The Eucalyptus Tree

I lay beneath your canopy admiring your silvery leaves

Before a wash of sky, I rest in spellbound ease

Your foliage so appeasing in shades of blue and green

Diffusing your balmy oils thus palliative and serene

Supplying me with oxygen, guarding my precious wealth

Reducing air’s pollution - essential to human health

You shed your outer ribbons of bark in summer each year

Revealing a radiant surface so colourful, smooth and sheer

Fundamentally affording Koalas substantial, nourishing feed

Generously protecting wildlife, providing homes and seed

Native flowers ooze nectar, attracting swarms of bees

Birds peck at gumnut pits, devour them easy as peas

So grounded and assured as your roots do fondly creep

Embracing Mother Earth connected, strong and deep

Instagram: Julie Annette
Facebook: Conveying Gratitude

Thank My Lucky Stars

These past two nights have left me totally energised, uplifted and yearning to write to my heart’s content…. and for this I thank my lucky stars, literally!

Night One Thursday June 28:

Feeling a little weary and unsure of myself on this particular night, I attended one of my beautiful yoga instructor’s nourishing events.

Tara @ True Nature Yoga often runs a transformation class to coincide with various astronomical happenings. This night’s event involved paying gratitude and nourishing our mind and body with a cosy winter theme, in view of the full moon.

As usual, the event involved a short philosophical briefing, followed by a gentle yoga practice before settling my body within the comfort of warm blankets, cushions, eye pillows and a mist of blended, calming essential oils. Then with Tara’s guided meditation and celestial music humming in the background, my mind and body drifted into a space of peace and calm. A beautiful place to be.

I particularly enjoy Tara’s full moon events because the yoga moves are lenient and feminine and it allows me to truly go within myself, unwind and let go of emotional worry and thoughts that usually amplify during the full moon phase.

At the conclusion of Tara’s class, I drove home feeling so much lighter, energised, with a clearer mind and wonderfully relaxed body… like a weight had been lifted.

Night Two Friday June 29:

A very dear friend invited me to join him to visit The Gravity Discovery Centre Observatory in Gin Gin to observe the night’s sky.

The GDC, fondly called “The Leaning Tower of Gin Gin” is one of those places where I’d say “I must go there one day” but never made the time, so I was “over the moon” to finally be going!

Some years back in Uluru, I attended “Sounds of Silence” with my son Brad where we were fortunate to view the planet Saturn and the Milky Way through a telescope. I have never forgotten how spectacular that night in the desert was and have boasted about it ever since.

Now, on this winter's night in Gin Gin, with the temperature estimated to be 6 degrees Celsius, the sky clear and Venus, Jupiter, Saturn, Mars and Mercury all lined up! We were in for a great show!

Our guides were fantastic and we joined a lovely group of keen star gazes including young children and elderly folk (like me and my friend Alan).

Naturally, our brightest, sacred, sister planet Venus was shining down, gracing the skies in her usual glory. The planet of inspiration for writers and poets. Interesting to learn that Venus is the hottest planet in our solar system. Her surface is also unable to be seen in visible light, due to layers of highly reflective clouds shrouding her mass.

Jewel Box Cluster

We viewed the Kappa Crucis Cluster, fondly known as the “Jewel Box Cluster” through the lens of the first telescope. Amazing colours of red, green and yellow shone like tiny fragments of diamonds and gems. It really did look like a box of jewels.

On the second telescope we viewed the second largest planet Saturn, apparently big enough to hold 760 planet Earths. The rings of water and ice that travel up to speeds of 1,800 kilometres an hour were certainly visible and we were able to get photos on our phones through the telescopic lens.

I have to admit that Saturn was not as illuminated as I saw it in Uluru. Maybe this was due to Saturn being visibly close to our full moon of 98% - thus casting too much light throughout the sky, whereas in Uluru there was hardly any moon at the time I was there.

Nevertheless, Saturn is an amazing planet and remarkable to know, he is less dense than water, so if we could find a big enough bathtub to hold Saturn… he would float!

Our bright illuminous moon was crystal clear and were all able to snap some great images through the telescopic lens.

As Mars came into view we were able to focus in on the reddish, brown planet, though he was a little fuzzy and not all that exciting. I then began to realise why Men are from Mars and Women from Venus.

Peering through the telescope to view Jupiter however, just blew me away!
Witnessing the coloured bands covering his surface and three of his four Galilean moons shining so vibrantly bright was truly unexpected.

Sighting a moon to each side and one creeping over from behind planet Jupiter was a truly extraordinary and surreal experience for me. Amazing to know that these moons were discovered in 1610 by the famous astronomer Galileo.

So, I’m really considering purchasing my own telescope now, but I know for certain I will be attending and travelling through space to witness more significant events in our universe through the GDC Observatory. I thoroughly recommend this venue to all those who love star gazing.

Julie Annette

Journal of Gratitude

Throughout the years I have written and retained numerous journals;

Day to day journals – like most of us, where appointments and occasions, such as birthdays, anniversaries etc., are recorded.

Travel journals – commemorating my holidays, activities and cultural journeys. Whether I travel near or far, there is always something that captivates my senses and rouses my need to write. These are wonderful mementos to treasure. 

Gratitude Journals – I regard these as my personal collection of bibles, where I record experiences and gifts I am thankful for.
As I ponder through some of my entries from years gone by, I am reminded of many heart-warming and gratifying moments I shall always cherish.

Keeping a Gratitude Journal

It has been said, that the practice of writing down your thoughts, is an ideal way to express appreciation and gratitude for daily occurrences in your life. Maintaining this regular exercise, can lead to improved health, less anxiety and an optimistic approach to life.

Sometimes we endure days where we may feel irritated, frustrated and often wanting “more” instead of feeling content and satisfied with what we already have. Particularly on days like these, we need to pause for a few minutes and acknowledge everything we do have that truly matters. This helps alter our attitude, where we feel calmer, grateful and happier within ourselves and further develops a positive outlook to life.

Acceptance

How can anyone be happier with more, if they don’t appreciate what they already have? Happiness does not bring gratitude - only gratitude brings happiness and contentment. 

Why not kick off 2018 by beginning your very own Gratitude Journal!

Your daily entries may comprise of anything from the chat you shared with a dear friend over a cup of tea to your recent overseas holiday. It could even include a treasured gift someone gave you, an act of kindness, a peaceful walk along the beach or your baby’s first word.

Sometimes I jot down a quote or affirmation that I have read and liked or I even make up my own. You may even like to sketch some entries and add colour and description to your posts. It all comes down to how you feel on that particular day… it is all part of your journey.

A quote by Audrey Hepburn that I love

All you need to start with is a blank page in any notebook or journal of your choice, a pen or pencil in whatever colour or colours you desire and a gracious heart.

Find a nice quiet place to sit for a few minutes and bring awareness, as this is a wonderful mindful meditation practice. Tune into your inner self and give thanks for anything that you feel grateful for.

My Lucky Bamboo

What a wonderful gift to yourself at the end of the year, to go back through your entries, recall and reminisce over your own little book of gratitude!

There are some beautiful journals available in stores and they also make delightful gifts.

Divine Feminine

Salute and embrace the full moon and retreat within your feminine practice.

Learn to accept, love and nourish your body, your mind and your spirit.

Focus on your personal development and self-awareness and immerse 

into gentleness of peace, tranquillity, love, passion, joy and happiness.

You will gain a sense of gratitude, wisdom and

an inspiration to give to those around you.

Super Moon

Dancing is an Expression of Body and Mind


Julie Annette

A Reason, Season or Lifetime

People come into your life for a REASON, a SEASON or a LIFETIME and when you are mindful of which one it is, you will know what you can do for that person.

When someone is in your life for a REASON, it is usually to meet a need you have conveyed.

• They’ve come to assist you through your struggle and offer direction and support.
• To help you physically, emotionally or spiritually, where they are a godsend to your aid.
• They are there for the reason you need them to be.

Then, this person will say or do something to bring the relationship to a close, without any fault on your part.

Sometimes they decease. Sometimes they walk away.

Sometimes they take action that will force you to take a stand.

What we must realize is that our need is satisfied,

our desire fulfilled, their job is done.

The prayer you sent above has been answered

and now it is time to move forward.

Some people come into your life for a SEASON, because your turn has come to share, develop or learn.

• They provide a sensation of pleasure or make you laugh.
• They may teach you something you have never experienced.
• They usually deliver an unbelievable amount of happiness.
• Believe it to be real, but only for a season. 

LIFETIME relationships will teach you lifetime lessons; 

• There are things you must build upon to establish a solid emotional foundation.
• Your job is to accept the lesson. 
• Love and accept the person.
• Place whatever you’ve learned to practice in all relationships and areas of your life.
• It is said that love is blind, but friendship is intuitive.

Rosie

My Dear Rosie: 18th Dec 1995 – 4th Jan 2010

Rosie

Thinking of you Rosie, as my eyes well up with tears

We lost our little sweetheart of more than fourteen years

Your name was chosen from the flower “the rose” and it’s true

This beautiful flower in any garden will only remind me of you.

The day we brought you home, you dazzled us from the start

Your gentle nature and cheerful spirit sure did melt my heart

Watching you waddle from behind was just the cutest sight

One leg was entirely black and the other completely white.

Determined to get inside the house, it wasn’t long before

You figured it out by walking back, against the sliding door
Dancing on your back legs wearing a tutu and hair in a bow

You won 1st prize for “best trick” one year at Busselton Show.

Even though we can no longer touch, we’ll never be apart

The memories and the love we shared will stay within my heart

The house seems quiet and empty, now that you have gone

But I know you are all well again, happy, pain free and strong.

Playing in Rainbow Bridge, green grass and skies so blue

Running with all the other dogs, including Candy too

One day, you will both look up and get a big surprise

For I’ll be there with arms wide open looking into your eyes.

First Written: 5th January 2010

Awakening the Goddess Within

Namaste

Recently I attended Tara's True Nature “Goddess Awakening” Transformation Class, specifically created for women.

The class began with a basic philosophical briefing on the origins of goddesses - women and their instinctive strong feminine influences, forever bringing sustained peace and love across the lands.

Gradually since those ancient times, women have lost much influence in maintaining the peace and harmony the world needs, due to the empowerment of the masculine rule.

Sadly over time we have also disconnected with the goddess within and have merely conformed to doing what is expected of us and often feel we are taken for granted and doubt our worth.

Though I am grateful and take pride in being a mother, grandmother and friend and so on, sometimes work, worries and stresses of my daily life leave me feeling tired, drained and I forget who I am. I’m sure a lot of women can identify with me.

Tara’s classes allowed me to awaken the goddess within me, appreciate and love myself for the strong, intelligent and caring woman I am. Through this class, I gained a better understanding of my real self, my worth and realised that I need and deserve time out for myself without feeling guilty.

Gentle feminine yoga stretches, poses and salute to the moon, followed by a deep and sensual meditation that we practiced during the class ultimately left me feeling spiritually uplifted, strong and physically relaxed with a clear and peaceful mind.

I never thought how special and important I really was until I attended this transformation class. Tara’s unique way of explaining and guiding me to identify and tune into my own needs, has prompted me to be kinder and attentive to myself. It makes sense, for if I neglect myself, then how can I go about my life to be strong, communicate and give to others?

Lotus Flower

I now believe, we women are the deity of life we are given. Instinctively and unselfishly, we bestow much love, understanding and nurturing to others and in order to stay connected and continue with the wonderful work we do, we deserve to love and stay true to ourselves spiritually and physically.

I thoroughly recommend all women to take a little over an hour of their time to relax and pamper themselves.

Try these beautiful, healing transformation classes for yourself... it’s your time.

Goodnight My Little Man

Stephen 28th May 1979 to 30th June 1979

Stephen Paul

My precious baby Stephen... I gave birth to you - not much more than a child myself.

Only 4 weeks and 5 days later, you passed away peacefully in my arms and every day since, I reflect on those precious days when I nursed and held you close.

I clearly see your angelic face framed by soft, dark hair that once drew everyone’s attention.
The emptiness and pain of never being able to embrace and nurture you again in this life has become tolerable over time, but it never diminishes.

I chose your name because I loved the way it was spelled and pronounced. I wish I could call and hear your name daily, speak about you and hear you, as I do with my living children.

Though naturally born of a generous weight and perfectly covered, your little heart was weak and your breaths grew fast and shallow.

Still, the smiles you bestowed during your final days, remain unforgettable and something that no-one can ever steal from me. I never forget the first time you smiled at your little yellow duck, my heart melted and my eyes brimmed with tears.That same little duck was tucked into your arm when I viewed you for the very last time on this Earth.

Eternally I feel your presence, for everlastingly our hearts are immortally attached and I sense the connection to your divine, warm soul through the eyes of Danielle, Lisa, Brad, Lyla, Rocco and Valentino. Your spirit forever lives on within us.

My guardian angel, with you I feel confident and have faith. I pray to you often and you never fail to respond. You watch over and keep us safe and wherever I roam, I smile at every rainbow that appears before me for I know you’re just on the other side.

My baby, I am blessed and cherish those thirty three days we shared in this life following the nine months of nourishing your growing form within my body, carrying you with love, pride and devotion. You taught me so much my darling and I would never be the person I am today if not for you. You came to me for a reason.

Before drifting off to sleep at night, the same closing words are repeated, “Goodnight my little man, mummy loves you so much” that I whispered to you at the time you took your last breath.

Love forever and ever

Mummy xxx

My Affair with the Indian Ocean

Here we go again with those New Year Resolutions!

Like most, my resolutions have always been health related, though you will never catch me in a gym, so 2017 will be no different to my previous years (apart from spending less time on Facebook - ha ha!)

I intend continuing to take advantage of what Mother Nature provides, something I am always attracted to, yearn for, love immensely, is in unlimited supply and free!.......

The Indian Ocean off Western Australia

The ocean; will naturally cleanse, detox and tone your body.

Venturing to the beach for my regular walks and swims has an enlivening effect, where my senses are awakened to the taste and smell of the fresh salt air. My mind is cleared, my body is weightless and relieved of discomfort, I am stress free, content and at one with nature.

In doing a little research as to why the physical and spiritual appeal of the ocean has attracted people throughout history, I furthermore understand the profound medicinal benefits the ocean essentially contributes to our health.

Ancient Greeks bathed in hot tubs of sea water in addition to drinking and inhaling sea water for health. Regular massages, facials and body wraps, using seaweed and immersing in sea water pools were common practice, providing hydrotherapy and opening the pores, thus eliminating body toxins.

There is a specific word for the consumption of seawater in health restoration and maintenance, which was first written about by “Hippocrates”, the Greek Father of Medicine. Thalassotherapy: comes from the Greek word "thalassa" - meaning water and "therapia" - meaning to heal.

Today, sea water is used in fashionable spas, upmarket resorts and rehabilitation centres to reduce stress, detox the skin, boost circulation, increase mobility and strength, weight loss and control cellulite.

Engaging directly with the ocean provides further remedial therapy for a healthy body. It contains all the essential vitamins and mineral salts needed for our well-being. These substances are easily absorbed during swimming, wading or bathing in sea water and the effervescent waves of mineral gases deliver a stimulating, cleansing massage to our body. Relief from arthritic pain, aching muscles and anxiety is also gained by immersing, relaxing or actively exercising in ocean water - and I can vouch for that. Our body becomes more toned, resilient and utterly refreshed.

Mullaloo Beach

Fancy a walk along the beach? - This is just as beneficial, without even getting wet!
The gas particles within the ocean mist generate a vapour loaded with negative ions. These exceptionally small particles within the vapour, enter the body through the respiratory system and strengthen our body’s immunity.

Through practice, I believe the same therapeutic effect is attained through a meditation or yoga session on the beach. Concentrating only on my breathing, I'm effortlessly able to block distractions through the passive, rhythmic sounds of the Indian Ocean.  

Nourish your body and Soul

Taking a brisk walk along the beach at dawn of a new day is enlivening for me, as is exfoliating my body with the wet, salty, white sand or observing the sun descend beyond the horizon signifying the end of the day.

Kabbijup Beach (Three Bears) - Yallingup

The ultimate for me, is relishing in a glorious sunset on a balmy night

and raising my glass of champagne with a gratifying salute to

The Indian Ocean - Western Australia

Value Your Friends

Life is what you make it and no matter what, you're going to mess up sometimes,

it's a universal truth.

Stewie and Penny

The good part is YOU get to decide how you're going to mess up and

how you’re going to make it right. Only YOU are responsible for that!

Candy and Oscar the possum

Throughout life, some people will come and some will go.

The ones that stay with you through everything and never lose

faith in you, are your truest friends, so don't ever let go of them.

They see you for the worthy person you truly are.

Savvy (left) celebrating Rosie's Birthday

Sometimes, your heart may fall heavy and your spirits sag,

then immediately you’re in the presence of friends, your

heart is lifted and you’re submerged in your

mirth and contentment once again.

Batman and Twinkle Star

Always believe in yourself, learn by your mistakes
and value your friends.

Savvy and Duck

All photos are of our family pets, though some of them have now passed on.