Chopping wood (and carrying water) – that’s what this year has felt like so far.
We’ve been grinding things out. Sometimes its been hard. And difficult. Unexpected things have happened and we’ve adjusted. Some days our bodies are tired and sore. Other days we are mentally stretched and challenged. Overall it has been magical and fulfilling. We are working at the basics and the foundations of a plan and vision we have for the future. Little steps are working for us, with a leap or a bound thrown in between.
I’ve had a yearning to post some news for a while. So finally, here is an update from Rhodi-Anne and I. A glimpse of what we’ve been up to. As always there has been much more.
LITTLE ROCK AND THE ART OF FARM LIVING
“If you are not overwhelmed by your dreams for the future, then your dream is not big enough.” We heard this on a video blog somewhere and in this context is completely true.
Six weeks ago we took occupation of the homestead directly next door to where we were already living. Custodianship feels like a better word to use.
We’ve taken an opportunity to create, grow and transform a blank canvas into something we’ve seen in our minds eye. Something that it wants to be or in many little ways, already has been for a very long time.We’ve called this magical homestead, Little Rock.
Showing, rather than telling just seems easier and logical. This is a small invitation to you, to do just that. If you are in the area, drop in and say hi. Your ideas may hold keys to all kinds of wonderful possibilities. At times we feel quite overwhelmed, so our dream must be big enough…and then we think of something else and it gets bigger. So with little steps we are chipping away. Lots of small tasks get big things done.
THE STONE COTTAGE AT LITTLE ROCK
We have previously shared progress we made renovating The Stone Cottage. Its a beautiful space, tucked under giant gum-trees with a private garden of 1300 olive trees.
Our original plan was to base ourselves in this old labour dwelling for the rest of this year, while we also completed its renovations.
Time has gone by so quickly and its already spring in September. We’ve got a lot done and had a chance to appreciate a beautiful winter. With snow on the mountains around us and spectacular views. Not all of the work is finished as planned. There is more to do. And we have moved out to the main farmhouse at Little Rock.
The final tasks to make The Stone Cottage completely guest ready includes hot water installation, some inside work on ceilings and walls, and finally on the surrounding garden and walkways. Our target date for completion is still a month or two away.
We are filled with gratitude that very special friends and volunteers have arrived, making a huge contribution in transforming this into a home-away-from-home, to welcome guests, friends and volunteers in the future.
THE MAGIC OF THE FLUTE
I’ve continued my study of Indian Classical music with the bansuri. It is ongoing and an integral part of my daily life. Online teaching has been very valuable and I’m so grateful to my teachers for sharing their time with me. Consistent practice and working on this art just a little every day, makes me feel like I am slowly getting closer to reproducing, and sharing, the sweet sounds and melodies I hear in my head.
The ragas I’ve learnt and am specifically concentrating on at the moment are Raag Bihag, Bhupali, Nat Bhairav, Puriya Kalyan and Yaman.
Included in this post is a short clip of Raag Hamsadwhani. It’s a bright, uplifting night-time melody. I’ve plans to release a full version with an updated soundscape. I hope that happens soon.
ASTROLOGY READINGS
We are still extending an invitation for a joint reading from us. Rhodi-Anne and I are very grateful for how much all the readings we’ve done via Zoom this has taught us. We continue to want as much practice as we can get.
For anybody wanting a reading of their birth chart, or would like to come back for a second time, we are now including progressions and transits. This helps us to share what’s happening for you in terms of your personal development; and give an interpretation of what is happening astrologically for you at the moment, in relation to your birth chart. At least until the end of the year, there is no charge.
A reading takes about 90 minutes. If you know your exact time, date and place of birth, let me know and we can arrange to connect via Zoom.
SOMA
We are consistently continuing our work with Soma and sacred mushrooms.
Here are some links to more information via video and podcast, or contact me if you want to know more.
Wilhelm van der Walt’s Afrikaans podcast on this topic can be found here – https://open.spotify.com/episode/7oB2pOFDL6hs55CEk4oTnk
Here is link to the latest Carte Blanche segment that was broadcast earlier this year – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QWpc3UtsvLM
Here is a podcast with internationally recognised and well respected lawyer Paul-Michael Keichel with an update on the legal case with the Constitutional Court – https://www.psychedelicsociety.co.za/blog/paul-michael-keichel/
OUR ONLINE HOME
https://avanar.online/ is my personal domain and outlet on the world wide web. This is where you will find some of my stories. This post, along with some history can be found there. Easily searchable and regularly updated.
Our online store can still be found at www.feathersandflutes.com. Soon it will move to its new home too.For now this all we have to share.
More importantly we wish each of you a fountain of love, good health and happiness. 