Chris's 70 birthday

Friends do not come more special than Chris. I'm so blessed to have had him in my life over the past 12 years.  It was wonderful to celebrate his 70th birthday with him.

Birthday tribute video

Lunch on the day at The Coal Loader

Chris's party at The Alchemist

 

Liz's 50th birthday

A tribute video I compiled for Liz.

At Liz's 50th party

Beautiful Jilly passes away

She was very ready to go but she will be so greatly missed. She passed peacefully in the presence of Mandy, her beloved daughter.  I was fortunate to phone her earlier in the day when she was still conscious and I was able to express my love and gratitude.   It is through Jilly that I have met many of my closest friends and her Eckhart evenings were a catalyst to incredible personal and spiritual growth, including my daily meditation and mindfulness practice which has transformed my life.

I really enjoyed putting her photo tribute together.  So many priceless memories!

I'll be sorry to miss Jilly's funeral as I will be in Iceland but I will be there in spirit.

My favourite sayings of Jilly

• "Love from my heart to yours. "
• "Thank you for all of life. The easy bits and hard bits. "
• "Yep yep"
• "Come round early for some Jilly zoop"
• "You can call me any time day or night..."
• "Let's make a circle. Would someone like to start an "om"
• "Let's have a cuppa"
• "The computer is broken. Nothing is working!"

Xenia's intuitive download "Purple Diamond"

The phrase "purple diamond" coming to you after asking for a sign could be deeply symbolic. Purple is often associated with spirituality, wisdom, and dignity—qualities that might reflect your friend's personality or the impact she had on your life. Diamonds symbolize strength, eternity, and unbreakable bonds, which might represent your enduring connection with her. Together, "purple diamond" could symbolize a precious, enduring memory or aspect of her that continues to influence and inspire you.

Xenia's poem recited at Jilly's funeral

Jilly I will miss your beautiful hugs as only you knew how to give

You welcomed us all to your home, showed us a little how to live

You provided comfort and nurturing with a warm and open heart

"Call on me any time", that you said from the start

When my Anthony was sick you supported me, and beside me you stood tall....

This was despite your own health challenges, at the time I recall

Your cheeky sense of humour and your ability for play

Your thoughts and insights shared with us will forever stay

Yes your way of giving was heartfelt and from your very core

And what I'll take from all of this, is to be like you a little more....

A reminder to be giving and a little gentler every day

But to also say it like it is, and honour ourselves in every way

Jilly I'm so grateful that I've known you and got to see who you truly are

And I'll always carry you with me, you will never be too far 

Photos on Jilly's funeral pamphlet

Video

• A beautiful video of Jilly singing, something she loved to do.

In loving memory of Graeme Perkes

A dear hiking friend, Graeme Perkes, passed away a week ago after a two year battle with cancer. Graeme lived life to the full more than just about anyone I know. He travelled all over the world, often exploring on foot or bicycle. He was a real inspiration. We will all really miss him.

I attended his funeral in Rouse Hill. It was a beautiful celebration of his life. Lauren did a wonderful speech that made us laugh through the tears.  She represented his friends. Graeme's two nephews also did a tribute, representing his family.

There were three tribute videos, one from his friends and one from the family. And lastly, and most special of all, was a video by Graeme of some of his photos and video footage from his hiking in Nepal. So beautiful and soulful. It felt even more profound because I am about to head to Nepal myself, in his footsteps.  I'll be doing the same hike as him to Everest basecamp.

A poem by Natham Lattimore, written and recited at Graeme's request

Hello God

It's been a while since we talked. A long time, in fact. You're like a distant family member I only see at Christmas. I remember you, though.

I remember the safety of your arms, and the warmth of your company. I remember the security I felt, as you spoke to me of the mysteries of life and the universe. That it all came down to love.

Even though we don't talk much anymore, I do remember that. The mountains I have climbed, and those I would never dare to attempt. The rivers I have waded through. The trees, united in forests that go on as far as the eye can see. All interconnected, all relying on one another for their survival. I see love, and its fingerprints wherever I look.

When I think of you, I think of my parents, my dear mum and dad, who did the best they could to raise me into as good, and kind a person as possible. I know that they credited you with every success they had; though myself, I see that in doing so they never gave themselves enough credit.

I don't claim to know the nature of existence. It's a mystery; an exciting one. Each adventure I have, I discover just the tiniest bit more of it; accompanied by yet more questions that may never be answered.

To leave this body, this shell that has failed me, and to become part of that mystery, to be enveloped by it... that may well be the most exciting adventure I have ever been on. And if you're there to meet me, then it will truly be nice to see you again.

Amen.

Slideshow for Michael

I did an end of life slideshow for Michael, Sue's wonderful brother, for when he eventually passes, hopefully a very long time from now.  It was really fun immersing myself in his favourite memories and photos.  Really soul enriching. At, the end of the day, we are all stories wrapped in skin and it was lovely getting to know his story.

Tribute video for Shushann

Shushann is a very dear friend. I created this slideshow to celebrate her birthday and our friendship.

A birthday tribute to Elna celebrating her 50th

In celebration of a beautiful friendship that I really cherish.