May has been a very busy month for me.  Firstly, there was the Westpac Rescue helicopter service fundraiser was on again on Sunday, 4th May this one was held at the base in Broadmeadow (Newcastle).  It was a full house and the area was done up lovely and  believe that everyone had a wonderful time, I don’t have enough time to read for everyone but do my best with the $5 for 5 minutes in between speeches and presentations etc.  Obviously, there is no deep and meaningful readings happening in such a short time frame and everyone gets into the spirit of it and of course it is such a good cause.

I also did my first ‘show’ at The Family Hotel in Tamworth – Sean from the hotel contacted me and organised the lot and it was great to have a small group to start with – there were about 30 people who enjoyed a lovely two course dinner and a glass of champagne on arrival, I have been asked back out there and have yet to set a date, but probably at the end of September or October, though not in the school holidays!  I had a great time, there was lots of laughter to be had and what I really enjoyed was that everyone interacted with each other and laughed and enjoyed themselves.

I have two books on the go at the moment, one is with an editor as we speak and hopefully, I’ll be getting it into the printing phase in the next couple of months.  The first book is the story of how I came to be doing what I’m doing – getting over the indoctrination of the Seventh-Day Adventist church etc.  The second book is with an illustrator and is for small children.  So, do watch this space to find out when the launch is and where they can be bought from if you’re interested.

If you’re on my Facebook page you will notice that I’ve added some different things into my Facebook page – I take a photo of 3 tarot cards and then you select either left, middle or right and then later on I take a photo of them turned over with their basic meanings – and from those that have selected a card I select a minimum of 10 people and give them a more detailed reading as part of the free mini readings that I offer to people.  If there is anything that you would like to see happening on my page that I’m not currently doing – then please don’t hesitate to drop me a line at Katrina@katrina-jane.com with your suggestion.

I’m also in the process of doing a bit of a revamp of my website and will let you know when that new look is all up and running as well.  So, it’s all happening here!

The big news is I am so very, very pleased to welcome two new contributors to my newsletter – to me being spiritual is a total way of life – what we eat and exercise is just as important as meditating – speaking to ‘spooks’ as I refer to myself is a small part of it, so I am very excited to announce that Jessica Mountford is going to tell us about different crystals each month and how they can benefit our own spiritual journey and our health, you can read about Jessica further in this newsletter.

I am also excited to announce that Susan Kohl is also onboard – Susan is a passionate permaculture gardener and will bring some great tips for growing your own herbs and vegies and no excuses about not having a backyard!

If you would like to contact any of the contributors to this newsletter, whether Michelle about Astrology, Nathan about indigo children/angels, Jessica about crystals or Susan about growing your own vegies/herbs their contact information is at the bottom of their piece.

My Blog from 14th May 2014

A common question people ask when having a reading is about their relationship, I personally feel that we seem to have lost the way when it comes to relationships.  I find it amazing that so many women seem to put more effort into organising their wedding than they do in learning about their partner or actually discussing their future lives together and what they both want to achieve.  A relationship is a work in progress, as you grow your opinions change, your views of life change and it’s about growing together and not taking each other for granted, it’s about communicating and listening and respecting each other’s point of view, what you both need from each other and to continually talk about where we are at during any point in our relationship.

No-one is perfect. I bought my Gorgeous Guy a card a long time ago and it said ‘we may not be perfect, but we’re perfect for each other’.  We will all stuff up at some stage, we’re human and that’s what humans do, however, if your partner is truly remorseful for whatever the transgression is then it would be a shame if you weren’t to give them a second chance, I mean if it was in the reverse you would like to be given a second chance wouldn’t you?

I am NOT saying that you need to put up with continual bad behaviour, because you don’t nor should you, there’s a difference in someone continually treating you badly and not learning from their mistakes and someone who wants to make the relationship work and is willing to put the effort in to making that happen.

My Gorgeous Guy and I were chatting with a friend and he asked me why people cheat, because he just couldn’t understand how people do that and my reply was that there is something lacking in their relationship, whether they are feeling neglected, whether it has lost that ‘spark’ and they become attracted to someone else because it makes them feel special in some way.  I also said that at that point when you realise you’re attracted to someone else, is the time to analyse your relationship and work out what it is that is lacking and then have the decency to sit down with your partner and explain what you’re feeling, if you’re partner isn’t willing to meet you halfway, well then the relationship probably isn’t worth proceeding with, yes, there is always give and take but when one is always taking and the other always giving, it’s not equal.  More often than not we take our partners for granted, we wouldn’t treat friends and family that way, and when it gets like that resentment builds.

A relationship is much easier to save before trust is broken.  Before taking that step towards the thrill of an affair you need to ask yourself what you’re throwing away, is it really worth it?  What happens when the thrill wears off? Do you want to still be with that person?

I was just listening to the radio and a lady rang up and she and her husband have been married for 71 years, how awesome is that?

One of the best quotes that I have heard in regards to making a relationship work is this:

“It’s when two people are too stubborn to let the relationship end”.

And that’s what it is, two people who WANT the relationship to work, they’ll talk, work through things and help and be supportive of each other, they will love each other and admit their mistakes and forgive their partners and allow themselves to be forgiven, they take responsibility for their part in the relationship.  It’s about seeing it through to the end.  The wedding dress isn’t important compared to the relationship.

YULE

Once again as the Wheel of The Year turns, we are coming into the time of year when we celebrate what is traditionally known as Yule, this year it is celebrated on the 21st June.

It is a festival to celebrate the re-birth of the sun and it is during the winter solstice which is the shortest day of the year (so why do we celebrate Christmas in summer, here in the southern hemisphere??)  This is a time to turn your face towards the sun and welcome its energy into your body.  Let go of negative thoughts and re-energise yourself and start looking forward to longer and warmer days, mind you in Newcastle, NSW we’ve had some glorious days here and the sunshine is just glorious.  It is also a time when we look at our shadow side that part of yourself that you might wish to accept more or maybe improve and think about ways to do this.

So gather the family together and drink apple cider and hearty stews and vegies or whatever you want to do and realise that the shortest day is here and the days are going to start getting longer and warmer.

It’s Never too late to…..

To work for yourself.  So many people dream of working for themselves, working their own hours and while it can be incredibly draining and the hours can also be a lot longer than you may have thought, there is a sense of freedom with working for yourself.  You need to learn about the business you want to open, write your business plan, explore the risks involved, make the commitment to go through with it and then keep your nerve.  It’s all about having the courage to take that step, and that isn’t always easy.

Astrology for June – by Michelle Oberdorf

Spotlight on: Gemini (May 22 – June 22) –

From Thursday May 22 until Sunday June 22, 2014 we move into the time of year where the Sun occupies the sign of Gemini, the Twins. Gemini has a Mutable quality (along with Virgo, Sagittarius and Pisces). The Mutable modality signifies the end of the seasons, when the weather is more in flux. The Mutable energy represents flexibility, versatility and changeability. Gemini is one of the signs (along with Libra and Aquarius) which is also associated with the Air element concerning the rational mind, sharing ideas, knowledge, communication, logic and speech. Some keywords for Gemini include: ¬intellectual, networking, quick-witted and adaptable. Geminis may be avid talkers, have strong mental abilities and enjoy social interactions with others. They are often curious, like collecting many pieces of information and generally know lots of things about lots of things!

Gemini is ruled by the planet Mercury. Mercury is associated with communication, speech, language, writing, connecting with others, transport, siblings, being light-hearted and intelligent. Strong Mercurial types, or people with Mercury dominant in their chart could highlight these tendencies (eg Mercury in Gemini (or Virgo) (in Dignity), Sun in Gemini, many personal planets in Gemini (which are the Sun, Moon, Mercury, Venus and Mars) or Mercury in the 3rd house of the early environment – siblings, neighbours,  short trips, school, learning and language (“Accidental Dignity”). In the body, Gemini rules the lungs, nerves, arms and shoulders and Mercury rules the respiratory system and the thyroid.

Mercury is currently transiting Gemini, its home sign until 3 June when it enters the sign of Cancer. Communications will shift from the logical and rational (Gemini) to taking on a more sensitive and emotional hue (Cancer). Mercury turns Retrograde on 7 June until 2 July. This is a good time to review communications and correspondences, reconnect with siblings, back up the computer and get the car serviced. If signing any contracts during this period, please read the fine print carefully.

Next month’s Spotlight is on Cancer.

If you would like to have a personal astrology chart done or just for more information please contact Michelle on: 0404 464 740 or through her website http://www.theleftandrightbrain.com.au/

This month we have a message from Artemis through Nathan Ho

“Although the winds are coming and the shadows are drawing upon you much faster and much earlier throughout your days, remember that the forest and its guardians still call out to you. Maintain your scope, your perspective, your vision during this time. The bringing of the cold and the withdrawal of the light does not mean an exclusion or isolation from it in its entirety. You may perhaps even find that during this quieter, introspective time upon you, that it is in your own isolation that you need to also be with others; to share your experiences, to grow and bond together as one. It serves you to be out and about even when you think that this moment is not a moment to get as involved or engaged with others. Yes while the moon brings itself to you and the feminine rises, your solar energy needs also yearn to be fulfilled. For the wellbeing, for the health, and the development of you at this time of the year. Keep your sights set, and use this time as a nurturing time for yourself, your soul, and also as a time to understand what it means to truly uplift and invigorate your Spirit with the light, joyous energy of the innocent child within you. Take things slowly and be patient. The pace that things are going at during this withdrawing period empowers and enables you to be more reflective on the steps that you take and the choices that you make. In peace and blessings, we offer you our grace, our guardianship, our support, and our love.”  Artemis

“Nathan is an Angel Therapist and Clairvoyant Healer who combines his talents with his experience as a Primary School teacher to enlighten and inspire children and adults of all ages. Nathan conducts Clairvoyant Healing sessions and teaches workshops on intuitive development to children and adults. Nathan is passionate about working with people from all different walks of life to empower them to find the best in themselves and to reach for the stars   http://www.nathanstar.com

Black Tourmaline – by Jess Mountford

As this is my first “piece” in this amazing newsletter Spirit Connections, I thought I would take the first few words and opportunity to thank Katrina-Jane for providing me with this incredible opportunity to make these contributions. Thank you!!!

My fascination of crystals began roughly from the age of 8years old and since, my passion has then led me towards my growing collection and has also developed into creating handmade pieces of jewellery. It is more of a meditation process for me as I string one crystal to another on the bracelets, necklaces and soon earrings and who knows maybe even rings later on. I believe I still have much to learn about crystals, however I feel that is all part the fun in playing with the world of semi-precious stones and energy.

Black Tourmaline also known as schorl is one stone I can not get enough of. It has an incredible amount of qualities that provide many benefits. It can bring a powerful amount of strength and protection from any negative energies, of any kind! It is also a great stone to help one to become grounded (and being a Cancerian myself helps to elevate stress & worry). I am open to the spiritual world and wearing or carrying it can keep unwanted entities or energy at bay.

Many people who say that they heal, may use this in their work to help ground their clients. They do this by placing on the root chakra. It works by providing a protective and grounding energy to our electro-magnetic fields. The stone can enhance psychic abilities, happiness, positive thoughts, it boosts your immune system and help with allergies. You can also use it in your meditation practices. ( I also grid my bed in a triangle, one small stone in the middle at the bed head and one either side at the bed ends, or you can get a chunky piece and put it under the bed. This helps for a peaceful sleep.) This stone is quite magical in the sense that it is one of the few that does not need cleansing or charging to receive the benefits, how fabulous is that! The stone absorbs the negative energy when purifies it into a more positive one. The stone is very readily available and is found in many places around the world including Australia, Sri Lanka, USA, Pakistan & Brazil.

Feel of Black Tourmaline certainly has a great powerful strength to it, which may explain the attraction! I hope that you enjoy the stone as I do. I also look forward to sharing my favourite crystals and their awesome properties each month. Take care, Love  Jess Mountford

To contact Jess or if you would like to see her beautiful creations please visit her Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/gemsbyjess

Rosemary the versatile herb by Susan Kohl

Hi Everyone,

Let me introduce myself, my name is Susan Kohl and I run Badhiin Place Permaculture Designer and Teacher at Bolton Point, NSW.  I have been taught by the world famous and renowned Geoff Lawton, who was taught by the guru, author and one of the inventors of Permaculture, Mr. Bill Mollison. A quick synopsis of what Permaculture is all about. It is about designing sustainable human settlements and preserving the extending natural systems of life. It calls into question the current practices of agricultural farming and it embraces the slow food movement. There are a lot of branches to Permaculture and it would take more than this newsletter to explain. So what I am going to introduce you too through out the newsletters will be about Urban Farming and growing food in cities and towns. Most people in Australia either own their home, rent or live and travel in caravans. One of the things I teach on my face book site is that no matter where you live, you can always grow something. We have become so consumer focused through advertising that we have forgotten that you don’t have to rely on main super market chains to provide you with food! I grow all seasonal vegetables and fruits. I have 9 chickens, and I am also about to branch out into aquaculture and small meat production which I will talk about in other newsletters.

Now I hear you all saying but I work and I have kids. Well I can tell you that it is not that hard and I always suggest starting off small. One step at a time you see “from little things big things grow”. One of the easiest things to grow is the humble herb, such as rosemary. It is one of the most versatile plants in the world, wonderful on a leg of lamb, put into stuffing for a roast chicken, great in soups and many other dishes. The contrast is that most of you are picking your herbs up at the supermarket and it is costing you $2.40 for a 100g punnet and that is for one herb. For me, it cost me nothing because it is right outside my front door and I do not feed it, I do not water the plant either, my food miles are zero. Recipe for Rosemary Salt:  10gm parts organic salt, not one that has been treated to 2 parts powered Rosemary. The Rosemary can be pounded in the mortar and pestle and then the same to the salt store in a jar and use to flavour your recipes.  Now that is just for cooking, did you know that this herb can be used as a medicine?  When this plants starts to flower you can take off a lot of branches and dry it then use it as a tonic for memory, calms digestive upsets, antiseptic, neuralgia- tea, and baths. For bathing take a muslin bag and add ½ dried Rosemary or 2 cups of fresh, place it into the bath, allow the herbs to infuse into the water for about fifteen minutes while the water cools to a tolerable level, then soak for about thirty minutes. Rosemary is great for relaxing tired muscle and is a great toner on saggy skin and it has wonderful anti-oxidant properties.

To make the tea, the recipe calls for 1- 2 tsp fresh or dried leaves covered in one cup of boiling water. Infuse 10 – 15 minutes. Drink one cup 2 -3 times per day. This is also a good Diuretic for those that have water retention and will also improve your memory. Please remember if you are thinking of getting pregnant please do not drink this tea as in large doses it is an abortifacient (miscarriage inducer).  Do not drink this tea over a long period of time because remember it is a stimulant so those with blood pressure should add in equal ratio lavender, sage and wormwood to the tea to come it down.  Did you also know that the Rosemary salt that you have made for your cooking can also be used to clean a wound? It will sting a little but the salt with dry the wound and the Rosemary will clean as it is also an antiseptic. So in one plant you have saved a lot of money at the supermarket and the chemist. Now the best part about this plant is it can grow from a cutting. So if you would like a cutting just email, at the address below and I will get one up and running for you. The cost to you is nothing it would be my pleasure to get you on your first step to consumer freedom.

If you would like to contact Susan you can do so at susan.m.kohl@gmail.com or Susan Kohl – Badhiin Place Permaculture Designer and Teacher https://www.facebook.com/badhiinplace

Enjoy your journey and may the seasons be good and kind to you all.

Kind Regards, Suzi

Courses/Workshops

Sunday, 15th June – I will be the guest speaker at the Central Coast Church, 80 Wyong Road, Killarney Vale,  2pm – 4pm – come along and say hello!

Saturday, 30th August – One Day Workshop – Developing your clairvoyant and intuitive abilities

Spiritual Weekend 10th-12th October –the cost is $440 per person and includes:

  • accommodation for 2 nights –a lovely spot at Old Bar, which is a quaint little sea-side town, approximately 15 minutes drive from Taree, and 4 hours easy drive from Sydney (heading north). Rex Airlines flies to Taree or you can fly to Port Macquarie on Virgin Airlines which is about 45 minutes drive north of Old Bar it is a three acre property set in idyllic bushland. It is peaceful and serene, there are walking tracks and a pool. For the classes we have a large recreation room in which to do our training, so everything is in one easy location.
  • 6 healthy meals as well as snacks and morning and afternoon tea (OK chocolate isn’t healthy but I’m sure it’s one of the recommended daily foods!!!!)
  • A ½ hour one on one personal reading with me, which will be recorded and emailed to you.
  • A mix of my workshops – Learning Psychometry, How to use a pendulum, Listening to your inner voice/guides and recognising messages, creating a vision board – setting goals, meeting your spirit guide. (These will take place on the Saturday)
  • Three guided meditations
  • Discussion groups – bring topics you would like to discuss, throughout the weekend.
  • You will have free time to just chill out and relax or go for a walk along the beach.

If you are interested in coming along and meeting like-minded people:-

Please email me Katrina@katrina-jane.com to make sure that there is a vacancy.

More information can be found on my website www.katrina-jane.com – under Workshops.

Services that I offer:

PARTIES for a big group – hens’ day, baby showers – this is where everyone has as 15 minute reading – this is lots of fun for baby showers, birthdays, hens nights etc. and it is $25 per reading these readings are not recorded because there are usually too many people and it just takes up too much time, but I am able to take notes or the person having the reading can take them if they wish, I am also happy for them to record on their phones.

GROUP OF FRIENDS – I have had numerous enquiries about parties and how many people you need to host one.  It obviously depends on where you live – if you live about an hour from Newcastle CBD, I would need a minimum of 8 people having 15 minute readings ($25 each) if you want to have ½ hour readings ($50 each) then a minimum of 4 and a maximum of 8 people would be appreciated. If you live within a 2 – 2.5 hour drive, then a fee of $50+ to cover travel costs will be required, depending on how far you are away.  And it would be a minimum of 6 x ½ hour readings and a maximum of 8.  I am also okay with a mix of readings as in some having ½ hour and others 15 minutes.  These are all recorded and emailed to you within 24 hours.

If there is anything that you would like to see in my newsletters, please let me know!  OR if you have something that you would like to contribute, I am happy to hear from you.  I want them to be interesting for you all to read.

Blessed be.

Love and Light Katrina