November 2024 - Reason

 

Reflections: Reason

Pre-orders open for "Weaving Our Way Beyond Patriarchy - A Womancraft Compendium
'Sanctuary Within' - the final Compass Rose Programme of 2024
Wisdom of Wild Cornwall cards coming soon
Other ways to connect: two monthly Circles, and one to one


If you read this before Monday 28th, or Wednesday 30th October, you are warmly invited to join me for the Monday Monthly Circle, at 7.30 pm UK time, and/or the taster circle for Sanctuary Within on Wednesday at 11.00 am, see more below.

Reflections: Reason

Our circle of cards for 2024 has arrived at the next to last card, Reason, a soft dark green. My first response is... I am not sure. Does there need to be a Reason? Or, shall I choose to sit with all these cards, the words and their colours, and allow a connection, and perhaps a 'reason' to emerge?


 

If you would like to join me in reflection, ask yourself the questions here, and write in your journal. Or, if you prefer, read on and come back later.

• What is your first response? To the word? To the colour?
• What else is there?
• And, what else?
• What does Reason add to the other cards so far? How do all the colours connect together? 

What else is there?

I am doing as I just suggested, choosing to sit with all these cards, the words and their colours, and to allow a connection, and perhaps a 'reason' to emerge. The 'what else' that repeats itself to me now, is does there need to be a 'reason'? We human beings like to 'make sense' of things, as if we can ever truly know why things happen. Yes, there may well be a reason in some greater order, yet as individuals we can never truly know the answer to that, if indeed there actually is one. It feels a little like my reflections on 'Purpose'  which usually leave behind the idea of a 'grand purpose' in my life, and arrive at Love and Joy being the purpose of existence.

And, what else?

Maybe for me, the most useful way go forward just now is to 'live the questions' in the well-known quote from Rilke, as I can never hope to know the answers. Here is the full quote: 

"Be patient toward all that is unsolved in your heart and try to love the questions themselves, like locked rooms and like books that are now written in a very foreign tongue. Do not now seek the answers, which cannot be given you because you would not be able to live them. And the point is, to live everything. Live the questions now. Perhaps you will then gradually, without noticing it, live along some distant day into the answer."
― Rainer Maria Rilke

What does Reason add to the other cards so far? How do all the colours connect together?  

What does Reason add?  The colour is continuing the shades of blues and greens that have predominated all around this year, apart from those three bright colours. And just now this card, this word, feels to me as if it is simply there to reinforce that feeling of gentle reflection, or connecting with sky and sea.


Pre-orders open for "Weaving Our Way Beyond Patriarchy - A Womancraft Compendium

I am repeating a short version of this notification as pre-orders (and the special bonuses attached) are still open, and I think will close before the shipping date of 15th November.

I am honoured to have three of my pieces chosen to be included in this very special volume, celebrating the tenth anniversary of Womancraft Publishing. Publication date is in November. Everyone who pre-orders receives a number of bonuses, including an invitation to the launch event on 21st November, when I will be reading one of my pieces, along with other contributors. If you would like to know more visit this link  (I am an affiliate so I receive a small percentage if you decide to order, this or any other books.)



 

'Sanctuary Within' - the final Compass Rose Programme of 2024

As mentioned above, there is one more taster session, on Wednesday 30th October at 11.00 am,before this programme begins  the following week. Full details of the programme can be found on my website here. As always, this is not a 'course' with any assignments or challenges, simply a gentle invitation to gather with a group of like-minded people to connect and share as we flow through the weeks, around the Compass Rose.

 

If you prefer please contact me by replying to this email to ask any questions you may have, we can arrange a private Zoom chat if you wish.
 
The fee is £168 for the six weeks,  with a discount for previous attendees.  As well as the weekly Zoom gatherings (with a recording in case you miss one or would like to listen again to the conversations and insights), you will be invited to a private Facebook group where I share weekly and daily prompts. (If you prefer not to take part on FB, I can send these by email to you).

When any six week programme ends you continue to have access to all the materials in the group to review whenever you wish. You will also be eligible to join the Stay Connected Group where we share a monthly Zoom catch-up call and you will be offered a discount on all future programmes.

You can pay in two instalments if you wish. Contact me to arrange this or to arrange a one to one Zoom chat so you can consider if this may be for you. I occasionally offer a concessionary rate place so if you are drawn to this programme, but money is an issue please do ask for a conversation about this.
 

Wisdom of Wild Cornwall cards coming soon

A new, and very different deck of cards is 'under construction' just now. A little while ago one of the people who responds regularly to the word of the day in my 'Dare to Blossom into Joy' group on Facebook, mentioned that she had read 'Purpose' as 'Porpoise'. That made us smile - and it set me off a whole new creative journey.

The outcome has been a new deck with the title 'Wisdom of Wild Cornwall'. Each word is an aspect of the natural world that I encounter here in Cornwall. Some are birds, others are animals, trees, wild flowers - and yes, porpoise has to be included. Harbour porpoises are quite common around the coast here, even though not something I see regularly. Other cards are to do with the atmosphere and the solar system around us, such as tide, rainbow, thunder, sun, moon.

For the first time, I decided to use a different image for the back of the cards, So the familiar 'Dare to Blossom Passionflower' will be replaced with one of my photos that represents 'wild Cornwall' to me. Taken on a walk on Constantine beach very recently, with the Quies and Trevose Head in the background.



I have just ordered the first proofs to check and make any changes I wish before ordering stock to offer for sale. I am thinking I may write a companion guide, not with interpretations because (as with the Rediscovery Cards) I feel that is up to each individual, not for me to tell you - but to write a little about each word, and maybe something about what I receive when I connect with each card. In order to write this I realised I need the cards physically in my hands, and it could take a while.

However, many of my contacts have told me they would love to be able to buy the cards without waiting for the guide - so that is what I will do, They should be available well before the end of November - I may send out a 'special bulletin' (or maybe not), either way, feel free to contact me to ask for notification if we are not connected on FB.

Other ways to connect: two monthly Circles, and one to one

The monthly circles are continuing, as mentioned above, you may be in time to join us on Monday 28th October at 7.30 pm. The November dates are Saturday 9th at 11.00 am, and Monday 25th at 7.30 pm. There will be just one gathering in December, on Saturday 14th. Contact me to receive the Zoom links if you would like to join me for a peaceful hour together.

And, you are always very welcome to contact me to arrange a one to one chat on Zoom to discuss working with me as your coach or to find out more about any of my events or programmes.


I send wishes for health and happiness for you and all you love.

Thank you for joining me here this month, any thoughts, feedback, or questions are always welcome.

 

Mary

October 2024 - Stillness

 

Welcome to the Dare to Blossom Newsletter

Reflections: Stillness
Pre-orders open for "Weaving Our Way Beyond Patriarchy - A Womancraft Compendium
Two Compass Rose Programmes to complete 2024
SilverFest in Tavistock 17th and 18th October
Other ways to connect: two monthly Circles, and one to one


If you read this before Monday 30th September, you are warmly invited to join me for the Monday Monthly Circle, here is the Zoom link for 7.30 pm UK time.

Reflections: Stillness

My first response is: ah, a return to shades of blue. 


 

If you would like to join me in reflection, ask yourself the questions here, and write in your journal. Or, if you prefer, read on and come back later.

• What is your first response? To the word? To the colour?
• What else is there?
• And, what else?
• What does Stillness add to the other cards so far? How do the colours connect together? 

What else is there?

Stillness - a deep breath in, a deeper one out. My favourite place to experience Stillness is in nature. And, of course nature is rarely, if ever, still. Something about allowing myself to simply be, to observe whatever is around me, allows me to drop into Stillness within. Recently we had some glorious September weather here in Cornwall and as I walked on the cliffs I was able to stop, sit on a rock and be still. Even when I want to keep moving to stay warm, there is a quality of Stillness to be found within.

And, what else?

Sometimes for me, the hardest thing is to find Stillness in my thoughts. My busy mind is full of things to do, often with fears and worries constantly popping up. Can I drop down below that surface, down, down into Stillness? Or I could choose to soar, up, up, above the clouds of daily life, up into the blue blueness of the sky above.

What does Stillness add to the other cards so far? How do the colours connect together?  

What does Stillness add?  As I look at the photo again, I notice that the quarter points of the circle each have a turquoise blue/green card (not to mention the others in that shade that have appeared also). Angels - January, could be seen as North. Reflect - April, East, is directly opposite Stillness, a beautiful pairing. Intuition - South. And now back to Stillness - West. I notice the cards are in more than one shade of turquoise blue/green. With the addition of Silence, and Growth, they all fit together so beautifully (as they always do, and even now that still surprises me).


Pre-orders open for "Weaving Our Way Beyond Patriarchy - A Womancraft Compendium

I am honoured to have three of my pieces chosen to be included in this very special volume, celebrating the tenth anniversary of Womancraft Publishing. Publication date is in November. Everyone who pre-orders receives a number of bonuses. If you would like to know more visit this link  (I am an affiliate so I receive a small percentage if you decide to order, this or any other books.)



From the Womancraft website:
 

"If what we are experiencing right now are the death throes of patriarchy…how did we get here…and what comes next?
 

Taking the ancient women’s work of weaving as its framework, Weaving Our Way Beyond Patriarchy is a collaborative text of voices woven from the Womancraft community – our own authors, both established and upcoming, aligned authors published elsewhere, and readers, ranging in age from twelve to over seventy.

Through poetry, prose, letters, articles and artwork, more than eighty women – authors, ​activists,​ artists,​ ​community builders, doctors, doulas, ​priestesses, ​poets, permaculturalists, professors, teachers, witches, ​yoga teachers, mothers, grandmothers – reflect on what it might look like beyond patriarchy and how we might get there, from the big picture to the domestic details.

This diverse and inclusive compendium of contemporary women’s wisdom is bound to become a much-loved handbook to carry us forward through these strange and uncertain times, with words to encourage and inspire us and our sisters, daughters, granddaughters, friends and communities."

Two Compass Rose Programmes as we complete 2024

This year I am offering two programmes during November and early December, with the calls on different days and times, intending to suit people with varying schedules or in different time zones.

The first is 'Rediscover Your Inner Wisdom' with taster sessions on Tuesdays 8th and 22nd October at 2.30 pm UK time. The six-week flow will begin on Sunday 27th October with the weekly Zoom gatherings on Tuesdays at the same time.

The other is 'Sanctuary Within', with just one taster session, on Wednesday 30th October at 11.00 am, beginning the following week.

Whichever programme you may choose to join, the six weeks together will offer you a place where you can rediscover your inner wisdom and find a sanctuary within yourself.  Depending on the response, I may combine the two programmes into one with two call times each week, or offer just one or the other - I am leaving it all open to exploration just now. Please rely to this email if you have any thoughts on this.

You are most welcome to join me for all or any of the taster circles just to have fun and find out more, with no expectation that you will sign up, simply the gentle invitation to do so if they feel right for you.
 
The fee for either will be £168 for the six weeks,  with a discount for previous attendees. If they both run as separate programmes and you should wish to come along to both, I will offer you a good discount, just contact me to discuss. As well as the weekly Zoom gatherings (with a recording in case you miss one or would like to listen again to the conversations and insights), you will be invited to a private Facebook group where I share weekly and daily prompts. (If you prefer not to take part on FB, I can send these by email to you).

When any six week programme ends you continue to have access to all the materials in the group to review whenever you wish. You will also be eligible to join the Stay Connected Group where we share a monthly Zoom catch-up call and you will be offered a discount on all future programmes.

You can pay in two instalments if you wish. Contact me to arrange this or to arrange a one to one Zoom chat so you can consider if this may be for you. I occasionally offer a concessionary rate place so if you are drawn to this programme, but money is an issue please do ask for a conversation about this.
 

SilverFest in Tavistock 17th and 18th October

This year the Silver Tent celebration is on two days, Thursday 17th and Friday 18th October. It is open to any woman over fifty, you do not need to be a member (although you can join the online community free of charge, on the website here, or on Facebook). There is some information on the flyer image below, I hope to have full details of the programme very soon, so do reply to this email if you would like to know more about attending on one or both days. Or if you prefer to ask the organiser direct, contact Vanessa on info@greenwaveproductions.com.



I will be there with a table showing my books, cards and artwork, and there will be talks and workshops. For some reason I don't have any photos of last year's events, here is my stand at the Bude Feel Good Festival on 8th September.




Other ways to connect: two monthly Circles, and one to one

The monthly circles are continuing, as mentioned above, you may be in time to join us on Monday 30th at 7.30 pm. The October dates are Saturday 12th at 11.00 am, and Monday 28th at 7.30 pm. Contact me to receive the Zoom links if you would like to join me for a peaceful hour together.

And, you are always very welcome to contact me to arrange a one to one chat on Zoom to discuss working with me as your coach or to find out more about any of my events or programmes.


I send wishes for health and happiness for you and all you love.

Thank you for joining me here this month, any thoughts, feedback, or questions are always welcome.

 

Mary

September 2024 - Celebration

 

Welcome to the Dare to Blossom Newsletter

Reflections: Celebration
The 'Shine Your Light' Compass Rose Programme: two taster circles before we start on 16th September
Bude 'Feel Good Festival' on Saturday 7th September
Other ways to connect
Reading Recommendations


Reflections: Celebration

My first response is: wow! Another bright card.....Celebration.


 

If you would like to join me in reflection, ask yourself the questions here, and write in your journal. Or, if you prefer, read on and come back later.

• What is your first response? To the word? To the colour?
• What else is there?
• And, what else?
• What does Celebration add to the other cards so far? How do the colours connect together? 

What else is there?

Celebrations are being planned for the launch of the audio version of Your Compass Rose Speaks: Rediscover Your Inner Wisdom - it is taking time to get it right, and that is fine, it will be released at just the perfect moment. 

And, what else?

Celebration: sometimes for me, life feels hard, and I can forget to simply enjoy each moment. To celebrate being alive, being here. Although I am getting better at halting negative thoughts, I love this reminder, and the bright, vibrant red.

What does Celebration add to the other cards so far? How do the colours connect together?  

What does Celebration add? Joy, fun, recognising the very fact that this year is unfolding beautifully (even when it does not always feel that way). Adding another bright colour to accentuate the flow of all the blues also feels joyful and playful. 


The 'Shine Your Light' Compass Rose Programme: two taster circles before the start on 16th September

This new programme 'Shine Your Light' - is an opportunity to gently explore your unique individual light within. How you would like to share it with the world - to shine - and how you wish your light to stay private for yourself too.

The taster sessions will be on Wednesdays 4th and 11th September at 11.00 am UK time.   Please do contact me for the Zoom links to join us or  if you have any other questions. I am delighted to say that there are enough people already signed up for this programme to run, and there are still spaces available if this feels a good time for you to embark on an exploration in company with me and a small group of like-minded people.

This six weeks together will offer you a place where you can begin to see your own inner light, so often hidden, hidden by yourself. As we share and witness for each other in our sacred circle, we will each begin to grow in confidence, and to allow our light to shine more brightly out into the world.

The fee will be £168 for the six weeks,  with a discount for previous attendees. As well as the weekly Zoom gatherings each Wednesday at 11.00 am, (with a recording in case you miss one or would like to listen again to the conversations and insights), you will be invited to a private Facebook group where I share weekly and daily prompts. (If you prefer not to take part on FB, I can send these by email to you).

When the six week programme ends you will have access to all the materials in the group to review whenever you wish. You will also be eligible to join the Stay Connected Group where we share a monthly Zoom catch-up call and you will be offered a discount on all future programmes.

You can pay in two instalments if you wish. Contact me to arrange this or to arrange a one to one Zoom chat so you can consider if this may be for you. I occasionally offer a concessionary rate place so if you are drawn to this programme, but money is an issue please do ask for a conversation about this.
 

Bude 'Feel Good Festival' on Saturday 7th September

I have decided to book a space at this event in Bude, it will be chance to meet old friends and new, to talk about my work and show people my books, art and cards in person for once. All being well a few items will be sold and take up their place in a new home. If you know anyone in that area please do help spread the word, it is free to come in and Bude is a lovely spot for a day out, with beautiful beaches, a great little museum and plenty of good cafes.

If you click on the image you will be taken to the Facebook event page, or simply contact me with any questions



I will be offering special prices on paintings and books for people who come to visit the show, and after the event I will extend those to you, my loyal newsletter readers, as well.

Other ways to connect

The monthly circles are continuing, the September dates are Saturday 14th at 11.00 am, and Monday 30th at 7.30 pm. Contact me to receive the Zoom links if you would like to join me for a peaceful hour together.

And, you are always very welcome to contact me to arrange a one to one chat on Zoom to discuss working with me as your coach or to find out more about any of my events or programmes.

Reading Recommendations

There are lots of great books coming out just now, and as you may know, I love buying from small publishers - the two I most often recommend are my own publisher Golden Dragonfly Press, and Womancraft Publishing.  They both have a big list of titles, as well as the upcoming releases. I am delighted to have been involved in a small way with the tenth anniversary celebration Compendium for Womancraft, pre-orders for that open on 6th September. If you visit their website and sign up for the newsletter you get first news and qualify  for discounts too.

I send wishes for health and happiness for you and all you love.

Thank you for joining me here this month, any thoughts, feedback, or questions are always welcome.

 

Mary

August 2024 - Radiate

 Welcome to the Dare to Blossom Newsletter

This summer's programme is a series of six workshops on Zoom so you can choose when to take part during the  holiday season - read on for more details.

Reflections: Radiate
Summer Compass Rose Workshops continue
The 'Shine Your Light' Compass Rose Programme: two taster circles before we start on 16th September
'Your Compass Rose Speaks' audiobook release very soon
Dare to Blossom Cards, Books and Art (exclusive sale prices on paintings for newsletter readers)
One to One Coaching
A shout-out for: Womancraft Publishing

Reflections: Radiate

So interesting to see the unusual flow of so many shades of blue interrupted by this summery card

Radiate: here in the UK it is summer, even though the weather recently has not been very good - lots of rain and clouds here in Cornwall, and now this week the sun has come out and it has been glorious. Such a cheerful card: I think of the smiles of the people here on holiday, of the joy of connecting with you however we do that.


 

If you would like to join me in reflection, ask yourself the questions here, and write in your journal. Or, if you prefer, read on and come back later.

• What is your first response? To the word? To the colour?
• What else is there?
• And, what else?
• What does Radiate add to the other cards so far? How do the colours connect together? 

What else is there?

Yesterday I did some writing in my little travelling journal, whilst sitting over a solo coffee in a peaceful cafe (which soon filled up with the buzz of others arriving). I will be sharing more of that further down in this newsletter as it was in connection with the September 'Shine Your Light' programme.

And, what else?

There are so many aspects to the word 'Radiate' The sun's radiation, that maintains life on Earth  Someone's personality that radiates out to the people around them. A radiator, providing heat in my home.

What does Radiate add to the other cards so far? How do the colours connect together?  

First, my eyes are drawn to the positions of the cards. Radiate is opposite Silence, Preceded by Intuition. All the sea blues interspersed with (so far) just two different colours. The warm yellow of Radiate speaks of the summer sun to me. And the equally warm red of Story reminds me of the red Devon sandstone cliffs at Sidmouth, a place my husband and I love visiting. The last time we were there was a stormy day in March 2023.





Summer Compass Rose Workshops

As I mentioned last month, it is nine years since I left full time employment and decided to focus solely on Dare to Blossom after the rather difficult time of being made redundant, helping to close up the office, and saying goodbye to colleagues, I decided to play - and so the idea of a 'Magic Carpet Ride' was born. Little did I know then that it would become such an integral part of all I do now.

If you read that piece last month, you may remember I have decided to offer stand alone workshops on Zoom during July and August. They will follow the usual flow beginning in the centre, in Peace, visiting each point of the compass: North - Purpose, East - Passion, South - Power, West - Progress, and returning to the centre point to Peace. For this summer season, you are invited to dip a toe in the water, to try out one or more of these workshops.

The first two workshops have taken place, both were a beautiful small gatherings with some powerful insights for all of us present.

Each can be booked separately, for £25, allowing flexibility around your plans for the summer. (If you are a member of the Stay Connected group of people who have taken part in any of the six week Compass Rose programmes then there is a special price for you).

All on Wednesdays at 11.00 am UK time. The next is on 7th august, and the theme is the East point of the Compass Rose, Passion.

Click here for all the dates and booking links, or simply reply to this email if you have any questions.

The 'Shine Your Light' Compass Rose Programme: two taster circles before 16th September

This new programme 'Shine Your Light' - is an opportunity to gently explore your unique individual light within. How you would like to share it with the world - to shine - and how you wish your light to stay private for yourself too.

The taster sessions will be on Wednesdays 4th and 11th September at 11.00 am UK time.  I may offer additional tasters at a later hour to be easier for those of you in North America. Please do contact me if this would be of interest to you, or if you have any other questions.

The six week turn around the Compass Rose will open week beginning 16th September. The fee will be £168 for the six weeks,  with a discount for previous attendees. As well as the weekly Zoom gatherings each Wednesday at 11.00 am, (with a recording in case you miss one or would like to listen again to the conversations and insights), you will be invited to a private Facebook group where I share weekly and daily prompts. (If you prefer not to take part on FB, I can send these by email to you). When the six week programme ends you will have access to all the materials in the group to review whenever you wish. You will also be eligible to join the Stay Connected Group where we share a monthly Zoom catch-up call and you will be offered a discount on all future programmes.

You can pay in two instalments if you wish. Contact me to arrange this or to arrange a one to one Zoom chat so you can consider if this may be for you. I occasionally offer a concessionary rate place so if you are drawn to this but money is an issue please do ask for a conversation about this.

'Your Compass Rose Speaks' audiobook release very soon

The release of the audio version of my most recent book is very close now. After an interesting experience for me recording it, and lots of work by my wonderful publisher Alice of the Golden Dragonfly Press, it is nearly ready, and will be available via Amazon/Audible

.


Dare to Blossom Cards, Books and Art  (exclusive sale prices on paintings for newsletter readers)

While I have been emphasising the new 'Time for You' Cards recently, all my other offerings are still popular - the two decks of 'Rediscovery Cards' are also only available direct from me.



I have some copies of most of my books that I can sign and dedicate for you, see the website page here, simply reply to this email to ask me about them. Alternatively you will find them from online booksellers.




Finally, here are some examples of my encaustic artwork -  I am aware that I have not updated my website page for some time as I have been mostly selling them via private connections. As a thank you to, my loyal newsletter readers, I am offering you special sale prices, all half price - £24 instead of  £48 (plus p&p to where you are), on any of the wax paintings shown here. They are small (mounted size 6"x8"), light, and easy to post. Showing them together doesn't really do the glowing colours justice, so I can send you a better photo, simply contact me to ask about availability of any you would like to buy.

 




One to One Coaching

The 'Deep and Slow' special offer for six x one hour sessions is still available. And so is the completely flexible 'Rediscovery Coaching' service where you can book one session or more, 30 minutes or an hour.

In any case, the first step is to contact me (or simply reply to this email) for a chat on Zoom to discover if it feels good for us to work together, and which option would suit you best. For those of us not busy with family and holidays, the summer months may feel a little empty, so this can be the perfect time to gift yourself the opportunity for some gentle in-depth exploration.

I send wishes for health and happiness for you and all you love.

Thank you for joining me here this month, any thoughts, feedback, or questions are always welcome.

 

Mary

July 2024 - Intuition

 

This summer's programme is a series of six workshops on Zoom so you can choose when to take part during the  holiday season - read on for more details.

Reflections: Intuition
Summer Compass Rose Workshops
Advance notice: the autumn 'Shine Your Light' Compass Rose Programme begins on 16th September
Dare to Blossom Cards, Books and Art 
One to One Coaching

Reflections: Intuition

My goodness, another blue, I have never seen such a flow of cards all in these shades. With each additional blue card, the warm red of story stands out even more somehow. That is my first response.

Intuition - the word also seems to continue a theme, how interesting.


 

If you would like to join me in reflection, ask yourself the questions here, and write in your journal. Or, if you prefer, read on and come back later.

• What is your first response? To the word? To the colour?
• What else is there?
• And, what else?
• What does Growth add to the other cards so far? How do the colours connect together? 

What else is there?

I have gradually learned to trust my own intuition over the years.

And, what else?

If I gift myself time to pause, to listen, what is my Intuition bringing for me just now? Right now I am not sure, so I return to looking at the flow of words around the year so far - Angels, Silence, Story, Reflect, Growth, Vision, Intuition. For me, this is prompting me to slow down, to take some time with my journal, away from my computer and my work.

What does Intuition add to the other cards so far? How do the colours connect together?  

The words I wrote here last month are even more true now -  "Somehow each blue is accentuating the soft red of Story, as if to keep asking 'What is your Story? And, where is the Beauty in the Story?'". And - what does Intuition add?


Summer Compass Rose Workshops

It is nine years since I left full time employment and decided to focus solely on Dare to Blossom after the rather difficult time of being made redundant, helping to close up the office, and saying goodbye to colleagues, I decided to play - and so the idea of a 'Magic Carpet Ride' was born. Little did I know then that it would become such an integral part of all I do now.

After consulting with my community of 'Dare to Blossom people', I have decided to offer stand alone workshops on Zoom during July and August. They will follow the usual flow beginning in the centre, in Peace, visiting each point of the compass: North - Purpose, East - Passion, South - Power, West - Progress, and returning to the centre point to Peace.

For this summer season, you are invited to dip a toe in the water, to try out one or more of these workshops.

Each can be booked separately, for £25, allowing flexibility around your plans for the summer. Alternatively, you may like to book all six in advance for £132 (£22 each). Currently they will be on Wednesdays at 11.00 am UK time.  There is the possibility of the occasional Thursday evening event to help with time zone challenges if there is enough interest - but for now I am keeping it simple..

Why would you join me? Here are some words from Sally Roberts:

"This gentle transformative process that Mary takes you through is extraordinary - deceptively simple and yet very powerful. In it you find parts of you that you may not have connected with before and messages of wisdom from your higher self that may inspire and guide you to your best life. Have a go …..you won’t regret it!"

We begin with Peace on Wednesday 24 July at 11.00 am 

Click here for all the dates and booking links, or simply reply to this email if you have any questions.


Dare to Blossom Cards, Books and Art 

While I have been emphasising the new 'Time for You' Cards recently, all my other offerings are still popular - the two decks of 'Rediscovery Cards' are also only available direct from me.



I have some copies of most of my books that I can sign and dedicate for you, see the website page here. Alternatively you will find them from online booksellers , or simply reply to this email to ask me about them.




Finally, here are some examples of my encaustic artwork -  I am aware that I have not updated my website page for some time as I have been mostly selling them via private connections. Some of these are still available, all £48 plus p&p to where you are, simply contact me to ask about any you are interested in, or to commission a painting.

 


One to One Coaching

After I removed my reference to this last month, I was asked if I still offer this service, the answer is yes, I do. The 'Deep and Slow' special offer for six x one hour sessions is still available. And so is the completely flexible 'Rediscovery Coaching' service where you can book one session or more, 30 minutes or an hour.

In any case, the first step is to contact me (or simply reply to this email) for a chat on Zoom to discover if it feels good for us to work together, and which option would suit you best. For those of us not busy with family and holidays, the summer months may feel a little empty, so this can be the perfect time to gift yourself the opportunity for some gentle in-depth exploration.

I send wishes for health and happiness for you and all you love.

Thank you for joining me here this month, any thoughts, feedback, or questions are always welcome.

 

Mary

June 2024 - Vision

 Reflections: Vision

'Space to Be, Space to Breathe' Compass Rose Programme begins on 3rd June
Dare to Blossom Cards Deck 3: 'Time for You' 

Reflections: Vision

My goodness, another blue, a brighter, sky blue, yet still continuing the theme for another month, apart from March's soft red of Story. That is my first response.

Vision. What do I see ahead, away in the distance, beyond my current planning of tasters and the next programme?


 

If you would like to join me in reflection, ask yourself the questions here, and write in your journal. Or, if you prefer, read on and come back later.

• What is your first response? To the word? To the colour?
• What else is there?
• And, what else?
• What does Vision add to the other cards so far? How do the colours connect together? 

What else is there?

Vision feels like a challenge for me just now. Almost as if I am afraid to look too far ahead.

And, what else?

Am I restricting myself? Putting blinkers on my vision, not allowing myself to see clearly other possibilities? I don't know, this feels like something for some private personal journalling and reflection before sharing.

What does Vision add to the other cards so far? How do the colours connect together?  

The pattern of colours feels extraordinary to me, six months, halfway through this year, and all the cards except one are shades of blue. Somehow each blue is accentuating the soft red of Story, as if to keep asking 'What is your Story? And, where is the Beauty in the Story?'

'Space to Be, Space to Breathe' Compass Rose Programme begins on 3rd June

This is the new six-week turn around the Compass Rose. The final Zoom taster circles is on Wednesday 29th May at 11.00 am UK.  All the details are on the website here - or as always, simply reply to this email to ask any questions you may have about the programme. And you are very welcome to come along to the taster circle simply to enjoy being there, here is the Zoom link in case you would like to join me.


 

The programme itself begins on Monday 3rd June (with the private Facebook group opening on 1st June).The Zoom gatherings will be on Wednesdays at 11.00 am UK time - unless those interested request another time that suits everyone. 

Dare to Blossom Cards Deck 3: 'Time for You' 

In case you did not se this last month, a third Dare to Blossom deck came into being recently.I now have plenty in stock and they are available via my website here, or simply reply to this email to ask me about them.



These are a little different to the Dare to Blossom Rediscover Your Inner Wisdom cards. 'The 'Time for You' cards are prompts for creative play or playful creativity, whichever way you like to look at it. Some people spread them all out and choose the one that draws their eye as a prompt. Others shuffle and draw one randomly. Some words are definitely active, such as Sing, or Drum. Others, while still verbs, are more restful - Observe, Doodle, and others simply fun - Giggle, Hug, Smile.



I send wishes for health and happiness for you and all you love.

Thank you for joining me here this month, any thoughts, feedback, or questions are always welcome.

 

Mary

May 2024 - Growth

 

Welcome to the Dare to Blossom Newsletter

Reflections: Growth
New Dare to Blossom Cards: 'Time for You' now available
'Time for You' celebration at 7.30 pm Monday 29th April
'Space to Be, Space to Breathe' Compass Rose Programme begins on 3rd June

New podcast interview on 'Tea, Toast and Trivia'

Reflections: Growth

This card - Growth - made me smile. The new Time for You cards grew from a seed of an idea, into a new offering very quickly, as you will see below. And then I was struck by the colours - the pattern of turquoise blue/greens with the warm red of Story in the middle.


 

If you would like to join me in reflection, ask yourself the questions here, and write in your journal. Or, if you prefer, read on and come back later.

• What is your first response? To the word? To the colour?
• What else is there?
• And, what else?
• What does Growth add to the other cards so far? How do the colours connect together? 

What else is there?

Here in Cornwall , spring has finally arrived with some dry weather after weeks of grey skies and rain, although it is still cold with a biting north or east wind. It is so wonderful to see some blue skies and sunshine and to walk on the cliffs again. New blossoms appear apparently every day, primroses and bluebells in the hedgerows and woods, spring squill, yellow vetch, violets and the very first buds of sea thrift on the cliffs.

And, what else?

Today, I am very tired, partly due to tackling the unwanted growth of brambles and nettles in our garden which need clearing so our vegetable plants to produce fresh food for us later in the year can go in

What does Growth add to the other cards so far? How do the colours connect together?  

The warm red of Story now has two turquoise blues on either side, and they tell a story in themselves. Angels, Silence, Reflect, Growth. All adding to the depth of the Story, the current story, the new story I want to create in my life. As I have mentioned before, I do not look ahead at the next word to come - even though I am most intrigued to see what it is when I come to write this piece for you next month.

New Dare to Blossom Cards: 'Time for You' now available

It is hard to believe that it was only a month ago when I had just received the inspiration for this new deck, I have never experienced one of my creative projects coming into being quite so quickly and easily. Rather than one proof pack, I ordered eight sets, one I kept for myself and the other eight sold out almost immediately. I now have plenty in stock and they are available via my website here, or simply reply to this email to ask me about them.



These are a little different to the Dare to Blossom Rediscover Your Inner Wisdom cards. 'The 'Time for You' cards are prompts for creative play or playful creativity, whichever way you like to look at it. Some people spread them all out and choose the one that draws their eye as a prompt. Others shuffle and draw one randomly. Some words are definitely active, such as Sing, or Drum. Others, while still verbs, are more restful - Observe, Doodle, and others simply fun - Giggle, Hug, Smile.



'Time for You' celebration at 7.30 pm Monday 29th April

This month the Monday evening circle is a celebration of the new cards, as well as the regular opportunity to connect. Come along to see the cards and have some drawn for you - despite saying they are a little different, I have been finding they are just as magical as the two decks of Rediscovery Cards when used in the group gatherings. And I will take us on a guided magic carpet ride visualisation too. This link with take you to the Zoom event at 7.30 pm UK time on Monday, or you can book via the Facebook event here.

I am offering a special package of the new cards my most recent creation, together with my first coaching publication Dare to Blossom: Coaching and Creativity (2008). The book is usually £8.95, the cards are £16, UK postage and packing would be £2.40,

I have just three print copies of the book in stock - you can purchase the package for £22, including UK postage, saving £5.35.

Contact me now if you would like one of these three spacial packages. If there are any left on Monday 29th I will offer them to those present - but I wanted you - my lovely subscribers here - to have the first chance. The book is always available via Lulu.com and Amazon, and the cards from me, but this offer is a once only opportunity.

 

'Space to Be, Space to Breathe' Compass Rose Programme begins on 3rd June

This is the new six-week turn around the Compass Rose. There are two Zoom taster circles on 22nd and 29th May at 11.00 am UK.  All the details are on the website here - or as always, simply reply to this email to ask any questions you may have about the programme.


 

The programme itself begins on Monday 3rd June (with the private Facebook group opening on 1st June).The Zoom gatherings will be on Wednesdays at 11.00 am UK time - unless those interested request another time that suits everyone. 

New podcast interview on 'Tea, Toast and Trivia'

Here is my second interview with Rebecca Budd for her 'Tea, Toast and Trivia' podcast. Rebecca is an ace interviewer who asks the most interesting questions - taking us down all sorts of intriguing 'back lanes and byways' in our conversations. All beautifully recorded and then edited expertly by Don. Thank you both for your time and enthusiasm.  Here is the link to listen, playing time just over 22 minutes. Season 6, Episode 6: Mary Lunnen on Your Compass Rose Speaks. I hope you enjoy listening. with love, Mary

I send wishes for health and happiness for you and all you love.

Thank you for joining me here this month, any thoughts, feedback, or questions are always welcome.

 

Mary