by Juliet Batten | 1, Feb, 2022 | Uncategorized
Here in Aotearoa after the expansion of summer, we are now facing contraction as the need to draw back into restrictions affects us all. In uncertain times, the rhythms of nature bring comfort and teachings. Expansion and contraction are part of the... 
by Juliet Batten | 2, Feb, 2021 | Seasons Newsletter
As First Fruits arrives, I am aware of how much ripening is taking place in nature. This is the season when I enjoy luscious tastings of apricots, nectarines, plums, and blueberries. It feels wondrous that the sun’s warmth can be stored in... 
by Juliet Batten | 6, Nov, 2020 | Seasons Newsletter
When walking in the park yesterday and saying hello to a tōtara tree that I like to visit, I checked to see if any of the spent flowers were now turning into berries. To my surprise, I discovered one bright berry hidden amongst the leaves.... 
by Juliet Batten | 30, Jan, 2020 | Seasons Newsletter
As the season changes towards First Fruits, how do you balance extreme realities? — the inert face of parched earth with the juiciness of ripe stone fruits and berries? (If you are in the Northern Hemisphere, read on, because extremes can also be... 
by Juliet Batten | 7, Feb, 2019 | Seasons Newsletter
This was my karaka tree last year, in a great abundance of fruiting. The ripe berries fed many native birds who visited the high branches, shaking the surplus to the ground, where it peppered the pathways with rich orange plumpness. This year it’s a very...