by Juliet Batten | 7, Jul, 2022 | Seasons Newsletter, Uncategorized
A profound cultural event has just taken place in Aotearoa: the first Matariki public holiday. At last, the new year has come into alignment with the seasonal cycle of Aotearoa! — the return of the sun at winter solstice; the return of the stars at... 
by Juliet Batten | 16, Jun, 2022 | Seasons Newsletter, Uncategorized
Photo: Anne Dean Ruffell What does Matariki mean to you? Can you remember when you first saw Matariki? I can. But it was by another name. In my early twenties with the help of a little star book, I began to explore the night sky from the balcony of my... by Juliet Batten | 16, Dec, 2021 | Seasons Newsletter
When you lose your footing May the earth hold you When your heart is aching May the waters soothe you When life feels overwhelming May the air lighten you When your thoughts are darkening May the fire illumine you. Blessing... 
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....