My Blog

March spotlight dancer of the month :)

Epona-of-Aretias — Tue, 03 Mar 2009 19:46:29 GMT

I made it onto joyofbellydancing.com. The international site ran by the lovely Yasmina of Arizona. If you want to learn about my entire adventure in belly dance in one lump sum, check it out!!! I'm very honored and proud she asked me to do it. Bless her! http://www.joyofbellydancing.com/spotlight2.htm

2009 Xena Con

Epona-of-Aretias — Thu, 05 Feb 2009 23:53:30 GMT

I went to the 14th annual Xena Con at LAX and had the time of my life :)!!!!!!!!!!!! Here is a picture of me with Michael Hurst (He played the character Iolaus on Hercules). He was hanging out at the bar ;-) Standing with us is Xena (look-a-like) from Austria and Brad, a man dressed as Ares. I also got a couple seconds on the LA News there. Here is the clip! YAY!!!!!!!!!!! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jgKpaBgZQ8U&eurl=http://bulletins.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=bulletin.read&authorID=5636503&messageID=6326086884&MyToken=&feature=player_embedded And for pics of our entire trip go here: http://viewmorepics.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewPicture&friendID=151937881&albumId=2395060

I'll miss you my friend

Epona-of-Aretias — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 00:33:01 GMT

Shadow 1-02 - 1-09 RIP This has been the worst holiday season of my life, which was spent losing my baby Shadow, who has been with Dave and I for seven years. She is now part of my spirit, just like Elvira (my cat that left the earth plane 3 years ago). Losing our friends is HARD. I will go on as a better person having had her in my life. We all come from the Goddess and to her we shall return, like a drop of rain flowing through the ocean.

GODDESS REVENGE now ready for your viewing

Epona-of-Aretias — Tue, 16 Dec 2008 19:26:37 GMT

It's finally here! My entire show GODDESS REVENGE is posted onto You Tube in a six part series. Please watch it from beginning to end to get the full experience. It's about forty minutes long total. She has AWAKENED!!! She has come out of the Earth from her long slumber and is not to be messed with this time around!!! She is here to fight for Nature and the betterment of all humanity! This is a story of dance told and written by Epona Warrior Belly Dancer, founder and choreographer of the dance production, ARETIAS Warrior Women. This performance was held at the 2008 Phoenix Faerie Festival. For more info on Epona Warrior Belly Dancer and ARETIAS Warrior Women please visit: www.aretiastribe.com Part 1: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VxQB0zRZjHM Part 2: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oMrqXEeIh10 Part 3: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PRyLCACbQ1E Part 4: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NJfyW6GxxI4 Part 5: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K2PcQqApLE0 Part 6: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ENonY2IurjI

GODDESS REVENGE at The Phoenix Faerie festival

Epona-of-Aretias — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 22:36:18 GMT

It's been a couple days, since our adventure traveling to Estrella Mountain Park to perform at The Phoenix Faerie Festival. I have been on a spiritual high, since it all came to fruition this past Saturday afternoon. I've had a little time to digest the entire thing, so it's important I get it out now and write about it. If any one that is reading this has any experience of putting together a show, one must understand the absolute stress it can entail to make sure everything goes smoothly. When the director of the Phoenix Faerie Festival asked me to do this almost one year ago, I had to say yes, for how can I refuse a faerie themed event? If anyone has ever seen what I do, whether it be a solo or group performance, it is almost always more of the other dimensional variety. I am rarely conventional by any means, for I am drawn to mystery and the other realms. That it is literally my life. I strive for the 'unseen' in this illusionary reality one calls regular modern society. Faeries are also a HUGE part of who I am. Yes I BELIEVE in them and I have seen them, but that's an entirely different story. So, when she asked me to do this again, I was honored. We did it once before, but it was a brand new event in Phoenix then and things did not go the greatest, at least for us. Our performance went alright, but we went on very late in the evening and lets just say it was a learning experience. If I were to do this again I needed that experience to learn from, so that I could make this experience of Aretias - Warrior Women successful! And success doesn't even describe what occurred on Saturday. It was MAGICKAL! Before we traveled the 45 min drive from Scottsdale to Goodyear, we had the practices every Wed evening for a couple of months at my cosy apartment. Yes, that's where we gathered to practice the actual show. To my surprise the stage was about the same size as the small space we practiced in, so it worked out perfect. The lovely and talented group of women that so graciously dedicated their time to help me with this, Levana, Kali, and Nissa, became my close friends. Not superficial friends, mind you, but REAL friends. I have to admit that I have been searching for women friends for a while, since I moved to Arizona, Oh about 10 years ago. Being the unusual ex punk rocker, Goddess worshiping, Earth lovin, Vegetarian, Tree Huggin Hippie, Warrior Woman, Xena lovin, Pagan Belly Dancer that I am, it is not very easy to find friends. I'm also very shy when it comes to opening up personally. I started belly dance, originally, to find 'sisterhood', but fell short of my search and found lots of cliques and self absorbedness instead. This is speaking from personal past experience. I also understand that I'm not perfect myself and being so "different" it is hard for many to relate to me. But, alas, I'm me and that's all there is to it. Until I truly accept myself for who I am, know body else will accept me either, so that is part of my lesson. One of the first challenges of preparing for this show was what to do as far as a story. I did not want to do an Amazon Warrior Women themed story this time around, because, I did that already, in the past, several times and I needed something different and refreshing, for my life has been very much about 'rebirth' lately. Not that I don't love the ancient Amazons as a topic of women empowerment, but I wanted to write something more relative to 'this time'. I also wanted to keep the feeling of ancient mythology and fantasy in my story. So, it was not an easy task. The idea of GODDESS REVENGE came to me when I was in a twilight sleep. I am very passionate about what is being done to Mother Earth in the past and today. The ravagement and literal rape that has been occurring to her for too many years is truly taking it's toll. The Goddess was truly worshipped and revered thousands of years ago and it was through that matriarchy that people respected the land, honored the animals, plants, insects, waters, and trees. We have lost that as a humanity. I know that there are many who are helping her on many levels today, but it needs to become more of a REAL issue. I love the idea of the Goddess waking up and taking back the planet from desecration to LIFE. This is revenge to those who don't care. Those that trash the Earth and do not respect her as a living breathing being, which is truly what she is. So, that's how it began. I wrote the choreography around this beautiful idea of all of us being a personality or aspect of "Her". I was, being the warrior belly dancer that I am, Andraste - Celtic Goddess of War. Levana was Isis, great Mother Goddess of Mysteries. Kali was Demeter, Goddess of Nature. Nissa was Freja, Nordic Goddess of beauty and power behind the Valkyrie. We had so many powerful forms of sisterhood during our meetings that it was true women empowerment. We helped each other through personal issues and laughed! I have never experienced sisterhood like this! I gave them creative control of their dance solos and it was truly "Her" speaking through all of us. To my amazement everything 'fit' so well. Levana, being Isis, picked a song that brought us all to tears. It fit so well on the emotion I wanted to portray about the Goddess 'waking up' and seeing what has been done to the planet. It was, by far, the best production I have ever done and I'm so glad we got it all on video!!! You Tube connossieurs awate, for it's coming soon to a computer near you! In the mean time, enjoy all of the lovely pictures Levana's husband Rob took! http://viewmorepics.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewPicture&friendID=151937881&albumId=2288874 THANK YOU EVER SO MUCH GREAT GODDESS! I LOVE YOU! Blessed Be!

HAPPY HALLOWEEN AND BLESSED SAMHAIN!!!!!!

Epona-of-Aretias — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 20:34:22 GMT

Enjoy your weekend and trick or treats!!! Don't let the spirits of Halloween scare you too much or get you too drunk, depending on what kind of spirits your into ;-). WEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Tribe's down too much :(

Epona-of-Aretias — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 19:48:46 GMT

Hello friends here on Tribe :) I just wanted to invite you to my myspace friends lists if I don't already have you there. Some of you have wrote this same blog and added your link, but you have it set private, so please add me. I'm always looking for friends there as well and I will probably become more active within my blogging there and such. http://www.myspace.com/epona_of_aretias I'm also on Facebook under the name Epona Sworddancer if you would rather find me there :) Blessed Be!!!

Chastity Pariah is Republican V. P nominee

Epona-of-Aretias — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 03:37:32 GMT

Ever seen the movie, cult classic, Elvira - Mistress of the Dark??? If you have, you'll know what I mean. She played a council chairperson of the small town Elvira wreaks havoc in. She is also head of the Morality Club and is appalled by Elvira's antics. Quote from the movie: Chastity Pariah: I don't know who you are or where you came from, but you most certainly don't fit in this town. Why, you don't even fit in that dress. Elvira: Listen sister, if I want your opinion, I'll beat it out of ya. Enough said.............

Past Lives

Epona-of-Aretias — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 23:12:58 GMT

OK, for those of you that sort of know me and read my blogs, you should know by now that my beliefs are not conventional. At least as modern society goes. I was raised with a Christian belief by my Mother (Goddess rest her soul) who found comfort in our hometown church. I understand what it did "for her". She had many problems at home and with herself, so perhaps it gave her a sense of belonging or community. I understand, now, why, at that time, she went every Sunday and made my sister and I go as well. I understand that she thought it was the right thing to do, then, and I've long since forgiven her for dragging me out of bed every Sunday morning, kicking and screaming, to let me stay home and sleep. I bloody well hated it! Now, my purpose here is not to offend anyone who believes in Christianity. I understand that everyone here on Earth has a path and a reason for believing in what they feel is truth. I believe there is some truth in all religions and know that most people who find religion have good intentions. For me, though, ever since the tender age of 11, I questioned what I was being taught in Church. I kept telling myself over and over, as a kid, if God loves me so much, why am I always being threatened with eternal suffering in Hell? Especially for simple things like cheating on a test or not reading the bible everyday. I hated the people at my church and felt they were always trying to make me feel like an evil spawn of Satan if I didn't agree to "Get Saved" every week. If there is a Hell (which I truly don't believe in) it would be like going to that Church. Now, that tid bit of history of my experience with organized religion was a beginning for me to eventually find my "OWN" path and well, by golly I did! Thank The Gods! I believe that there are many truths in life and in spirituality. The study of my ancestral past, being from Scotland and Ireland, was one step that took me in the direction of "The Celts" and therefore Paganism. Yes, I am a Celt, proud and true! It fits me so very well, for my life goal is to help creatures and be one with nature, our precious Mother Earth! Pagans believe that this life, here and now, is only one aspect of who we truly are as a whole. Many past lives have been lived for, perhaps, different lessons that needed to be learned. I'm still trying to figure out who I am, but I know that all that matters, really, is right here, right now, and what I'm doing with the time I have at this moment. So, here I am writing and sharing, for what is the purpose of experiences if one does not share it with others? I had a dream about one and a half months ago. It shook me deeply. I have weird dreams all the time, but this one was one of those REAL kind of dreams that sort of lingered with me as I awoke. I remember it started with me being amongst a group of people, but I didn't feel like myself now. I was somebody else, but still a woman. I can't recall what I looked like or anything, for there wasn't a mirror present in the dream, but I noticed the people around me were dirty and dressed in raggedy clothes. They were very sad and sort of looking down like hopeless. One of the people in the group, another woman, said they were all about to be burned alive. Yikes! Kinda scary, huh! I told her that I would not let that happen. I can't remember the exact details of what happened next. Ya know how dreams jump around in one's subconscious? Anyway, I remember having an idea of how to save them and I felt that I could do it. The next thing I remember in the dream, I was unroping some sort of boat or ship, with the same group of people all on it and I watched them sail off into the sea. They were thanking me and rejoicing for their life and then I woke up. the weird part was I had tears of joy as I was telling myself over and over. "I saved them! I set them free! They were saved!" It felt like more of a memory then a dream. Or more of a feeling then a memory. How could this be? A past life perhaps? Who knows, but it definitely made me think about stuff. Weather the dream was a memory or not, it made me feel all warm and fuzzy inside. Just the shear thought of saving that many people from torture and inevitable death puts ones thinking into a different perspective. Life is weird, but it is what we make of it. I am proud of who I am, hero or not. At least I know where I come from, which eases the stress of where I'm going. Blessed Be!!!

Owls, New Energies, and Past Lives

Epona-of-Aretias — Mon, 14 Jul 2008 23:23:55 GMT

My life is full of magick and wonder. I wonder sometimes if the reason I have the experiences I have is because of my reverence and connection with Nature. Or if other people have similar experiences, but either do not notice or speak of it. I really don't like to blog about my personal crap too much, for I don't want to bore people with my beliefs and antics, but hey! if it helps one or two people along the way my job is done. So, Dave and I were forced to move out of our apartment this month. The apartment was upgrading and we were told we could move to an upgraded version of our place, but we would have to get approved all over again, and pay $200 more a month, so we were out of there. It was a living Hell living there within the last year or so, for it was nothing but construction noise ringing in our ears every day. The area no longer had a positive vibe with all the new people moving in. So, it was good timing for us to leave either way. We began the search for a "nice" place. A nice place to me is location location location. I don't like living in areas where I can't ride my bike or walk to the store and feel safe. I also have to have trees and living things surrounding me. The Phoenix area is a desert, so the newly built areas are nothing but flat, concrete, and dry man brought plants. I need trees! So, we found a lovely place and area and applied right away. We thought we would get approved, so no worries there. We went on with our life as if we were set to move and two weeks later we get a paper in mail that said we were denied. What! We were worried. No reason whatsoever! So, we went to search yet again UGH! This time I was more prepared. I did a payer and meditation and also worked with a few VERY special circle of people here on tribe to help me. I called upon my local faerie friends to guide me as well. The first thing we saw as we drove to the first location was a swirl of dust on the side of the road. Like a mini tornado. The day was not windy and this is a sure sign of a faerie, as told in myth and legends. The place was a bust, so I looked at the spiral of dust as a sign of where not to go. They were right. We then drove in the opposite direction close to the place we were just denied. A black bird started following us and it's shadow was clearly seen flying by our side as we drove. As we parked our vehicle, the bird landed near us as in saying "Try this place". So we did. It was a small building and all brick, which is so nice. The lady in the office greeted us kindly as if she had been waiting for us. She also reminded me of Dave's grandma who had just passed three months ago. We loved it, but feared we would once again get denied, so we kept looking. Every place we looked at after that was either too busy to help us or booked. So, the next day we took a chance and applied at the place the bird followed us at. We got in! Well, with a few complications that were corrected as we figured out why we were denied at the last place, which created the awareness of incorrect information on Dave's background. This was the best place we could find in a beautiful neighborhood with huge old trees! I just love it! As we starting moving in, Dave noticed something odd. We have a huge old tree right in front of our patio window. An owl decoration is hanging face front from the tree looking directly at our window. The owl is only on our tree, no other trees have this, and we don't understand the reason for it. Well, Dave and I knew right away what this meant for us "symbolically". Dave's Grandma, the one who just passed away three months ago, was an owl collector. Her entire house was filled with them. This is the one thing that they said about her at her funeral. The lady loved owls, she collected them her whole life, but know body knew the reason why. So, Dave and I knew that this was a sign from her and or the faeries who also helped us. My point here? Well, when Dave and I were denied at the first place we were in dire straits. We absolutely did not know what to do. We are good people, maybe not rich, but are worthy of living in a decent neighborhood. OK, maybe we are a little like The Adam's Family, but whatever. We deserved to find "the right" place to live and WE DID!!! When one trusts in The Universe, the Universe will provide one with the help that is required. This was shown to me. Nothing is impossible! So now I'm thinking of the endless possibilities to come. OK, I know I titled this with the word past lives, but I feel that I went on too long, so i will put that in my next blog! Blessed Be!!!

Woman Dance

Epona-of-Aretias — Fri, 30 May 2008 00:43:30 GMT

Or 'Belly Dance', as it's known to modern society, is such an empowering way to feel good within one's body, mind, and spirit. I am in love with this dance and will probably continue to dance as long as I can stand up ;-) I am calling it Woman Dance, because it was termed this way from the author Iris J. Stewart, whom I love and respect for her deep research and intense work writing the book 'Sacred Woman Sacred Dance'. I decided to pick up this book and read it again, for I have a deep need to renew or refresh my love for this dance. I am in the process of rediscovering the soul root of why I decided to learn belly dance in the first place. Since my very first class I have been on a spiritual roller coaster ride. I have had tremendous highs from the very first time I got in front of an audience, learned my first belly roll, learned how to dance with a sword, and created my very own unique dance troupe. I became enthralled with the beauty and empowerment I felt within myself as I discovered new forms of creativity and Goddess appreciation.... But there have also been several lows, such as witnessing some extreme pettiness and cattiness from teachers within my dance community, who fought visously over territory with students and places to perform. There were other experiences of cliquish behavior among different groups of whom I had felt that I did not fit in. Some of these experiences, as well as going through several metamorphosis' of career changes, body changes, and physical deaths in my personal family life had almost driven me to giving up performing altogether. I understand fully that everything I encounter and learn is a personal journey. It is up to me as to how I take the good and or 'the bad'. It is up to me as to how I walk away from every situation. Did I learn something new about myself with each experience, as to how to be or not to be? Or, did I hold a grudge and let certain situations control my emotions through fear? It is my choice and I know that everything life throws at one can sometimes be a challenge. Such as dance, the dance of life! Ever notice how when infants can walk on their own and music is playing they dance? They dance so freely and move so adorably! It is our human instinct to want to move this way. It is our parents, society, and the development of our egos that stop us from doing this as we get older. Dance is truly a form of expression and a great way to just let go and release all of our pain. Belly dance or Woman Dance is an ancient Goddess dance! The Goddess danced! As she danced, she gave birth to everything, such as animals, plants, trees, and us! Dance is creation and this form of creation can be a metaphor for us, as women, to give birth to our dreams, ideas, and visions. We should embrace each other for the ultimate beauty that radiates from our very essence each time we shimmy our hips and undulate our snake like kundalini energy. All too often, in certain circumstances, our ego can get in the way and just like any other form of Art or creative expression it can become solely about money or who's getting the most recognition... This is like any experience in life I suppose. Some of these experiences I personally had encountered, in the past, within my dance career and, unfortunately, this put a bad taste in my mouth at times. I often forgot to remember why my interest sparked originally in belly dance. This is my spiritual quest and my lesson. I will continue to embrace the Goddess within as I dance, whether it be outside in the beauty of Nature, on a stage, or in my own living room. I understand that not everybody will see belly dance this way and there will be more challenges to face as I continue on this journey of self discovery. As long as I do not stop dancing..... Blessed Be!

Planet Earth

Epona-of-Aretias — Fri, 09 May 2008 07:07:42 GMT

In the hopes of reaching the moon men fail to see the flowers that blossom at their feet. - Albert Schweitzer After writing my last blog - Life's Questions - I shortly came across this. Ironic?... Please view the short movie below. You will be entranced. Blessings, Epona Planet Earth When you experience Planet Earth, you will emit positive forces of energy across Planet Earth that will reach every single living thing on it. You will lift yourself, and as you lift yourself, you lift the entire world. The magnificent music was composed and graciously gifted for this clip by composer Jo Blankenburg. From The Secret to you, here is Planet Earth - our home. http://www.thesecret.tv/planet-earth/

Life's questions?

Epona-of-Aretias — Mon, 05 May 2008 23:35:56 GMT

I have so many and I suppose I will always be questioning the mysteries of life here on planet Earth. OK, maybe I just took a dive for the "deep" end here. But why is it when one questions "Why are we here?", "Why is there greed, war, starvation, poverty, abuse, and disruption of the natural habitats on Earth, and topics like that, people shy away. So many people are happy living in their own illusion and don't want to change their life. Why? I suppose it was the plan all along, from those who have the ultimate power - our Government. Keep people working their butts off to pay for their housing, electric, gas, cell phones, credit card debt, internet, cable, and everything else. After all of that who will have time to question why? Last year I tuned into the big hype movie called "The Secret". I really loved it! I looked at it like a sign of hope for myself and the rest of the world. I watched it over and over. I really began "using it", but did it work for me? In many ways it did. Thinking back on it now, I wonder if I was trapped in a particular "illusion" myself. I was focusing on all the things in my life I wanted to change. Some things did change dramatically and they were positive and needed outcomes for my life. Now thinking back though, I realize that it's good to want positivity and good things in one's life, but we as a human race need to want more for us as a whole. Having nice things is pointless if we are living on a polluted planet. According to another movie called the 11th Hour by Leo DiCaprio, we are all doomed as a human race if things do not change. The Earth will go on with or without us. She has existed for thousands upon thousands of years before we even existed. She will regenerate and heal herself long after we're gone. But the way things are going now, we as a race are doomed. I highly recommend that everyone watch this movie. it's VERY informative. As the saying goes, one can only change them self. I know that more then anybody, coming from a family of stubborn belief systems and endless conflicts. I can only work on myself, as I am doing right now, and always will continue my work as I see it. That's all I can do. Perhaps I will use the law of attraction and focus on clean air, clean water, clean oceans, living with nature and not against her, everyone working together in harmony, organically grown foods in abundance, and a cancer free society. But... action will need to be taken in order for this to happen. Just thinking about it is, of course, not enough. We are living in heaven! Our Earth is so beautiful! Nature is beautiful! Just the other day, at dusk, I was riding my bike to a lake near my house. I wanted to feed the ducks and geese there. I realized a swirl of bugs flying above my head and tried to not let it bother me. As I walked closer to the lake, I noticed something else fly by my head. It was a bat! This was so cool, because I LOVE bats! I then started seeing several fly by my head and then inches from my face. I felt a little scared for a moment, for they were SO close. They did this for a little bit and suddenly they were gone. I realized they were just feeding off the bugs around my head. Bats are such precious creatures! Animals live in harmony and are balanced with Gaia, our Mother Earth. I can forsee a day when humans will be to. Perhaps it starts by forgetting about all of our tedious daily rituals for one moment and stop to appreciate nature. Smell the flowers!!! Blessed Be!

Happy St, Patty's Day and Happy Birthday to moi!!!

Epona-of-Aretias — Mon, 17 Mar 2008 21:52:27 GMT

Yep, I am Irish and born on the day most of the Irish all drink beer and vomit in their green plastic hats. Woo hoo! Does this mean I am lucky? Perhaps, in some ways I guess. It was not fun growing up as a child I tell you. Having a father who came from Ireland, born in Scotland (his Mother was Irish, his Dad was Scottish) one would think "Oh what fond birthday memories!" NOT! I remember being 12 and wanting to eat at my favorite restaurant at the time, Chi Chis, a Mexican restaurant in Michigan, and my Dad was so loaded he kept saying arrrrrr (like a pirate) to the waitress. So embarrassing! I also remember always having to have green frosting on my cake. I had no choice in the matter. It was tradition. I hated that! I even despised the color green most of my young life. I love green today! So, I'm no longer bitter. It's actually kind of nice thinking every body in the world is celebrating with green beer, whiskey, and guinness on my birthday! OK maybe it's really for some ancient Irish dude who drove all the pagan worship out of Ireland, but whatever. Kiss my fat ass St. Patrick! I share a birthday with you, I'm Irish and I'm a Pagan. Go figure! Luck of the Irish ;-) Now everybody go get drunk and honor ME, but don't vomit in your green plastic hat. That's just gross.

I got a new bike!

Epona-of-Aretias — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 20:32:55 GMT

This is one of my favorite movies of all time. I love Pee Wee!!! It's one of those movies that makes me chuckle all throughout watching it. Did you know that this is Tim Burton's first feature film as a director? LOVE HIM! I've wanted a bike similar to the style of Pee Wee's for a while. Beach Cruiser baby!!! I got one! It's SO FABULOUS! A beautiful color and with white tire rims, a white cushy seat, and spiral silver shocks. It rides so smooth. I bought it on the night of the beautiful full moon. It's like my metaphorical magickal broom. WEEEEEEEEEE!!!!! Anybody want to go for a bike ride? I'm going to feel like Pee Wee when I go to lock it up. A lock made of kryptonite with a 1000 foot chain. I'm off now to eat some Mr. T breakfast cereal. I know you are, but what am I? I know you are, but what am I? I know you are, but what am I?

Updating my life

Epona-of-Aretias — Sun, 20 Jan 2008 21:25:22 GMT

I promise to make this year adventurous and fun!!! 2008, in numerology, is the number one. A new beginning for all. I'm excited to see what unfolds this year, in and around the world. So many changes going on for everyone. I believe that the chaos will transform into a beautiful prism of light. I have hope and know that all changes come from within. My passion, belly dance, has slowed down quite a bit. I love to perform, whether it be solo, or with my dance production Aretias - Warrior Women. Neither seem to be flowing my way, as of late. So many places in the Phoenix area closing down and opportunities are becoming extremely slim. I want to dance more, but maybe it's time to reflect and not push anything that is not meant to be right now. Living room dancing can be a great form of practice and meditation after all ;-) I'm just getting over some serious bronchial problems that pretty much lasted shortly before, during the holiday season, and a little after the New Year, Yuck! So, I've been living pretty low key with lots of rest. But now, my health is improving and I'm starting to get that feeling of excitement of the unknown. What's next for me? I'm open to wonderful things just waiting to blossom and spring into life! Change is good and I am open for it. My website is something that I have neglected for too long, so I recently made some changes to it. I added new pics to the entrance and front pages. I'm so very proud of these photos, so it's a refreshing change. I also updated and added more info to my bio on the 'About Epona' page, which was much needed. I also finally labeled all of the photos in the dance gallery, so every dancer that is featured has a name and performance date. AND I listed my video links, so the world can finally see what this 'Epona Warrior Belly Dancer' thing is all about. It's a nice start for 2008 in my world. Tomorrow I'm shopping for a beach cruiser bike, so I can ride off into the sunset WEEEEEEEEE. LOL Love you all and many blessings this year!

Dance Video

Epona-of-Aretias — Wed, 19 Dec 2007 22:41:18 GMT

I finally posted some video footage of me performing with my sword. I still have dial up, so what a pain, but it's on my Myspace page now. YAY! http://myspace.com/epona_of_aretias

Gratitude

Epona-of-Aretias — Wed, 21 Nov 2007 18:55:48 GMT

Thanks Giving is here. It's that time of year to give thanks to all that we have and all we have received this past year. It's definitely not my favorite time, for I don't eat turkey and where we go every year, Dave's family's, are not good cooks, so even the side dishes are bland. But alas, it's a reason to get the day off of work ;-) I appreciate the fact that we should be grateful and give thanks. This is the time of year to honor that. I am ever so grateful for everything I have. My life has had so many twists and turns, ups and downs, wonderful moments and sad moments, pretties and uglies, goods and bads, you get the picture. But it's all good really, for everything that is not all sugar coated and perfect is a lesson and the lessons are what one needs to become stronger. I went to Sedona last week and really feel refreshed and rejuvenated. The leaves were full of beautiful Autumn colors. The weather was breezy and beautiful. I dipped my feet in a beautiful creek and just let the waters of Mother Earth cleanse my aura. It was wonderful! We stayed until sundown and I could hear the faeries rustling and singing quietly within the trees. This is what I'm grateful for more then anything. I'm grateful to be able to visit such a beautiful place. I'm grateful for Mother Nature, our blessed Mother Earth. I'm grateful for the beautiful creatures of the wild. I'm grateful for the fact that I am connected and one with it all. I am ever so comfortable and at home when I am in Nature. There is no judgment, hatred, bitterness, gossip, people yapping on their cell phones, loud cars, or whatever else society has to annoy one in this day and age. Within Nature there is only peace, serenity, love, acceptance, light, dark, beauty, wonder, creativity, dragons, faeries, and Goddesses te he he..... I am grateful for my health. I am grateful for the art of Belly Dance. I am grateful for Dave of course, my mate of 8 1/2 years, soon to be my husband officially :) I am grateful for my beautiful loving ferret Shadow and my chubby cat magenta. I am grateful for all the beautiful people I have had the blessing to meet here on tribe "Love you guys!". I am grateful for my art and the many wonderful opportunities I've had to share it within the Phoenix area. I have so much to be grateful for I could go on and on and on. Life is good! It really is. One could have absolutely nothing to show for but the clothes on their back and a meal in their tummy, sit by a huge old tree within the serenity of Nature, and be the richest person in the world!!! For life is not about "things". Life is about experience and what one makes of their experience. Within ourselves and within Nature, we are abundant and full of so many wonderful things. We are creators, artists, musicians, and inspirational people. It is we who shape this world and make it beautiful, unlike our government who just wants to take take take and feed off their greed. This needs to change my friends. I took some more pictures in the forest if one cares to take a peek. I posted them on myspace, so if you don't have an account there I will be posting some here on tribe and my website shortly. I call these pictures "Goddess of Abundance" for it represents my Goddess within and all that I have to be grateful for. I am truly blessed :) http://www.myspace.com/epona_of_aretias

Autumn, Death, and Rebirth

Epona-of-Aretias — Mon, 24 Sep 2007 20:27:35 GMT

I had a very healing Autumn Equinox. The time of year for finishing, harvesting, and preparing for Winter. A beautiful season with the leaves changing and whispers of ghosts in the wind. A chill in the air, but wonderfully embraced, for it's getting closer to my favorite time of year, HALLOWEEN ;-) I went North to once again honor the death of my Mother last year. I saw The Morrighan (the black crow) fly around her death bed as she passed to her next journey. This was the most sacred experience of my life, which I will never forget. The Morrighan has been with me strongly ever since. She represents life as well as death. She is The Celtic Goddess of battle and honors those who have lived and died on the battlefield. The battlefield is a symbol of our own struggles and lessons within our lives. Every day is a battle. It is up to us as to how we embrace it, with courage and dignity or otherwise. We choose... I am choosing to embrace this next step of my journey and to move on with love, acceptance, and courage. We all go through change. It is inevitable. Though I do not fully know what is next for me, I am ready to embrace whatever is to come. On my way North I saw three black crows. It began to rain very hard as we passed Sedona. I wanted to go to the forest and take pictures and started to get frustrated. Each time I began to doubt myself I saw a black crow fly by our vehicle. I knew that it was her showing her face to me to tell me to have faith and trust within her and within myself. By the time we got to our spot in the forest it was still raining pretty hard. We sat for a few moments and I asked the Sun to appear and dry up our spot. Within minutes it stopped raining and a mist rolled in. It was so beautiful! It reminding me of England and The Mists of Avalon. The Dragons Breath! We enjoyed the moment, but it was still sprinkling and I knew it would not be wise to hike around in the dampness and mud to take pictures. Alas, we will do it tomorrow morning. It was a good thing too, for the minute we got back in the truck the rains poured down again. We rode up to Flagstaff to get a hotel room. We then went into town to have a cocktail. I really wanted to check out The old Monte Vista Hotel, for I've heard it was haunted. We went there and had a few rum and cokes in the bar. It was a lot of fun! I love that place, very dark and laid back. After that we ventured around the hallways of the Hotel to see if we could feel any ghostly encounters. I felt it very strongly on the third floor. Dave took some pictures and I'm pretty sure we captured something. I will post it within my profile. It was really neat. The next morning was a beautiful clear day, just as it was intended by The Goddess. I took several pictures to honor The Morrighan. My costume also represents The Valkyries of Nordic legends. They are very similar to that of the Morrighan and also represent The Black Crow. I will be posting more pics throughout the day. Check them out! I'm so very proud that it all worked out and my Autumn Equinox weekend went beyond my wildest expectations. Thank you Morrighan! Blessed Be!

Moments Between Worlds

Epona-of-Aretias — Fri, 24 Aug 2007 07:54:34 GMT

The moment is now...I've had some amazing experiences recently, so I thought I'd share within this one. First let me say that the past couple of weeks I've been detoxing from prickly things in my body. I've been sweating in a jacuzzi every day, swimming, doing yoga/pilates, and taking Niacin and vitamins to kick out all the toxins. It's been a waxing moon, so a good time for me to do this. I've been reading books a lot lately as well, mostly topics on Faeries and Fae experiences. Last Saturday was a very faerie kind of day indeed. I went to see the movie Stardust, which was cute by the way :) After that I went to the jacuzzi and pool (daily ritual) and felt an energy touch my arm within the water. The amazing thing about this was that I had just read a chapter on Undines and water spirits. It made me feel so warm and fuzzy inside. After this I went to check my mail and my Netflicks movie was "A Fairy Tale". Dave had ordered it without me knowing, so it was a pleasant coincidence. That night, after reading about how Faeries like having fresh water left out for them, I left a bowl of fresh water on my patio. I asked the fae kindly to allow me to dream of a faerie experience that night. The next morning I woke up remembering a dream I had. In the dream, it was Halloween night and I was watching kids "trick or treat". I saw an owl sitting on a porch where the children were begging. They didn't see the owl at all. It was as if only I could see it. The owl spread it's wings to fly and as it lifted up into the sky it metamorphasized into a huge Gryphon. It flew toward me and, at first, I was very frightened, until I saw her eyes. I looked into the Gryphon's beautiful sparkling golden eyes and said, with all of my heart, "I love you". She immediatley sent me back a feeling of love and then soared off into the sky. I thanked the faeries that morning for granting my wish ;-) Today, Thursday evening, I went to the jacuzzi again and was having a pleasant conversation with Dave. It was dusk, not quite sundown, but that "in between the worlds" time. I looked straight ahead and couldn't believe my eyes. I saw a great owl land on a pillar not 10 feet away from me. It was exactly like the owl in my dream! I spoke to it softly and the owl looked right into my eyes. Dave was enchanted by the sight as well. A humming bird flew right up to the owl and circled around it's head. It was truly a mackical moment! Now I must say that we live in an apartment complex, so this is a public place where people come and go to check their mail and so forth. Two people walked through the area and didn't even notice the wild owl. It was a moment that only Dave and I were meant to have I suppose. I never for a second thought I would see a large wild owl in the city of Phoenix, maybe in the forests of Flagstaff, but not right outside my home. Although there are very big old trees plentiful around the area that I live, which is nice. So, I just thought I'd share this experience. I've been learning to truly seize the moment within my life. We are beings on this planet who are here NOW and NOW is all that matters. Within each moment and within each breath it is up to us to see the beauty around us, for if we don't look around every once in a while we might just miss it. Blessed Be!

Getting healthy

Epona-of-Aretias — Tue, 10 Jul 2007 00:35:52 GMT

Spiritual, emotional, mental, and physical healing. There comes a time in one's life where a shift occurs in one's consciousness. A time of cleaning and healing of the body in all aspects. This is what I'm going through. I have had so much fun and many careless days of eating badly and drinking a little too much. No regrets though, for I had a blast! But now it's my time to get healthy and lose weight. I hate talking about this topic, for there are so many people out there who are obsessed with weight and being too thin. I have struggled with losing that extra "ten to fifteen pounds" for it seems most of my life. But now its not just about the weight, it's about feeling good inside and out in all aspects, as far as healthy thinking and realistic expectations of my body image. My loving fiance Dave who has been my mate for over eight years has been diagnosed with stomach ulcers. We were at the hospital until 4AM last night, for he was in extreme pain. It was horrible! A wake up call for both of us in many ways. Sometimes the Universe has to interfere to say "Hey, OK now, we want you to feel good, so this is our way of saying start eating better and lay off the beer!" So there it is! Healthy diet and meditation will be an everyday part of life from now on. I'm looking forward to the wonderful things that this sort of continuous lifestyle will bring. Just as it is our job to heal Mother Earth, with now everybody "thinking GREEN", we will heal our own bodies as well. We are all one with her after all. Blessed Be!

Sacred fire of Beltaine

Epona-of-Aretias — Thu, 03 May 2007 18:00:31 GMT

I had such a good Beltaine on Tuesday. A very spiritual and peaceful day. I am usually very much dreading this time of year in Phoenix, AZ, because of the upcoming triple digit weather. This time feels very different. I'm feeling very optimistic. My energy is alive and vibrant! I'm looking forward to future endeavours and adventures. My life is truly changing for the better. I can feel my guardian dragon swirling around my rainbow prism of light. She is kind and peaceful and wants to ensure that my light will never diminish. She keeps me strong in times of struggle. She whispers in my ear to remind me that love will always surround me, as faeries kiss my cheek. I can almost see her in the fire I burned that night. Blessings and honor to the Sun!

Website Updated!

Epona-of-Aretias — Tue, 30 Jan 2007 21:50:36 GMT

Things have progressed nicely and my website is completely updated. Please check it out in it's entirety when you have the time. I've added something new to every single page :) Be sure to check out my online store to see my costume designs for the warrior woman in you. AND I've added a new gallery for my convention trips and the BEAUTIFUL Lucy Lawless concert in LA (entitled Xena Gallery). I took some amazing pics of Lucy and Renee Oconnor dancing up on stage. I cannot express enough what a magickal trip this was. It's now been two weeks, since I've returned and I'm still star struck and in awe of the entire experience. I love these women beyond words!!!! So, check it out! www.aretiastribe.com

I'm On Myspace now

Epona-of-Aretias — Wed, 24 Jan 2007 23:28:19 GMT

I just joined myspace, so invite me as a friend :) http://www.myspace.com/epona_of_aretias

I am truley honored!!!

Epona-of-Aretias — Wed, 17 Jan 2007 18:24:49 GMT

Well, I'm back from the Los Angeles area. Dave and I had a wonderfully fantastic time! We stayed at the very hotel the 2007 Xena Convention was held at, the beautiful Marriott in Burbank. It was so nice and we felt like celebrities for a weekend. Our view was amazing! We were right above the area where the Dessert Party and Celebrity Breakfast were held and even though we were not invited to these events, because they were for gold members only, we practically could see the whole thing. What a trip! My Xena adventure began Sat morning when I went to take my picture with Renee (Gabrielle from Xena). She is such a lovely lass! I adore her and it was so nice to meet her in person. We then went to the convention and got to see Jay Laga'aia. He played the first Xena warlord "Draco".He was really cool. A great entertainer! We then saw Brittany Powell. She played the valkyrie Brunhilda. She was a lovely person as well. Then the finale for that day was Michael Hurst who played Iolaus, sidekick of Hercules and his wife Jennifer Ward Lealand, who played Boadicea on Xena. They are married and it was nice to hear about their adventures in New Zealand. Then came the contests.....One for costume and one for talent. I entered the costume part first and there were so many fabulous creative people. First place went to a woman from England who looked like Xena ALOT and was dressed as Xena in her darker past. In the talent portion I was so excited to just get up there and BELLY DANCE! I did a sword dance to a cute song from the episode "The Play's the thing". The crowd loved it and I was so happy to just perform for them. Well it got me second place!!!! YAY!!!!! The first place went to two girls from Australia who reenacted a fight scene. They were awesome! So, at this point I'm already up on a cloud somewhere. You'd think it couldn't get any better right? Well it did! We went to see Lucy Lawless at her first singing debut (sold out) show at The Roxy in LA. OH MY GODDESS!!!! We were so close to the stage and she was absolutely AMAZING! SHE ROCKED! This woman can perform. I was so very blessed to see her up there. And geuss who shows up to go go dance at the end of her show? RENEE!!! Xena's side kick dancing in a cute go go dress along her side as Lucy sang her heart out. These women are so wonderful! You know, the reason why I fell in love with this show is not only for the kick butt woman warrior spirit it portrays. It's because these two wonderful characters show that women have this remarkable ability to portray true friendship. In this society, true friendship is really hard to find among women. These beautiful real women Lucy and Renee have shown to me that this is not just an act on a fantasy show. It is a true reality. So inspiring and such a lovely trip :)