Stoneweaver

Sky talking

2012-01-26T21:17:00.000-08:00

"Only with your heart can you touch the sky"
Rumi

Just ask

2012-01-15T13:49:00.001-08:00

You've got to ask! Asking is, in my opinion, the world's most powerful - and neglected - secret to success and happiness.

Percy Ross

Banish blue sky thinking!

2012-01-07T16:19:00.000-08:00

How incredibly dull it would be if every day we had a monotonous clear blue sky. Bring on the clouds!

I am the daughter of Earth and Water,
And the nursling of the Sky;
I pass through the pores, of the ocean and shores;
I change, but I cannot die.
For after the rain, when with never a stain
The pavilion of Heaven is bare,
And the winds and sunbeams, with their convex gleams,
Build up the blue dome of air.
I silently laugh at my own cenotaph,
And out of the caverns of rain,
Like a child from the womb, like a ghost from the tomb,
I arise, and unbuild it again.

From 'The Cloud' by Percy Bysshe Shelley

Happy New Year - I hope your year is filled with incredible cloudscapes and magical views.

How to make a driftwood Christmas tree

2011-12-15T14:59:00.000-08:00

Do try this at home!! You should still have time to make one, as long as you live close to a good beach for driftwood! First off you will need to gather your driftwood.

Find long straight-ish pieces and line them up on the beach in decreasing size. You'll need pieces that are fairly wide as you will be drilling a 12mm (half inch) hole through each piece. Take a few extra pieces as spares. Treat them with borer beetle killer as you will be bringing them into the house. Alternatively, seal with diluted uvp glue or similar.

Next, find a chunky piece of wood that will act as your base. I got mine for free from the offcuts bin at a local hardware store. While at the store, buy a length of wooden dowel that is 12mm (half inch) in diameter. You'll need at least 120 cm (4 ft) of it. You will also need a Christmas tree holder that the wooden base will fit into. As you can see (above), mine has four screws to hold the base in place.

Next drill a 12mm (half inch) hole into the centre of the wooden base. Note that this is exactly the same diameter as your dowel. You need to make it as vertically straight as you can (I asked hubby to do mine as he is more experienced with a drill than me!)

Place the dowel in the hole. Don't glue it yet.

Now drill 12mm (half inch) holes in the centre of each piece of driftwood and slot them onto the dowel. You may need to throw out some that don't work, but eventually you will know how tall your tree is going to be. Mark the dowel, take the pieces off again, and trim the dowel.

Almost there! Now you can glue the dowel into the base using an epoxy resin type glue (something strong!) Patience - cos you'll have to wait overnight for the glue to set!

Finally you can assemble your tree.

Decorate as you wish!

Happy Holidays everyone!!! xxx

Timebanks – countering the credit crunch

2011-12-11T20:12:00.000-08:00

Ever heard the saying "Time is money"? Well, it's becoming an increasingly outdated idea. Those of us who have woken up after the credit crunch and are now smelling the coffee, realise that there must be a better way. Welcome to timebanking, where put simply, time = time.

Timebanks have been set up all over the place. They are locally run and community based. There is probably one not far from you. I joined Lyttelton Timebank recently. Here's how it works. Suppose I do an hour's gardening for Mrs A. I earn an hour of time that I can spend on something I need – say a massage from Ms B. Then Ms B earns an hour to spend on what she needs. And it goes round and round. Everybody sharing skills with every hour of equal merit to another.

And there is another aspect of the timebank system that is very important. You have to make a request for what you need. You have to ask, or no one will know that you need something. The organiser of the Lyttelton Timebank explained it to me as "The generosity of receiving". What a marvellous idea!? By receiving, you allow someone to give.

And with timebanks there is no tax burden, no overdraft limits: the timebank accepts that there are times of need when we will draw on it and times in our lives when we have more time to give and put in. The only limitation to a timebank is the members' imagination as to how it can be used. And before you say "Oh I don't have a skill", what about baking, baby sitting, ironing, making cups of tea, answering phones? We all have something to give and timebanks help us to organise ourselves and make it happen.

Timebanks build communities. And the currency is good will. Wouldn't it be great if there were more of them? If you don't have one already - you can always set one up your self!

An Authentic Singapore Sling

2011-12-05T13:53:00.000-08:00

Recently I flew to the UK with Singapore Airlines and while on the flight I tasted my first Singapore Sling. I was smitten and decided I had to recreate this delicious cocktail for myself. It wasn't as straightforward as you might think!

There are lots of recipes on the web, but I wanted the authentic recipe from the famous Raffles Hotel in Singapore (apparently it was invented in the 1900s by Mr Ngiam Tong Boon, a Hainanese-Chinese bartender). Then I had to find the ingredients (the recipe involves a whole cocktail cabinet of liqueurs) and lastly I had to convert the recipe into meaningful measures that you can find in your kitchen (as in tablespoons and teaspoons instead of fluid ounces). I've done the work – so you don't have to!

First gather your ingredients. You'll need: gin, cherry brandy, Cointreau, Benedictine, Grenadine, pineapple juice, lime juice and some 'bitters'.

The recipe – enough for two drinks, because cocktails are best consumed with company – is as follows:

3 tbsp gin

2 tsp cherry brandy

1 tsp Cointreau

1 tsp Benedictine

8 tbsp pineapple juice

2 tsp lime juice

3/4 tsp Grenadine (measure out 3 x 1/4)

2 drops of bitters

Put everything into a cocktail shaker with some ice. Shake. Serve with a piece of pineapple and a glace cherry. Enjoy!!! But be warned - this is a very potent cocktail!!

Off to market!

2011-11-24T15:08:00.001-08:00

Well some of you may wonder where I've been lately (while most probably haven't missed me!) Well, I've gone back to my roots - been designing and making jewellery for an upcoming craft fair. (Reminds me of why I even started this blog - to promote my jewellery.) It's been a long time since I've been out there and sold (tried to sell) my jewellery - been working like mad and now have a decent stock to present. Let's hope it was all worth it! Here is one of my newest pieces: a power necklace, made from jasper and sardonyx.

And you have to see my new funky ear-ring holders!! Made from old metal cheese-graters, sprayed and spruced up. They are just perfect for the job! (And recycled, of course).

The main problem with this whole market thing is that I have had to 'dance with the devil' (meaning I had to promote on Facebook - shudders). If you are on Facebook, there is a link on the right of my blog. Better look quick because when this market is over I reckon I'm going to ditch it!

I realise most of you reading this live abroad, but for anyone who wants to know, the market is tomorrow (26 November), 10 til 3pm, Christchurch Girls High, 10 Matai Street, near Hagley Park. Come say hello to 'Love the Earth' (that's me!)

Wish me luck!

All is full of Love

2011-10-30T22:30:00.000-07:00

I made a video – you can see it by clicking here. Hope you like it!!! It is for anyone who is feeling sad or lonely. You are loved. Love is all around you. x

Namaste

Home is where the heart is...

2011-10-23T21:50:00.000-07:00

May you have many wndows in your soul

2011-10-10T16:00:00.000-07:00

I came across this inspirational piece of writing and thought I would share it with you:

"Let there be many windows in your soul, that all the glory of the universe may beautify it. Not the narrow pane of one poor creed can catch the radiant rays that shine from countless sources. Tear away the blinds of superstition: let the light pour through fair windows, broad as truth itself, and high as heaven. . . Tune your ear to all the wordless music of the stars and to the voice of Nature, and your heart shall turn to truth and goodness as the plant turns to the sun. A thousand unseen hands reach down to help you to their peace-crowned heights, and all the forces of the firmament shall fortify your strength. Be not afraid to thrust aside half-truths and grasp the whole."

It was written by Ralph Waldo Trine.

(The picture was taken from inside the charming Victoria building in Sydney, Australia.)

Resting

2011-10-05T15:27:00.000-07:00

I was going to write you a long and complicated article, but I'm resting today – so this is the shortened version.

After a prolonged period of stress or physical illness the body is left depleted and we need to take some time to recharge our batteries. But how many of us do? How often do we keep on truckin' until the only thing that stops us is burn out.

Actors use the term 'resting' as a euphemism for being out of work. But for most of us, the term is antiquated and little used. We don't rest, we go on holiday, we have a 'staycation' where we do stuff round the house. We are always 'doing' something.

Why the pic of Hattie Jacques? Because in the days of Carry On Matron and black-and-white films, convalescence was something doctors still prescribed for their patients. Today we are encouraged to take a pill and carry on.

If you are feeling overwhelmed by life or just plain tired out, find yourself a free day, afternoon or even just a couple of hours. Write yourself a 'to do' list that says: 'Nothing in particular'. Close the door and rest.

You'll feel better for it!

Beauty

2011-10-04T18:12:00.001-07:00

Always lifts my spirits.

Kia Kaha Christchurch!

Do I choose happy or sad?

2011-09-27T20:02:00.000-07:00

Recently Miruspeg wrote an inspirational blogpost about Choosing Happiness. I agree with all she said - and yet I am finding it hard to put into practice.

Here's what happened today. While looking for a favourite pair of earrings I chanced upon a ring that I thought I'd lost! (That's it, in the pic above.) And before you ask, no it's not a diamond. Its value is sentimental more than anything else. It was my mother-in-law's and she left it to me in her will. I thought it had been lost during the February earthquake when everything got flung around. I had searched high and low for it – had given up. But today, hey presto, there it was safely tucked away in a special box with other treasures. I was thrilled and overjoyed!!!

So that's the happy. Now the sad. I cannot find my earrings (the ones I was originally looking for) anywhere. I've run out of places to look. And these were my favourites – beautiful clear quartz in a square cut. So many things have moved around since February. I've moved house, had builders and decorators in - oh yeah, and I've been away for nearly 3 months. I am gutted.

Now, do I focus on the happy or the sad? I choose happy. I am really pleased to have found that ring – it is irreplaceable – though my feelings still hurt for the loss of the earrings. And I think we do need to honour our feelings. Choices are made in our minds, but while we are here on the material plane, things hurt. Our feelings cannot always be controlled by that rational little voice in our head. All the same, I do know I can probably replace the earrings. But I don't think I will. I'll just let it go. There is always the small hope that maybe they will turn up just as that ring did. In a few months time I'll have a lovely surprise!

My intuition tells me that through this juxtaposition of events, I am being taught a lesson. Nothing is coincidence. That's why I thought I'd share it with you.

The sky was waiting...

2011-09-18T16:36:00.000-07:00

Te Rangi Pai

(The Beautiful Sky)

The sky was waiting for my return

with the patience of the Universe.

Soft clouds gathered, came closer in greeting

And the sun sent out a single golden ray.

Cabbage trees rustled a welcome in the warm northerly breeze

And the mountains, awesome as ever,

stood in defiance of the burgeoning weight of time.

The sea stilled for a moment, smooth as steel,

As I bathed my senses in the view.

I am home.

A family emergency called me back to the UK for the past couple of months. How I missed my beautiful sky. But when I returned it was here waiting - as I knew it would be.

Ego sickness - it's catching!

2011-09-09T03:58:00.000-07:00

Have you ever noticed how easy it is to fall prey to ego sickness?

Imagine the scenario: there comes across your path a person with an enormous Ego (note the capital E). I mean, this Ego is so huge that it enters the room before its 'owner'. The person is completely identified with it – everything is personal, all the person's views are the ONLY ones that matter, it's all about scoring points and being right.

So what happens? You find yourself drawn into an argument with this person cos, well, they need stetting straight don't they? You judge them as 'not very aware' (as if anyone can know another's level of awareness). You say 'Oh they are wrapped up in their ego' and you close your ears.

And before you know it, just like sneezing, they have passed on the ego sickness to you!

Beware. Ego loves company.

Cats don't have egos - everyone knows they are perfect!

Proud Heart

2011-08-31T14:22:00.000-07:00

I am the cracks that pattern the walls of the house

I am the house that withstood the force of three earthquakes

I am the earthquakes that shook the land and shuffled the lives of the people

I am the people who refuse to abandon the city

I am the city, the proud heart of Christchurch

I am the heart that's beating still.

Crush

2011-08-14T02:16:00.000-07:00

I love loving. Perhaps that’s why I have crushes. It is one of those peculiar afflictions that is both exhilarating yet embarrassing at the same time. I have often wondered why I do it: am I a romantic? a fantasist? Perhaps. Whatever the reason, there is nothing I can do about it.

And before I go any further, I have to say that I am totally in love with my husband. It is not as though I am looking for love. A crush is something different. It is a worshipping from afar. It is a one-sided flirtation, perhaps.

The object of my devotion can seem random to anyone who is unfamiliar with the strange workings of my mind. Here is the scenario. Someone comes along who catches my attention – something about them sends my heart a flutter, or my brain a ticking – and I am smitten. It can be a physical attraction, but is usually not. And then I become a one-track record. I will talk about my latest crush at any opportunity. I will Google them, read about them – but have drawn the line at stalking.

Though usually male, my crush gene is not restricted to mere gender and I have had several crushes on women. One of them is Oprah – I’m simply in love with her. What more can I say?

Can you relate? Do you ‘suffer’ from crushes? Although it’s not really suffering, is it? It’s quite fun really. So many people in this beautiful world, so many wonderful beings to fall in love with. Let yourself fall.

First crush: William Shatner. The Star Trek days – the wrestling scenes ;o)

Enduring crush: John Stewart (The Daily Show) – I ADORE him.

Passing crush: Dr Mark Quigley (Christchurch earthquake geologist) – I fell into crushdom with him when he expertly and masterfully refuted the Moon man’s predictions. This crush is fading now… though I will always have a soft spot.

Strangest crush: William Hurt – I can’t see it now, but I had a HUGE crush on him a few years back.

Who do you have a crush on? Go on, ‘fess up. You’ll feel better! ;o)

Three jewels of Taoism

2011-08-07T14:38:00.000-07:00

Been going through some tough and hectic times lately (explains why I haven't been posting on my blog). And once again I have found solace in contemplating the Tao.

Curious how such an ancient book of wisdom remains so relevant and useful today.

I have been contemplating the three jewels: compassion, moderation and humility. These are the core concepts of Taoism (and incidentally feature in many other religious/spiritual teachings). Compassion means 'kindness' and is perhaps the single most important concept of anyone who claims to follow a spiritual path. Yet how easily we can forget it - especially when it comes to being kind to ourselves.

To me moderation means 'the middle way' (as recommended by Buddha). It means being 'moderate' in our actions - not too strident, not too meek. It means wu wei - of living effortlessly and going with the flow.

Then there is humility - or, in other words, letting go of the ego. When caring for someone - the challenge is to ask yourself 'Is my way the best way? Is my way the only way?' We can know what works for ourselves - but how can we know the mind of another?

But the three jewels are not meant to be viewed in isolation: they work together. So, by practising humility we can let go of our worries about 'doing the right thing' and open our heart to wu wei. This naturally leads to more harmony and a more compassionate way of caring.

What are your thoughts on the three jewels? Do they have relevance for your life right now?

Going through Hell

2011-06-15T17:25:00.000-07:00

The people of Christchurch are reeling after two major aftershocks rattled through the city on Monday. A 5.5 at 1pm was followed about an hour and a half later by a 6.3. It was close to where I live and I personally felt them both acutely. Once again we cleared up the mess, comforted friends and waited for the power to come back on.

Daily life here is a struggle as shops close and roads get torn up. Smaller, yet noticeable, aftershocks continue. And there is the constant fear of another big shake happening. I begin to doubt 'The Pledge' and would not blame anyone for leaving this city. But I do know that we are resilient here and perhaps in time we will come to terms with the fear and carry on.

In the words of Winston Churchill:

"If you're going through Hell - keep going".

Something found

2011-05-22T16:49:00.001-07:00

It is always a special moment when you find a crystal (and before you ask, going into a crystal shop and buying a crystal does not count!) I found this one yesterday.

I have some old fashioned porcelain sinks that are used as plant containers along the front of my house. The previous owners planted them up with succulents and I was just pulling out a few bits of rogue grass, when I unearthed this beauty! I was stunned! And very happy.

Now I'm wondering who put it there, when and why?

There is another part to this story. The day before I had been wearing my other 'found crystal' and my hubby remarked on it. I reminded him of how I had found it on the busy concourse at Canary Wharf station in London. (I blogged about it here.) Well, after I'd told him the story I made a silent wish that I would find my next crystal. And look what happened...

So I say to you – if you want a crystal to come into your life, just ask. And then the fun part is seeing where/how it will turn up. There are lots of pathways for a crystal to find its way to you!

Mine has a little stubby bit sticking out (see it below?). Cute or what!?

You can never have too much...

2011-05-19T20:58:00.001-07:00

A simple notion, yet very powerful. And with this in mind I have a project underway - to spread a little love, hope and light to the people of Christchurch. Inspired by a fellow blogger and graffiti knitter, Ribbon, who always manages to bring a smile with her gentle, kind and playful projects, I am making 'prayer flags' that I will hang in parts of the city where the view is less than cheerful.

I mentioned my plan in an earlier post, and immediately another blogger, Bimbimbie, came on board and asked if she could contribute. I was very touched by this and it spurred me on! Here are some of the beautiful flags she sent to me:

They will be threaded on to garlands alongside my heart-shaped flags so that the wind will carry these prayers for hope, peace, love and calm across the city.

My friend has been helping me make them and soon they will be adorning ruined buildings, temporary fencing and (hopefully) lifting the spirits of anyone who sees them.

Different perceptions

2011-05-03T16:00:00.000-07:00

It's easy to get into a groove and think that the whole world thinks the same way as you do. Yesterday I was reminded that this is definitely not true.

Remember my post about The Pledge (a chance for Christchurch residents to sign a book saying they want to stay and rebuild the city)? I have always seen this as a positive thing – an act of 'friendship' and support for our damaged city. I feel it inspires a sense of community. Well, I met this guy who had a totally opposite view!

He was very angry, in fact. According to him The Pledge is not helpful at all. It makes people who don't want to sign it (like him) feel guilty. It is 'strong arm' tactics. It is 'like sending white feathers in the war to those who didn't want to fight' (eh??????) He thinks that many people in Christchurch have no choice and have to stay because they have mortgages and so this pledge thing rubs their faces in it (another eh??????)

I listened - I did (mainly because I was gob smacked) – but I didn't let him brow beat me down from my view, which I tried to put across gently. I suggested that the pledge was not a binding contract and more an act of moral support, and that if anyone changed their minds and did decide to leave, they wouldn't be prosecuted. But he was having none of it. Oh well...

I went away feeling a little down, I must admit. It burst my bubble, I suppose. There is a lot of ill feeling and unhappiness around Christchurch right now. He was just expressing a part of that. Change is always challenging for people. Change and uncertainty make people fearful.

If you get the chance, and have the inclination, please send positive vibes our way. This city needs it!

Meanwhile here is a view from my new home - yes, it's just across the street from where I used to live and so I still can see my beautiful sky!

Give a Lyttel love...

2011-04-11T15:26:00.000-07:00

It is so messy here in Christchurch - messy emotions, messy streets, confusion, anxiety... It wears you out! What to do? I've decided that the best thing I can do is to continually seek the positive and help others do so. That will be my way of helping to rebuild the city (let's face it - I can't do much with a hammer and nails!) So I'm dropping in on friends, smiling at the woman in the supermarket who curses me for accidentally bumping her trolly, giving way to traffic, giving hugs freely and just generally not buying into 'the fear'.

The other side of this giving equation is to look after my own needs. And that means connecting with others who feel the same way. People like those in Lyttelton, who get together to make fabric hearts which they hang on buildings or give out to members of the public (see pic above). Lyttelton knows the meaning of the word community and it is holding them together in this time of crisis. I wish there were more of it throughout Christchurch. But I guess I can do my part. I have a few ideas of my own for spreading the love, hope and harmony that this city needs now more than ever.

Watch this space!

I promise...

2011-04-03T20:06:00.000-07:00

... to stand by Christchurch. I have signed The Pl edge.

I will help just by staying here and supporting my friends and my local community. I am proud to be a part of this city's future. Kia Kaha Christchurch!

The above is a picture taken in London Street, Lyttelton (which took a lot of damage in the February 22 earthquake). Someone had been around attaching hearts to the barricades to show a little love. It was very moving.

My tribute to Christchurch

2011-03-17T23:46:00.000-07:00

They held the memorial for Christchurch today – and it was very upsetting. I decided to make a video that would show both sides of Christchurch - (some of) the destruction, but also its beauty and to explain why I still want to live here.

"In the presence of death we must continue to sing the song of life"
~ Roman philosopher, Seneca

The music is 'Uummannaq Song' by the brilliant KT Tunstall.

News flash: moon man fails to predict Japanese quake

2011-03-16T13:49:00.000-07:00

That's something he won't be broadcasting eh?

Sending love and light to all those suffering in Japan.

As requested by Peggy, here are a couple of links that debunk the moon man's so-called predictions.

http://kenringmoonmanwrong.blogspot.com/2011/02/ken-ring-cant-predict-earthquakes.html

http://nz.news.yahoo.com/a/-/top-stories/9019965/sir-peter-hits-out-at-earthquake-forecasters/

The lunatic fringe

2011-03-09T18:50:00.001-08:00

Lately the 'Moon Man' has been getting a lot of attention (and publicity for his book, no doubt) with his so-called prediction of the Feb 22 earthquake in Christchurch. First off, it would be easy to predict an event since Christchurch was getting aftershocks from the September 4th earthquake almost every day. Mr Moon Man didn't say where it was going to be or how big, and the time frame was 18 Feb plus or minus 3 days (so that makes Feb 21, so still wrong). I'm just talking facts here - cos lots of people aren't bothering with those.

I saw today an article about the upcoming full moon on the 19 March. The article says that it will be the closest the Moon has been to the Earth in 20 years and "The last time the moon passed close to the Earth was on 10 January 2005, around the time of the Indonesian earthquake that measured 9.0 on the Richter scale."

So I decided to check the facts.

Yes, the Moon did come close to the Earth on 10 January 2005, but - ahem - the Indonesain earthquake happened on 26 December 2004. I don't call that 'around the same time', I call that 15 days before. All stories grow bigger in the telling, don't they? And I like a good story - but we just don't need the fear right now. We have enough of that already.

I'll make a prediction: Christchurch will be having a series of aftershocks, some of them very big - but no one knows where or when.

May everyone in Christchurch be safe no matter what the Earth decides to do.

Thankful to be alive

2011-02-25T00:49:00.000-08:00

Our beautiful house with a beautiful view - is still standing! Even though we are a stone's throw away from Lyttelton and the epicentre of the quake. It was a terrifying experience but I am so thankful that hubby and I were unharmed - and I have heard from most of my friends too. The city is ruined - and so many lives lost I can't bear to watch the news.

That first night after the quake we had frequent strong aftershocks - I could not sleep and spent the whole night chanting 'Om shree Durgayey namaha', asking the Goddess to protect the city and its people, and sending reiki light.

I'll post some extraordinary pictures soon - when I am back to some kind of normality! Staying with friends who have power and water - how lucky am I? Blessed I would say.

Still praying for others in the city who are not so fortunate.

Unthinkable

2011-02-14T14:59:00.000-08:00

I'm thinking the unthinkable.... I might give up blogging.

Do you ever find yourself thinking that there are not enough hours in the day? I do often (even with my affirmation clearly written on my whiteboard "I have plenty of time"). I have so much going on right now...

I have really enjoyed blogging and part of the whole deal is skipping about reading other people's blogs. But I'm finding I simply do not have enough time. Lately I haven't even been answering emails properly. By that I mean, taking time to write a decent long letter.

Something's gotta give.

It may have to be my blog. I mean - why am I writing it?

I'm going off to ponder.....

Tramping survival kit

2011-02-07T18:34:00.000-08:00

Tramping is the Kiwi word for what the rest of the world calls walking or hiking. Recently I went on a four-day tramp around the remains of ancient volcanoes that make up the Banks Peninsular near Akaroa.

As usual, before I went I worried about what to bring, especially as I would have to carry it myself in a backpack. I made the following list so that I'd never forget what was useful. Here it is:

1. Earplugs and eyemask. These are especially important for anyone who needs more than three hours of sleep per night. You'll be sleeping in huts that seem to have a common design fault: a front door that BANGS at the slightest touch. That, and the fact that others in the hut will invariably need to get up to pee in the night – at different times – and you see what I mean...
Just stick in your earplugs and pop on your mask – remember Top Cat? – and you should get some shut-eye.
2. Minimum clothing – so what if you smell a little! Tramping is about getting back to Nature. I recommend: tracksuit leggings and long-sleeved cotton or merino top for the evening/sleeping in; 1 pr walking trousers that zip off at the knee; long-sleeved lightweight white cotton or wicking shirt; wicking or lightweight merino T-shirt; 2 pairs thick socks; 3 pairs liner socks; warm merino top/fleece; raincoat (in the winter you'll also need waterproof leggings); fleece hat and gloves (you need them even in the summer, as they will keep you warm if you are caught in the rain); worn-in walking boots; 4 pr underwear (you could carry less if you are happy to do washing, but I'd rather chill out at the end of a long day).

4. Cosmetics – keep them to a minimum. This is a walk, not a beauty pageant. Your face will not shrivel into a prune if you go a few days without face cream and your lips will still be kissable without lipgloss. But whatever you do, don't forget Sun Tan lotion. Get a good one - and it will act as a moisturiser for your skin too. Hand sanitiser is another essential, especially as you'll likely be having 'field pees'. Clean hands = no tummy bugs.
5. Mozzie repellent. I'd go for something with DEET in it. Yeah, I know it's bad for you, but it works. Sandflies and mozzies always make a bee-line for me and I react very badly to bites, so I'd rather take the DEET hit. On my last walk I still managed to get bitten a few times, but it would have been worse without the repellent.
6. Medical kit - at least a few bandages, Compede blister plasters, painkillers, sting relief and dioralyte rehydration tablets (cos you never know).
7. Silk liner and Mylar emergency blanket. In the summer this is all you'll need to sleep in if you're staying in huts.
8. Quick-dry travel towel – invest in a good one that does, in fact, dry quickly.
9. Compass (and know how to use it), map and whistle (6 short blasts is a widely recognised distress signal).
10. Water. If you carry nothing else, you MUST carry plenty of water. Take a Platypus or Camelback, which sit in your backpack with a tube to your mouth. At first it seems a bit odd, but it makes drinking easier and you don't have to stop. You end up drinking more often - which is a good thing!
11. Two walking poles. You'll save energy and will be less likely to slip on rocks, especially when walking downhill.

Oh - and make sure you bring some scroggin!! The brilliant thing about tramping is that with all that slogging up hills, you can pig out on whatever you fancy!

A happy tramper sees the world through rose-tinted spectacles! Happy Tramping!

Mul Mantra: We are One

2011-01-28T15:02:00.000-08:00

The Mul Mantra is a sacred text of the Sikh religion and contains its key concepts. I think it is beautiful, mind-expanding and profound. This version, sung by the amazing Snatam Kaur, inspired me to make a video of my many photos of the sky. I hope you like it!

(If you have a Youtube account - I'd really like it if you could leave a comment on the page.)

Namaste.

Remember Sorrel the stray?

2011-01-07T21:44:00.000-08:00

Well, she is settling in nicely! Here she is curled up on my lap – and doing a bit of 'air-kneading' !

It was a year ago when we first saw her popping in and out of our garden, ravenously hungry and stealing bread we had put out for the birds. She has turned out to be the sweetest, most affectionate cat I have ever known (she likes to be cuddled and cradled - and bizarrely loves having her paws held!).

Even though she is well fed now, a few of her survivor habits remain. She is very sensitive to our 'intent' and always knows if we are going away (and need to get her into the cat basket). She is also an avid hunter of lizards and I reckon they may have once been a large part of her diet. She often brings one home, squirming in her mouth. Sometimes I manage to distract her with a feather stick so that she drops it, but otherwise she will eat it. She hunts ciccadas and flies, too, and to my dismay, occasionally brings in an unlucky blackbird.

For such a small cat she has heaps of personality - and is a loud and permanent part of our family now. We wouldn't be without her.

A Kiwi Christmas

2010-12-29T19:28:00.001-08:00

For our second Christmas in New Zealand we decided to go all out for a traditional Kiwi experience.

Tradition number 1: 'the bach'. On high days and holidays - and any old weekend - Kiwis like to get away from it all in a bach (which is pronounced as in bachelor and not like the famous baroque composer). Packing the car with food, drink, clothes, jandals and sun tan lotion, they bomb out of town on Highway 1 (yeah - there is only one road north or south of Christchurch) and head to a scenic spot. We chose Lake Tekapo, which happens to be one of my favourite places on the South Island. The bach can be anything from a hut to a palatial air-conditioned mansion. In our case it was a curiously triangular-shaped chalet:

The chalet was well equipped and had the obligatory deck - and view.

Tradition number 2: 'the walk'. Kiwis love the outdoors – and spend a lot of time there. We joined in with a 3-hour 'tramp' (= hike) to the top of Mount John and back. The views from the top were amazing:

Tradition number 3: 'the pavlova'. The Aussies try to claim it as their own, but the pavlova is definitely a Kiwi invention. Not quite the meringue we are used to in the UK, the pavlova is light and delicate. Smothered in a generous layer of whipped cream and exotic fruit – the overall effect is sublime and absolutely delicious. It wins hands down over stodgy Christmas pud (even the Kiwi type, which is different from the British version - but that's another story). This was my first attempt at the iconic dessert - but it won't be my last:

The last and perhaps most important tradition is: 'spending time with family'. Of course there is the hubby, but this year - something extra special - my sister from the UK!

It was magic!

The lake was its typical turquoise-blue colour, unlike the last time we went in the winter.

Spiritual insight

2010-11-25T16:12:00.000-08:00

"Recurrent negative feelings – those that loop in the same cycles again and again without changing – are unmet knots of our past that got frozen in time for the precise reason that they were not met with kindness or acceptance... All any feeling wants is to be welcomed with tenderness. It wants room to unfold. It wants to relax and tell its story."

And suddenly I get it – living in the now, in the present moment, means accepting feelings as they come up and letting them be. No more resistance. It means focusing on what is and not what might be. And best of all, it means that the war on myself is over.

The quote came from 'Women, Food and God' by Geneen Roth. It is such a profoundly spiritual book - it's not just about women's relationship with food - it is about so much more. I strongly recommend it.

Sanity restored

2010-10-31T17:12:00.000-07:00

I can't manage to import the video but this link should take you there. Please take a moment to listen.

I so admire what he is trying to do.

"Believers keep on believing,
Sleepers you got to stop sleeping,
Cos it won't be too long" {Stevie Wonder, Higher Ground}

I firmly believe that it won't be too long before the world wakes up and realises that the only way forward is together. People like Jon Stewart are hastening this process - and I love him for that.

Just think...

2010-10-19T21:29:00.000-07:00

Our world is awash with thoughts. This blogpost comprises my thoughts. I type on a keyboard that has been thought about and designed by someone... someone else thought up and created the computer code that runs my machine... inside the machine the complex workings and mechanical components were all dreamt up and designed by people who I will never meet. Then there is the design of my stylish Apple Mac itself - who thought that up? The Apple logo was once a twinkle in a designer's eye... the typeface... the icons....take the Blogger interface, for example. It represents hours of thought and purpose.

Thought is everywhere. It's in the books on my desk (they are bursting with thoughts!), it's in the paintings on my wall - a creative expression from an artist I happen to like or resonate with... but what about the wallpaper? Someone designed it, someone else made the dyes and a clever chemist thought up a formula that would make the paper just the right absorbancy. Someone thought up the packaging and the marketing and someone else thought about how they would display it in their shop, so that people would buy it.

I could go on....

In an urban setting, even the plants are a product of thought. They might be hybrids - two species crossed for their attractive colour or shape - that was a horticulturalist's thought in action. The tree, the shrub, the flowers I see from my window - they have been planted. Someone thought they would look good and provide a graceful outlook.

It is only in Nature - the beach, the forest, the mountains – where we are free of thought. Perhaps it is this unfettered wildness that gives us so much peace. It revives the batteries so we can turn around and head back to our thought-filled lives.

We are not our thoughts - but our thoughts do indeed create our world.

What is the answer?

2010-10-13T22:06:00.001-07:00

Buddha says: "The way is not in the sky. The way is in the heart."

Eckhart Tolle says: "One With Life"

Ram Das says: "Be Here Now"

Rumi says: "Look for the answer inside your question"

Douglas Adams says: "42"

Lao Tzu says: "At the centre of your being you have the answer"

So who is right? I think they all have merit - even Adams. He amusingly shows us our folly in even attempting to find an answer to the unknowable.

Christchurch shines on

2010-10-09T15:46:00.001-07:00

Thought you might like to see a few photos of my city after the earthquake. There are plenty of damaged buildings, like this cracked church tower...

And buildings that look as though they are fine...

But a closer look shows why they must be pulled down...

There are angels in our city.

And clocks that all show the same time...

But the city is not destroyed. It is recovering day by day, and will soon be yet more vibrant than ever.

The healing gift of animals

2010-09-14T21:21:00.000-07:00

I have long felt that animals are this planet's greatest healers. And I think it is because they have mastered the art of 'being'. Or maybe they just didn't try. Once again the healing power of animals has been illustrated, this time by a family I know who found a baby magpie fallen from its nest during the recent earthquake.

The family lives very close to the epicentre and felt the full force of the quake - and all the aftershocks. I know from experience that the enormous shake instilled a feeling of terror and uncertainty, especially for children. Then enter this scruffy-looking chick, unable to fly and totally dependent on them for food and shelter. All at once there was a new focus. What shall we do with the bird? How best to feed it? Will it survive?

The bird is more than surviving – it is thriving! And it is destined to become a family pet. Right at the heart of this family, it offers healing simply by being.

It is the same with all animals. My Mace loves hanging out with me in the garden. On sunny days I take a cup of tea and sit out in the sun. Within minutes he is bounding over, full of energy and unconditional love. He just sits with me - and we soak up the sunshine. No matter that we don't speak the same language. No matter that we are of entirely different species. We are the same when we sit still – and just allow ourselves to 'be'.

Aroha Christchurch Aroha

2010-09-09T15:22:00.000-07:00

Aroha Christchurch Aroha

This city is flooded with light
From the hearts of its people
Such beauty never did reside in
bricks and mortar.

No shake or flood or fire could
ever destroy such a foundation
Our hearts endure, and our light
– it shines brighter than ever.

***

Lightworkers all over the city (and I suspect the world) have been sending love and light to our crumpled city. May everyone in Christchurch find peace and shelter; may everyone be safe.

Check out this video - send Christchurch your love.

A whole lot of shakin goin on

2010-09-03T23:47:00.001-07:00

When I asked the Universe to help get me out of some tight deadlines, this isn't quite what I had in mind...

The first I knew about the earthquake, was my husband saying "Wake up! It's an earthquake!" So we sat there in the darkness, watching as the bed – and the house – did the hula-hula to an underlying rhythm of River Dance! It lasted at least 2 minutes.

Next I grabbed my mobile and the radio. The mobile turned out to be the most useful. I was able to text my sister in the UK to tell her what had happened and that we were ok. While the radio played sounds of the 80s (it was 4.30 in the morning, remember), my sis was able to Google it and text me back to tell me the quake was 7.1 and happened 30km to the west of Christchurch. The wonders of modern communications. I felt very connected as I texted her with on the spot coverage until my battery went flat!

By then the news had come on and we learned more about the extent of it – and that we were supposed to stay put, conserve water and pee in a bucket! We filled lots of containers and dug out our emergency box complete with camping stove. Hubby got cracking and boiled water for a brew, and we sat there watching the cars streaming away from the coastline and the lights gradually coming back on in the city.

There was a flurry of mobile calls and texts from far and near. We contacted people living in the worst hit New Brighton to see if they needed a place to stay. We felt very lucky to be up here on the hill. The extent of our damage (see below) was a few fallen picture frames.

After checking on neighbours, we took our bikes into the city to see what was what. All was very civilised and orderly. Shops were open and we even found a place selling coffee. The centre of the city was badly affected. The first picture shows Cathedral Square closed off.

We went to Hagley park where hubby (who is a geologist) was excited to see evidence of liquefaction, a phenomenon of earthquakes. Across the parkland there were slicks of silty sand that had formed during the quake (see below). Apparently when wet sand is vibrated it behaves like a liquid and comes up to the surface. Bit of a problem if your house is built on it. And that's why the worst of the devastation was on the plains. Serious, serious damage occurred there and the miracle is that no one was killed.

August's virtue: Centred

2010-09-02T15:56:00.000-07:00

"I am anchored to what is real, secure in myself and open-hearted"

The open-hearted bit fits, but the rest could not be further from who I am!! (Anyone who knows me irl will vouch for that). Centred. Always a problem. I 'live in my head' and often have a feeling of being 'scattered' (the opposite of centred, I suppose). Another word is grounded. Also something I have trouble with - though I have learnt to deal with it.

Meditation helps. Exercise helps. Just taking time to do something fun helps too.

And yet I am well aware that there are often long periods when I do none of these things and so that probably explains it.

What does centred mean for you? Do you think of yourself as centred? How do you get there? If you've found a path to centred please let me know! I'm still wandering the labyrinth!!

(Picture shows a decorative tile in the path at Wellington's Botanic Gardens).

And yeah - I know I'm late with this month's virtue!!!! Will you forgive me?

What does Life want from You?

2010-08-12T17:15:00.000-07:00

So often we go along thinking "What do I want from life? What is my purpose?" when a better question to ask is "What does Life want from me?"

I have been reading A New Earth by Ekhart Tolle. It is the second time I've tried to read it. The first time - I didn't get it. But this time it is really getting through. It is a remarkable book.

Also, Oprah Winfrey (a huge inspiration for me) has recorded a series of interviews with the author, chapter by chapter. And they are available as podcasts (you'll find them at the bottom of this page). So I'm reading and then listening to the discussion. (And yeah - I know she did all this AGES ago - and I'm coming to it after the rest of the world - but hey I get there in the end!)

Have any of you found inspiration from this book? Did it awaken you? I'd love to hear your impressions and insights.

The picture was taken at Lambton Quay, Wellington. We all need to keep an eye open for signs, and this one says 'Follow your heart'.

Floating

2010-08-05T21:10:00.000-07:00

When I see something like this I am reminded of how life is all about perception. Everything we see and feel comes to our minds through perception. As such, we abide within our consciousness. But could it be that we are the imaginings of some greater mind? Our thoughts the second-hand echoes of a creative force that reaches to the very ends of the Universe?
Beyond imagination – the reality of possibility.

What is your drug of choice?

2010-07-27T19:14:00.000-07:00

When it comes to period pain – mine is codeine. It's quick, effective – it works. When I went to restock recently I was surprised to find myself the subject of extreme scrutiny! Before I could buy my 12-pack of tablets (just 12 little pills!) I had to give photo ID and be registered in the 'codeine club'. It's curious, though, because I began to feel seedy – like an addict.

In truth, I suppose I am an addict of sorts. I have learnt that nothing else touches the pain and so I go out and buy 'the good stuff'.

I have other drugs of choice: chocolate and alcohol. Soon, alcohol will go the same way as codeine – you'll have to sign your life away before you can het hold of it. Will they eventually do that with chocolate? I wonder.

And before anyone saddles up their high horse – I do know the dangers of codeine and alcohol (and even chocolate if you have ever tasted real European hot chocolate - it's like hyperglycemia in a glass!) But my point is that these substances – in moderation – have a benefit. And I hate being told how to run my life or to feel downright dodgy for buying a painkiller.

I mean, most of us are quite capable of exerting control. (Well, apart from chocolate!)

What are your drugs of choice? Do you have any vices?

Photo courtesy of Kham Tran via the marvellous Wikimedia Commons.

July's virtue: Peaceful

2010-07-21T16:45:00.001-07:00

Hmmmmmm – I wish. No this month has NOT been peaceful for me. Deadlines, deadlines, deadlines. Maybe I should cultivate more peacefulness into my day – a good idea in principle, but I always have so many things on the go.

And if I am honest – I like it that way!

Mind you, these days I am lucky enough to have a view that always inspires peace in me. Here is yet another view of my sky. Ahhhhhhh.......peace.

Where do you find peace?

You have to see this

2010-07-04T23:22:00.001-07:00

This was the view from my window this morning. Took my breath away. A honey coloured sky, dark-grey brooding clouds and these pools of light on the sea. Magical.

June's virtue: Intuitive

2010-06-27T16:05:00.000-07:00

Once again, my 'virtuescope' reading has come up with a word that I would not normally consider to be a 'virtue'. Yet, thinking about it I suppose that when I do follow my intuition, it usually leads to good things.

It is like a ray of light through the clouds – a guiding path.

Most of the time I notice it when I DON'T follow it. I look back and think: "Why did I ignore that little voice inside?" I guess it takes practice to tune in to it.

I can think of one example where I did follow it – with tremendous results. Hubby and I were at his Christmas do a few years ago. Normally I never do the raffle but this time I just knew, and I mean without a shadow of doubt, that we were going to win it. I told hubby we had to buy a ticket 'right now' and we did. When it came to the prize-giving, several people went up before us. I wasn't perturbed. I kid you not, I was straightening out my dress and preening my hair cos I knew the spotlight would be on us at any moment. And it was. Turns out they were calling the smaller prizes first. We won top prize.

But it's not really about winning prizes. It's about listening to that small voice inside. And then the prize is, well, life! And all it's possibilities.

"I perceive the inner rhythm of events, and allow my feelings to guide me."

Signs of a cosmic happening

2010-06-13T22:51:00.001-07:00

You just know when the Universe is playing a part in things, don't you? Let me explain. Recently I've utterly been despairing in my job because I have a rather tricky task of tracking down very specific consultants - and with no leads I had to turn to the Internet. But it was like looking for a needle in a haystack.

So I took a breath (lasting several days). Relaxed. Then I put it out to the Universe in the full expectation that said consultants would be delivered. (I mention this because I think attitude is important.) They were of course.

But this is how I know it was a cosmic gift. First off I spend a half hour searching the Internet with quite a few dead ends. Finally I phone a company and speak to a very friendly receptionist who actually listens and tries to help (this is more unusual than you'd think). She can't help but puts me on to another organisation that can. Now here's the first clue that 'something' is happening. I look up someone in that other company, and phone the number - to come straight through to original receptionist. "Oh hello" she says. We laugh at the 'coincidence' - I had come through after the chap had redirected it back to her office. And she gives me another number.

The phone is answered by Mr X (we'll call him), who happens to not only know about the subject in question - but can put me in touch with two experts who know even more. And get this: he doesn't work there normally and was only in the office this morning. The experts turn out to be brilliant and when I explain the brief they understand immediately.

That's how I know it was 'arranged' for me. And another way I know is because all the people I spoke to were friendly and willing. Oh - it was a good day today :o)

May's virtue: Magical

2010-05-28T16:54:00.000-07:00

Continuing with my Virtuescope for the year, which started in October 2009, we come to 'magical'. Well, I'm not sure that magical is really a 'virtue' - but here is the affirmation that goes with it:

"Simply by believing in possibilities, I turn loss into benefit, the ordinary into extraordinary"

I can see what they are driving at. And yes, I've been having a 'magical' month. For once, I can see a pattern, a path – everything coming together and falling into place. It's like I've cracked the safe on the Universe. Listening carefully I heard the 'click' that said the door is open - and all the goodies inside are just waiting to be mine!

So believing in magic is the virtue – and I'm all for that. I hate cynics (and I hate the cynic voice in me that sometimes whispers in my ear). My word for the year is 'believe'. And I intend to.

Is there magic in your life? Can you see the magic flowing? What makes a magical day for you?

Below is a 'magical' picture. A view of the mountains and a big, big sky. I have it as a screen saver.

Wishing you magical days of endless possibilities!

I will never curse a wrong turn again!

2010-05-02T20:25:00.000-07:00

On Saturday hubby and I decided to make an impromptu trip to Kaikoura, a beautiful coastal town about 2 and a half hours north of Christchurch. We set off early(ish) - well, early for us - and headed off on our usual route which takes us north of the city, avoiding most of the traffic. Well somehow along the way, we took a wrong turn, or we missed a turn, and there we were stuck in traffic, going very slowly indeed.

Boy was I cursing our luck, imagining all this time we could be spending on the beach at Kaikoura was slipping away as we crawled along. Eventually we got back on to our route and all was well - until we came to Woodend, where traffic was at a standstill. Turns out we got there about 10 minutes after a horrendous head-on collision had happened. The road was closed both ways and there were people standing in the road to direct us to a diversion. I saw one of the cars involved - and said a prayer because it didn't look like anyone could walk away from it alive.

Sadly three people died in that crash (read about it here). And I have to say I'm not surprised it happened – I've seen the way people drive over here. Even after this sobering event, several 'boy racers' overtook us on bends and two trucks came up so close behind us that we hardly had time to pull over without them going into the back of us. What is it going to take for Kiwi drivers to wise up!? And the poor bus driver involved in the crash - though surviving with minor injuries she will bear the scars emotionally for the rest of her life.

But I will never curse a wrong turn again. If we had got there earlier we could have been right up close to it (not a pretty sight). Even worse - we could even have been involved.

Below, a picture from Kaikoura, where we arrived safe and sound, in spite of lunatic drivers the whole way.

Is honesty always the best policy?

2010-04-26T23:10:00.000-07:00

For a long time I have always lived by the idea that 'Honesty is the best policy', but recently I have been querying whether this is strictly so.

Have you seen the film 'The Invention of Lying' ? (If not I recommend it). In it, Ricky Gervaise explores the idea of a world where people cannot lie. It is a horrible world. He uses it to comic effect - but really, it isn't a world I'd like to live in.

There is such a thing as 'the white lie' and thank goodness for it. It helps us get by; it avoids hurting people's feelings and it allows us to have an imagination. If we could not lie - then how would we write fiction?

When someone proudly states "I'm brutally honest", I no longer see it as a virtue. I wonder if what it actually means is that the person

a) Cannot or will not show empathy towards another
b) Has a need to be 'heard' that is more important than the other person's feelings
c) Is not interested in hearing another's point of view
d) Is so full of ego that they think their 'truth' is the only truth.

There's brutal honesty - and then there is tact. I know which one I think is best!!

Now, when someone asks you if their bum looks big – what you going to say?!

Magical silver sea

2010-04-21T14:04:00.001-07:00

I was gobsmacked when I saw the sky and sea looking like that and grabbed my camera. It really did look like pools of silver on the sea with the clouds just hanging over them.

I've joined flickr with a new project: to publish one photograph per day of my beautiful sky. I've been doing it for all of April - so come take a look. I'd love to receive some comments. Also, as I'm new to the whole flickr thing, any tips on how to best present photos and get noticed would be appreciated.

April's virtue: Faithfulness

2010-04-19T21:38:00.000-07:00

As you know I have been posting the results of a Virtuescope reading I had back in October last year. I was given a virtue to contemplate each month.

Hmmm faithfulness. To me it means being loyal and utterly dependable. In my experience the most faithful companions have been animals. They never gossip about you behind your back and you know that they just love you without question or reason. They never lie; never cheat (although my kitten Mace is a whore for kitty treats - and could easiy be lured away by someone carrying a sack of those); they never let you down.

Here is a picture of Sage - my dear friend and faithful companion. He came with me to New Zealand and helped me settle in before being hit by a car and killed. I still miss him - miss his bright, vibrant energy.

Do you have any thoughts on faithfulness?

Rainbow sky

2010-04-12T17:42:00.000-07:00

I am in awe!

Love and light to all x

Take time to play

2010-04-05T21:17:00.001-07:00

Aren't dolphins beautiful? Here is a pic from my recent trip to Kaikoura where Peggy and I fulfilled a shared life-long dream of swimming with dolphins. I know the picture is fuzzy - but you have to remember I was in a state of complete over-excitement and was shooting 'blind' underwater.

I have been in the presence of wild dolphins before (off the Florida coast) and the feeling was the same: immense joy. It's hard to describe. Put it this way: I couldn't stop smiling.

Boy, do these creatures know how to play. When they weren't circling round us, checking us out (and the strange squeaky sounds we were encouraged to make by the Dolphin Encounter staff), they were flying out of the water, performing synchronised acrobatics, and crashing back down again. I saw one large individual leap out and belly flop, leap out and belly flop - about four times. Why do they do it? Because they can!

All my life I have felt an affinity with dolphins and naturally assumed everyone else did. But it seems not. The guy who helped me develop my pictures asked "Do they bite?" Hmmmm.

Dolphins, like all animals, have much to teach us. I feel that dolphins remind us about joy. Follow their example and take some time to play – because you can, you know. It's ok. What do dolphins mean to you?

A word in your shell-like

2010-03-30T17:09:00.001-07:00

I came across this quote yesterday:

"Others know everything I don't, and are everything I'm not" (Simon Parke, from 'One-Minute Mystic')

It reminded me of the importance of my quest to be an active listener. How easy it is to go to a party and jaw on and on about yourself, then come home and realise you have learned nothing. Every person you meet has something to tell you – even if it is something you don't want to hear!

To listen is to learn.

Are you listening?

March virtue: Generosity

2010-03-26T22:37:00.000-07:00

My mother did not give me a lot of advice in the love department, but said that there were two things I should keep in mind:

1 Make sure you marry a generous man.
2 Never marry a man who wears suede shoes.

Hmmmm... Number 1 seems very sensible, though the logic of item 2 eludes me!!

Whether I am generous is not really for me to say – though I hope I am. Generosity is not only demonstrated in the giving of material things. There is generosity of time and (most importantly) of spirit. To me generosity of spirit means giving the 'benefit of the doubt' to loved ones who overstep the mark; it means letting go of any hurts; it means letting others bask in limelight and laughing at their jokes even when you have heard them before. In my case, it is letting my father tell his old stories and responding as if they were brand new.

It also means making gifts for the people I love. The picture shows a mosaic I made for my sister's kitchen, it's called 'Sun-Ra Mandala'.

What does generosity mean to you?

Links to past virtue posts: Constancy, Calm, Determination, Forgiveness, Integrity

The wonders of cat pheromones

2010-03-13T15:54:00.001-08:00

A couple of days ago we bought a product called Feliway – and this is the result:

Feliway is a spray containing a chemical that mimics the facial pheromones of cats. Cats are olfactory creatures – scent is their world and they use pheromones to communicate. The pheromones released on the cheeks of a cat are positive and friendly. When a cat rubs its face against your leg, or comes up and baffs you cheek to cheek, it is saying 'hello it's good to see you'. So by spraying this scent about my house, on corners of furniture, the whole house becomes a friendlier place. And you have one chilled out cat. We have never seen her soooo relaxed - it's like she's stoned!!

February's virtue (late): Integrity

2010-03-11T19:15:00.001-08:00

Last month was so hectic I forgot to do my regular virtuescope post, so here it is with apologies for the delay. I guess it is a sign of integrity that I am following through with this and honouring a commitment?

Anyone who works in the therapeutic or caring professions will tell you that integrity is a fundamental part of their work - or at least they should do ;o) As a reflexologist and healer I have had my integrity tested on many occasions. Personally, it is a virtue in myself that I know I can rely on - it is just part of who I am and how I live.

I remember one time when I was just starting out as a reflexologist I was working in a place where there were several therapy rooms and we shared a common waiting room. So there I was waiting for my 1 o' clock - and nothing. So I called down to reception to find that my client had been sent up about 15 minutes ago. That was when I realised that the naturopath who had a room next to mine had literally stolen my client!! The poor woman was in there with this guy and looking very bewildered. So I knocked on the door and asked if she was Mrs X who was booked for reflexology. "Oh, sorry," said the naturopath. He just looked so 'hard' and had a dark aura about him. I was just blown away that he had had the gall to nab my client. The woman was very confused; she said he had bombarded her with questions about her diet, and she thought that maybe it was a precursor to the reflexology!

I was naive back then and I thought that all therapists would have the same integrity as me. Sadly no. But it was a valuable lesson.

The Tao te ching talks about the Universal Tao as the 'Great Integrity', meaning the wholeness and holiness that is embedded in our nature and the entire nature of everything. It seems that having integrity is the natural way to be - so why is it that so many people don't have it? How do they live with themselves? That naturopath who stole my client – I bet he was pretty unhappy to have to resort to that. As for myself, when I found that I couldn't get enough clients to balance the cost of renting the room - I moved on. I looked for a different place to work - and I kept my integrity in tact.

Have you ever had your integrity challenged? Do you always act with integrity?

Here are links to past virtue posts, for those interested: January, December, November, October.

I'm back – and so is Sorrel!

2010-03-08T12:45:00.000-08:00

I know that many of you have been following my saga with a stray Abyssinian that turned up in my garden just after New Year (goodness was it that long ago?) Well I have some good news – she's back home with me and settling in fine.

As I write she is tearing round my office chasing a ping-pong ball. This cat loves to play! Every now and then she comes up to me and meows then pats her featherstick as if to say "Oi you - I want to play!" I have read on the net that Abyssinians are supposed to be quiet – but she is the most talkative cat I have ever had. She has different mews for different things – and 'shouts' when she wants to be fed! She also has a very strange call that I have not come across before – a kind of yodelling. Has anyone heard of this?

Of course, she is still very timid and does not like to be picked up. But every day she makes a step forward. She is learning to trust us and to know that she is safe here with a warm bed and plenty of food. I think food will always be an issue for a cat that has had to survive by scrounging. She is ALWAYS hungry and will steal anything remotely edible that is left out on the kitchen side. She bolts her food and only recently has she actually settled and sat down to eat.

We name all our cats after herbs or spices, so we've called her Sorrel. Gardening books describe this herb as "a troublesome invader", well this little sweetie has certainly invaded our hearts – and any trouble has been worth it. We intend to nurture and love her all of her days.

Technical problems

2010-03-01T13:36:00.000-08:00

THIS BLOG IS OUT OF SERVICE DUE TO TECHNICAL PROBLEMS. NORMAL SERVICE WILL BE RESUMED AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.

(I have so much to tell you about - so frustrating!!)

Unseen forces at work?

2010-02-02T15:13:00.000-08:00

You may remember a couple of weeks ago I posted about our landlord selling our 'dream' home so we might not be able to stay here as long as we wanted? You know, the house delivered by the Universe and with fabulous views that I now can't imagine ever living without? (See above!)

Well.... the sale fell through today. Something to do with the buyer's bank being unwilling to lend him the cash. Oh dear..... ;o)

The waiting game

2010-01-28T16:03:00.001-08:00

I phoned the SPCA today to find out about Sorrel, and after being passed around to three different people, was given the message "2 weeks minimum". Er..... why? "Well the people that know say 2 weeks minimum. She's down for surgery." No explanation of what kind of surgery. And the person on the end of the phone didn't know either. I can only presume she is being spayed, as would the SPCA bother with anything else?

So now I wait some more.

And as I wait I ponder the strange set-up at the SPCA, an organisation being choked by its own red tape. I know that they care about animals but how about a bit of appreciation for those of us who also care? At the very least they should put their staff on a course that shows them how to answer the phone and interact with the public.

In a week when a man in Gisborne fed live kittens to his pit bull and in Northland a neighbour went round and shot 33 dogs in front of their owner - we do need better protection laws for animals. But the SPCA will only accomplish that with the support of people like you and I who love and respect animals. So when we come to the SPCA offering to give an animal a good and loving home - how about showing us a little courtesy. A friendlier attitude would help. I mean - we're on the same side for heavens sake.

January's virtue: Forgiveness

2010-01-25T12:29:00.001-08:00

You may remember I had a 'Virtuescope' reading in October and was given twelve virtues to reflect on through the year. Well, I've been a bit slow with this month's virtue as I've had a pretty packed month. But in perfect synchronicity, as always, the timing is spot on.

I knew I was going to write this entry on Forgiveness, but just before I came to the computer I decided to give my bag a clean out and look what I found:

"If I do not forgive my own failings, Who can and who will?" (Sri Chinmoy)

I had picked up this little card when I visited a wonderful vegetarian cafe in Christchurch's Cathedral Square. The place is run by devotees of Sri Chinmoy and they also offer meditation classes.

How appropriate that I should be reminded of this now when I have been berating myself over letting that breeder take Sorrel. I must try to forgive myself on that one, just as all of you have told me – I acted with the best intentions.

The phrase that goes with my Virtuescope reading, regarding forgiveness, is:

"Valuing honesty and commitment, I softly let go of the past and enable others to change."

I know I need to forgive the breeder - the thing is I may never know her true intentions and I just don't feel I want to talk to her again. This is the difficulty.

Forgiveness is a toughie isn't it? So easy to forgive little misunderstandings, but when the big things happen that's the time we need to forgive most of all – and that's when it is hardest. Forgiveness releases both parties because it is much better to forgive than to carry hurt and hatred around inside you. But at the same time, you can't just pay lip service to forgiveness - that doesn't work. You have to mean it.

Who in your life (including you) needs forgiveness? Can you remember the last time you consciously forgave someone/something? I'd love to hear your wise views and experiences.

If you want to read the previous virtues, see November and December.

The image is a beautiful painting by shamanic artist Faith Wolfheart Nolton. Check out her website – some amazing art there.

I think I've messed up

2010-01-22T19:23:00.000-08:00

In my search for the pretty Abyssinian's owner I called a local breeder to see if she had sold a cat to someone in my area. Well, this woman said that she had sold a kitten to someone not far from me but the kitten had got lost at just 4 months old - but that was 2 years ago. So if this is the same cat she has been fending for herself all that time. When I showed the breeder the photos I had taken and she compared them with her as a kitten (see below) - the resemblence is remarkable. How incredible? It would also explain why this cat is so timid even though the breed is naturally very friendly and person-oriented.

Anyways, the breeder said she would take the cat back to her home to resocialise her. The plan was that after a few weeks in a quiet room and then with the breeder's other cats this little sweetie would be okay to come back and live with us. So you can see why I let the breeder take her. Even minutes after she was gone I felt very emotional. And I missed her immediately.

Now here's why I think I messed up. Yesterday the breeder phones to say she doesn't have room for the cat after all - and has taken her to the SPCA! Oh great. And if I want her back I'll have to go down and register my interest and pay $100 or she will go to the next person who sees her there and wants to home her. Well I went down today and signed up. But of course now she is in the administrative hell of the SPCA and must stay there at least 7 days before a vet will check her and 'decide' if she can be rehomed.

Why did I trust that breeder!? That's what I'm asking myself. I messed up and let the animal down. I should have trusted myself to sort the whole thing out. The kitty knew it - why didn't I? What do you think? What was th breeder's motives in this I wonder? I feel so sad – really gutted. I hope she does finally come back to me. I'm calling her Sorrel by the way, if she does come home.

This is how to learn patience

2010-01-19T21:22:00.000-08:00

When an unfamiliar cat turns up in your garden stealing bread off the bird-table you know it must be really hungry. So you phone your neighbours, report it to the SPCA - and no one claims her. Then you think - well, maybe I should feed her. But she is soooo timid at first she will not eat while you are standing there, but slowly, little by little you gain her trust.

This is how you learn patience.

This pretty little Abyssinian arrived in my garden a week or so ago. She was ravenous. Now I feed her - and we are getting to know each other. She sleeps in a box outside my door - she must be lost or unwanted. So I'm going to gain her trust and one day I'll be able to hold her and maybe get a vet to see if she's microchipped. But it's going to take a while. And it's going to take a lot of patience.

I had to share this

2010-01-14T16:39:00.000-08:00

I came across this today and had to share it. Sometimes I think I'm losing my marbles (re: burnt out post), and this sure made me laugh!

THE SENILITY PRAYER

Grant me the senility to forget the people
I never liked anyway,
The good fortune to run into the ones I do, and
The eyesight to tell the difference.

There are always silver linings eh?

Burnt out

2010-01-13T22:57:00.000-08:00

That's me. Been doing this mammoth project since September. Now I'm like this car - a wreck. The thing is it ain't finished yet and I've somehow got to wring out a few more pages of text from my parched landscape of a brain. Nope. Creative juices have run dry. I think I'll just change my identity and leave the country.

Image courtesy of the wonderful freefoto.com.

A different view on the horizon?

2010-01-11T18:13:00.000-08:00

We have just heard fom our landlord that he has sold the house we are living in! So it seems that our time here is limited (although we can't be forced out until November as we are on a fixed-term tenancy). All the same it is upsetting because we love it here.

There has to be a silver lining to this since I know the Universe put us here. Just can't see what it is at the moment....

What a start to 2010

2010-01-07T17:47:00.000-08:00

"I am the lunatic Queen of the Night,
dragging behind me the weight of the seas.
Painting the world silver in borrowed light,
a mistress of shadowy mysteries."

This was the view from my window on New Year's Eve. A stunning full moon, shining her milky light across the bay. I did a double take when I first saw her – because she's upside down!!! (I'm used to seeing her in a northern sky.) Later on at midnight there were fireworks over the city – but nothing compared to the beauty of this fine Lady.

Giant Tibetan lilies

2009-12-30T21:06:00.001-08:00

We went on a walk the other day through Peel Forest, south of Christchurch and we came across a grove of these giant lilies. They are native to the Himalayas from Simla to the northernmost point of Burma and into eastern Tibet. Standing over 6ft tall, they really are something.

Apparently the owner of the estate brought back some bulbs in the early 19th century and tried to grow them in a greenhouse, but had no luck. Then, after a fire, the greenhouses were cleared out and mounds of debris left around the estate grounds. One day, something sprouted up - which turned out to have enormous leaves. Some seven years later it produced flowers. It was one of these amazing plants. Now, the grounds are carpeted with them - in thick swathes with a heady scent. (I found some that had gone to seed, and collected them for planting in my own garden! Oh well, just seven years to wait....)

Kiwi Christmas

2009-12-23T16:54:00.001-08:00

It's all very strange... sunshine, pavlovas, picnics in the park.... Even the Christmas trees don't look 'right'. When hubby brought our tree home (see pic on right) I was astonished – the branches are weird and upright (very difficult to hang heavy decorations on) and the needles are about 4 inches long (see pic below)!!

A local Kiwi told me that it's the UK who have got it wrong (apparently) cos we use spruce trees while they use pines (indeed they use young maritime pines, which when mature are absolutely enormous). In good Christmas spirit I didn't have the heart to tell her the history of the Christmas tree, how it was popularised in Victorian Britain by Prince Albert and how the one in Trafalgar Square, London, comes from Norway and is, of course, a spruce!

Well, there is no point arguing - when in Rome... so we have our 'baby' maritime pine, all decorated with tinsel and lights. And even though it is summer I'm starting to feel all Christmassy! Merry Christmas everyone. May you and yours be blessed this year and always.

December's virtue: Determination

2009-12-13T12:21:00.001-08:00

Once again, the virtue for this month (which I chose back in October) is very appropriate. I'm still slogging away at a complex project - solving problems and working my sweet little ass off. But I am determined to see it through.

Determination is a character trait that I can definitely claim to have as part of my personality. I don't have to 'try' with this particular virtue. But sometimes the way I am determined can be exhausting. Perhaps I should follow the affirmation that goes with this virtue:

"I keep on moving with love and purpose towards my destination"

That sounds like less of a slog! So I guess I need to chill out - just focus on the end goal. Are you determined? Is it something that is easy for you - or do you struggle? Is it a useful virtue – or just a waste of time?

The picture has nothing to do with 'determination'. It's just an amazing golden cloud I saw yesterday evening. And the photo below is the same sky, just to the right of the golden cloud. The sudden patch of dark blue sky on the right is not a camera fault or anything - it is exactly how the sky appeared. Light does weird things. Really awesome, don't you think?

Courtesy of... the Universe

2009-12-02T18:08:00.000-08:00

Well, I was looking for a new place to live... and I thought I'd 'put it out there' as they say, 'ask the Universe', to see what would happen. I made a drawing of the place I wanted, and my budget (cos I ain't made of money, right?) and I asked.

Time went by.

I looked, and looked... saw some very miserable houses, some houses that were lovely but on a busy road and some houses that were just too expensive.

Then I got fed up and impatient... a typical reaction of mine. It was Woodstock Lily who gently reminded me that the reason my house wasn't being 'delivered' was because of the timing, and that there was probably something special in the pipeline. Then – by chance (or was it?) – I looked in an area of town that I had dismissed as being too expensive. And I saw it. Just right - and well within budget. We were the first to see it, and snapped it up. And would you just take a look at the view:

I am so delighted with this place - I know it was delivered because there are so many things so personally 'right' with it. Like the fact that the Landlady has a cat she would like me to home and that it has a lemon tree outside. I feel so calm and relaxed here. I'm home. Look at this view from my office – will I ever get any work done or will I day dream all day?

Thankfulness

2009-11-28T21:53:00.000-08:00

I know I'm a bit late with this, but I have been moving house since Thursday and have only just had a moment to sit at my computer! I love the idea of Thanksgiving, but have never been to a Thanksgiving dinner, as it is rather an American festival. Well, that changed this year as my hubby's colleague is American, a lovely man, and he and his wife invited us over for one hell of a meal!!

It was great, too, because we had been shifting boxes all day, and all we had to do was turn up to this amazing feast. (We did bring gifts of wine though). We met all these interesting people and felt really welcomed into their home. I am so thankful for that.

I have much to be thankful for - that I am in this beautiful country and having a wonderful adventure. I am now in a fabulous house with a view of the sea and sky. I am meeting new people and the neighbours here are so friendly - already we've been invited to a street party. I am also thankful for my family and UK friends who continue to keep in touch with me through Skype and email - and who write to me and send clippings.

Then there are my blogging friends that I am making - one or two of which have become real close. I am so thankful for that.

I am thankful for my career - that I am finding new clients, staying busy, and taking on new challenges.

I am thankful that my energy is being restored so that I am now looking to the future with anticipation and excitement - with thoughts of new possibilities and creative ventures.

And I am most thankful of all for my hubby, my rock, my best friend, the love of my life. I am lucky. I am blessed. I am thankful.

November's virtue: calm

2009-11-08T14:39:00.000-08:00

Following on from last month's post about the Virtuescope, I come to this month's word, which is calm. There is an affirmation that goes with it:

"I remain steady in the midst of complexity and sure at times of unease."

It couldn't be more appropriate for this month, as I find myself challenged with demanding deadlines on the workfront combined with moving house! Could I make my life any more complicated? So, I will remember to breathe, and to have faith that everything will work out.

I am quite a contradiction when it comes to calm. People think of me as a very calm person and I am good in a crisis (I don't freeze up - just get on with things) and yet I jump out of my skin very easily (!) It is a little embarrassing - as I scream when the doorbell goes sometimes, scaring off the postman. Someone told me it was a signature for phosphorus - and that kind of makes sense.

Are you a calm person? Is your life calm - or could it be calmer? Are you good in a crsis?

Just a thought...

2009-11-04T12:21:00.000-08:00

How would it be.....

I mean, how would you feel....

if life was fair ?

Feeling creative?

2009-11-01T13:43:00.000-08:00

Take a look at Artsparktheatre , who challenges you to: "Finish the caption and reveal what Anthony sees by November 10 ". Here's what I came up with.

Anthony was amazed when he looked out the window and observed... a total eclipse of the sun!

Night swimming

2009-10-29T21:18:00.000-07:00

A track came up on my ipod shuffle today – and I just thought what a beautiful poem/song. So I'm sharing it with you today. It conjures up the carefree days of youth, spontaneity and fun. What things do you remember doing when you were younger? Why don't you do them now?

Here is the song, it's by REM.

Nightswimming deserves a quiet night.
The photograph on the dashboard, taken years ago,
turned around backwards so the windshield shows.
Every streetlight reveals the picture in reverse.
Still, it's so much clearer.
I forgot my shirt at the water's edge.
The moon is low tonight.

Nightswimming deserves a quiet night.
I'm not sure all these people understand.
It's not like years ago,
The fear of getting caught,
of recklessness and water.
They cannot see me naked.
These things, they go away,
replaced by everyday.

Nightswimming, remembering that night.
September's coming soon.
I'm pining for the moon.
And what if there were two
Side by side in orbit
Around the fairest sun?
That bright, tight forever drum
could not describe nightswimming.

You, I thought I knew you.
You I cannot judge.
You, I thought you knew me,
this one laughing quietly underneath my breath.
Nightswimming.

The photograph reflects,
every streetlight a reminder.
Nightswimming deserves a quiet night, deserves a quiet night.

I also think that the writer is having a bit of a joke, with the line 'I'm pining for the moon, and what if there were two side by side in orbit around the fairest sun' – makes me think of 'mooning', you know the naked bum salute!! Still, I think this song is fab!

Image courtesy of freefoto.com

My first Kea ! ... and a Moa??

2009-10-24T23:22:00.000-07:00

Today we went up to Arthur's Pass and I met my very first Kea. Isn't she beautiful? I have always wanted to see these cheeky birds, which are found only in New Zealand. They also happen to be the world's only mountain parrot – and the most intelligent bird species. Some have even claimed that Kea are the world's cleverest animal (after humans, although I don't think humans are that smart - look at what we are doing to the planet with climate change!)

When monkeys and kea have been presented with the same complex puzzle, where they have to work out several locks and mechanisms in order to release a tasty treat, the keas outdo the monkeys – and they don't even have hands! Instead they use their long sharp beaks to untie knots and lift up levers, and their extra smart brains to figure out the best way of getting to the reward. Often, researchers have to think very carefully how to devise a 'test' for them because they will think laterally and so 'cheat' to get the reward in a way that the researcher didn't think of! They also work in groups to get the prize - now that is smart. Have a look at this video and watch (at 1.24) how one kea pulls on the string so that the other two can eat the food.

While we were up at Arthur's Pass we also caught sight of an incredibly rare creature. We had thought that the moa was extinct. These prehistoric flesh-eating birds (even larger than an ostrich) roamed New Zealand in the days before the Maori came here. It has always been taught that the moa were hunted to extinction several hundred years ago.... and yet - we saw the sign:

..... and then we caught sight of the beast:

Good job we were in our car and could get away. Looks like we had a lucky escape - don't you think!?

Is the large hadron collider sabotaging itself from the future?

2009-10-19T21:50:00.000-07:00

You'd think it was a cool plot for a sci-fi movie – the world's largest and most expensive experiment is being sabotaged by agents from the future! But this is actually a theory put forward by a couple of scientists recently.

The Large Hadron Collider that runs in a huge 27km circuit on the edge of Geneva, Switzerland, was made so that physicists could study the smallest known particles that make up atoms. The idea is to make them zip around the loop of extraordinarily strong magnets, and crash into each other. When they do collide, scientists hope that they will produce the ellusive Higgs Boson particle – otherwise known as the God particle – which could be the key to a whole load of questions we have been asking about gravity, other dimensions and matter.

The machine, which has been made with the utmost care and precision, has been plagued with problems from the start and a year after its completion it still hasn't managed to produce any collisions whatsoever. Some believe the reason may be more than just bad luck. A couple of scientists have suggested that the machine is sabotaging itself – from the future! Their theory is that the Higgs Boson particle may be so "abhorrent to Nature" that if it were to be created, there would be a ripple backwards through time that would stop the Collider before it could make one.

There are many wild theories as to what would happen should the Higgs Boson particle be created – and one of them is that it would cause a black hole that would suck in the Earth and the entire Universe. If true, it is a good thing that something – or someone – is preventing us from making these pesky particles. But it's a shame for the people at CERN – 15 years in the making and over 4 billion Euros, and it ain't never going to work!!!

Image courtesy Large Hadron Collider, CERN.

Ok Universe – what ya got?

2009-10-16T23:22:00.001-07:00

Are you someone who gives too much? That's right, it is possible to give too much. Because life is all about balance. Energy must flow – and it must flow in and out. I know about being a giver (now is not the time for modesty). I know how to do it – I easily give of my time, my spirit and material wealth. And I bet lots of you are the same. It kind of goes with following the spiritual path. But what I haven't yet learned is how to receive.

I have often wondered why it is that my receiving channel is 'blocked'. Is it to do with deep-seated feelings of 'It's not 'good' to want things', or 'I'm not really worthy of getting something for free'. All I know is that some people are always receiving 'gifts' and they act like it is no surprise, they seem all cool as though it is kind of deserved, as though it is 'justice'. Is this an inbuilt ability – or does it take practice?

I'd value any insights you have on this. Meanwhile, I'm sending out a message to the Universe that I'm ready to RECEIVE. See, I've even got a radio satellite dish ;o)

Image courtesy of NASA.

Eye in the sky

2009-10-12T13:17:00.001-07:00

Do you ever get the feeling someone is watching you?

The eye nebula, courtesy of NASA.

Words, words, words

2009-10-08T22:03:00.001-07:00

Ok here's a bit of fun. Can you tell me where these words came from? (And please no cheating with Google!)

1. "Be a gypsy dancer"
2. "Night is the cathedral where we recognise the sign; we strangers know each other now as part of the whole design"
3. "You're the poet in my heart, never change and don't you ever stop"
4. "We stumble, we falter, but we're no different from anyone"
5. "Blue eyes, blue eyes – how could you tell so many lies?"
6. "From an uptown apartment to a knife on the A-train it's not that far"
7. "Smiling as the shit comes down, you can tell a man by what he has to say"
8. "I'm not looking for absolution, forgiveness for the things I do, but before you come to any conclusion...."
9. "You are as natural as the night, and all that springs from you is good"
10. "Round or skinny bottoms"

October's virtue: Constancy

2009-10-04T19:35:00.000-07:00

Recently I attended a mind, body, spirit fair here in Christchurch, where I was given a 'Virtuescope' reading. It is a simple idea – you draw out 12 cards from the deck and then these become your virtues for the next 12 months. You meditate on one virtue per month, reflecting on what it means in your life, how you can embrace it and engage in the positive energies associated with it. The Virtuescope was developed by the Brahma Kumaris Raja Yoga movement and you can find out more about it here. But you could easily use angel cards instead, drawing out 12 that you then allocate one per month for the rest of the year.

I thought it might be interesting to share with you my reading, and my personal insights, with a blog post at the beginning of each month. The first card was 'Constancy'.

I chose the picture of Sumner Beach, because the crashing of waves on the shore remind me of constancy. The sea is continually moving, wave after wave. It never ceases to be exactly what it should be: the sea. For me constancy means being dependable, unchanging and real. It means being my authentic self – whatever the circumstance. This is something I need to work on. It also means following something through, including exercise classes and memberships. I must learn that once I have chosen to do something – I must stick with it.

The Tao has something to say about constancy:

"The way of nature is unchanging.
Knowing constancy is insight." (Lao Tzu)

I pondered this for a while – thinking first that Nature is ALWAYS changing, even mountains eventually break down into dust. But Lao Tzu doesn't say that Nature never changes; he says the way of Nature is unchanging. The simple, steadfast laws of Nature; that spring follows winter, that wind moves the clouds, these things are indeed constant, reliable and true.

And now I have the words from a Joni Michell song going round my head 'You said you were as constant as the Northern Star and I said "constant in the darkness, where's that at - if you want me I'll be in the bar." Oh but your'e in my blood like holy wine.....' (I'm not sure of the relevance but it was in my head...)

* I have read articles that say the Brahma Kumaris organisation is a cult – I have no direct knowledge since the only interaction I have had was at the mind, body, spirit festival. I thought I should mention this, though I am sure that all of you practise discernment in your spiritual activities.

Aint love grand?

2009-09-29T16:48:00.000-07:00

Here is the postcard that started a mini obsession for me. As you can see the picture is of a man and a woman in an amorous clinch. The caption below reads 'Arms and the Man'. But it is what is on the back of the card that really got my imagination going. Dated 5.10.10 it is obviously a love note. But the two lovebirds must have had to keep it secret because half of it is written in code!!!

The bottom half reads "Dear Ruby, On reflection thought I had better put under cover. This is Thursday eve and I haven't heard from you. E. " How intriguing! What was going on? Well, if you are into code-breaking you will know with a little work. According to my sister (who cracked it), it is simple enough.

But who was Ruby and did 'E' (Eugene) ever hear from her again? Why did they have to be so secretive? Ever since I found this postcard in a junk shop I have searched for similar. I always look on the back for coded love notes, but it seems most people collect postcards for the pictures on the front and the backs are usually blank. I have one or two 'saucy' ones (well, saucy for those days), as seen in the last image below. I suppose I like them because they are snippets of lives, little reminders of how people have loved and will always love one another. Yeah – you're right – I'm an old romantic!

I met an angel on the train – and his name was Raphael

2009-09-24T15:42:00.000-07:00

This story is true. Several years ago I used to work in London. I would make the daily commute, morning and evening, by train. I am quite a friendly sort of person, but I am familiar with commuter 'etiquette' – you keep your lip buttoned, try not to spread outside your allotted space and avoid all eye contact. But that sunny summer's evening on the 6.05 from Waterloo, Raphael was having none of it. Yes, that was his name.

He did not have a radiant glow, unless you count the natural radiance of a confident young man in his late teens. He was carrying a cello case, which he propped precariously by the door and then came down and sat opposite me. He had curly brown hair, a friendly sort of face and dark gentle eyes. I can't remember how he opened the conversation, but we were soon chatting away. I remember that we smiled a lot – not in a flirtatious way, but just a happy way. At one point he said "What do you do?" and I replied "Oh, I'm a freelancer in town." But then he said "No, you misheard me – I asked what do you love to do?" And I have to admit I was stumped. In general I like my career, but this particular jaunt into London was for a horrible employer who was making my life miserable for the 7 hours spent in the office. No, I didn't love doing that.

Raphael went on to tell me he was going to start a group – him playing the cello – but they were going to do more than classical music. He said they were going to busk around Europe playing music they had composed and "Anything with a good tune and a beat". He wasn't sure if he would go to college. So I said that it might be a good idea to get his education out of the way because he might need it later. But he said: "Why? I want to live my life now – I have all I need to do that." He made it sound so simple.

He got off the train a few stops before me (Raphael lives in Cheam, didn't you know?), but the conversation and his presence stayed with me for days after our meeting.

Angels are messengers. I didn't really get it at the time and it has taken several years, and a lot of heartache inbetween, but I think I am finally hearing the message meant for me that day on the train. I am no longer 'waiting' to live my life. I am living it right now. Are you?

The image is anextract from a painting by Faith Wolfheart Nolton, an amazing shaman artist. Please visit her site.

The vegetative state – it's in our nature

2009-09-20T16:52:00.000-07:00

Every so often I feel like a hedgehog – I want to curl up into a ball and turn my sharp, spiny back on the world. There have been times when I have gone into a full-scale 'hibernation', sinking down slowly so that my body goes into an almost zombie-like state of suspended animation. But thankfully I have got past those deep drepressions and now I tend to turn hedgehog-like for just a few days at a time.

The thing is that I really don't enjoy it when I'm in that mind set and even as I long to snap out of it, I cannot. Much of our human behaviour can be linked to hard-wired biological survival mechanisms. We all know about the adrenalin-pumping 'fight or flight' reaction that readies us for emergency action. When we have too much of it we can end up with anxiety, ocd and panic attacks. But where does the 'depression response' come from and where might it be rooted in our nature? Recently I found an answer. Or a theory, at least.

I was reading the marvellous book 'Nature Cure' by Richard Mabey, an English nature writer who tells of how he overcame depression. Like me, he has wondered about the purpose of depression, or as he puts it 'the vegetative state', and this is what he says:

'When fight or flight is impossible or inappropriate... organisms lie doggo. Possums "play possum". Hedgehogs curl up. Barn owls faint. They all pass, for self-defence, into states resembling death or sleep, where decision-making and even movement are put on hold. Vegetative retreat means safe harbourage, a period when inward, protective processes take precedence over all that adrenalin-pumping. In humans, prolonged unhappiness or disappointment also seems to provoke it.'

So you see – it is a very sensible survival tactic and entirely natural. When the world is going crazy all around you and you have no answers. When you've been hurt and disappointed and there seems to be no solution, it is time to withdraw – just for a little while. Bears slink back into their caves and lick their wounds. I hide under the duvet.

Image courtesy of Wikimedia Commons.

Spring has sprung!

2009-09-05T22:53:00.000-07:00

(In New Zealand at least!) Here are some photos taken in my favourite park in Christchurch: Hagley Park. They were taken on September 1st, the first day of spring.

A row of cherry trees in full blossom.

The enormous maritime pines
(that's my bike bottom right).

Maritime pines again – I love this stand of trees. They have a real presence. I am in awe of their magnificent beauty.

More spring flowers at the southern end of the park.

Sacred wells and cloutie trees

2009-08-30T20:55:00.000-07:00

There are so many ways to pray and I am always intrigued to find the different methods adopted by different cultures and religions. There is the lighted candle of the Christian faith, the prayer flags and wheels of Buddhists (there is a prayer wheel on this page – lower down on the right), and the prayer walls of Judaism. It was reading Jan's post about prayer walls that set me thinking and reminded me of the cloutie trees found near sacred wells all around Cornwall in the far southwest of England. The image above shows Sancreed Well in Cornwall – a deep and mysterious well – and the straggly bits hanging down are known as clouties.

So what is a cloutie? Back in ancient times, people perceived the natural wells as direct entrances into the body of Mother Earth. As such, the water that came from these wells was held as sacred with potent healing powers. People would bathe in the holy water or they would tear off a piece of rag that had been worn next to a bodily ailment and tie it to a nearby tree (commonly a hawthorn). The rag was known as a cloutie and as the rag rotted down, so the ailment was supposed to heal. These wells continue to be visited today and a whole host of colourful ribbons, beads and necklaces can be seen hanging from a near by cloutie tree. The purpose of the clouties has broadened so that today, they are symbols of prayers or simply offerings. Sometimes you can see other gifts such as shells and crystals hidden in the crevices within the walls of the ancient wells.

Not much is known about Sancreed Well. It was hidden away down a barely passable track when I went to see it. Looking into the well there is a kind of optical illusion with the water in the bottom reflecting the walls, so that the well seems to form a tunnel that goes on forever. It was a very tranquil place and I could feel the energy of thousands of years of prayers. But I had come unprepared – I did not have a cloutie for the tree, so I took off my hairband and attached it. I think many others had done the same! I wonder what all those prayers were for.... and whether they have been answered?

For more information about holy wells, including a mention of Sancreed, click here. The picture below shows some of the clouties.

Sweet taste of victory

2009-08-18T23:59:00.001-07:00

Apparently, the confectionery giant Cadbury has done a U-turn and will no longer be using palm oil in its chocolate bars. It seems that consumer pressure has won the day. People stopped buying the bars because of the association between oil palm plantations and the wholesale destruction of the rainforest. And besides, the bars tasted distgusting!

I am proud to have played a teeny part in this! (See my blog post last month). So it's great news for the orang-utans, but not for me – now the bars will be tasting yummy again, how am I going to keep my chocoholism in check?

Image courtesy of freefoto.com.

The birth of stars

2009-08-17T00:37:00.000-07:00

The Tao is called the Great Mother:

empty yet inexhaustible,
it gives birth to infinite worlds.

It is always present within you.
You can use it any way you want.
Lao Tzu

The image shows a nebula where new stars are being born in a spiral arm of a far distant galaxy. This nebula is particularly large, nearly 1,500 light-years across.

Image courtesy of NASA.

Tao te ching: the pathless way

2009-08-12T13:53:00.000-07:00

There is a thing, formless yet complete. Before heaven and earth it existed. Without sound, without substance, it stands alone and unchanging. It is all-pervading and unfailing. We do not know its name, but we call it Tao. (Lao Tzu)

Image courtesy of Petr Kratochvil.

Angel story

2009-08-10T22:11:00.001-07:00

This is a true story. About 10 years ago I saw a TV programme about angels and part of the programme was about how they communicate with us. There were people who said that angels leave them feathers – often in unusual places, where you wouldn't expect to find them. A tiny white feather on the office floor (no bedding or pillows in sight), or a large perfect plume in the park – what a find. And the people said the feathers were the angels way of telling them they were on the right track, or merely just to assure them that they were there. At the end of the programme, one of the interviewees said, try it for yourself. Ask your angels to leave you a sign – a feather.

Well, I decided to give it try. So I asked my angels that the next day, I would like to see 'proof' of their existence by the manifestation of a feather. Next morning I hadn't forgotten my request and scoured the floor for feathers: none. All the way into work I searched the pavement, the railway tracks, even the office for a single feather: zilch. Eventually as I got on with my day I forgot all about angels and feathers and such. That was when the magic happened. I was working on the editorial desk of a magazine, it was autumn but they were already orgainsing their Christmas shoot. So there was nothing out of the ordinary for a photography assistant to walk in with two life-size angel wings! I nearly choked on my tea. The wings were made of real feathers. Wow! There was my sign – and what a big one. I went all tingly and have never doubted the existence of angels ever since.

Turns out that I was to have some very tough years ahead – and maybe that's why the angels gave me such an impressive 'sign'. They wanted me to know that they would be there.

Does anyone else have an angel story – I'd like to hear it.

Missing link

2009-08-03T18:48:00.001-07:00

I have to admit that I am very superstitious. I never walk under ladders and I always salute 'Mr Magpie' when I see one. I get a buzz when a black cat crosses my path (but only if it crosses from lft to right!) But there is one thing I have never bought into – chain letters.

I got my first chain letter when I was about 13. There seemed to be a craze for them at the time and it was one of those nasty ones. The type that said: 'If you do not pass this letter on to 7 people within 7 days something bad will happen to you'. Even then, at 13, I knew that this was quite ridiculous. From the number of bad things that had happened in my life, I already knew that Fate 'had my number' and that if bad things were going to happen they surely would and sending out letters just because this anonymous sender told me to would not make the slightest bit of difference. So I threw it in the bin. (I didn't even report it to a teacher, cos I knew it just wasn't worth the wasted energy). And guess what? Nothing bad happened.

So from then on I have always disposed of chain letters in a similar way - even the fluffy pink ones I sometimes get as emails imploring me to pass it on to other lovely people. I'm sorry, but I just hit the 'delete' button. Although there was this one time, about 2 years ago, when I got suckered in. It was all about the friendship of women and was very positive. It came from a friend and was so lovely and life-affirming in its content, I obediently 'shared the love' with a few of my girlfriends. At the bottom of the email were three innocuous-looking pictures of women. I could see them without having to open them or download them, so thought nothing of it.

Then I got an email from my sister (one of the recipients of my friendly gesture). She can only see attachments by downloading them - and when she did she found hidden behind the top three pictures, hundreds of photographs of graphic lesbian porn. Oooops! Well – I was so embarrassed. I had to quickly email my other friends and warn them about the content. This incident strengthened my position against chain letters in whatever form.

Now, whenever I get them I thank the sender (because it is usually someone who means well) but I never send them on. Not even if I'm promised a 'miracle'. The tricks they use are increasingly sophisticated - some end up with your name 'magically' appearing at the top of another email. But I always have to wonder – who initiated the email, and what are they getting out of it? Many scenarios come to mind from phishing to building email lists to become targets for the huge amount of spam that now clogs cyberspace. And you may think me cynical – but if I want to tell my friends I love them, I will email them myself. Better still, I'll spend some time with them – the best gift of all.

I'm really interested to know what everyone else thinks about this.

Image courtesy of freefoto.

An acre-and-a-half of rainforest in every bar?

2009-07-19T17:55:00.000-07:00

Thank you Cadbury's – you may just have cured my chocolate addiction. I recently found out that Cadbury's have started adding palm oil to their chocolate; in New Zealand they don't even have to say this on the label, they can conveniently call it 'vegetable oil'.

So what's wrong with palm oil? I hear you ask. Well, apart from the fact it is one of the more unhealthy vegetable oils due to its relatively high saturated fat content, the demand for palm oil is contributing to the destruction of rainforests. In Borneo and Sumatra, huge oil palm plantations now stand in place of millions of acres of natural rainforest. And when rainforest is cleared, all the resident animals, birds and insects have nowhere to live.

No wonder Auckland Zoo has taken all Cadbury's products off its shelves. It kind of wouldn't sit well with the Zoo's stance on standing up for endangered orang-utans, who face extinction due to loss of habitat thanks to oil palm plantations.

Cadbury's must be worried about a downturn in sales since they brought out a whole page advert in Saturday's Press, proclaiming (among other things) that they belong to the Roundtable for Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO). This is a good thing, of course, but closer scrutiny (a little Googling – check out what Greenpeace has to say) reveals that this is still a rather toothless body and that the vast majority of palm oil on the market has come from plantations where rainforest has been ruthlessly cleared. Only 4% of palm oil produced worldwide is certified sustainable.

Until Cadbury's can guarantee that every drop of palm oil in their chocolate has come from sustainable sources – I ain't buying it. And besides, before I knew about this I had sampled some of their chocolate recently and it had a decidedly 'odd' flavour. That, and the connection to rainforest destruction – well, it leaves a rather bad taste in my mouth.

(The image is of the fernery in Mona Vale, Christchurch, by the way. The closest thing to rainforest I had!)

Universe whisperer

2009-07-16T22:22:00.000-07:00

I have a little confession to make – one of my favourite TV shows of all time is The Dog Whisperer. Now don't laugh. I love the show, the way Cesar Milan works with energy and tells dog owners to 'be in the moment' – it's all so Zen-like. And he gets great results. I want to BE the dog whisperer (heh heh).

But I'm digressing. The reason I'm writing is that while watching said favourite telly programme with a giant mug of tea, and my feet up on the coffee-table, I had a realisation *ding!* (Nearly spilled my tea) Now, hold on to your hats, this one is a bit 'far out'. Cesar shows us how amazing these dogs are because they tune in totally to our energy. They live in the 'now', and respond accordingly. It is never about changing the dog, but changing the humans' energy. So what if the Universe functions in a similar way – responding entirely to our energy. In the moment. So when we send out our requests, but our energy is saying something else, said Universe doesn't 'hear' it, and we get no delivery. We won't change our lives until our energy changes. So we first work on getting our energy to be 'in the moment', relaxed and confident. Or, as Cesar puts it 'calm-assertive'. Something to ponder?

Image courtesy of Nasa.

Did the Earth move?

2009-07-15T16:19:00.000-07:00

Apparently it did. At 9.20pm last night, New Zealand had its most powerful earthquake since 1931. It was 7.8 on the richter scale for heaven's sake – and did we notice? Nope. We were sat watching tv and not a tremour not a tremble. In our living room we have a wonky set of shelves that stand at a very precarious angle. We call them our low-tech earthquake detector. They were unmoved by the 'event'! It seems with earthqukes it's all about time and place. The centre was down in fiordland, right in the south, a very sparsely populated area. And at this time of year (our winter), only the most adventurous campers are likely to be pitching their tents. I think some people in Queenstown got the full earthquake spectacle and this one was quite intriguing, producing a circular, rolling motion. There were a few cracked buildings and things falling off shelves. But luckily no injuries and most of New Zealand was not affected in the slightest. But it does remind me that these islands down here are ALIVE. We have volcanoes, quakes and tsunamis. Time I sorted out our survival kit cos you never know what the next one will be like.... and there will be a next one.

Here is a link for more info from the BBC.

Image of New Zealand courtesy of Nasa.

Ever heard of mala necklaces?

2009-07-10T23:16:00.000-07:00

Well take a look on my other blog – for some enlightenment (!) Come on – I have to promote once in a while! ;0)