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April 2010 Ezine Archives

Greetings Celestial Friends and Acquaintances,

April is a brilliant month for new beginnings and rebirth. The March mayhem has passed and it is time to rejuvenate with the Aries New Moon.

The New Moon is the most fertile time to plant seeds/wishes for the coming month/years. This New Moon is in the sign of all things new and fresh, Aries. The New Moon takes place on April 14 at 10:28pm with 28 degrees Aries. Inspired Neptune supports this go-get-em Aries New Moon. Action is always important for Aries and inspired action is what Neptune demands. Take the initiative to put the plans in your heart in motion. Your imagination is a source of motivation. Impulsive acts are likely as the potent desire of this New Moon, aligned with the astrological New Year helps you push forward. If you’re someone who always thinks of others, make a point of putting yourself first now.

Our New Moon wish list could include such subject areas as:

• New beginnings
• Self-focus
• Innocence
• Authenticity
• Self-discovery
• Independence
• Courage
• Disengaging
• Self-absorption
• Blazing new trails
• Honesty
• Straightforwardness
• Innovative approaches

April 28 the Full Moon takes place in Scorpio. The time of the Full Moon is 10:18pm and is 9 degrees Scorpio. Magic, mystery and madness – its full moon time in Scorpio again. This once a year potent Moon cycle releases an intense surge of psychic power into the cosmos, making it easier for anyone to access their inner power. Transformations are likely as you strive to create alignment between your physical and emotional selves. A blessed Jupiter/Uranus link helps direct your attention to the unexplored mysteries in your soul. Magic can happen under this Full Moon, if you dare to dance with the divine.

April is a number four month. A four month leaves you no time to rest on your laurels. Up off the sofa and busy, busy, busy. This is an excellent month for renovating or repairing. What you have started you can finish now.

The Knight of Wands appears in our April spread. It is a time for the individual to develop the volatile, exuberant and adventurous qualities embodied in the figure of Bellerophon. Often on a divinatory level the Knight of Wands manifests as a change of residence, because the individual suddenly feels too cramped by his or her environment and seeks broader or greener pastures.

Mountain Lion is our animal totem for this month. Mountain Lion augurs leadership. This creature can be a very difficult power totem for us to have. It places us in a position to be a target for the problems of others.

In assuming the place of power that Mountain Lion affords, you must constantly be aware of keeping peace. However you can never make everyone happy unless you lie to yourself or others. This is human nature. Therefore the first responsibility of leadership is to tell the truth. Know it and live it, and your example will filter down to the tiniest cub in the pride. Responsibility is no more than the ability to respond to any situation. Panic is not a part of this sacred medicine.

Our Goddess for April is Flora. Flora is a Roman Goddess of flowers, gardens, and spring. She is the embodiment of all nature and the queen of plant life. The Romans considered Flora the secret patron of Rome; they believed without her help, the city would die. Used to refer to the entire botanical world, her name means, “the flourishing one:. Her festival, the Floralia, was celebrated from April 28 to May 3. The customs of dancing around the maypole and collecting May basket of flowers originated in this festival.

Flora reminds us to honour all growing things. She urges us to celebrate the beauty of spring and new life, in our souls or in the world around us.

I am aware that April is autumn for Australia but still Flora flourishes with a crimson blush in our gardens.

Our crystal for April is Zincite. Zincite is a powerful stone that synthesizes physical energy and personal power with creativity. This fiery stone can aid the manifestation process and reenergize depleted energy systems. It removes energy blocks from the body and allows the life force to flow unhindered. This stone attracts abundance at a physical and spiritual level and Zincite can be used to anchor the light body securely in the physical realm.

April promises to be an energetic month with lots of activity. The season holds a lot of promise for new beginnings. I hope that these fresh starts are planned or pleasant surprises filled with love and packaged in tiny healing bouquets.

Take care and be true to you!

Peace and Love,

Harles

The Green Back Pack – Norfolk Island Escapade

The trip up the highway from the Nation’s capital was a watery affair. Glad as I was that Princess Furball was safely locked away in doggie prison, apprehension crept into my zippers about this journey. I know I’ve travelled to many Aussie destinations and of course the return to Vermont in 2007 was phenomenal with the cruise to Alaska but this one to Norfolk Island has infiltrated my threads and I feel a little nervous. The best part of the trip is that Sunday morning we board a plane to Norfolk and from that stand point it is adventure all the way!

Finally, we exit the ramp and with a quick unpack of the purple wheelie beast we are tucked in for the night.

Saturday morning blossomed with a twittering of bird life. Up early for a hardy brekkie and clothed in comfortable and necessary fleet-of-foot runners. Mistress is calm and prepared for the day ahead racing around with her grand-boys.

A short tri across the Great Western Highway and we arrive at the little grand-boys house. Repacking the car we are ready for the next leg of the trip. Winding north up the alphabet soup of highways (M7, M2, Pennant Hills Road and F3 and finally the Pacific Highway) we arrive at our destination.

After a flurry of shy introductions we are off to the Park for a picnic. Picnic baskets laden with food and brightly coloured drinking vessels decorate wooden tables. The boy’s quota has now doubled and there are four young lads enjoying every facility in the park. They are constantly flipping between swings, vibrating chickens, jungle jims and coloured cages of exploration.

Meanwhile, the cosy bench looks perfect for a sophisticated gent like me. I will grab a few quiet K’s (knapsack zzz’s) while the young’uns romp.

The Sun began to dip his golden fronds as we migrate back home. Native birds cackle and chirp bidding a feathery farewell to a romp-a-liscious picnic day at the park.

Baby snores and soft adolescent whispers fill the back seat as we travel wearily back home.

Laden with fun-o-shista we navigate back along the alphabet causeway and motorways. Tomorrow we fly out to Norfolk. Tonight it’s an early dinner, bath and bed – I’m tired already.

The irritating pulse of the alarm is revolting. Sleep is invaded to the tune of, “when I’m 64”. As if I care if you will still need me or feed me?

Excitement fills the air and tandem showers and microwave cackle fruit chime in the early morning buzz. The car is packed and we are off to the airport for a morning tea departure. Destination: a tiny green speck in the ocean – gee I hope the runway is long enough. Forget that – of course it is – there are more important things like fraternising with some glam-o-totes – geez I am feeling frisky already!

Woa! A virtual smorgasbord of good looking luggage, knapsacks and carry-on’s; my flaps are in a tangle with the brightly coloured signature cases and roll-around luggage – honestly my zippers are in a spin.

Here we are Norfolk Air check-in and what a friendly greeting. Michelle-my-belle is a friendly, vibrant and genuine woman. Her welcome is warm and she is a doll. She is attentive, bright and very professional. Customer service is A+ as the lesser class of luggage is ferried across the small conveyer belt to the bowels of the aircraft – and so it should be!

With plenty of time for departure we mosey over to a sunny nook for a coffee and a muffin. I nod at my Mistress and reminder that she cannot eat too many muffins or she will create her own unsightly “muffin top”. How undignified?

I know it is holiday time and there is a detox in spring but there is no reason to pile on the pounds now, Honey.

Brews of coffee and trays of sugary treats arrive and I snuggle down for a short shut eye. I want to look my best when I enter the stud-muffin suite.

The warm and friendly attendants greet us and usher us down the gangway toward the plane – ready for boarding. We are guided to our seats as I rub my straps together in anticipation. Aha here we are – the overhead lockers – well; at least it is not as crowded as the Canadian trip two years ago. Do you remember that? Oh my goodness, oversized luggage and pushy back packs lobbied for a tiny space. It was obvious that their owners could not read the signs about size and weight standards. I conclude that Aussie travellers are far more astute and therefore appropriate luggage is pressed against my seams – oh-la-la.

A short flight across the Pacific and we are here on Norfolk Island. So far it seems like a quaint little place with lots of palm trees – Norfolk Palms I suspect.

After being unpacked, unzipped and perched on a solid wooden box I fee deflated and exhausted. The two days prior to our arrival have been exhausting but a glow of gratification oozes from my pockets as I settled down for an afternoon knapp.

Morning already? Where did that night go? Oh yeah I remember – out along the rim of sleep I encountered ghosts of convicts and was lead down to the ruins below. Interesting – don’t you think?

Flung unceremoniously into our silver ghost (hire car) we are off for a little sight-seeing and retail therapy.

Expensive perfume testers are sniffed and tucked away safely in my front netted pockets. Euro-shoes are gushed over and priced up for a delicate stroking. What, don’t even think about buying that purple eel skin bag! Why would you even consider such rabble when you can have me? No, don’t do it! Put it back! And don’t go there again.

The serious shopping extravaganza has begun and now we take a few hours to venture back in history and trace some of the early inhabitants of this unique isle.

Now, I am not about to give you a history lesson or pain a landscape with illustrious metaphors instead, my role is (as you’ll remember) narrate our journey through green-tinted lenses.

The small bus rocked and rolled with geriatric anticipation. Floral shirts and designer sunglasses adorn wrinkled agile bottles as they settle in for a sojourn Norfolk’s birthing process.

Polynesians arrived in 1000AD and after that the English landed to claim this tiny Island. They decided that this isolated chunk of volcanic rock would make a perfect place for a penal colony.

Our tour guide – Ray from Pine Trees Tours was a fountain of island knowledge. He was the perfect host, respectful and connects to his grey-guests.

Mistress is constantly scanning the outer realms looking for meaning beyond the curtain. Her senses are attuned to the spirit of the island. I can see torment on her face as she pieces together the mistreatment and inhumane punishment. “Their” incarceration has etched a painful mural across her face.

The tour was interesting but the coastline – magnificent. It is so hard to believe that such evil oppression and skulduggery could be inflicted upon human beings in such a paradise. The evil-ness of man has ravaged the beauty of the Isle leaving it scared forever.

Apparently there were two penal settlements here - if you want to know the dates then read your history books. My main concern is (as so is my Mistress) is why did they put the responsibility of a young man’s welfare into the hands and minds of monsters? Sure, they were misfits trying to survive in a dark and desolate country. England was barren – no food but riddled with disease. These young men and women (and I do mean young – some of them were between 7-11 years old) when they were first imprisoned in England. They were trying to survive by stealing food. Why is that a crime?

I think that the crime is that the leaders and aristocracy were over-fed and cared less about the proletariat – the bourgeois got fat while the people starved. Where is the crime? Who was the criminal? My opinion is that the wrong people were incarcerated – don’t you? Don’t get me started on the great divide!

I am furious that these poor wretches had to steal to feed their starving bodies. With a hang man’s noose ready to loop their scraggy necks they were thrown into tiny wooden craft and shipped across treacherous seas to rebuild the grandeur for the power elite. There was no justice – just dour laws and ruthless persecutors.

Please note: this is only my opinion and perspective of the history of this island. What would I know – I’m only a green backpack. I invited you to read and make up your own mind. I only ask you to think about the reasons for their crimes – it was not to invade a country or cause harm to another human being- it was to feed their starving bodies.

We drove up the hill and all of the passengers were reflective and quiet. Whispers of sadness and respect floated around the tiny vehicle. Our next stop was the cemetery (one of my Mistress’s favourite haunts – pardon the pun). The cemetery was divided into pioneers and convicts – first and second settlements. Of course the more recent settlers were closer to the gate. The headstones of the convicts and their guards made for interesting reading – but the story behind the stone tablets was even more captivating. I am not going to repeat them – you will have to come over and hear them for yourself.

Today, we languished and tonight we belly-laughed, boo-ed, hissed and were entertained at the Trial of the Fifteen. This play was written by: Peter Clarke and it trolls through the history of this island with such wit and creativity.

People (and creatures) of notoriety are cross examined in a mock trial. Each actor transformed when they donned, beards, shawls and claws. The acting was superb and I was impressed with the historical representation of the island and how it was presented. I kept thinking that perhaps all history should be delivered in this interesting and theatrical manner which would encourage students to be captivated, informed and more importantly curious.

You see one of our greatest assets is curiosity. And I’ve heard it said that some squash this trait with dismissive retort instead of feeding the hunger for knowledge they often claim that the curious mind is annoying or a devious plot to drive them to distraction. Go figure?

You may think that I don’t notice but my finely tuned straps are piqued and absorbing the conversations and interpersonal nuances that float around me. I’m not just an ordinary back pack you know? I am a multi-faceted and philosophical repository for human interaction. So, the next time child asks you why this or that send them off to investigate and nurture the curious mind.

From my perspective, the early settlers to this tiny colony were brave, spirited, courageous and inventive but most definitely curious. There were brutal overseers who came here with the own vile agenda; although, from what I’ve heard they were met with their own special karma – eventually. I’ve also heard that a kindly man, Alexander Moonachie tired to reform prisoners with his “mark” system. This was an innovative approach to probation which was tried, tested and from all accounts, successful.

On the other hand, oppressors come and go and leave their vile stain on the pages of history. They bring with them a tainted soul and an agenda from Pan himself. Why are so many leaders full of self-loathe? And why do they project the resident evil within on to other less fortunate souls? Why can’t we look at another human being with love in our hearts instead of fear and dread? What confounds me is that we continually turn the history pages with shame and ghostly notions of abuse and yet today the story remains the same – it is just the names are different. Why can’t we all just love one another? Why does the archaic romp of power and control continually goose-step across the dance floor? Enough – I will get off the soap box…

Today we took a half day island tour with Pine Tree Tours. It was part of our accommodation package. We were taken to different locations and did the tourist – oh and ah thing and clickety clack with the camera. Just beyond the pines, palms and tropical fruit trees were sated with a Devonshire tea.

The guide was so polite, informed and helpful. Actually, everyone we’ve met on this island has been friendly and respectful. I think that the mainlanders could take a script or two out of their customer service manual.

Anyhow, we learned a great deal and had lots of interesting facts wash over us. The history of the island was uncovered during our stay – the language, economy, political roots and governing status all revealed in a polite and respectful experience.

Throughout our stay we’ve been treated to the sub tropical weather. Short navigated sight-seeing trips produced mind-boggling vistas and a coastline of wonder. Often I would be amazed at how did they (our forefathers) ever navigate the coral reefs and unfriendly channels. The coral outcrops and non-existent harbour surrounds this land of diverse contradictions. It is surely a mound of perplexing diversity.

I understand the concept of isolation and the supporting motivation of incarceration sure there were promises of natural resources – of course this ancient land was unclaimed hence the British flag pierced the basalt of two inactive volcanoes.

Lunch on our second last day was at Brankos. This historical mansion has had a huge make-over. The enclosed verandas are the perfect vestibule for dinning out among palms and hibiscus. The view sprawls from the yard to the Pacific Ocean. Fresh food decorated superbly with nasturtiums and lavender sloshed down with guava juice – yum!

Mistress looks so relaxed and serene. I’ve not seen her so poised and content since our Alaskan cruise. Smiles are exchanged and genteel conversations frame this luncheon as the perfect climax to our visit to Norfolk Island.

What’s going on? Up before sunrise, packing, showers and breakfast ready for an early departure.

Draped lovingly over my Mistress’ shoulder I get a knapsack eyelet view of other suitcases and lesser luggage of the gnarly persuasion. Deep lined faces and holiday weary bodies sway in anticipation of the check in and boarding procedure. For me however, this part of the trip is a virtual banquet of potential snogging partners. To be honest the talent on here is slim pickings – oh well stud-muffins can’t be too choosey – life’s like that sometimes, isn’t it? Some people call it a baggage compartment but to me it is a loft of love – jealous – well too bad!

With the roar of the jet engines and a scurry across the runway we are catapulted into clouds. Gosh I love that rush and in the GBP’s boudoir it is c-o-s-y – if you get my drift 

Turbulent winds offer opportunities for me to slip toward this little number and get some serious flirting happening. Oh! No! Don’t tell me I am getting pulled away just when the atmosphere is hotting up! It appears Mistress is after her Passport – more customs declarations – no biggee.

Back in lovers loft and I wriggle in for a good posy. The little red number offers a wing and I slide over for a close peak. She is a little old in the zippers but she will do for this short flight home. Do not disturb!

Flying over the harbour and the Opera House is a favourite caption. The air is crisp and a little flamboyant but we land with ease. Disembarking and going through customs is the usual ritual. Back on land and safe and sound is the most important part of the trip.

We’ve had some fun. Met some interesting people but most importantly we have enjoyed our trip to Norfolk Island. Catch up next time when we return to Nelson Bay for a family holiday. Watch this space.

Your mate,

Greenie

Dearest Jems,

Autumn has arrived in Australia. The hot steamy summer is bowing to the next season bringing in the coolness and sedate beauty of the next cycle.

We’ve had rain in most regions of Australia over the summer. Actually, the contrast of this great land still remains as we watch the ravages of draught and floods sweeping about the vast interior of our country. Of course the coast has had the odd battering too with a couple of cyclones.

It is truly a magical experience to see our dry lakes and river banks awash with water. Even Lake George here in Canberra has had water lapping at the boundaries. The miracle of rain sustains our country and we are once again rescued from the devastation of drought.

Here in the Alpine region of Oz we are preparing for the coolness of winter. I am currently heading up a project to move my summer clothes from the front of the wardrobe to the back and the autumn winter fashions will take their place. While I am undertaking this project I am also considering the fashions for next summer and the possibility of recycling some tired or unworn articles for recycling.

Yesterday, I accepted the challenge of a shopping expedition with one of my girlfriends. It was such a fun day. It reminded me of the importance of girlfriends and how we fill each other’s lives with love, understanding, trust and consideration – not to mention the belly laughs.

Like you, I am in a fortunate position of having the love and respect of a good man. We are both blessed in that regard and each day I consider how lucky I am. And yet while I enjoy this loving relationship I see how enhanced my life is with the beauty and wonder of my girlfriends.

It makes me a little sad however when I think about the geographical distance of our relationship. I love and relish the closeness we share with our myriad of communication forums. I constantly bask in the memories of our special coffee dates and the myriad of conversations over luscious feasts. I am also conscious of the sustainability of our relationship and how we continue to nurture this connection in the constant flow of communication.

I dream of the day in the future when we can shop together. Until then our conversations must be a little cyber-based, I suppose? I want to take this opportunity to thank you for your willingness to keep the relationship alive and vibrant with your commitment to our column and our friendship.

Until May – enjoy the wonder of spring headed your way. Please tell me all about it when you write again, soon.

Love always,

Jar

Dear JAR,

As always it is always great to hear from you! I always love it when the seasons change and we are exactly opposite in experience. It is so amusing to hear about how you are shifting your wardrobe to warmer garments, while I am shedding the layers to accommodate the increase in temperature. But please do not misunderstand that it is getting warmer here quickly – I still wear my winter coat at times and then the next day may wear a light shirt – we live in a quirky clime! (Hmmm...we truly ARE manifestations of our environment!

Today it is raining, and it is so refreshing. (Better than snow!) Here in Vermont we have several seasons that do not occur in other places, such as Mud Season. When all the snows melt and travel down the mountains via the rivers and streams, they often overflow and wash out the dirt roads. The roads themselves thaw, which makes for an oatmeal-like quality that creates difficult driving conditions. There are a lot of mud jokes that circulate around, particularly from the old Vermonters, who get a kick out of getting a rise out of “Flatlanders,” the name given to those who move here to the mountains from the flatter lands.

Like the one about a man who was found on a dirt road with just his head sticking out of the mud – as he was being rescued, someone commented about how awful and deep the mud was for him to get stuck that deeply. He said, “That’s nothing~ I’m standing on the roof of my car!"

I am feeling the push of Spring – I have decided to call it “Asparagus Energy”~ which I am now associating with the sign of Aries. The spear-like shoots that emerge headlong out of the depths of the earth just amaze and delight me. There is no trepidation, no looking about to see if all is clear – they just show up, announcing their arrival wearing green uniforms and headgear looking good enough to eat.

There is a “quickening” that occurs at this time – like a switch has been turned on. The cacophony of early birds fills the air, and an underlying excitement pervades all living beings!

I love your thoughts about “hunting and gathering” (shopping) together! I would take you to all the coolest second-hand stores. I haven’t bought too many new clothes recently, except occasionally from said thrift shops, where I have found the most amazing things, for example: a periwinkle silk blazer for $13. One person’s trash is another’s treasure.

With this new season bursting forth for me, and folding in for you, may we both reap nature’s gifts and feel the blessings multiply in our hearts and souls. Then, let us give thanks for what we have, and pass the torch of good fortune on to the next person so that soon everyone is glowing.

And it is here that I pass my torch to you... until next time!

With love and gratitude,

JEM