Cheralyn Darcey

Mind Body Spirit Festival, Plant Magick, Garden Goodness

It's been a week of feeling the fresh chill of winter roll in across the Lake and the bracing winds from the Sea, with of which seem to be emulating my tides of life at the moment. I'm slowly getting my feet back after a setback with my work and finding a way forward. It's easy to hide, to hibernate and withdraw completely for the warmth of comfort or the known at times like these but it's very liberating to rug up and be brave and forge forward. That's what I'm doing and feeling enlivened by it. Rug up and don't you give up either! There is no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing choice. 






The Language of Flowers and Plants and Magick


I love to garden, I adore exploring botanical history and I especially find interesting the way folk lore helps us with indications to the energy and therefore meanings of flowers and plants. Through these explorations across time, cultures, places and faiths, time again I find people practicing various Plant Magick. 
But what is Plant Magick? Does it exist? How can you experience it? 

 



My Garden This Week 
We found a daybed for the garden! *yah* 
This meant we needed to quickly learn how to build a retaining wall and do a bit of serious landscaping.

  

Veggies: 
Beans! More beans are sprouting this week and making their way up the fence. 
I put in a new eggplant. 

only two so far before the cold sets in I hope more might make it!

Harvesting: beetroot, celery, silverbeet, spinach, french beans, lettuce and a late tomato struck from some dug in compost. Very sweet tiny toms! 

adore my French Beans. Such pretty and delicate beauty

In The Studio
I am creating new labels and expanding the range of my Flower Mists. Many stores have now asked to stock these and I am busy making that happen. There's a lot of logistics that need to be properly set up. It's exciting getting this interest from people and places who already have my cards and now would like to make a deeper connection with my work. Very grateful. 
I will have a list of stockist available on my website soon and for those not able to find a nearby stockist, I will have them in my Etsy store. 




A flurry of joyful activity surrounds the creation of a Flora Flower series of books and I am incredibly grateful for a business which is encouraging me to "get her out into the world!" Flora loves plants and people and is looking pretty good in a series of books I hope to share with you all very soon. 

 





Mind Body Spirit Festival, Sydney 


I am delighted to be sharing two seminars at the upcoming festival in Sydney. 
Seminars are free for all Festival visitors and Festival entry tickets are free for those who register online  at this link: https://tickets.exponews.com.au/822


"Flower Reading for
Divination & Healing"
Saturday 29th May
11:30am Seminar Room B
Learn how you can Read Flowers
for healing and for insight in this interactive
workshop.
I will also gift a mini reading to each participant at the workshop.

"Sacred Flower Meditation"
Sunday 30th May
2:00pm Seminar Room B
Cheralyn invites to a beautiful healing
Flower meditation. Let us explore your
Flower Guide and hear what he or she has
to say to you.
I will also leave each meditation participant with a beautiful 
Spirit Guide Flower Reading.




Plant Resource of the Week
Every now and then the work of this wonderful author comes up in conversations and I love to share it. This week it was during an interview I was giving for a magazine. For those of you who have not explored the botany of desire, I'd really love to suggest the book/documentary. I'm not 100% aligned with Pollan's views on flowers but the heart of what he explores and sets forth is fascinating and will really help those of you also interested in ethnobotany and the language of flowers and plants. 
The Botany of Desire by Micheal Pollan book enliven my work and sent me on many different areas of thought and research when it was released and for a long time now the documentary has been around based on this amazing book.
I've mentioned both a lot throughout the years online, (on my blog and social media) and in my every one of my workshops and presentations. Again the past week it has come up again with those I've connected with.
Here is a link to a preview. It is shown from time to time on various services and available on DVD or you could read the book!

 



FLOWER OF THE DAY
If you follow my Florasphere Facebook Page you will find I share a FLOWER OF THE DAY postcard with interesting additional information, like the one below each day (at about 8am Sydney time). The artwork is either from one of my decks or books or from my journal or other art. I share the flower which I feel best connects with the energy of the day and perhaps it may contain something for you as well. To enjoy a new card each day which you are welcome to download and also to share them online, go to the Florasphere Facebook Page and click like and then click the like button again to set up how you would like to see the page in your timeline. 


The floral emblem of the Australian State of Tasmania is the flower of the magnificent Blue Gum Tree. They can grow to 70 metres in height with a 2 metre diameter trunk, an impressive guardian of the forests, plains and coastal regions of southern Victoria and Tasmania.
If this flower connects with you it may be indicating a need to look after yourself physically at the moment and to take a little extra care.
Be very careful of losing faith and hope with things which are challenging you at present. Stay the course and look at what you may need to let go of or even accept in order to move forward.
Can you grow a blue gum? Of course you can and you should grow trees! I would suggest that you go and have a chat with your local council and look at planting 'local native gums' as well. Your local wildlife and other plants will love you.
I would also suggest you chat with a local arborist/garden centre about the best places to plant in your garden so you do not have problems later on.
Flower blessings,
Cheralyn xx

Florasphere Flower Colouring Sheet 
Thank you for the many emails and messages thanking me for last weeks' sheet. This week, on request, i've created another Chrysanthemum Florasphere to colour with a larger blank centre. You can use this as a frame for an image or perhaps to add a name of quote. If you share online once finished, please ensure you add credit and if you share uncoloured, please do so as is (with all credit information). 

click on image for a full sized copy




The More I Know Bees ~ 
Colour is often explored for it's meaning and the ways in which it corresponds and interrelates with other energies and lifeforms. I found this article very interesting about iridescence this morning. Another layer to explore ~

Article link: 
Less Brilliant Flowers still keep Bees coming back
Bumblebees prefer petals that have a bit less shimmer

Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera Exhibition Sydney
I have two dates in July, and spots are now nearly filled ~ 
TO BOOK : Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera Exhibition Sydney Bookings
From the renowned collection of Jacques and Natasha Gelman, 40 brilliant artworks by Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera.
Complimenting this important collections is a selection of 50 photographs by Edward Weston, Lola Alvarez Bravo and Frida’s father, Guillermo Kahlo, to share with us insights into both artists’ worlds and their relationship.

Facebook Event Page (which has gone a little crazy) 

Join me for a relaxed friendly gallery tour with like-minded Frida & Diego lovers.
After our walk~through, you are welcome to join us for light refreshments to chat
​and share our experiences.

The cost of the group visit will be the face value of the tickets ($30) plus $5 donation to the Frida Kahlo Foundation, helping children and women in need.
In the unlikely event that circumstances prevent tour, a full refund will be sent to you immediately. Refunds are not available for other reasons, sales are final, tickets are transferable.
TO BOOK : Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera Exhibition Sydney Bookings

Wishing you a wonderful week ahead,
may Nature fill it with beautiful blessings,
Cheralyn xx

This Week ~ Book Completed, Yoga & Free Running Nasturtiums

BOOK COMPLETED 

To finish creating anything , a book, an artwork, anything creative, is a very strange mix of emotions. 
This week, Friday at 2:30pm Sydney time to be exact, I completed writing what I refer to as my 'Big Book'.



Well, it's not particularly big but it has filled a very big part of my world for decades. It's a book I wanted and couldn't find and it's a book which is particularly special as I feel it brings all my work together and provides a very good foundation for what is to come.
I got to a certain point with the book two months ago and I realised something additional needed to be included and I have worked solidly around the clock to make that happen for Deadline. It has meant that I did need to put many things aside and I haven't been the best friend, family member or even participant in a lot of things while I made it all happen. My mind, body and soul were 100% focused on the book for that time.
Some relationships were tested and others strengthened by it and new ones emerged because there is no more selfish thing to do than to completely give yourself over to a creative project, without out-sourced administration or a daily living infrastructure to support you. The bottom line, I can not afford either and need to be pretty much the soul provider of these these things for various reasons.  I think if I could afford to provide these things? I would probably love a cleaner, a manager and an assistant. In that order. 
Now I am out the other side, I have to say that as wonderful as the moment is, it didn't come without a few scars. I've put on a few kilos. I went to the gym 5 times a week but sitting on your bum all those hours and getting the nibbles because you gave up coffee will do it! So the mission is on to remove those now. I've missed really good opportunities as I have not been able to follow up on them or notice them before it was too late and I've not participated in many activities, groups and involvements which I enjoy. Oh and my house is as dusty as a haunted house and let's not go into the fridge/science experiment! 
But the garden is wonderful.

planting winter goodness

The seasons stop for nothing and without my dawn gardening daily ritual, I think I would of 'lost it'. 

I am incredibly grateful for those who supported me with their friendship, love and interest. 
There are many people who follow my work surrounding Botanical History and the branch of Ethnobotany I follow with the focus I have with Flowers and I am blessed with the path crossings and the time we spend together. While it is also true I have also experienced a few disappointments along the way recently, the majority of people are really lovely and genuine, without an agenda and with an honest interest in this field of work and for that I have found a lot to be grateful for. 


So the 'Big Book' is completed and I have illustrations to tidy up and finish over the next week and then await the machinations of publishing to happen. It's an exciting time and a funny time. You finish and now you wait and wonder what will be for your baby, but you need to let go. Of course I wonder and worry if I did enough, if I did it 'right' but I did what was in my heart and I created from a place of loving nature, botany, gardening and people and it comes from the foundation all the work I have done and all the experiences I have had in this field for over three decades so if nothing else, there is complete truth to the work.

Now off you go book, fly and be free and may you land in the hands of those who love the subject as I do and perhaps bring sunshine and warmth as you have me.

YOGA
So through all this last couple of months, I joined the local gym, found an amazing Personal Trainer, who happens to be the gym Yoga Teacher so not only did i start doing some more serious working out but I began doing Yoga. I love both. Firstly Helen, my trainer, has done amazing things getting me to do weights again by working around the injury issues I have, to the point that I can now raise my arm to all extension (yes I'm amazed!) I've also overcome my fear of Yoga. Well not Yoga itself, just the uber competitiveness and cliqueiness of any classes I've tried. Helen runs the most wonderful space and I adore going. 
Not only have I begun Yoga, so has Mr Darcey!

that's a pretty good tree

 
TRAVEL
Sadly we have had to postpone our trip to Uluru in a few weeks for personal reasons. We did share with all our friends and family that this was happening but as those close to us know, it really won't be possible right now. All things sometimes for a reason. 
We are now looking at September and perhaps may even be able to extend to a bit of a Wildflower Trek as well.


FLOWER GARDENING
It's defiantly Nasturtium time for me!


Yes they can run wild and need to be looked after but there's something uplifting and enlivening about these flowers happily tumbling over everything isn't there? They are connected with vitality and victory and heal those feeling deflated or exhausted. They seem to give you that kick you need to get over the line. Yes yes, I did find much strength with my Nasturtium friends in the garden the past few weeks myself ;) 




So easy to grow and they are delicious in salads, wraps and sandwiches. I grow mine in areas which are challenging for other plants as they provide a pretty fill while still being useful. As I said, you need to watch these cheeky guys as they will take over! I've planted standards, climbing and dwarf and hopefully will have some black velvets to show you in the coming weeks. 

WHAT'S COMING UP?
Well my poor old social media sites, websites and so on are looking sad at the moment so you can look forward to new energy over at my Youtube Channel this week with Flower of The Day Videos beginning! I know how much you all love the postcards so this is an extension of that 

Hop on over and subscribe so you never miss an episode: 
FLORASPHERE YOUTUBE CHANNEL LINK  


More colouring in and creativity videos are also on their way ~ all with Flower love and inspiration!  
I have just noticed I seem to have somehow lost my URL and need to find out what happened there. Ah another technical task to do this week. 



FLORA FLOWER 

I have shared Flora publicly for a few years now after being frightened for a very long time of someone 'stealing' her.
Silly as she deserved to be out in the sunshine. 

I've shared the story of the young flower girl who loves gardening and nature with many people for many years before that and I've often wondered where she would 'end up'. I'm still not sue but rest assured that behind the scenes I have been working on a few projects which involve her. My dream is to see her animated one day but before that in a series of books. 
You can be her friend on Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/MsFloraFlower
and follow her board on Pinterest
https://au.pinterest.com/florasphere/flora/



THIS SUNDAY
So looking forward to this wonderful day at Sydney's Royal Botanic Garden. 
I have a few of these days planned for the rest of the year too and one later in the year in Brisbane. 
If you are in Sydney, you are most certainly invited. More information here: https://www.facebook.com/events/186234388411774/





So until next week, 

May Nature always bless you and may you always be a blessing to Nature! 

Bunches of Love, 

Cheralyn xx 










 

Florasphere this Week ~ Magazine Article, Technique Tutorial, New Books and a Design Team Call

Hello! 

Well it has been a rather busy 6 months. 
Renovating a house and garden while still working is rather challenging but it's fun, I'll say that. 
While this has gone on my colouring books were going through final edits and they are about to be released Australia wide on 1st December.
A massive thank you to all the stores who ordered from the distributors as the 1st Edition had to be increased and we are going into 2nd edition before the arrival. 
I am incredibly grateful for the colouring book love! The Florasphere Webpage can be found here: www.florasphere.com

MAGAZINE ARTICLE
For those interested in why I created coloured books in the first place and of a little behind the scenes walk through my experiences with colouring in, I was invited to write for the wonderful Sage Magazine this month and that article appears here at this link ~ 
SAGE MAGAZINE ARTICLE LINK

It also insides 4 full sized downloadable Floraspheres of Sage Flowers and Plants for readers! 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

FLORASPHERE TECHNIQUE TUTORIAL
Colouring in should be whatever your imagination and bliss wants it to be, but it helps from time to time to learn a few techniques to challenge you and to provide continued interest. 
Lucky I'm an Art and Craft teacher! ;) I've been building a little library on my Florasphere Youtube Channel of techniques to inspire everyone to try something a little different or to work on building their creativity skills over here at this link  FLORASPHERE YOUTUBE CHANNEL

This week, I shared a Tutorial on Shading after many messages requesting information on how I created the effect in a few progress photos I shared at the Florasphere Facebook Page

 

NEW BOOKS
Right now I am blessed to be working on new Florasphere Books which you will see next year. It;s a very exciting time and I thank you all so much for the lovely connections and messages that I receive every day. It really is such a heart warming thing to see something you personally love to do, engage with others. As always, I am firmly planted with what I've always worked with ~ Flowers and Plants as I really believe that the best work comes from doing what your truly are passionate about and staying focused. News soon on what those titles are but for now ~ enjoy the Floraspheres that are about to be officially released!

Florasphere Inspired, Australian Wildflower Colouring Book
and Florasphere Calm, Australian Wildflower Colouring Book


For wholesale enquires, have chat with my publisher at this link: Rockpool Publishing

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 DESIGN TEAM CALL
Way back when, I used to be on a few Design Teams in the Craft Field and I loved my time creating and being part of the behind the scenes crafty fun. I thought I would extend this concept into my Colouring In world with the formation of a group for 2016. I'm looking for people who are passionate about colouring in, love to share their work and who just want to have a bit of fun with me. You don't have to be the best at colouring in, you just have to be committed to the year and to want to play with us! If this sounds like you, read on: 

FLORASPHERE COLORISTA LINK has more details. 

Until next time, 
May Nature always bless you! 
Cheralyn xx 

Flora Colouring In ~ 'Sydney Harbourside Flower Sketching'

Hello Colouring~In friends!!

I have been asked if I have any colouring in of me to share, well yes I do.

Here is one of me a few weeks ago sketching some Red Waratahs, Orange Banksias and Creamy White Flannel Flowers.



*click on this image to be taken to a full sized sheet for you to download 
Now these sheets of me are for personal use only and you can share them online but you must keep Cheralyn's name on them (it's in tiny grey text on the bottom) so people know who created them. 


I think Flannel Flowers are the same colour as the Opera House!
Anyway have fun colouring friends! Actually I can't wait to see how you colour me in SO~
If you want to share your finished Colour In, go to my Facebook profile and add it to my wall: https://www.facebook.com/MsFloraFlower

Love, Flora Flower 

Nature Inspired Colour In Time with Flora Flower!

A few years ago I did put a few of my designs up on this blog with colouring~in versions for everyone.
I noticed that adults seemed to like them just as much as kids. That's rather awesome! 
I have been asked A LOT this past few weeks for colour in versions of Flora Flower because the school holidays in Australia are approaching, but I think it's just a cover that the big people are using. ;) 

Oh and this was my 'helper' Sundar  this morning as I drew Flower Flower for you all.
YES!!!...I had to stop for cuddles! 




Well here is Flora Flower with a Happy friend in the garden to get you started and I would LOVE to see what you do (no age barriers either!) 

Post them on the Florasphere Facebook page: www.facebook.com/florasphere 


*to download: click on the image and you will be taken to a new page with a full resolution image. Simply right click and save to your computer. Please note that this image is protected under international copyright laws and is for personal use as a colouring in page only. It must not be used or reproduced in any other way.