractive, and yes, in a good way). I hope there will be more Strowler Night events in the future!

On Wheel of Wonder I shared Ghost Stories and Tabhsear Tales with all the early morning listeners (well, unless they were catching the stream somewhere else in the world on kaosradio.org), with better results after that pesky gremlin got out of the computer machine. I also held a live interview with Paula Randall from the Bards of the Koad.

To feel the vibe of last week's Wheel of Wonder seek out these songs (this was the playlist):

All Soul's Night by Loreena Mckennit from The Visit

Holly Lord by Spiral Dance from Woman of the Earth
Samhain Eve by Damh the Bard from The Hills they are Hollow
November by Faun from Totem
Grimspound by Damh the Bard from The Hills they are Hollow
Danse Macabre arranged by Pascal Roge from The Work of Saint- Saens
Ancestor Chant by Sharon Knight from Songs for the Waning Year
Ornaments of Gold by Siouxie and the Banshees from Peepshow
Oracle by Gaia Consort from Vitus Dance
Spirit by Autumn Tears from The Hallowing
Watching you Without Me by Kate Bush from Hounds of Love
The Search for Lost Souls(Midnight) by Louisa John Krol from Alabaster
My Immortal by Evanessence from Fallen
Queen of Heaven by Sharon Knight from Songs for the Waning Year
Chu Chulain Set by Spiral Dance from Over the Nine Waves
Death's Illusions by Louisa John Krol from Alexandria
Spirit World by Douglas Blue Feather from Sacred Space
Ancient Mother by Bards of the Koad
Numbers by Bards of the Koad
Phoenix is Rising by Bards of the Koad
Hopeful People by Bards of the Koad
Shaman's Death by Terrel's Magic Flutes from Kokopelli: The Indian Legend
Lament by Priscilla Hernandez from Ancient Shadows
Prayer for the Dead by Sharon Knight from Songs for the Waning Year
Your Soul is a Lantern in the Dark by Wendy Rule from Guided by Venus

Picture to the right is an entry from Elfwood by Jade N Bengco. See more of her art here (do you see his Tork? I've got one too!)

Wheel of Wonder October 24, 2010

2010-10-23T11:17:00.000-07:00

For the past year and seven months KAOS community Radio has been a wonderful medium from which to broadcast Wheel of Wonder. I'm thankful they gave a Pagan radio show a chance, and I am equally thankful for all of the calls and "thanks for doing this" mesages I've received from listeners and all folks who comment on this blog! This week on Wheel of Wonder I'll be joined in the studio by other fine KAOS producers, as we finish out our Fall FUNdrive! I Hope many listeners and people who appreciate this loveley local station, that amazingly streams on the Internet everywhere, will support the work we do, and the information we share by donating to this worthy cause: Local ,independent Radio voices!

You can call the Station during Wheel of Wonder to donate, or just go on line to kaosradio.org to do the same. Its your chance to thank KAOS for playing your music, or info about the alternate philosophies and interesting stories I always try to bring you on Wheel of Wonder!

Because it is the fall FUNdrive, this week I'll be bringing you the music of celebration! Music that makes you want to get up and dance! And because here in the Northern Hemisphere we're reaching the end of the Celtic Year and the late night and early morning sunlight, we'll also have some deeper music that inspires the inner Journey, maybe even music that reminds you of the approach of Samhain. Please join me and help us support KAOS radio, this week on Wheel of Wonder!

----Radio Ray

The picture to the right is a concept drawing of Cernunnos, by me, which probably explains why I don't post my art here very often.

Wheel of Wonder October 17, 2010

2010-10-16T10:15:00.000-07:00

Listen in for another Bardic Byways episode this week on Wheel of Wonder! We'll have the lead singer of the Indy Music group from Seattle "Bards of the Koad" on for a live interview. The Bards of the Koad are a group of musicians who decided to pool their creative resources together in pursuit of music geared towards the hope and beauty found in Nature. i will also include music inspired by improving community and finding the joy that can't be measured in paychecks in the course of life. We'll speak some on the Bardic viewpoints and what the Bard's Awen really is (as well as I can interpret it). I hope to include some information on the myths and virtues of plants too, sharing information from the writings of Kate West and Phillip and Stephanie Carr-Gom. As always, fine independent music about the earth as sacred and inspirational too, this week on Wheel of Wonder.

The picture to the right is of course, from the cover of the book The Druid plant oracle, illustrations by Will Worthington

Wheel of Wonder October 10, 2010

2010-10-09T13:12:00.000-07:00

Wheel of Wonder 10-10-10! This week on Wheel of Wonder I'm bringing you new music, well maybe with a few familiar favorites, but mostly all new. Also this week, in recognition of the autumn of the year, we will include brief memorandums for major twentieth century intellectuals of the Pagan Movement who have passed on, but had great impact on the Pagan Movement while living: Issac Bonewits and Gerald Gardner. Issac Bonewits just died this year,and was an author and Archdruid worthy of note, and of course Gerald Gardener had a huge impact on the rebirth of Paganism during his most active years of 1948-1958. We will also try to cover some of the information that is available on living Pagan Philosopher and Writer Raymond Buckland and his well known Pagan viewpoints. As of the time of this writing Mr. Buckland was not available for comment but I will share what can be found about his philosophies with you. On another episode I intend to share my findings and observations on the viewpoints of the leading women Intellectuals of the Pagan movement. New music and interesting viewpoints on Paganism, this week on Wheel of Wonder!

Picture to the right is "Celtic Deer Shaman" by Susan Seddon Boulet. Find more of her art here.

Experiencing Alban Elfed Gorsedd and Eisteddfod

2010-09-30T17:41:00.000-07:00

Last Sunday I attended a Bardic Gorsedd and Eisteddfod. A Gorsedd is a gathering of Bards, and an Eisteddfod is their sharing of poetry, stories, and song. This Eisteddfod celebrated the turning of the Celtic wheel into the time of Autumn (Alban Elfed, as you may remember from last week's show).

It was a fine Autumn day along the shores of Lake Union in Seattle. The sun broke free of the Northwest clouds that sometimes hang like a silver canopy over the length of the region, its golden beams lit up the sacred space, never too hot as the Autumn breeze kept stirring the robes and clothes of all who were present.

I shared a few poems at Eisteddfod, one which I've composed music to, and received the incredible honor of being granted the Rowan Tree Tork for sharing some of the creative expression the season of Mabon inspires in me. I was humbled and amazed as the High Priestess set the Tork about my shoulders. It was wonderful to be recognized by a group of Bards and Druids I esteem so highly!

The picture to the right is the Rowan Tree Tork I hold in my possession. The talented metalsmith that created it can be found in Seattle's Pike Place Market and goes by the name of "Tink."

Autumn blessings to all!

Wheel of Wonder September 26, 2010

2010-09-25T08:46:00.000-07:00

This week on Wheel of Wonder We'll explore the Druid's Autumn festival; Alban Elfed. Those on the Druidic Path also celebrate the Equinox, but fewer Druids look at the Autumn Equinox as a Minor Sabbat as is the case with many Wiccan and some Neo-Pagan Traditions. From the Druidic perspective it seems the equinox is about celebrating the balance of dark and light, which I suppose one would expect of a faith path seeming to focus on cycles of the Sun, rather than cycles of the Moon. It has always been interesting to me that the Druidic faith seems to attract men who are focused on the cycles of the Sun, and the Wiccan faith seems to attract women who are focused on the cycles of the Moon. A nice balance. Acknowledging of course their are great variations in the gender and motivations of both these faiths. This week on Wheel of Wonder we will also have the opportunity to interview the organizer of our local Pagan Pride Day Celebration, which is scheduled for later this same Sunday. We'll hear about the Pagan Pride (international) movement and our local celebration from Kate, the organizer. We will also hear new music from Castalia and The Moon and the Night Spirit, while exploring deeper into the Druids Equinox: Alban Elfed. This week on Wheel of Wonder!

The picture to the right is another great work of art by Willow Arleanea, I call it PanDiana, not so very Autumnal, but gorgeous nonetheless.

Wheel of Wonder September 19, 2010

2010-09-17T13:44:00.000-07:00

Mother Nature has turned the Star Wheel, Autumn is upon us. Or soon will be, here in the Northern Hemisphere. Mabon has come around again and Wheel of Wonder is still rolling, here to take you on the journey through the coming Darkness. This week of course will be the Mabon Show. Mabon is my favorite season! Its the time to harvest the wisdom of the last year of learning and the fruits (and vegetables?) of our labors. This is the time of the year when we will take brisk walks through the kaleidoscope of colours the trees have painted their leaves, dressing them up for their good byes before letting go of them to fly solo on the wind. Somewhere out there there are even some Human parents saying good bye and well wishing their own children, who as young adults on their own, are off to fly in the winds of their new adult world. You see, just as it is with all endings, it is also a beginning. Wheel of Wonder this week will both celebrate and try to shed some light on the historic myths and meaning of this season Mabon! I'll share some writing with you from various Pagan Authors (while we're at it, check the links in the left Margin of this blog for even more information) and of course the great indy music you expect from Wheel of Wonder! Please tune in.

This week's picture is an untitled work I like to call "Mabon" by Artist Jason Harrison.

Wheel of Wonder September 12, 2010

2010-09-10T07:16:00.000-07:00

This week on Wheel of Wonder we'll have another Bardic Byways episode. Our guest Mistress of Minstrilsy will be Wiccan, Neo-pagan Poet: Castalia, from Ontario Canada! We've heard her music many times on Wheel of Wonder, so its especially exciting for me to host a Live Interview with the Woman from north 8am this Sunday. We'll talk about the Celtic Wheel of the year, Traditional and Solitary wiccan paths, modern myths and legends and even spend some time discussing the modern Fables of what "is" we all live with at this time. Join myself and Castalia this week on Wheel of Wonder!

The picture to the right is from the photobucket album of someone named dstorms. You would have to ask them who the original artist was, I didn't see them credited there. dstorm didn't credit Waterhouse for his pictures on that site either. If you learn who the original artist was please post here and let me know. Otherwise , admire dstorm's taste in art.

Wheel of Wonder September 5, 2010

2010-09-02T12:18:00.000-07:00

I can't believe its almost another Mabon already! We've now made it through (or almost all the way through) a second summer on Wheel of Wonder, and although the weather is still warm here in the Northwest US, sometimes one can feel that subtle change of energy, slight cold , or see the stray (early) painted leaf riding on the breeze. Harbingers of the change of seasons.

This week on Wheel of Wonder one of KAOS' wise women of world music; Anch (she's actually more mother than crone, but still very wise) has gracefully agreed to pilot you through the journey. I'll be covering the Friday Morning Breakfast Special. Tune in to hear me there, if you like. Its a different format, but still great fun.

The "Autumn - is- coming -Wanderlust" is taking me out of town this weekend, but I'll be back from the road next Sunday for Wheel of Wonder. Enjoy Anch's take on the music and enjoy your weekend!

Wheel of Wonder August 22, 2010

2010-08-21T08:50:00.000-07:00

Glad to be back after a fine journey across this country! This week on Wheel of Wonder we'll be talking about Wicca. We'll compare and contrast the many different approaches modern pagans travel on their Wiccan Path. There is Tamaran Wicca, Celt-Eclectic Wicca, Gardenarian Wicca, the Wiccan reclaiming Tradition made well known by the work of Starhawk. There is even Solitary Practitioners within Wicca. this week we'll try to cover all of these approaches to earth-centered spirituality. It may even prove easier than understanding all of the different variations of Christian Protestantism (has anyone ever written a work of reference on that?) This week's Wheel of Wonder will include sourcepoint info from practitioners of Wicca or "The Craft" as sometimes it is called. Also, all the great music you expect the majority of the Program to include!

the picture above is one of the very popular works of original art by Australian Artist Selina Fenech. Link to her website here.

Wheel of Wonder August 1 -15, 2010

2010-07-29T12:08:00.000-07:00

Starting with Lughnasadh, Wheel of Wonder will have many, very talented guest hosts! We'll start on August 1st with a special Lughnasadh show, hosted by Breakfast special DJ with a love for Celtic Music Bridget. On the 8th, hear a new spin on Wheel of Wonder by Brettilicious. Then on the 15th of August we'll welcome back Aba, DJ of our Wheel of Wonder around the world episode, sharing some tales and philosophies, while including her own unique perspective on things. I'll be back on the 22nd with a new Wheel of Wonder show.

Now, a bit on Lughnasadh. Lughnasadh is the last harvest of Summer and the time of the year when the oak king of summer, the green man, the corn king, whichever name you know him by, symbolicaly dies to secure next year's harvest, when he'll be reborn as the new sun king, leaving the male polarity of nature for the dark part of the year in the strong, paternal hands of the Holly king. It is also the time of the year when the maiden aspect of the goddess moves into her aspect as the Mother. Lughnasadh begins a time of change, leading us into the time of harvesting and reflecting on the wisdom we've acquired through the experiences of the year. Happy Lughnasadh from Wheel of Wonder!

The Incredible picture to the Right is by Jessica Galbreth, see more of her work at this link.

Wheel of Wonder July 18, 2010

2010-07-18T03:21:00.000-07:00

This week on Wheel of Wonder, if you've been listening to Wheel of Wonder you'll notice we've travelled through the Elements: Air; Including a news article on Wind Power by Winona La Duke. Water; including Selkies and some news on the Gulf Oil Disaster, and Even Fire and how it relates to the Fourth of July. This week we'll continue in that vein by focusing on Earth, Forest and some sustainable practices in their use. I would also like to introduce a new song by SJ Tucker in recognition of the release of her new CD Mischief. Legends abound of "the people within the Earth" whether it be the Sidhe of the Hollow Hills, or the Ant people, described in some indigenous American legends as the Progenitors of the Human Race. We'll dedicate some songs t o these legends. Also within the Element of Earth are the legends of the great Tree of Life, it is easy to step closer to understanding these legends if you've ever walked within the Old Growth Forests of the Northwest, or any other places in the world were the old Trees still stand, and we'll even try touch on Sustainable Logging news. Gnomes, Whorls, and Woods on Wheel of Wonder!

The Picture to the right is from DeviantArt by a Berliner Artist named Engelszorn.

Wheel of Wonder July 10, 2010

2010-07-10T09:11:00.000-07:00

It is the time of the year when the sun is at its hottest and most powerful again, as shown by this past week's weather. From the Celtic/Earth centered perspective we've come back to the time of Cernunnos, the horned (or I should rather say"antlered") God. It many pagan belief systems, it is believed that the male aspect of Nature's divinity is at his strongest now, before his symbolic death at the end of summer, or his transformation into the Holly King. This week on Wheel of Wonder we'll focus on the myths and stories of Cernunnos, the non-violent masculine force and his aspect as Herne the Hunter, master of the Hunt. I'll try my best to keep our info to the Celtic cosmology, though in some traditions Cernunnos is an off shoot of the famous Greek god Pan. Pan, who was later re-defined by some who chose to scare people into following their Christian Leaders, by making him the anti-god, or the Devil. I won't be focusing on the Devil though, I'll be focusing on the Celtic God of Nature in his Western European Manifestations. Sharing these myths and pieces of information with you, punctuated by music with a Celtic flair! This week on Wheel of Wonder.

The Picture above was created by Fabiola Vargas from Costa Rica. Her art is often posted on Elflands Workshop.

Wheel of Wonder July 4 2010

2010-07-03T15:36:00.000-07:00

This week on Wheel of Wonder: A pagan perspective on the Fourth of July. I've been trying to look at our major national holiday: Independence Day. The Fourth of July is like a fire festival as the Celtic Wheel of the Year would see Lughnasadh, Imbolc, Beltane, Samhain. It is also considered a celebration of the United States' independence from British rule. This makes it much like a right of passage ceremony; the new, young nation standing alone, separate of its British forebears. That's not to say that since then the United States government have done everything right. No, I think these administrations, past and present, have done some things that are very wrong.

From the Pagan perspective though, one could see Independence Day as a mixture of fire festival and rite of passage ceremony. Barbecues, fireworks, celebration feasts drawn from the harvest now in season. Very much similar to a pagan fire festival. While also celebrating a "parent country's" "off spring" choosing to stand up as their own self-governed authority. A message from the Wiccan reclaiming tradition's way of engaging the world that seems to apply here is: The spirit of revolution and declaring independence can still be celebrated in these times not necessarily by calling up the old ghosts of British and colonial bloodshed, but in the spirit of declaring self-sovereignty and revolution. Today's revolution, to improve things in our very own country, nonviolent actions taken to ensure greater social and environmental justice, that is a good reason to celebrate the United States of America, a land with potentially more freedom to dissent from the injustices of the sitting government. People of America taking control of their own destinies as opposed to blindly following leaders who do not seem to have our best interests at heart, that is my pagan take on this holiday. I'll speak of fire festivals and rites of passage from different cultures and hopefully we'll connect the dots to how some modern social/political movements reflect a similar purpose to those intended by these rituals from the past, and how that applies to the present.

The picture to the right is from the Vancouver Fireworks Show, as posted on the blog Boga Yoga by Donna K. I hope to include some of this wise woman's quotes this week on the show.

Wheel of Wonder June 27, 2010

2010-06-27T03:29:00.000-07:00

This week on Wheel of Wonder we''ll drift and dive into the songs and tales of The Selkie. Selkie are the Seal People. They are well known in the Shetland Islands, Scotland, Ireland and even the Faroe Islands and Iceland have legends of them. The Selkies are the people who come to shore from the Sea on some moonlit nights, they remove their seal skins, and dance as Humans upon the moonlit shore. If ever one should have their skin taken, then they become human for a time. This continues for a while until they retrieve their skin from the Human who caught it. The clear relation to life and legend is in that perspective where the Selkie themselves is a fully realized being capable of travelling to the Spirit world and to the in between world where the Human and spiritual meet. The shore is a threshold between this world and the other. The Selkies cannot help but feeling incomplete without their seal skins, as they hear the calling of the Sea to go beyond the limits of the everyday.

This week we'll include these stories as well as new music from Damh the Bard and Iona Leigh. Hear the Song of the Selkies this week on Wheel of Wonder.

The Picture to the right is the work of James Browne. To see more of his art follow this link

Wheel of Wonder June 20, 2010

2010-06-18T21:15:00.000-07:00

And so the wheel turns..... It was one year ago this weekend that we heard the first 6am-9am broadcast of Wheel of Wonder. Many things have changed since that weekend last year, I've met wonderful new people, talented artists, and my own Journey has certainly been something to write about too! I have been honored to be recognized as a Bard among our local Bards. I'm not writing exhaustively about myself here though. Wheel of Wonder is about a philosophy of seeing the Earth as sacred, and truly worth protecting by living more sustainably. Its about finding that magic that is all around us, all the time, following our myriad paths to greater wisdom and balancing the natures within ourselves.

In modern lore, we walk the line between the feminine and masculine, the two of equal importance. Litha, The Summer Solstice, celebrates the power of the masculine polarity and the path of the feminine polarity as she changes like the seasons and moves from Maiden/ Lover to the Mother/Wise Woman, and the male polarity moves towards the Father/Sage. In this weeks Wheel of Wonder I'll try once again to bring you some interview footage from Fremont Solstice parade; a celebration of the change of seasons, and we'll speak more of the meaning and traditions behind the celebrations of the Sun and midsummer's eve throughout History and place. Wheel of Wonder the dawn before Litha, 2010!

This time, I'm afraid I do not know who created the picture to the right and above its called "Litha Pixies"

Wendy Rule is Coming to Olympia! (cancelled)

2010-06-12T12:18:00.000-07:00

Beautiful and talented Australian singer Wendy Rule's house concert in Olympia has been cancelled.

The concert was intended to benefit Olympia Pagan Pride Day Celebration which is scheduled for September 26th: 10-6pm at Yauger Park. The best benefit this event could receive though, is for all those interested and reading this blog to go ahead and get involved in this important work for the pagan community.

The mission of the Pagan Pride Project is to foster pride in Pagan identity through education, activism, charity and community.
This not-for-profit organization strives to keep their purpose balanced through the inspirations of Air, Fire, Water, and Earth:

Air: Education We're never going to be able to practice our spiritual paths openly if we don't give the public accurate information about what we do and do not do.
Fire: Activism People aren't necessarily going to go out of their way to find out what Pagans really do. We have to have the courage to act on our convictions and do what we need to do.
Water: Charity We know that what we do returns to us. We need to demonstrate this by offering compassion to our communities where it is needed. When we share our own abundance, we show that we trust the Gods to share abundance with us in return.
Earth: Community We're never going to be able to practice openly if we don't know anyone else in our local Pagan communities. We need to weave networking webs in our cities, in our towns, in our rural areas. We need these webs to support one another. That support will also show those who would restrict our practice that we are not just a few isolated wackos, but are a growing congregation of people who adhere to a faith that, while different, is as valid as their own.

Wendy Rule's two newest CDs The Wolf Sky and Guided by Venus are both very good albums though so go ahead and check those out! For updated news on Wendy Rule, feel free to click on her link to the left on this blog.

For more information on the International Pagan Pride Project and other Pagan Pride Day celebrations around the world, check out Paganpride.org

Wheel of Wonder June 13, 2010

2010-06-12T11:26:00.000-07:00

After the unexpected interruption last week, I'll pick up right where I left off, finishing out the Water element and then moving right into our exploration of the element of air. Water health and Water spirituality, the deep thinking and deep emotion element. Water physically connects us all, from the ocean's perspective we are all living in one homeland, this must be why cultures throughout the world all have their traditions and mythologies of Sea and River Gods and Goddesses. From Salish lands to Celtic shores, the salmon fish is considered the carrier of Wisdom, and many past tribes have stories of meaning. Then where the Water meets the Air, we here the creative voice and songs of life are carried to us mouth to ear, across the wind and breath. This week we will also have new music from Bone Poets Orchestra and new news from the advocates of alternative energy. I will even share some of the research I've discovered about the maybe not so mythical land of Atlantis. tune in to Wheel of Wonder!

The painting to the right is a Dreamscape by Lori R Avramis, a self-taught artist. check out dreamscapes studio for more of her art!

Wheel of Wonder June 6, 2010

2010-06-05T07:35:00.000-07:00

This week on Wheel of Wonder I'll begin a several part series on the Five Elements: Water, Earth, Air, Fire, Spirit with Water! The series may be interrupted by our annual Litha special on June 20. This week though, we'll explore some of the myths and legends and eco-news of the life giving Element of Water.

The photograph to the right was taken at Deception Pass

Wheel of Wonder May 30, 2010

2010-05-30T02:30:00.000-07:00

The Sunday before Memorial Day. Well, this Sunday before Memorial Day on Wheel of Wonder, I'll share a story and a bit of information of a Spirit's Journey on the Warrior Path. I may not necessarily see the purpose of War in the 21st Century, but I do respect those committing their lives to such a path. Let us just remember those brave enough to fight for Peace without killing are Warrior Spirits too.

Wheel of Wonder May 23, 2010

2010-05-21T11:33:00.000-07:00

Gaia Theory: Where science and magic meets. This week on Wheel of Wonder Gaia is exactly what we'll be speaking of. What is gaia, in that place where science and belief meet? According James Lovelock, the scientist who first proposed the Gaia Hypothesis, now often referred to as the Gaia Theory "Most of us sense that the Earth is more than a sphere of rock with a thin layer of air, ocean and life covering the surface. We feel that we belong here as if this planet were indeed our home. Long ago the Greeks, thinking this way, gave to the Earth the name Gaia or, for short, Ge. In those days, science and theology were one and science, although less precise, had soul. As time passed this warm relationship faded and the life sciences, no longer concerned with life, fell to classifying dead things and even to vivisection. Now at last there are signs of a change. Science becomes holistic again and rediscovers soul, and theology, begins to realise that Gaia is not to be subdivided for academic convenience and that Ge is much more than just a prefix for Geology and Geography." (from the writings on his website; see the entire statement here) All scientific theorem begin with a hypothesis which when proven through observable facts becomes a theory. This theory is based on the idea that the biomass self-regulates the conditions on the planet to make its physical environment (in particular temperature and chemistry of the atmosphere) on the planet more hospitable to the species that constitute its "life." Life supporting life, so much like a function of spirit. Indeed what other function does spirituality (not dogma) serve? Though of course, even though I'll be speaking of Gaia Theory and quoting some of the work of James Lovelock and others, as you would expect we will still have much music this week on Wheel of Wonder!

The picture above is one of the amazing creations of British artist Josephine Wall. Please visit her gallery its worth it.

Wheel of Wonder May 16, 2010

2010-05-15T07:23:00.000-07:00

Taivaannaula! This unique word is Finnish for Finnish paganism, which is what this episode of Wheel of Wonder will be about. Although, by request we may re-visit some of the Icelandic eddas too! Finland is officially a Lutheran country, but has been recently seeing a resurgence of Finnish pagans. Perhaps do to a book called "Finnish Magic: A nation of Wizards, a World of Spirits." By Robert Nelson? No, not so much. The research put into this book is not considered A-list Quality by most Taivaannaula. In the Finnish Pagan world view you of course have the Animism one would expect, but The Finns believe each person has several souls, or soul selves. These break down into the life force, the "ego" or concept of self, and the persons guardian spirit, which was also attached to the person and their soulselves, sometimes it was even ancestor. The Finnish Pagan family unit seems to include the spirits of the ancestors as well as the people living. There are a few key gods who also occur as characters in the Finnish National Epic The Kalevala. Although unlike The Icelandic Eddas are to the Asatru, the Kalevala is not considered the source for the taivaaanaula. Nonetheless, the cultural impact of the Kalevala has existed through all time that has passed.

We will also hear new mythic music on Wheel of Wonder this week from Värttinä, and Suden Aika (time of the wolves) skilled rune singers. We will also see what we can do about introducing some new tracks by Gjallarhorn. A trip to the bright North, this Sunday on Wheel of Wonder!

The picture above came right off the site Taivaanaula.org

Wheel of Wonder May 2, 2010

2010-05-01T06:44:00.000-07:00

HAVE A BLESSED BELTANE! Beltane is an important fire festival celebrating the turning of the year from the cold time to the warm time. Beltane Celebrates Sunshine and Fertility and is a Passionate and Wonderful Holiday. People dance around the Bonfire and celebrate the turning of the year. I hope the music reflects the feelings of the year. The Beltane Broadcast will be included in the Wheel of Wonder Archival project too!

Wheel of Wonder April 25, 2010

2010-04-23T20:42:00.000-07:00

This week on Wheel of Wonder we'll explore transformation. As in, transformation of the Human Spirit. Maybe I'm inspired by Olympia's Procession of the Species this week, or perhaps its the way the land is transforming into Lush and Verdant Spring, perhaps it is the transformational experience of having the honor of being present at our most recent Artesian Well Blessing by Dr. Emoto on invitation from the Lummi elders, and the Saturday Morning blessing of our inland sea. But Transformation is afoot, and I've never seen both the blessings of the people of European Ancestry and the people of Salish Ancestry occur in the same place at the same time, as I did at the blessing of the Well. This is an important transformation into unity, I believe. Some of this week's content includes quotes from Charles Eisenstein's book The Ascent of Humanity. This episode also gives me an opportunity to look into New Age philosophy as well, and wonderfully, we will have a full Interview with the Australian Angel Louisa John Krol this Sunday on Wheel of Wonder. I hope you'll join me, and let the Transformation begin!

The beautiful Picture above is called: Aquarian Awakening: The Perfection and was created by Jack Haas. More of his incredible work can be viewed at Celestial Art.net

Wheel of Wonder April 18, 2010

2010-04-17T17:05:00.001-07:00

This week on Wheel of Wonder, as the episode falls between Ostara and Beltane we're going to speak about the second and third branches of the Mabinogion involving Branwen and the Welsh embodiments of the goddess: Virgin, Lover, Crone. The virgin in this case is a pure hearted woman not owned or enthralled with any partner, but self-sovereign and in control of her own life, ready to pursue her own destiny. The lover is also the mother in this Welsh point of view. The crone is as always the woman of courage and Wisdom living her own life by her own rules, with so long a life behind her and death as an obvious future friend that she no longer needs to follow rules of custom that don't make sense to her, or don't serve her plans. Your eccentric old Auntie or Grandma. Blodeuwedd, Branwen/Rhiannon, and Arianrhod/Cerridwynn, will be the goddesses of the hours. One for each hour if all goes well.

The photo above and to the right is a picture of the plant meadowsweet, from the Internet site Wildflowers of Ireland, with pictures by Zoe Devlin. Scotch Broom, Oak, and Meadowsweet were three of the nine herbs and flowers from which the May Queen Blodeuwedd grew in Welsh Legend.

wheel of

2010-04-17T17:05:00.000-07:00

Wheel of Wonder April 4, 2010

2010-04-02T12:29:00.000-07:00

This week on Wheel of Wonder will be focused on the Wiccan Reclaiming Tradition. Many of the public Spiral Dances one might attend in your area are drawn from this Tradition. Some of the traditions' leading advocates and teachers include Starhawk, Macha Nightmare, Vibra Willow, and even T. Thorne Coyle. we will have some installations of their thoughts and writings this week. A great deal of what is defined as Neo-paganism today can trace its roots back to the Reclaiming Tradition. One thing that is a very important part of the reclaiming tradition is that one's path of faith and political action are both integral parts of this tradition. So this week's music sets will include some straight American Folk Rock, not necessarily pagan, but definitely about political viewpoints. You'll hear Arlo Guthrie and Holly Near, as well as our usual amazing miscellany of independent label Pagan Musicians. Please tune in to Wheel of Wonder this week as we rock and rotate our way through the Reclaiming Tradition!

The picture to the right is called "Triple Goddess by Lady of Gaerdon" and came from the ever popular photobucket site, whether that is to say Lady of Gaerdon created or just uploaded it, or both I don't know. Lady of Gaerdon has many excellent pictures in her online album.

"Rock on Water!" Benefit Concert Success!

2010-04-02T07:53:00.000-07:00

Although it has been a time since Tricky Pixie performed in town, I feel I owe it to them and others who may read this blog to say something about "Rock on Water!" The Artesian Well Benefit Concert recently performed in Olympia. The performance venue was great (if a bit cold) with fine acoustics and a good sound system, the staff at The Loft where great, and very gracious in helping the event go smoothly. Not only did Danny Kelly perform for the benefit, but he brought with him local musicians from Olympia bands High Ceiling and Knot Pine Box, and I believe, another of his past collaborators from Helliotroupe. Even KAOS DJ (and occasional Wheel of Wonder sub) Aba was there, ready to play guitar! With more forewarning, as MC, I would have given her appropriate stage time. Check her out in Olympia when you can!
Tricky Pixie was of course, great too, and kept the place hopping until 10:30 pm. Together we raised over $300 USD to protect Olympia's beloved Artesian Well! Over all, it was a great community event, like only Olympia, Washington can do!

Coffee was donated by Batdorf and Bronson Coffee Roasters, Cookies were donated by Blue Heron Bakery, and More home made cookies donated by folks who came to see the show! Additionally, good healthy and organic fruits and vegetables were donated by the Olympia food co-op, and incredibly beautiful, backlit Batiks and water-esque banners from the Procession of the Species! Even Professor Diamant, from The Evergreen State College was there, sharing a set of beautiful slides from the Water Crystal pictures of Dr. Emoto (water crystal pictures of "what the bleep do we know?" fame) they looped beautifully through the projector for the whole length of the concert. Dr. Emoto will actually be in Olympia doing a blessing for the Olympia Artesian Well and the Puget sound, on request of the Native people's elders this month. He will also be doing a talk about the innate intelligence of water, as partially shown through water crystal photography, at The Evergreen State College on April 21.

I'm also very grateful to the folks at SidheHaven for creating the event posters and to the Evergreen Americorps people for printing out the tickets And of course every single one of you who spent the money or donated some funds to make this Benefit Concert a success!

---RadioRay

The picture above and to the right is a photographic still from the New York Performance "Fuerzabruta" created and directed by Diqui James. The waterdancers in this show perform their choreography within a huge, clear, water tank suspended just inches over the audience's heads!

Wheel of Wonder March 21, 2010

2010-03-21T00:12:00.000-07:00

Happy Ostara from Wheel of Wonder! This Week on Wheel of Wonder we'll be celebrating Ostara; The Spring equinox. I'll bring you information about the Holiday, its symbology and new music from Telling The Bees to make it even better! This is the time of the year when all life begins to reawaken after the long winter. You can see it the budding of the trees and the flirting of the Squirrels and Birds. The sun will start to feel warm and we'll begin to put away our coats. The planting of new seeds has begun. Its time to sew the seeds of the promises we made on Imbolc. Join in me in the Dance of early Spring on Wheel of Wonder!

The Picture to the right is the work of Helena Nelson Reed. To see more of her goddess art follow this link.

Wheel of Wonder March 7, 2010

2010-03-05T22:54:00.000-08:00

This week on Wheel of Wonder, we'll go back to the forest with songs of the fay! We'll have tales and stories of the fay and perhaps a little information you may not have already known about these evocative creatures and their place in the myth and philosophy of the modern Pagan movement. Some say the fairies are about waiting to help the humans because it is these actions that helps them to evolve as well. I will also speak a little on the Anderson Feri tradition and how this is different than other faerie belief systems out there today, beyond the fact that it is spelled differently. This week on the faeriefolk music episode of Wheel of Wonder!

The picture above and to the right is an older peice of fantasy photography from photographic artist Dale D. Zlemic.

Wheel of Wonder February 28, 2010

2010-02-27T08:02:00.000-08:00

This week on Wheel of Wonder, we'll share the stories of some of the great mythic works of northern and western Europe. We'll hear words and music from the great poetic Eddas of Iceland. If you were like me when you were a kid, you may have read some of the amazing stories of the Norse gods and giants. Or you may remember earlier Wheel of Wonder references to the Egil Saga. All these things come from the Icelandic Eddas. We'll hear new music this week inspired by these great works, classical and folk rock in the sound they'll carry across the airwaves. We will also hear new music drawn from the great Finnish epic, The Kalevala, actual sung runos this week! Plus more music from Gjallahorn, and songs and tales from two of the three major mythic story cycles of Ireland. Let us not forget tales and songs from the Welsh myths of the Mabinogian and new and wholly American retelling of classic tales by the very talented Tricky Pixie and SJ Tucker! Why have these legends carried through time still inspiring the spirits of human beings for so many thousands of years? Listen and decide this week on Wheel of Wonder!

The picture above and to the right is Finn Mac Cumhail as interpreted by Hannah M Friedrichs. For more great work by such artists checkout elfwood.com.

Wheel of Wonder February 14, 2010

2010-02-12T08:05:00.000-08:00

This week KAOS dj ABA will take you on the "Wheel of Wonder World Tour" without you ever having to change the radio dial, or hope for a good reception from some portable machine trotting about the globe. As the virtual world travelling bard, I've put together music to take you from the neo-pagans of the Netherlands, to the ancient Finnish rites of the stone Labyrinth, and through the Kalevala Melody, introducing new music by Gjallarhorn. Then we'll go to the UK, meet Tricky Pixie in Scotland, then Ireland Celtic France, Spain, Macedonia and Greece, Egypt, India, Australia, Africa, over to South America, the Caribbean, the Us, probably ending in the Northwest, all through song and music, and some stories and legends along the way. How do we fit this all into one episode of Wheel of Wonder? Well, I'd like to say "Shoot for the Moon, cause even if you miss, you'll end up in the stars!" (mind you, this doesn't mean I support bombing the actual lunar surface to find water, or anything like that). We may make it around the world yet. Join ABA this week on Wheel of Wonder!

Also worth noting: for those of you reading this entry on Friday the 12th of February: Bone Poets Orchestra performs tonight at Soulfood Books in Redmond, WA. and the concert is streaming with live video and audio feed across the Internet, 8pm, Pacific Standard Time!Watch them at this link. Unless you can get a ticket and commute to Soul Food Books, then pay money and go see it , because supporting indy Musicians is a great for your Karma!

The picture above is of our Earth as seen by people known as the Space Brotherhood, who have a yahoo group. I don't know much about the Space Brotherhood, but I sure liked the picture.

TRICKY PIXIE IS COMING TO OLYMPIA!

2010-02-10T18:01:00.001-08:00

SJ Tucker, Alexander James Adams, and Betsy Tinney together create Tricky Pixie! You've heard them on Wheel of Wonder, and some other KAOS shows as well. This terrific trio will be in town performing at a benefit concert to raise money for the grassroots nonprofit movement to protect and secure free public access to Olympia's artesian well water forever! Tickets are available now at buyolympia.com for $10!

Any of you familiar with the Fourth Avenue artesian wellhead? The place in that parking lot where the clean, naturally occurring, drinkable water comes to the surface. It's a great free source of potable water available to anyone in Olympia (one of the sources for the "...It's the Water" slogan of Olympia Beer).
On warm summer days people will gather at this water source. It comes out of a pipe in the ground between the performance venue Manium and the Olympic Outfitters, a bike, and sports gear store. People from all walks of life talk to each other there. Some folks will bring their guitars and harmonicas and play music, everyone gathering to collect free, natural water for drinking.

Surveys conducted show that about 1000 people a week visit that well to collect fresh water for drinking, but the wellhead is located on private property and the owners of the parking lot can cap off the well with little notice anytime they want to. So could another investor they sell the property to. This has caused great concern throughout the community. So steps in a nonprofit organization interested in protecting free public artesian well water access in the City of Olympia through outreach, education and grassroots advocacy. It's even been suggested they buy the water rights to protect it.

These actions take money though so Earthbound Productions and the Olympia Green Theater are working with Tricky Pixie and well-loved local artist Danny Kelly (formerly with Heliotroupe) to put on a benefit concert to raise money for FREE, OPEN, PUBLIC ACCESS, ALWAYS to clean, naturally occurring water.

The "Rock on Water!" benefit concert will occur on March 19, 2010 at The Loft on Cherry at 508 legion street in Olympia, WA. Doors open at 6:30pm; concert is at 7:00pm. Come see a great show and support the natural human right for clean, drinkable water in OlyWa!

You can also give a tax deductible donation to make this an even more successful event! Send your tax deductible donations to Earthbound Productions (the people who bring you The Procession of the Species) and be sure to specify that it is for the Artesian Well Advocacy Benefit Concert! Pre-sale tickets available now for "Rock on Water!"at buyolympia.com cost $10 in advance $15 at the door on the night of the event. Tickets are also available locally at Traditions Cafe and World Folk Art as well as Rainy Day Records.

Wheel of Wonder February 7, 2010

2010-02-05T08:39:00.000-08:00

Indigenous belief and Celtic mythos, we'll be continuing in that vein this week on Wheel of Wonder. This week's Wheel of Wonder takes us to Australia to visit its earth spiritualist population. With so many wide open spaces in the land of Oz, as some affectionately call it, how could there not be some who experience all its wild spaces as a reflection of the divine? The Celtic tradition is strong there due to many years of immigration and settlement, and great Pagan and new age artists like Spiral Dance, Wendy Rule, and Louisa John-Krol come from Australia. We'll be running an interview with Adrienne Piggot and Spiral Dance on this week's show, and even including some of their tracks not yet played on Wheel of Wonder! I'll even take us on a journey through the concepts of the songlines and the sacred geography believed in by the Aboriginal Australian peoples, a still stalwart race, living on their ancestral lands. This journey will include new tracks by contemporary Aboriginal artists, who, like the Yorubans, have adapted some to using modern musical instruments and mediums to express the beliefs of their culture. "Wheel of Wonder Down Under" on this week's installation, come travel it with me!

The picture to the right and above is a photograph of the "Fairy Tree," a 300 years dead tree that has been turned into a great medium for art in the Fitzroy Gardens area of Melbourne, Australia.

Wheel of Wonder January 24, 2010

2010-01-22T23:49:00.000-08:00

This week on Wheel of Wonder we'll talk about African Traditional Religion and its "New World" counterparts. Have you been wondering about Yoruban Religion, Santaria, and Haitian Voodoo, or American Hoodoo? Surprisingly these faith paths will be the closest to Catholicism, we've ever spoken of on Wheel of Wonder! I'll share some information from the Phoebe A Hearst Museum of Anthropology, as well as some Ju Ju music you've likely never heard before! Don't expect much European music in this week's Wheel of Wonder! Although surprisingly, I'll be able to introduce a new track to you from Spiral Dance. Moreover, expect some King Sunny Ade and Chief Ebenezer Obey. An interesting and informative African/Afro-Cuban themed show, this week on Wheel of Wonder!

The picture to the right is one of the Incredible paintings of Sandra Stanton, placed here with her permission. Its Yemaya, Yoruban mother goddess of the sea . In Yoruban belief, all life came from the sea. To see more of Sandra's Work follow this link.

Wheel of Wonder January 10, 2010

2010-01-08T09:56:00.000-08:00

This week on Wheel of Wonder is another installment of the Bardic Byways series within the series. Like the virtual Minstrel I've travelled the world (albeit mostly through the Internet) to connect across cultures and collect not so much dreams forgotten, as tales untold. I'm sure the Moon and The Night Spirit would be so proud of me, and we'll have new tracks by them this week too. This weeks episode will mix the spoken word with the music, as we share stories from the Ulster Cycle of Ireland and other tales from the Mabinogian, and tales from Scotland as well, all brought to you by modern day Bards. This week I'll introduce you to the work of Hugin the Bard and we will hear a live (pre-recoded) interview with Damh the Bard and some tracks from his new album "tales from the crow man." A mostly Celtic journey of tales and tunes, this week on Wheel of Wonder!

Who created the Bard in Henna above? I don't know. I can tell you it wasn't me.

Wheel of Wonder January 3, 2010

2010-01-02T20:01:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year! This week on Wheel of Wonder we'll launch off a ways from our usual Celtic Flavor and journey to Egypt to explore Kemetic Paganism. Though most Kemetics would not likely refer to their religion as Pagan, considering it is far older than such a term. What I can tell you though, is that is about achieving Balance and evolving into a perfect enough entity to achieve divinity. There is also a form of Wicca known as Tameran Wicca, which , while still observing the wheel of the year, pray to the family of Osiris and his wife/sister Isis, and their falcon-headed son, Horus. This is called a trinity. Sacred symbols such a the Ankh (Egyptian symbol for life), and the Eye of Horus, or The All Seeing Eye are very popular in this sect. We will speak about both this week on Wheel of Wonder, and even try and find time to speak about the Ennead, the Kemetic Tree of life. This week also features new music from Telling the Bees, and other music from the TESC world Music stacks; music coming straight from Egypt. Tune in for Wheel of Wonder this Sunday Morning!

The gorgeous picture above was created by the member of KMT Ancient Metaphysical Egypt known as "Metaphysics" and has created many more beautiful pictures for that site as well.

Wheel of Wonder December 27, 2009

2009-12-26T21:50:00.000-08:00

The Winter solstice is one of the High Holidays of the Pagan Calendar. So we'll explore the Holiday further on this week's Wheel of Wonder. There will be more information on how the Druids recognize this Holiday, even featuring some of the written works of Damh the Bard. We'll also speak of The Horned one, as the Winter Born King. Also in consideration of Scandinavian Legend and Belief we'll speak of The Wild Hunt. Believed to be the spirit hunt for lost and evil souls, led by Odin or Herne, The Wild hunt would tear through the land with the power of a winter storm, and one had to be careful not to get "Caught up in the Hunt" when it blew through around the Winter Solstice. We will also feature new music by Robin Williamson, and Sharon Knight with Pandemonaeon.

The picture above to the right is Artist Unknown, if anyone can show me where one might surf the net to find the artists identity, please let me know.

Wheel of Wonder December 20, 2009

2009-12-18T11:54:00.000-08:00

This week's episode will also serve as another installment of the Bardic Byways series within a series, as we hear an Interview with Faerie Tale Minstril Alexander James Adams, soloist, and 1/3 of Tricky Pixie; he'll speak about his dynamicaly changing, and Inspirational Life, and his personal journey of expression through music.

The picture to the right "Holly King" was created by artist RavenWillowHawk and was found on DeviantArt here's the link

Wheel of Wonder December 6, 2009

2009-12-04T13:48:00.000-08:00

December is Bardic Byways Month on Wheel of Wonder! This week we'll run my Interview with Sharon Knight, San Francisco Bard of the Feri Order, as she has described herself. T. Thorne Coyle author of Evolutionary Witchcraft and occasional collaborator with Ms. Knight appears to be one of the scholars of this craft path as well. Take a second to look at the new Links I've posted on this site. Modern Bards help to carry the Spirit of the legendary and the Awen of Inspiration into the twenty-first Century travelling by many roads to the pathway of music they follow through the Universe (as I once wrote in a Poem). This week I'll attempt to share some new insights about the Bards, and speak about what is publicly known about the philosophies of the Feri Tradition. I hope you'll join me on the journey.

The picture to the right is an example of the wonderful Illustrative work of Emma Alvarez. Sort of the dark reflection of the work by Priscilla Hernandez I've posted here before (see August 4, 2009). Both fine female artists from Spain. Check out their links to learn more.

Wheel of Wonder November 29, 2009

2009-11-28T14:49:00.000-08:00

This week on Wheel of Wonder we'll talk about "The Pagan Revival." This includes some of the recent history about the growth of spiritworkers identifying as Pagan. What factors may have brought about this Social Change? Is it good for the global consciousness? We'll include some of the insights and opinions of RJ Stewart, modern Pagan Writer and some of the current social trends that are occurring, that bring "pagan " ideals into useful application to mainstream society. We'll even try to site some of the work of T.Thorne Coyle, known on Wheel of Wonder for her work with Sharon Knight, but also a well respected pagan teacher and writer in her own right. This week will also include lots of new music from some of the musicians considered "most influential pagan musicians" currently in the scene. New music from Omnia, Faun, Emerald Rose, and The Moon and The Nightspirit, as well as SJ Tucker. Turn that dial to 89.3 FM this Sunday Morning and listen to Wheel of Wonder!

The fine picture to the right is a photograph by Peter J Stephenson.

Wheel of Wonder November 22, 2009

2009-11-20T19:07:00.000-08:00

This week on Wheel of Wonder we'll talk about Hellenic (Greek) Paganism in the modern age. There are many regional groups dedicated to this form of Paganism, I don't know of any groups in America practicing Hellenic Reclamation, but we will speak of The Hellenic Reclaiming Tradition, currently striving to survive against great discrimination in Modern Greece. I'll share modern Pagan Interpretations of the ancient Greek Gods. I will also introduce brand new tracks by Greek Musicians Daemonia Nymphe (big thanks to Louisa John Krol for suggesting this group to me). As well as other tracks from the collection carrying the Greek theme, including ones by Wendy Rule, Eleusyve productions, and Spiral Dance. Tune in to Wheel of Wonder, this Sunday Morning, Pacific Standard Time.

Picture to the right is one of the fantastic creations of Andy Park! To see his more current work (which might not be as pretty) jump to his website from here

Wheel of Wonder November 8 2009

2009-11-07T21:39:00.000-08:00

This week on Wheel of Wonder we'll explore the legends and stories of that ever evocative and sometimes eerie avian avatar The Raven, his vain, but often seeking truth and justice cousin The Crow, and their mother of the darkening year; The Crone! Let your darker thoughts take flight through the grey and misty skies as we hear tales, stories, and songs about the gruesome, but gorgeous duo and the mother of Wisdom and Bones. This week's episode will feature stories from the Salish (rebroadcast with permission)and original writing from Edinburgh Writer, Scientist, and activist Samantha Fleming keeper of the website ravenfamily.org, new music from Peter Kater and new tracks from Wendy Rule. Arise with the Ravens Sunday morning on Wheel of Wonder!

The picture to the right was originally published on the Elfwood Science Fiction and Fantasy fan art site. As of the time of this entry I have not succeeded in finding the artist's name, please let me know if you do! I'll make a special entry giving them credit.

Wheel of Wonder November 1, 2009

2009-10-31T08:44:00.000-07:00

November first, First day of the new Celtic Year. Dios de los Muertes, Day of the Dead, and all Soul's Day. Last week on Wheel of Wonder we took a short trip to Scotland, speaking of some of the Scottish Myths and Legends, and of the Taibhsear; the bardic Shamans of the Isles. This Week on Wheel of Wonder as if I were the Taibhsear with the witch's stone (my Halloween Costume if you will) I'll be speaking of the dead , and some of the traditions of respecting and communicating with the dead observed throughout time especially during this time of the year, when the Vail is considered very thin between this world and the other...

I'll share with you a musical vision of the death of the great Irish Hero Chu Chulain with and new music from Jeff and Mychael Danna. We will definitely be running a short Interview with Louisa John Krol. We may even have the time for the "True Ghost Stories of Ireland." Wake up from your Halloween revels and Samhain experiences with your Taibhsear for today on Wheel of Wonder.

Wheel of Wonder October 18th, 2009

2009-10-16T10:18:00.000-07:00

Greetings to all

KAOS 89.3 FM started its fall membership drive today. The Wheel of Wonder episode that's running for the Membership drive will be this Sunday; October 18th! For all af those Maidens, Mothers,Green Men, Sages, and even Crones who love to Dance around the Bonfire, you'll like this show; it is all about the Celt-Pagan dancing music!
If you like having a Pagan show Broadcast from Olympia, or you just like there being a Community Radio Station that allows one on the Airwaves; Call between 6am and 9am Sunday and join KAOS as a member!
When I first suggested the Idea of Wheel of Wonder to KAOS management they said: "We don't know if there are very many listeners interested in a Pagan Radio Show, but after talking about it for a long time, we decided to give it a chance..." And on May 5th 2009 the first weekly broadcast of Wheel of Wonder hit the airwaves.
Let's show the folks at this great Public radio station that there are a lot of listeners who do want to hear from the marginalized, Pagan point of view, and what this perspective brings to us, that helps us move into better relationship with each other and our place in the Natural world. Write a Letter, start your Membership (KAOS is a nonprofit operation, it runs on membership dollars). Call and let the people at the station know how you feel about Wheel of Wonder! I hope I'll get to talk to some of you Sunday morning; I'll be at (360)867-KAOS (local Olympia, WA USA). For any more information you need; look at kaosradio.org

The picture to the right and above is by Jussi Lehtiniemi and was originaly posted on cgsociety.org

Wheel of Wonder October 11, 2009

2009-10-10T20:13:00.000-07:00

This week on wheel of Wonder we'll re-visit The Celtic Wheel of the year, for the Benefit of those who may have only recently heard of Wheel of Wonder, or perhaps were not even in Olympia back when it all began. One could practically follow along with me as I speak, just by looking far enough back in this blog (see; where it all began). There will of course be more music this time, and I don't doubt more information, through more focus on the elements attuned to the change of seasons. This week is also the pre-membership drive on KAOS 89.3 fm so for every $4000.00 that is raised through new memberships (join on-line) this week, there will be one less membership drive day next week (the membership drive starts on Friday the 16th 0f October)! If you like Wheel of Wonder, join during the show; next Sunday the 18th of October! Or, if you like the other shows on KAOS, join anytime! KAOS is a nonprofit radio station, membership dollars ARE what keeps it broadcasting. I'm looking forward to talking with you this week on Wheel of Wonder!

Wheel of Wonder October 4, 2009

2009-10-04T03:45:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Autumn, Let The Journey Begin.

This week I've been thinking about all the new students arriving at The Evergreen State College. As befits the Schedule of the American School System, these people are all beginning a new journey of discovery at this point in their lives. Others are beginning new projects, or exploring new spirit paths, some will engage the Spiral Dance around Samhain, dancing their way into the center of the cauldron, as it were, to change and be reborn. In many ways this is like the Bardic Journey. So this week on Wheel of Wonder we'll focus on a "character, " a "Hero" on a Journey of discovery. It could be you, it could be me, it could be anyone, but through story and song, we'll travel with them on this Journey. This week will also feature, as part of a person's story, a short interview with Evergreen Alumni Chris Bingham of Gaia Consort and Bone Poet's Orchestra, and new tracks of Music from SJ Tucker, and Sharon Knight. Please join us on the Journey.

The beautiful silk print collage is by artist and writer Carolyn Dahl

Wheel of Wonder September 27, 2009

2009-09-26T22:08:00.000-07:00

This week on Wheel of Wonder wheel talk a little about Animal Spirits. We've already made some mention of them on prior episodes of Wheel of Wonder. I received calls in the Air Studio asking questions about Animal Spirits during past shows, and I noticed recently that aparrently all the public copies in this town of Ted Andrews' great book: Animal Speak: The Spirit and Magical powers of creatures great and small appear to be out in people's hands, so it must be something people are trying to learn about. Animal Spirits are a big subject, which will take more than one show to speak about. We'll begin this week. I'll bring you information I've found and new, to Wheel of Wonder, tracks by SJ Tucker and Tricky Pixie. If anyone has unique animal spirit stories they'd like to share (anonymous or not) on future Wheel of Wonder shows, feel free to comment, or Email me at radioray.wheelofwonder@gmail.com .

The beautiful art to the right and above is the original work of Chicago Artist Nina Ulana check out her work, showings and other info on her blog!

Equinox in the Woods

2009-09-26T18:54:00.000-07:00

Relaxing in a cozy Yurt within a grove of old fir, I looked up towards the sky. I could see the stars through a window in the domed roof, framed by the shaggy tresses of the 200 year old fir trees. I drifted off to sleep accompanied by thoughts of flying outside among them. I woke in the morning to the pattering of rain outside sometimes falling soft, sometimes falling hard. I walked out into the fresh and Balsam air, surrounded by something very close to that familiar Autumn energy, as I listened to the roughly composed duet of the Ravens and the Crows accompany my morning. I had time enough to hike out and learn more about the volcano, before walking with a Druid I recently met to learn more about the Ogham trees. In that old Growth Forest around the area, we found thirteen of the twenty. Not long after that the rest of the camper's arrived and then the Kitchen Witch, who fed us all. Until everyone's presence disappeared by the time of hottest afternoon sun on Sunday-almost -Solstice, I stayed in a Pagan yurt village with bonfires, chanting and great camaraderie!

I played the Harp to calm the energy before we went to sleep Saturday night and played people up with the Sunrise on Sunday. These are the times that make one feel like a real Bard!

The weather was beautiful for the Sunday noon Ritual, and the energy was great! I even went out to my Car once on Sunday morning and heard myself on the Radio! Eventually we all had to leave, but a splinter contingent of us went to the Olympia Pagan Pride event, which was small this year ,under the new organizers, but they put it together in record time (started in August), and all the people there I spoke to (vendors included) were very optimistic it would be bigger and better next year! (Anyone care to manifest pagan musicians and a good, strong Drum circle for that?) All and all, it was a good Mabon.

The picture above is a photograph I caught of the Druid, Crone, and Maiden/Mother participants in the ritual.

The Podcast Experience

2009-09-26T16:57:00.000-07:00

Well, its been a time since I posted on my blog, it was a busy Mabon; no, it's been a busy Mayday to Mabon. Let's get the blog caught up. Jane Valencia and I finally had our Podcast conversation. We spoke about modern approaches to being a Bard, and why Bards are relevant in the modern world. She asked some very insightful questions, which I took as talking points, in the end it may be a long, but still interesting podcast. Jane believes she'll have it up by the end of the month on her website: Forest Halls.org (podcast #2) Jane is such a smooth interviewer, that i have to say our conversation is the right word. We also had an opportunity to talk music, and chord progressions to go with some of my poems, so I might just have a My Space up in the future, and you can hear me perform the music I create. You'll never hear it on Wheel of Wonder (self promotion is not in the spirit of Community radio). I have to say, I'm glad to be doing this show on a radio station where I can also hear dj's talk about Jewish High Holy Days, and hear other dj's play Christian Gospel Music, and hear Native voices speaking about Native American Spirituality too. You can even hear Rastafarian Music now and again on KAOS. I do like Community Radio!

Damh the Bard is expecting to complete his new CD "Songs from the Crow Man" I believe it is soon. Hopefully we'll be hearing from him and new music from him on Wheel of Wonder by the end of the Celtic year (if your one of the people who considers Samhain to be the end of the year). Wendy Rule has also contacted me and said she'd send a CD package as well. Love how Wheel of Wonder keeps rolling!

Hope some of you catch the Podcast on foresthalls.org and new, and longtime listeners keep tuned in to Wheel of Wonder!

Blessings,

---Radio Ray

the picture above and to the right is a slide of a statuette from 2700 BC

Wheel of Wonder September 20 2009

2009-09-18T05:48:00.000-07:00

The Autumn Equinox, also known as Mabon is one of my favorite holidays, as Autumn is one of my favorite seasons! It's a time of Harvesting , both the seeds you've sown over the past year, and the physical food that has been growing all through the Spring and Summer. Even living in the city you can go out into the crisp outdoors and harvest Blackberries, Apples, Plums, Pears, and chestnuts,as these plants grow, practically naturally in temperate climates, other things will grow in other climates as well. The Summer is fading , people are parting ways, or preparing for new adventures and how things have gone in the past year is reflected in the interactions of these endings and these new beginnings, as every ending is a beginning again.

This episode will include new music from Sharon Knight and T. Thorne Coyle, Gaia Consort and a brand new track from Christy Moore's newest Album. This episode will also include some tracks from the first ever Wheel of Wonder in a Weekly time slot. I'll be elsewhere this Equinox, But Dancing the Universe's late night voice Dillon Dise will be in the Studio bringing you Wheel of Wonder bright and early Sunday morning. The episode will also include passages from Kristin Madden's great book Mabon; celebrating the Autumn equinox. Merry Mabon from Wheel of Wonder!

Wheel of Wonder September 13 2009

2009-09-12T18:17:00.000-07:00

This week on Wheel of wonder we'll explore the Shaman's Journey, from the perspective of the conscious dream. What are some of the modern Shamanic Beliefs that these people, believed to be Healers, carry with them on their Shamanic Journeys? Many indigenous cultures throughout time have always felt the Dreaming world is just as real as the Waking, five senses world, we all live in. In some of the more spiritual traditions, it is considered more real. But how do dreams and "soul journeys" interrelate? By working on remembering our dreams, can we truly achieve insights that carry over into the knowledge set that have a real effect on how we live our lives? With some reference to the Insights of Robert Moss, author of Conscious Dreaming, and some new music by Louisa John Krol, and Gaia Consort we'll consider the spiritual meaning of travelling through dreams, the place where the conscience and unconscious meet.

Wheel of Wonder September 6 2009

2009-09-04T15:40:00.000-07:00

This week on Wheel of Wonder we will explore the Sacred Grove through music. Sacred Groves have existed in many places and cultures across the world, not only for the Druids, but for the Hindu, The Buddhist, Taoist, and the Native Americans. We'll speak about the Ogham Alphabet in more depth this week, and how it relates to the druids impressive mnemonics. We also talk about the OBAD Sacred Grove project, with information from the OBAD website (see it in links in the sidebar). This week will also feature new music from Sharon Knight and more Vixy and Tony! Tune in to Wheel of Wonder.

As an important "by the way" Jane Valencia and I have agreed upon a Podcast interview time. I'll be talking with Jane on her Forest Halls podcast 10 in the morning (Pacific Standard Time) Monday September 14th, 2009. We'll be discussing many different approaches to being a modern Bard, and why that is important. I'm looking forward to talking with Jane about this mutual interest of ours. Feel free to check that out!

Wheel of Wonder August 30 2009

2009-08-29T09:11:00.000-07:00

This week on Wheel of Wonder I'll present another installation of the ongoing series Bardic Byways. I'll share new music with you by Vixy and Tony and SJ Tucker, as we move deeper into the place of the Bard in Modern America. Bards are mythmakers and storytellers, and their are many ways in which their talents can create a huge impact on modern america. The American Folk movement is a fine example of this, so I'll also introduce classic music by Holly Near (not necessarily a pagan, but indeed a bard) and some unique tracks from the historical vaults of Gaia Consort. The modern Bard I'll be running the interview of this week is SJ Tucker, the original Skinny White Chick, please tune in to Wheel of Wonder Bardic Byways.

The picture to the right was sent to me by a friend, I don't know the artist, but the Bard reminds me of Jane Valencia. (ever dyed your hair blonde Jane?)

Wheel of Wonder August 23 2009

2009-08-21T17:11:00.000-07:00

This week on Wheel of Wonder we'll focus on following the Male half of Nature's polarity through the world. Cernunnos, The Green Man, Pan, Herne, Veles he's known by many names but almost always also known as the god of the Grain and Wild, God of Nature, Fertility (I think I should say Virility). Considered in many Neo-Pagan Traditions as the God of the Sky, consort to Mother Earth passing the sceptre of the oak king to the Holly King for the dark part of the year.

Come celebrate the annual cycle of the Pagan God on Wheel of Wonder new songs from Louisa John Kroll, SJ Tucker, and Alexander James Adams, and new myths from other corners of the world.

The picture is great, the artist unknown.

Wheel of Wonder August 9 2009

2009-08-07T21:16:00.000-07:00

Faeries, a Universal symbol of Whimsy, Playfulness, and awe. Some will say they have seen them, some will say they are merely a scent, a feeling, or perhaps a passing thought . The silver dust of a fading dream. Others will say they are all in the spirits of you and me. Whichever way you experience the fay, they represent magic, and ancient knowledge beyond the limits of Mortal time. These images tap into the universal web of feeling and awe, that place that shares its existence with music and stories. This is how we''ll be experiencing faerie this week on Wheel of Wonder. There will be much new music from SJ Tucker and Tricky Pixie, Sharon Knight, Faun, and it will be my great pleasure to introduce you to the music of Vixy and Tony and the work of T. Thorne Coyle . We will also hear an interview with Woodland singer, Faerieworlds co-organizer, and soloist Kelly Miller-Lopez. Find your Fairy Frequency this week for Wheel of Wonder!

The picture above is by Amy Brown, Found on freewebs.com

The Faerieworlds Experience

2009-08-04T10:45:00.000-07:00

I must have been travelling with the blessings of the fay to the fairyworlds event. I don't think it could have gone any better! The weather was Hot in Oregon this weekend, I call this a blessing of the Fire spirits. Do to the heat, myself and the musicians I spoke with were feeling just fine about sitting and talking. I was able to sit and eat a breakfast of Sue Tinney's wonderful blueberry pancakes with Gaia Consort (sorry...Bone Poets Orchestra), I was given the opportunity to take a mid afternoon hydration break with SJ Tucker (of skinny white chick and tricky pixie fame), and she is a lovely person. I was blessed to wander across three "secret concerts" given in quiet acoustic corners of the event, with The Wicker Men (I understand they are thinking of putting out a faerieworlds compilation cd), Kelly and Emilio Miller-Lopez; The heart of Woodland ( this also allowed the occasion to loan my Harp to Kelly for her to play). The third was with Alexander James Adams, of Tricky Pixie (who also was willing to help me on my side project of translating Damh's guitar chords into chord progressions for the Celtic harp, so I can bring more music to Campfire gatherings). And let us not forget Lisa Lynne, a fine Celtic Harper, with her own solo career, who kindly, and modestly, offered harp workshops, and her own secret concerts at the Fairy Harp Circle.

In the 90+ degrees Fahrenheit weather I was fortunate to find a flat shady spot under an old Elm tree, just big enough to pitch my tent. I filled up the gas tank before I left home, and didn't even have to fill it up again before getting back where I started. I even came back from the trip with more music to bring to you on wheel of wonder and add to the KAOS music Library.

I especially enjoyed my time talking with Oliver (the lead male vocalist), and the other members of Faun. What very fine people they are! I was also introduced to the music of Vixy and Tony (indy artists from Seattle!) and will be sure to share some of their music with you on Wheel of Wonder. They should fit well into other KAOS programs as well. The whimsical, playful and happy (viciously happy, on Bad Faeries Night) energy always attributed to the Fay was definitely present at this event. The Dragonflies and Flying Grasshoppers (or were they...?) were ever present to remind us of Travelers to the Dreamtime, the chirp and flutter of tiny fairy voices and the tinkle of fairy bells. I've come back from the experience feeling no small amount of Glamour and creativity! Through the next few Wheel of Wonder broadcasts, I'll endeavor to share it with you.

The picture above is one of the beautiful creations of Musician and Artist Priscilla Hernandez who also creates beautiful, mythic music, I will include in future Wheel of Wonder shows.

Wheel of Wonder August 2, 2009

2009-07-28T14:14:00.000-07:00

Happy Lughnasadh! This week on Wheel of Wonder, we'll talk about the Holiday, and its prelude to the winter's dark, self reflective time to harvest one's knowledge and return with greater wisdom in the Spring to continue your life's work. This is the experience of Cerridwynn's Cauldron of rebirth. Because it is Lughnasadh, we will also speak of Lugh, and the nature god aspect of the God of the Grain and Wild. This weeks episode will be pre-recorded, and broadcast while your host (me) attends Faerieworlds 2009. From which I too will come back with greater Wisdom through Interviewing and learning from the perspective of many of the Musicians we hear on Wheel of Wonder regularly. This weeks episode will include new music from Threefold, and the band Lunasa, as well as newspieces and articles about the Pagan experiences and this holiday. In a way, this installation will hearken back to some themes as early as Wheel of Wonder's first broadcast in a weekly timeslot, as I am harvesting the knowledge of what I have experienced with you, the listeners since this journey has begun. Please tune in.

Image to the right from Creative Commons, Artist unknown.

Wheel of Wonder July 26th 2009

2009-07-24T19:37:00.000-07:00

This week on Wheel of Wonder come dance the circle of life and rebirth as we explore the Spiral Dance. We'll not just be speaking of Starhawk's great book about the rebirth of the Goddess, but we will also talk about the Reclaiming tradition a bit, and what the Spiral Dance really is. It is an important part of what many pagan/neo-pagan groups do when they get together for Full Moon rituals , Beltane, and Samhain Eve. I intend to include some info from not only Starhawk , but also touch on the work of Macha NightMare. We'll also speak more about the Faerieworlds event and introduce new music from SJ Tucker. Come drift through the Labyrinth with me on Wheel of Wonder.

Picture from Willow Arlenea .

Wheel of Wonder July 19th, 2009

2009-07-17T09:24:00.000-07:00

This week on Wheel of Wonder we'll be speaking about Druids, Druidry and Druidism (that's another one of those earth friendly 'isms"). The Druid subject, is a huge subject more worthy of several shows than just one, but I will try to distill the information into a manageable audio formula for your Sunday morning.

A quote from the website of the Order of Bards, Ovates and Druids describes Druidry as: "... a vital and dynamic Nature-based spirituality that is flourishing all over the world, and that unites our love of the Earth with our love of creativity and the Arts. And flowing through all the exciting new developments in modern Druidism is the power of an ancient tradition: the love of land, sea and sky - the love of the Earth our home." I will try to share with you more of the messages from this Order in the course of this episode of Wheel of Wonder along with some information cited from R.J. Stewart, and Rudolf Steiner and of course new music; this week from Telling the Bees .

Image above and to the right is original work of Dan Ivanov

Wheel of Wonder, July 12th, 2009

2009-07-08T09:54:00.000-07:00

This week on Wheel of Wonder, I'll feature the first installation in a many part mini-series called "Bardic Byways." What is a Bard? An old English guy who writes plays? Any Entertainer who performs in public? Or is it a chosen Path to ancient knowledge in the post-Industrial World? Originally the Bards were the disseminators of knowledge throughout the ancient world. Now in the world of the internet and immediate information 24/7 what should a Bard be now? How can the Bardic interpretation of the world, help us as a people? These ideas are what we'll begin to explore on Wheel of Wonder this week. We'll talk with Jane Valencia, Bardic Harper from San Francisco, CA and we'll feature new music from Sharon Knight and other Pagan and even non-pagan modern Bards in our many music and storysinging sets. Its a journey within the journey that is Wheel of Wonder.

*the image above to the right is from the Sacred Fire website where you can also find good information.

Wheel of Wonder July 5th 2009

2009-07-05T10:26:00.000-07:00

This week on Wheel of Wonder we will walk the mythic threads that tie all human cultures together. We'll flow like rivers to the sea from Native American Myth and Legend to Celtic, Yoruban and Hindi Mythology, are we all one people with one common vision? Diversity exists, but Mythic Similarity does too. Hear the mythic stories, with passages from Gaia Eros by Jesse Wolf Harding, new music from Gaia tribe and some great references from the book Wisdom of the Mythtellers by Sean Kane. We also will touch on the Mayan Prophecy and what it may mean to our changing world. Join me on the journey through the legends that shape so many cultural views on Wheel of Wonder!

PS: I have no Idea what that little guy's head is doing down in the bottom of the picture. Perhaps he too, is very interested in Sacred Geometry.

Wheel of Wonder June 28 2009

2009-06-27T09:14:00.000-07:00

This week's Wheel of Wonder will focus on Shamanism, with new music from John Huling, Native American Flutist and even some tracks from Faun Fables. I'll also introduce concepts from Articles by Shamanic Healer Alberto Villoldo, and developer of the Core Shamanism school of thought Michael Harner. I will also try to collect information from the Book Animal-Speak by Ted Andrews.

Wheel of Wonder for Litha 2009 or, Never mind what I said before.....

2009-06-17T16:29:00.000-07:00

Well it appears that someone heard me speak of my occasional dissapointment for having the radio show on so late (see the new timeslot in the header above). I am happy to be beginning to broadcast the show after sunrise on the Solstice! Come dance with me, Damh, and Chris Bingham, Moving Breath and Denean! We will celebrate the change in the Wheel of Wonder timeslot with a great Solstice show, in which I intend to include live (pre-recorded) interviews from the Fremont Solstice Parade, an annual Seattle tradition organized by the Fremont Arts Council (which occurs on Saturday, the 2oth of June, starting at 12pm)! There are many places on the net to find pictures from the Fremont Solstice Parade, even pictures of the Solstice Cyclists. I will also share information on the holiday from Pagan educational writer Patti Wiggington