Audacity Magazine Issue 1

AUDACITY SEPTEMBER, 2020

ISSUE NO. 1

SEPTEMBER 2020 BELIEVE

contact me Audacity Magazine P.O. Box 641 Roma Q 4455 Australia Phone: +61 0429 729 824 Email: kateduff72@icloud.com Audacity Magazine is the official newsletter of the blog thousandbitsofpaper.com

Editorial Kate Duff

Socials: Instagram: kate_duff_poetry Twitter: @1000bitsofpaper Blog: athousandbitsofpaper.com Website: https://www.patreon.com/AudaciousHum ans

WELCOME Believe a thing is so and so it is I’d like to welcome you to the first issue of Audacity Magazine - thanks for signing up!

I made it! One magazine - as promised - delivered.

On the 1st August,2020 I posted on my blog that in 30 days I would have the first issue of my newsletter, scratch that, magazine, published and delivered to your inbox. I didn't even know how to write a newsletter let alone a magazine.

Yet here we are.

Audacity was born out of sheer audacity and I love that!

This month has been a steep learning curve and finding some wonderful people to interview for our theme for the month BELIEVE because that is what I have been doing for the last month right? A whole lot of believing.

Looking to subscribe? Head right to the red type, on this page and click on the link, enter your email address and next month you will have the magazine delivered to your inbox.

This month International guests River Dixon - Publisher/Poet George aka Zoolon Audio Musician/Poet Author Katherine Turner.

Blogger & Digital Creator SARAH aka @sassagirl From Australia Poet/Musician Paul R Kohn, Adelaide Abstract artist Kris Org, Sydney, Donna Glasson Bunya Mountains Astrophotography Amanda Weyman-Jones , Roma Tammy Duckworth of the Bella Band phenomenon subscribe easily by clicking here https://mailchi.mp/50d22854e480/subscrib e-to-audacity-magazine-today

Are you audacious?

Excellent!

Contact me today and tell me your story.

This month

Poet/Publisher - River Dixon "If their work speaks to me I will publish it.

River Dixon lives in Arizona where he is a poet and last year opened Potters Grove Publishing. I regularly read his poetry and blogs and it's a pleasure to share a little of his story here.

River, you're a wonderful poet with several books including Colder, The Stories Between, Beyond the Field and your latest Left Waiting which I loved. I'm still getting around to your earlier ones which I'm sure would be just as good.

Recently you opened your own publishing company Potter's Grove Press. Tell me , why open your own publishing company?

I wasn't interested in playing the game with agents or big publishers. Not to mention, when it comes to poetry, it is extremely difficult to find a publisher who is willing to take a chance.

Large publishers have to look at things through a money-making lens. I don't care what is the flavor of the moment or how many social media followers a writer has. If their work speaks to me I will publish it., Another thing I have noticed, is that many publishers make the author feel as if they are doing them a huge favor by publishing their work. I hate that. If you work with us, you are given the respect and appreciation that you deserve.

Each author is welcome to be as involved in the entire process as they want to be . It's a symbiotic relationship

LATEST RELEASES FROM POTTER'S GROVE What are some of the latest releases we should check out for Potter's Grove?

Honestly? All of them. I can't single out a favorite they are all different and all special. We've started expanding beyond poetry and delving into short story collections novellas and novels. I have a wide range of reading interests, so I want our catalog to offer something for everyone.

WHAT DO YOU BELIEVE ABOUT SUCCESS? “I'm not even sure what success is? I guess, to me, it's if I feel I am making steps towards where I want to be. I feel like I have succeeded if I have left behind something worthwhile, something that even just a few people feel was worth their time to read.

How has this belief helped you in life?

It's a tough place to get to, but it can be done.

I think it has helped because I don't get hung up on sales, money, reviews, etc. I'm not concerned about winning awards or the like. I just want to keep putting out work, and I enjoy helping others do the same.

What is your favorite thought/philosophy/motto?

If you could change one belief you have about yourself or life what would it be?

I have a reoccurring feeling of worthlessness. It's something I've somewhat overcome as I've grown older and learned to not let it control or define me, but I really wasted a lot of years of my life because of giving in to that feeling.

How would it change your life just changing that belief?

I believe, for anyone, if they can reach the point where they fully recognize and accept the full value they bring to the world, then it would fundamentally change everything about their life.

If you want to do something, then do it. Don't sit around talking about it, thinking about it, planning it, just start doing it. The details will work themselves out.

"if you want to do something, then do it. Don't sit around talking about it, thinking about it, planning it, just start doing it. The details will work themselves out."Â

Media Links: www.thestoriesinbetween.com www.pottersgrovepress.com https://amazon.com/author/rive rdixon

December 20

Out Now

September 20

KATHERINE TURNER AUTHOR

Katherine Turner hales from Haymarket, Virginia in the US. Katherine, I've read your book "Finding Annie" and found it to be a beautiful piece of women's fiction that had deeper emotional layering than most, as such I have recommended to quite a few people.

I chose you for this first edition's theme of "believe" because I have read on your blog that you have overcome a lot of early belief systems in order to become where you are today. Can you give us a bit of background?

Katherine: So my early childhood was riddled with neglect and abuse until I landed in a more stable environment. When I was eight along with my sister, we were placed in the foster care of a wonderful woman who then raised us and fortunately we never had to move to another foster home.

I struggled emotionally during my childhood and teen years and found myself perpetuating a downward spiral of self destruction into my late teens and early twenties.

I was lucky enough to encounter a situation that allowed me to step back, see what I was doing to my life and begin to take steps to change. I went back to college, attained my degree in accounting and my CPA. I currently still work in accounting during the day but I write whenever I get the chance around going to work and raising my two daughters.

"I have found a way to incorporate my passion into my life and that, to me is success"

What Inspires you?

I spent my younger years suppressing my childhood and pretending to myself that it didn't happen. That it had no impact on me, however after my eldest daughter was born I realized that my past was haunting me more than I cared to admit.

I was motivated to take responsibility and do something about that because I didn't want to unintentionally pass my trauma onto my children.

The day I had that realization, I began the difficult journey to unearth everything I could that was hidden in the shadows.

As I began to unpack and process my past, my life long love affair with writing returned. I decided to use my writing to craft realistically flawed characters - like me - to let others who had been through the types of experiences I had, know that they weren't alone.

I also wanted to shed some light on the reality of living as an adult with a traumatic past and show the truth of what that looks and feels like.

I see this with your book Annie and I think her character's complex nature was refreshing and very true to life. So now you are a published author is this what success looks like to you? How do you define success?

I believe success is spending time on things that you find fulfilling. The activities that matter to you. Writing is a part of who I am and I have always been passionate about helping people and trying to reset the way people see each other. We all need compassion and understanding.

While I may not be able to leave my day job to do this full time yet, just the hour or two per day that I get to spend on writing books and blog posts that help others has bought me more fulfillment than anything else I have done..

If you could change one belief you have about yourself or your life what would it be?

This is a tough question. I think deep down, I still harbor a belief that people will not see me the same way or want to remain part of my life as I open more of myself up and continue to find my voice with sharing my experiences and speaking up about what matters to me.

"I've spent a large portion of my life keeping my story to myself out of fear so it is still new for me to be so open, vocal and vulnerable."

WHAT WOULD IT CHANGE IN YOUR LIFE TO BELIEVE SOMETHING DIFFERENT?

IÂ would be confident in myself and my relationships. I would experience less anxiety every time I use my voice.Â

Twitter: https://twitter.com/kturnerwrites?lang=en Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kturnerwrites/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kturnerwrites/ Website: https://kturnerwrites.com/

18

"I don't want to miss an opportunity to help others because I was too afraid to speak up"

You can find out more about Katherine on her social links below. Her book "Finding Annie" is available from Amazon https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08 4GCMQH

Add a little bit of body text

New Beginnings

After all that has happened, all that has passed The road that has been traveled deserves a new start A brand-new beginning a chance to make things right to grasp what has been learnt, to grow to stand up to fight for what we believe in, for what we know is true to make it as it needs to be for me and for you all things happen for a reason, beginning through to end As we look inside, reflect and heal, trust in the process...

Start over Begin Again

Paul R Kohn

MUSCIAN

PAGE 6

INTERVIEW

A MAN OF KENT AN INTERVIEW WITH GEORGE BLAMEY STEEDON

Background

Oddly, I know, I don't go looking for things that inspire.

Thanks for agreeing to an interview George tell me, where

It's a haphazard approach to composition that seems

do you live?

to work for me. In other words, inspiration has to find

I was born in Tonbridge in the county of Kent on the

me. It's the only way I can compose. I think, as with

right side of the River Medway which in folklore makes

every art form, having a strict plan can kill creativity.

me "A Man of Kent" although from the age of five until

Business wise not having a plan can be a disaster

I went to Uni, I lived in Dartmouth in Devon .

though.

For the last few years, I'm back in Kent living on the edge of Dover near The White Cliffs. On a clear day I get to see France across The Channel, just 20 miles away.

That's such a beautiful picture in my minds eye.

George you're a multi talented man, an amazing

Creativity & Business aren't exactly the best of friends Things that arrive out of the blue like for example my "POEMS TO SONG" idea and the new product "PROMO VIDEO FOR AUTHORS" do inspire simply because they arrive without warning. Things I didn't expect inspire me the most.

musician, a poet and you are also the author of a book entitled "The Words and Thoughts of a Dyslexic Musician) You write some of the most interesting blog posts I have read - what inspires you?

Just a heads up, last year I used George's "Poems to Song" idea for my husband's Christmas present. He did such an amazing job and I'm still reeling in brownie points from it!

- ZOOLON AUDIO -

What do you believe about success?

It depends how you define success.

Accomplishing an aim or attaining fame, wealth, or social status honestly don't do it for me . I've always been random in the way I think. Success to me comes at the point a new song or instrumental is completed whether or not it makes money. Although it goes without saying that we all need an income, but as long as I'm surviving I'm happy.

How has this belief helped you in

If you could change one belief you

life?

have about yourself or life what would it be and what would it

As you know, I work alone, doing everything from composing,

change?

That's an interesting question in

singing, playing all the music and

that I'm - so the world tells me -

doing the final mixing and

properly colour blind. As a kid I got

mastering myself. It's the only way

chucked out of art class because

I can work so I guess hunting alone

the teacher thought I was

has helped me in life. I often think

deliberately painting the sky yellow

back to one of my early songs. Part

when actually I didn't have a clue

of the lyric reads, "when all the

what yellow looked like. Odd for

pieces come together, and If don't

sure. On the one hand I'd like to

like the picture am I stuck with it

spend a day seeing what other see

forever?" Avoiding that fate, the

but worry if I did get that

best I can, sums me up

opportunity, I might not like what

Links to some of George's most loved songs.

Devil's Kiss https://zoolonaudio.bandcamp.com /track/devils-kiss-feat-fifi-rong Pride&Time https://zoolonaudio,bandcamp.com /track/pride.time Sunlight&Dust https://zoolonaudio.bandcamp.com /track/sunlight-and-the-dust

they see. I might ruin my relationship with music.

"I DON'T DO EGO, I'M JUST ME." Ha! I like that, I really do. So often

If you would like to know more

people try and fit in with the norm

about George or take advantage

but you are correct - it could

of either his "POETRY TO SONG"

contribute to wrecking our point of

or "PROMOTIONAL VIDEO" for

difference - which of course is the

authors then please check out

only thing we have.

the social media links below.

For Promotional Video: https://zoolonhub.com/promo-video-for-authors/

What's your favourite inspiration/belief/thought/motto?

BANDCAMP https://zoolonaudio.bankdcamp.com/

I like to vary the genres I work in

REVERBNATION

from things as diverse as classical

https://www.reverbnation.com/zoolon

music to heavy metal, ambient,

TWITTER

acoustic, folk, sound art and

https://twitter.com/ZoolonAudio

experimental types of music. Other than a complete lack of uniformity, in terms of belief, I don't do egos, I'm just me. I'd like to thankyou for having me Kate.

This George, has been my absolute pleasure.

OPRAH WINFREY

YOU DON'T BECOME

WHAT YOU WANT

YOU BECOME WHAT YOU

BELIEVE

A FEW OF THOUGHTS ON THE IMPORTANCE OF

BELIEVING HARD What do you believe about yourself?

Failure in our ancient lives meant accident or death.

The amygdala or lizard brain, which operates in the moment and governs our behavior in the present

What do you think you are capable of?

recognizes this fact and it avoids failure at all costs.

What would you do, if money was no object and

Our brains still unconsciously react according to

you knew you could not fail? These are all

these outdated systems today. It causes havoc in our

important

daily lives, even though it is not terribly relevant

questions

because

basically

they

determine the course of our lives.

What you believe about yourself can be changed.

When this changes, so does what you are capable of.

Unfortunately, what you are capable of, can only change if you can believe in yourself regardless of failure, regardless of a lack of money and regardless of any other obstacle life throws up to block you.

Most people will not get past what they believe about themselves, even if what they believe changes, because when failure happens, they get hurt, become scared and revert back to their original belief systems.

Change is hard. The human brain does not like change. The human brain functions best when it is in a “known” environment. In the majority, we

anymore.

This ancient part of our brain runs by a simple philosophy, avoid pain, seek pleasure and be efficient as possible.

Growth requires change. Change requires us to become uncomfortable and this means that we are poking our amygdala in all the places it hurts. As a result, we suffer. Sometimes we suffer so terribly that we are forced back into our old patterns and growth is disabled.

When we don’t get the record contract, we give up on music. We pitch our beloved manuscript to dozens of publishers and the continual rejection hurts so much that we give up writing,

like things to happen the way that we think they will. We like to plan and we like the end result to

There are dozens of examples but the saddest is the

be as expected.

one that begins in the childhood education system.

The child that gets the “F” and is told that he/she is not smart enough and therefore forms a belief system based around this so that he/she never bothers to strive for anything in life.

Hacking the system There are ways to hack the system. The amygdala is certainly a strong influence where it comes to our reactions but it isn’t the only part of our brain that we use. The prefrontal cortex is a far more evolved and sophisticated piece of machinery. It is not as loud as the amygdala but it can be trained not to run like a dog in a lightning storm. What’s more important, is that the PFC is extremely useful for planning and reward. When we overcome an obstacle, an emotion or simply follow through on a plan in a way that makes us feel satisfied we get to experience a natural chemical high.

Successful people know (either unconsciously or consciously) how to use their brain's neurotransmitters, dopamine, cortisol, seratonin and oxytocin together with their PFC to control and create advantage.

We think so much of what happens to us is out of control yet that couldn't be further from the truth.

The brain is a sophisticated and powerful but it has many systems that can be likened to a computer. If you begin to learn the hacks of positive psychology and discover how to control your chemicals as well as the thoughts and feelings that come out of your mind, you will change your life. This is something that can be taught and learned.

The steps to self-belief and confidence begin with commitment, move through courage, develop some capability by actually failing a few times to (find out what works and what doesn’t) and then finally arrive at the desired outcome mindset wise.

You don’t always begin with self-belief but you will end up there and after that, guess what? You get to grow again and go through the same damn hard process.

Keep growing and expanding, the planet needs more evolved humans who love what they do and most importantly have the guts to follow what they love - relentlessly.

Written by Kate Duff

Cook

enjo y Kate Duff

VEGAN CHOCOLATE

Recipe Minimalist Baker.com s promised on the blog, one "sort of

A

healthy", chocolate recipe. This one comes from the Minimalist Baker.com website. Check it out lots of brilliant recipes there.

I'm not going to faff about here because frankly a fair bit of writing on more important topics going on this month. But I love good chocolate and I don't like guilt nor hard messy recipes. This requires basically 3 ingredients and 1 bowl hence it made the cut - here we go, keep up now.

Swe et

Ingredients: 1 cup finely chopped cocoa butter (packed) 3-5 tblsp maple syrup or sub agave nectar but why would you?)

1/2 cuup unsweetened cocoa powder or cacao powder (if you like the different spelling and more goodness - the taste is about the same) 1 tsp vanilla extract 1 pinch sea salt toppings - see picture left of make some things up Camera or phone to take a photo of the end result and publish to social media like some smug person... but maybe that is just me Method Silicone pan or baking tray lined with paper or baking cups or whatever you have.

Add 2" of water to a large saucepan and bring to boil over medium high heat. Then set a medium bowl on top - make sure it's not touching the water.

To the mixing bowl add finely chopped cocoa butter and melt 2-3 minutes

Once melted, add the other ingredients and whisk to ensure there are no lumps.

Taste and adjust flavours.

Pour into your container and transfer to freezer to set.

Enjoy straight from fridge or freezer.

Store leftovers (pardon?) in a sealed container for 1 week in the fridge or freezer for a month. Hahahaha a month. Oh I do crack myself up sometimes.

AMANDA WEYMAN-JONES

INTERVIEW

I WAS DIAGNOSED WITH MS AT 22 WHEN I HAD MY FIRST SON.

These stark words greet me from the top of

Amanda:

Amanda's email reply to my request for an

I was diagnosed with MS when I was 22 and had

interview.

just had my first son. I had a cousin, brother and sister already suffering with it and they were all

Everyone in Roma knows Amanda. Her

quite advanced and needed a lot of my family's

huge sparkling smile and bright eyes. Her

care.

slim fragile figure which belays a sharp wit and fierce courage. Her kindness and warm

I, at this stage, was not very badly affected so I

smile extend to everyone that walks into

really just ignored it.

Carriages, arguably Roma's finest dining restaurant.

My neurologist at the time said, when I questioned what was laying before me, that I

This time last year the local paper ran a

could be hit by a bus, die of cancer, be in a plane

story on Amanda's brave decision to

crash or live my life to the fullest.

journey to Russia for HSCT (Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation).

So I decided to do just that. Live my life to its fullest.

HSCT treatment is still in the experimental stages here in Australia.

This is her story in her own words which she kindly shared with me.

I really never thought of myself as sick or unwell in any way. Even when MS attacked I would put it down to something else.

I was too busy and did not invite it into my body.

I didn't actually notice how bad it had grown till I saw a video taken of my walking in the restaurant before leaving for Russia.

It was winning and I hadn't noticed After returning from Russia I had a couple of months off.

I slowly got back into working seven nights a week once more and my health gets better every day.

I have been incredibly blessed by my wonderful family, friends and the Roma district for a new life and will be forever grateful.

I try to tell my story to all MS sufferers because I am a success story. Many of course, are nervous of the procedure I underwent, as it is the unknown but unfortunately THERE IS NO OTHER CHOICE at this moment.

Sometimes you have to remember that you too are a worthwhile human being who still has a job to do The treatment in Russia was just amazing. They are very advanced in their treatments of MS and I hope Australia can soon discover this too.

For the best stay when in Roma or just for a beautiful dining experience contact Amanda and Charles at the Overlander (see links below)

https://www.overlandermotel.com.au/

Photos from top - Amanda bids goodbye at the airport off to Russia for treatment. With daughter Chloe in Russia and now, radiant.

Paul R Kohn is a writer of poetry and prose a performer of spoken word and a creator of music and lyrics.

Paul is from Adelaide, South Australia. While I enjoy Paul's poetry I particularly respect his passion for sharing and supporting other Australian poets

Paul tell me what does the role of Curator involve?

Curating involves reading a lot of poetry, selecting poems that I connect with and sharing them to support the author.

Tell me about the online events, which have exploded in popularity since Covid 19?

There few different forms and formats to online events: Instagram events where you can request that a host lets you join and share a poem or two. The only audience interaction is in the comments.

"Â I have a focus on sharing Australian Poets and their poetry with the world. We have some amazing talent and it is important to spread the word, show how relevant and diverse Australian Poetry is"

Facebook Live events/Video events, where recordings are submitted prior to the event and played back to the live audience. The audience interaction is again in the comments.

Zoom events are the most interactive online events, as all attendees can bee seen and can interact with the chat.

This means you see the visual response from the audience and read comments in chat.

The Zoom events in particular have gained huge popularity which was unheard of before Covid. Now they are everywhere.

This enables poets from all over the world to participate in open mics and slams. It has also enabled poets who are unable to get along to many events to be able to grow their audience, confidence and connect with other poets. This has been one of the good things to come out of shut downs.

How long have you been performing spoken word poetry and where did you perform pre Covid?

I have performed for almost two years but this year I was offered and interstate feature spot at Passionate Tongues in Melbourne during the Spoken Word and Poetry Festival (cancelled due to Covid) it made me take my poetry more seriously.

Pre Covid I performed at Spoke N Slurred at the Brick City Bar in Adelaide Dan's Poetr at Dan O'Connells in Melbourne and a couple of Paroxysm Press Events at the Broadcast Bar in Adelaide.

Since Covid I have done open mic in July. This was a Spoke n Slurred at Broadcast Bar. I am still doing online events, but now I am back in the office, I am not getting along to as many as I would like to.

Why Words?

I have been writing poetry for as long as I remember. Music is also a passion. Lyrics and poetry are something I created from an early age.

I pour myself into everything I write, be it lyrics, prose or poems. If it helps me then I hope it helps a reader. Words are me on a page.

My music, poetry and writing have helped me through some really tough times in life.

Unfortunately, Paul's interview was shortened considerably to fit in the magazine, however subscribers to my Patreon site can read the extended interview there and find out more about Paul and the slam poetry scene here in Australia.

Head to the link below and choose the $5 subscription - all extended stories and interviews each month will be in this tier. https://www.patreon.com/AudaciousHumans? fan_landing=true

I had a very traumatic experience recently and one thing that I have struggled with as a result has been self compassion and self worth. In learning to give myself a break I think I've become more understanding of others.

I'm working hard on changing things and beginning to back myself and share my art.

And how has that changed things for you?

As a result of stepping up, I have been called on as a reserve poet. This led to being able to perform more. I have had a number of Instagram features of me and also had some of my poetry picked up for print both here in Australia and in the US. What would you do with your life if there was no fear of failure, no sense of self doubt?

I would love to own a publishing company. I think I would spend my life writing music and poetry, performing both music and spoken word poetry and promoting and publishing the work of other musicians and poets whose work I connect with.

https://paulrkohn.wordpress.com/ https://www.instagram.com/paulrkohn/?hl=en https://twitter.com/mikanopyt

Rascism

By Elle Duff - Schoolgirl

Black, white, salt, pepper Everybody is the same No on is better We all need to stop the blame Everything we say Affects others in all ways Small things turn bigger We need to think not spray We weren't made this way God wanted us to love all Like he did each day We need to stop this, Or someone could fall The next time you speak Think of the impact it will have It might cause someone to reach their peak Lets all change the way we think and behave Racism is not okay Remember everybody is the same We all need to think not just spray There is no specific person to blame If you were the victim in this so called game How would this situation make you feel?

This is not giving you any fame, It's a shame We must realise RACISM is real

"Hey Aunty Kate I was just wondering if u could give me some feedback on anything I should change or add to my poem I have written for my English Assessment"

"This is so good. Love it just the way it is.

Well done, made my heart explode X"

So I included Elle's poem here, because there has to be some perks to being my niece. Hope you guys enjoy as much as I did. Love that our kids are exploring these themes in school and having conversations.

Also love that it is in poetry because poetry makes both poet and reader think that little bit deeper.

Who is Directionless During the day,I have a map. Anonymously Hal?

A crisp, well designed,detailed map which I may drift from, Cleansing but soon come back to follow.

After the storm clears During the night and there’s nothing left I have a compass. but dew…

A rusted, cracked,loose screwed The dissipating clouds will let the sunlight peak through. compass A golden glow which I try to follow,but the will cast its’ way to magnetism is off. the ground…

So West becomes East, Creating an amber filter and North becomes South… upon all that surrounds.

And I’m left spinning And as the raindrops evaporate off the he full 360°… window panes…

Directionless Steaming The day will carry on Tonight I stood crying and lost with all that remains silent tears in the shower, until morning.

Doormat When you locked me out you didn’t throw away the key.

You just hid it from my sight…

Underneath what laid right in front of me.

my anger and sadness mixed in with the water.

When I stepped out and dried myself off in the mirror, my eyes held emotions that couldn’t be clearer.

They held the hatred for him and all he did upon me, including the revenge in my head…

I wish he could see.

Check out more of Hal's poetry at the link below.

Next month I will talk to Hal herself and find out why she chose to hide her talent behind an anonymous pseudonym. Heads up - I already know and her story is as humanly beautiful as her poetry. Tune in.

https://anonymouslyhal.wordpress.com/

Bunya Mountain Dreaming With Astrophotographer Donna Glass Photographer, Donna Glass has lived in the Bunya Mountains for 13 years, I follow Donna's stunning photography on Instagram and was excited when she agreed to sharing some of her work and story here with Audacity.

Donna: I live in a pristine National Park full of Jurrasic era Bunya trees. This area was of great importance to the aboriginal people as a meeting place to gather and feast on the Bunya nuts Because of my love for this area I am currently working with Dr Ken Wishaw from the Australisian Dark Skies Alliance to obtain dark sky status for Bunya Mountains.

Bunya Mountains is one of the darkest places in Australia at night which any light meter will attest and there is currently no light pollution.

Touching people's hearts with the beauty of the natural world creates change

Education and appreciation of the natural environment is paramount if we hope to reverse (and prevent further) some of the current trends wreaking havoc on the environment.

I hope taking people out to view the night sky here and showing them how to photograph this amazing space at night will engender that change.

Astrophotography is a skill that can be learnt quite easily with a little practice. My business, Bunya Mountains Astrophotgraphy can supply the kit and show you how it is done. We usually do the moon or the Milky Way depending on the ever changing night sky. I then send the photos on to clients so they can print them out or share them to their social media and have a special memory of their time here in the Bunya Mountains The kit I currently work with is: Canon 6D Mark II Samyang 14mm lens Canon 6D Mark I Canon 16 - 35mm lens Nikon P600 Nikon P1000 Apeture Light Tripods Lazer Light

"I am inspired by the unfathomable beauty of the night sky.

The park is full of the sounds of nature at night - the dingos are often howling.

If I could change one thing it would be to change the pace of peoples lives so that everyone can take the time to appreciate how beautiful this world really is"

You can contact Donna or see more of her work on the links below: Email: bunyamountainsastrophotography@gmail.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/category/Photogr apher/Donna-Glass-Bunya-MountainsAstrophotograhpy-109826237041387/

Less than 100 years ago, everyone could look up and see a spectacular starry night sky. Now, millions of children across the globe will never experience the Milky Way where they live. The increased and widespread use of artificial light at night is not only impairing our view of the universe, it is adversely affecting our environment, our safety, our energy consumption and our health.

Source: https://www.darksky.org/light-pollution/

Light Pollution has one of the fastest rates of growing pollution with Science showing a rate year on year of more than 2% https://www.australasiandarksky alliance.org/

Journey to artist

KRIS ANCOG An Interview

I am a Philippine born New Zealand artist, based in Sydney Australia.

Believing is, for me, synonymous with faith. I still remember the moment I decided to pursue art as a career. I realised that creating meaningful connection through art and creativity is my life purpose. I had to believe in my gift and have faith to overcome the challenges that are part of any artists journey.

Many years ago I struggled to even call myself an artist. I was still in the early stages of my career and hadn't even sold one painting. I was overcome with self doubt which was sabotaging my growth as a creative soul. It took me almost two years to overcome that struggle.

I often get messages through social media from new artists who are still finding their artistic voice. I share with them the following lessons: Find art that inspires you this is the starting point in understanding the creative process.

Creativity is part of being human - therefore you do not need validation for you to call yourself an artist The journey is the reward. Be patient. Trial and error is almost always part of being creative and each attempt will offer a lessons that will lead you to your own unique style

Believe in yourself and your art.

Your faith will flow in each brush stroke you create and this allows you to connect with your audience.

Believing in yourself means being consistent in your practice and making time for your art. It also means persevering in those challenging times.

Believing in yourself means investing in yourself to grow and become a better artist

Kris, is a Sydney based artist who uses art as a visual storytelling method; evoking emotions, and experiences beyond words.

Calling himself a painter of meditative dreamscapes, the artist channels creativity to explore beauty, peace and serentiy. Of the years, his work has evolved from traditional landscapes to ethereal abstracts that allow the viewer to develop their own interpretation through a contemplative process.

Kris develops his artworks through multiple translucent layers of paint with wide flat brushes, referencing photos and videos as guides for colour schemes or the behaviour of light in a landscape.

The paintings become heavily inspired by light in nature as well as art from European 19th Century artists, JMW Turner and Claude Monet.

Kris's most popular series, reveal the ethereal, magical effect of light: the Aurora Illuminata series.

Evoking positive emotions, the paintings bring a sense of peace and calm to his collectors.

Thanks to the layers, small paintings can take from hours to a week, and large works take several weeks to months. Kris is often at work on multiple projects at a time.

Over a decade ago, while Kris was working as a full time registered nurse, he felt the pull to recover the creative life of childhood.

Pursuing art gave him a sense of balance and provided the artist with a unique way of telling stories.

Unable to leave nursing behind, Kris currently works part-time in a Post Anaesthetic Care unit and loves the privilege of being able to make a difference in people's lives.

When he is not nursing, Kris is in the studio painting. Blending nursing and art allows the artist to create meaningful connections which give his life purpose Currently you can find Kris's art at online galleries such as SaatchiArt and Artfinder.

He is exhibiting work through the following fairs: The Other Art Fair Sydney New Zealand Art Show The Auckland Art Show The Christchurch Art Show You can follow Kris below: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/krisancog/ ?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/krisancoga rtist/ Website: https://krisangcog.com SaatchiArt: https://www.saatchiart.com/krisancog

ONLINE READS Until I entered the magical world of blogs and Wordpress - I had no idea such a place existed.

People from all over the world put so much time and effort into their blogs, usually just for the sheer pleasure of creativity and sharing their thoughts, interest or craft with the world, (because your average Joanna doesn't make a great deal of money from their blog.) Some of the most authentic and interesting online communication in the world is what we go back for.

Each month I'll mention a few that I have stumbled across that may be of interest to the wider community. Bearing in mind of course that my taste is fairly eclectic and not for everyone. This month check these out.

Kim Foster For entertaining and brilliant writing. Just read it. http://www.kim-foster.com/ A long read of pure beauty, about becoming a man, about grief, a life. It's beautiful. https://longreads.com/2020/05/15/what-i-want-to-know-ofkindness/ and check out the "I'm tired" project here for something poignant and a little bit different: https://theimtiredproject.com/ Another blog for lovely story telling interest -Bonjour from Brittany fhttps://bonjourfrombrittany.wordpress.com/

Indominatable "We went to the shopping mall we often go to. We parked right in front of Next. I often used to buy clothes there before my cancer. We had no intentions AT ALL of joining the merry masked throng! However, hubby saw a gorgeous dress in the window. A sun dress actually, but JUST my colour. He described it to me and I LOVED it.

Wow!"

Additionally my skin was covered in open bleeding sores which made wearing clothes impossible so I had to lie completely naked on the bed each day for eight months. Each morning my pillow was soaked in blood from the open sores on my neck.

And it continues and I fall deeper into the story that is Lorraine Lewis and her indomitable joy for life.

I was hallucinating and had the most horrendous full body itch that nothing could relieve. Because of the position of some of the tumours I was not expected to live.

I first came across Lorraine, when she found my blog and commented. As courtesy dictates I went and checked out her blog.

Strangely, I did not cry once upon learning of my condition and accepted readily my death. As a Christian, my faith was of great comfort.

The above story is just a tiny excerpt from a day that would be a struggle for any other human being, simply because of Lorraine's situation. Yet she manages to fill me with such gratitude and joy when I read her words. Mostly because I realize just how damn lucky I am.

I went into chemotherapy, which was aggressive and gruelling. It was also at times exceedingly painful. It took everything out of me. I was unable to walk and had to be taken to chemotherapy in a wheelchair then laid out on a bed in the ward. I was never given any hope that I would recover and was told by the ward sister that going through chemo was a "leap of faith" I lost around 6 stones during all of this.

Let me fill you in on Lorraine's story or rather - I will hand the reins to Lorraine who graciously accepted my request for an interview for this magazine. As you will soon find. Lorraine is the definition of an audacious human being.

Eventually and amazingly in 2014 I went into remission. It was declared a miracle by my doctor. I had won the battle but not the war.

In 2013 I was diagnosed with a rare cancer called Hodgkins Lymphoma, after a year of being misdiagnosed with stress, scabies and various other things. My doctor never took me seriously despite tests returning abnormalities.

Hodgkins Lymphoma is a blood cancer which affects the lymph nodes in the body and often produces large tumours. Thus, because of the length of time it to took to diagnose me, I had massive tumours all over my body.

I had huge ones in my left lung, some resting on my aorta and about to invade it, some in my abdomen, the respiratory system, preventing breathing, some about to break into my liver and kidneys. I had them in my neck, pressing on my windpipe, clavical and I had them on my back.

All of them were huge, one on my back being 20 cm wide.

"It was a leap of faith""

Chemotherapy wreaked havoc in my body, I was left blind, wheelchair bound and with no feeling in my hands and feet. I had a little feeling in my legs but the loss of muscle everywhere including my face was overwelming. Thankfully I was still able to talk and swallow. I have breathing issues, meaning that a simple trip to the bathroom leaves me gasping for breath and my oxygen levels dangerously low. I live with constant pain.

I am proud of myself for getting through what was a terrifying and horrific experience.

When I first started to lose my sight, it did not trouble me too much, as I felt I would overcome it despite also being in a wheel-chair. In a strange way I almost felt happy as if this was an opportunity to overcome and to show that physical things do not matter as much as spiritual things. Indeed my physical body is in a very poor state rendering me totally dependent upon someone else for every single thing in my life.

I have discovered that there are treasures to be found in darkness. The most wonderful and amazing treasures.

My husband cares for me, but he too is wheelchair bound as a result of post polio syndrome. We manage together, without help from anyone else. Each day presents its challenges and sometimes we feel very low. But always, we get through somehow.

I know that I would not have got through without a faith and I believe that we all have a divine spark within us, whatever religion or faith we are excluding none. My Christianity is not narrow but embraces all faiths and spiritual beliefs. We are all human beings trying to get through this life in the best way we can.

There have been times when I have felt daunted by my physical disabilities, and I freely admit that there have been days when I have wanted to give up. But I have a well deep inside me, that I did not know previous to my illness that I had.

I have found that this well is never emptied, even when I thought it dry. The key is just to keep searching for that drink. Even when all faith departs you, keep seeking. Then, out of the parched earth the water of life bubbles up and you get through. I liken it to being in a desert, parched but somehow the water you need appears.

If you were to ask me if I am glad that I had cancer I would say a resounding "yes" because it has strengthened me in more ways than I could ever explain.

The blindness has been the worst to deal with, and that one thing has, more than anything, made me lose hope on occasions.

I still have days of fear regarding that, but I have to just put it out of my mind and try to keep going.

If you are anything like me, you have read these stark words with a growing sense of horror coupled with gratitude that your life is so damn doable by comparison to Lorraine's. You will possibly also, as I have by reading Lorraine's posts and story, developed a profound sense of respect and perhaps even awe for her indomitable will, her faith, her persistence and courage - and also that of her husband's who would have his own daily struggles.

In my interview sheet to Lorraine I added the following "I do apologize if I am getting this wrong myself, I am assuming and I am thinking how that would feel to me but the thing is I don't know. Able bodied privilege means we just don't see what we can't possibly understand. That is why articles like yours and others from a diverse set of people are so important and why I will be including them in each edition."

I stand by those words. I believe we do take so much for granted in life. I feel it is important to see people that look different from us and really appreciate how even though it is all relative and of course feels personal - our struggles are not as individuals but as a species that must learn inclusiveness and radical empathy with one another if we are, not just to survive but to thrive as earthlings.

Lorraines blog can be found here: https://blindwilderness.wordpress.com/2020/08/

SARAH Instagrammer & Influencer

In my Instagram and blogging travels I come into contact with people of all age groups.

I enjoy the different perspectives and points of view and that's what we are all about here in this magazine so I was so excited when Sarah aka @sassagal came on board with an interview.

Here are Sarah's words.

Hi, my name is Sarah and I'm 20 years old and a cat mum of four. I am from a little island in the Mediterranean Sea called Malta.

I am currently a full time university student at the University of Malta studying a Bachelors degree honors in Psychology. I am separately studying a diploma in Graphic Design at ICE Malta. I also work part-time and create content for my Instagram account on the side whenever I get a chance.

I asked Sarah does she earn any money from Instagram?

Sadly, I rarely do. It is really disheartening at times as the money I make from my part-time job has to cover the costs of the photo shoots. I have travelling props, makeup, hair and any equipment has to be paid for out of my own money so the bills add up. But I know nothing worth it ever comes easy and I know one day my hard work will pay off.

How do you become an influencer?

To get into the influencer market you don't have to fit in.

In fact you have to be the best version you can be of YOU, because nobody can do it better than yourself.

Being your true, honest self will make people aware that you are not fake and make them want to follow and engage with you more. Another tip is to always think outside the box and be creative.

I enjoy life by being productive. Taking into account the first few weeks of quarantine spent locked inside not doing anything productive just made me want to work, work, work!

My life is a constant juggle of studying, working and creating new, innovative content for my Instagram. I am deeply grateful for having the opportunity to do these things which I love.

"A belief that drives me is that if I am positive, then positive outcomes will occur" I can't stress this enough, because I wasn't always this positive person that I am today. I suffered with depression and social anxiety throughout my early to middle teens.

It was horrible! It was such a negative time. I believe that these negative things used to consume me due to having a negative explanatory style and overall mentality.

That said, nowadays I strive for a more positive frame of mind and the creative state helps me to stay there. Good mental health is the driving force behind anything you want to do in life.

On my Utube channel I upload videos of different categories. It is basically my life in videos. I find it comforting to watch videos from other creators and I find creating them therapeutic as well. Unfortunately they take a ton of time to edit so I am on a bit of a pause with that right now and will catch up again soon.

My main aim for my Instagram is to in fact instigate some change in the world. I believe that if you want to see change in the world, you have to be that change yourself.

I personally feel that it is so unhealthy to have these unattainable expectations to look a certain way both for men and for women.

I want the world to start saying "I want to be healthy" not "I want to be thin/curvy/built". We give so much importance as to how our bodies should look when what really matters is that we eat, drink and exercise for health.

You can be the most unhealthiest thin person and still be considered a good weight, which is just as bad as being morbidly obese.

Furthermore, the idea of body "imperfections" such as stretch marks and celullite or scars being considered as wrong or something that should be removed is concerning.

It is literally a tactic to get individuals to spend their money on creams/procedures to remove them. For what? They are natural. Not to mention, that these ideas are so harmful that individuals with low self esteem that cannot afford these procedures may result in self harm or eating disorders.

I asked Sarah" What would you say to a young girl who is trying to be thin because she thinks it will make her more “acceptable� or beautiful to society?

I would tell her that even if she lost the weight she would feel exactly the same way - like a misfit. It is a harsh truth but only when she realizes that self love and acceptance come from within and not the size that you wear will she be happy .

If she loses or gains weight because it is a healthy thing to do then it is an act of self love. I would tell her even if she isn't where she feels she is meant to be that she deserves self love. She is worthy and nothing can take that away from her.

Truth be told our journey of self love is never ending because we change, we evolve. Our body changes with age, our careers change and our roles in life are ever changing. It is important to grow with self love to be the true person we want to be.

Thanks Sarah I so enjoyed your take on all of this.

You can check out more from Sarah here: https://m.facebook.com/sassa.gal/? ref=bookmarks You Tube https://www.youtube.com/c/Sarahsassaga l or Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sassa.gal/? hl=en

For the love of

GREEN House plants I used to kill house plants (my husband called them victims) until I came across a few books and blogs that inspired and taught me how to care for my plants properly. Today, my houseplants are thriving and the good vibes are amazing. If you haven't got into plants yet - check out this months inspro below.

I highly recommend Summer Rayne Oakes book (see left) as a place to start.

Her book changed my mindset, enabling me to finally grow house plants with confidence and love.

After that check out her Utube, her instagram and everywhere else.

Summer Rayne Oaks Ihttps://homesteadbrooklyn.com/ https://www.youtube.com/watch? v=ek932cR4rxU https://www.youtube.com/watch? v=04asMEYqSAQ

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https://www.instagram.com/homeste adbrooklyn/?hl=en

Fashion

Vintage Hause - Yandina

Vintage Hause Yandina

SUSTAINABLE STYLE

by Courty Cavanough

With over 500,000 tonnes of textiles and leather sent to landfill in Australia each year. Fashion is becoming a huge problem.

Added to the cost to the environment are the costs on the hip pocket but some young fashionistas are finding a different way to shop.

This report introduces Courty Cavanough.

Courty built her first home last year and works as a nurse, she also usually manages an overseas trip each year (right now she was supposed to be in Morocco) and has a gorgeous bright yellow car that I covet.Â

The Court Report

How does she do all this on one wage and still manage to look like she just stepped out of the pages of a magazine?

I wanted to find out - so I asked her to be my fashion guru .

This month Courty travelled to Vintage Hause in Yandina Queensland (also one of my favourite haunts) and sent me back a report.

“Buy less, choose well, make it last" Vivienne Westwood

Second hand clothes, hand-me downs, your older (much taller) sister's clothes.

Have I reached into the memory bank far enough to send that little tremor down your spine?

Unless you were one of the fortunate ones who had relatives swanning around in Coco, D&G or Prada you're in good company with me.

However, unless your outfit plans include a neon flashing sign darling, no one is going to know that Binny dress you're wearing was $80 on Ebay.

I like vintage but I love a bargain. Walking away from a winning bid or a second hand shop knowing I've just bought something for a fraction of the price it retails, is addictive.

The biggest risk is in telling the difference between faux and real.

My favourite closet item is leather.

Whenever I smell leather it takes me back to 40 degree days in Florence, Italy. I visited a couple of years ago and soon learnt a few tricks from the more ethical sellers.

Firstly, rub some hand cream onto the item.

If it soaks in, you're onto a winner and if it sits on the surface you are also a winner (if you're a Vegan - because this means it's pleather) If you're feeling a little more adventurous consider the following, real leather will not catch on fire easily.

A simple quick hold of a lighter under the garment will tell the truth. It wasn't just the heat making the Italian gentlemen sweat that day!

So I love leather however, not everyone can afford an overnight bag retailing at $500 or a jacket for just as much Like many people these days I will always go and check out the local Vinnies or Lifeline. If you're like me and live in a city, you are fortunate enough to have more than one.

My Haul: Vinnies at Wyalla Plaza Toowoomba always has an ever changing rack of staple labels. I've come across many leather boots in near new condition. On occasion they'll even have RM Williams boots. My current favorites are the tan pair in the photo for a steal of $50.

Vintage Haus located at Yandina on the Sunshine Coast is a treasure trove that I could spend all day in. The gorgeous red leather jacket was only $70. It's a piece that can be paired with anything from jeans to an Alice McCall Dress.

Last but definitely not the least are my white boots. They came to $80 from Ebay and are made of Bianco Vitello leather. Bianco Vitello leather is used by fashion house Prada. They were a little extra but if you have confidence they are a must that will take your right through summer. *Leather bag was from the markets in Italy. Alas, it was not cheap but it will last!

Shopping for good: Thrift and sustainable are great when it comes to shopping and it is inspirational to see what some entrepreneurs are creating from nothing.

There is another side to 2020 though and it is no use ignoring it.

Right now there are many small business's barely surviving in Australia.

First the bush fires then the floods then Covid 19. Talk about getting knocked down.

Fortunately there is a few ways that shopping and spending our dollar wisely can help.

As I write the Queensland borders are shut again and I can't say I'm not breathing a sigh of relief. Still, my heart breaks for the many small business owners in the states further south that will now miss even more custom from the tourist dollar.

Some will not stand up again. Some may, but their legs will be wobbly. Here are a couple of ways that we can reach out to the southerners.

(Links on opposite page) Spendwiththem was created by Turia Pitt. It is a great site that gathers all the bush fire affected businesses, the instagram page is full of goodies that can be delivered to your door.

"Shopping is cheaper than therapy" It's my Shout website allows users to buy meals for East Gippsland customers in need or to purchase products from business's located there.

When we are finally able to travel again (and perhaps by then we will be sick of Queensland) Roadtrip for Good is a website created by Melbourne's Zoe Manderson. It allows customers to plan their trip and see what is open cafe and accommodation wise for visitors to the area.

And don't forget the #buyfromthebush which was a campaign begun to help businesses in rural communities ravaged by drought. There are some fantastic businesses onboard now and still growing every day - simply search the hashtag on social media, Links to the aforementioned sites below: https://www.roadtripforgood.org.au/locale/roadtrip-for-good https://www.instagram.com/spendwiththem/ https://www.itsmyshout.com.au/

Bella Lady Tam as she is affectionately known locally, came to us from the Sunshine Coast where she ran a successful beauty business. Tam moved west with her two girls eleven years ago and and opened a new beauty business in Roma.

Tam was standing in her living room ironing when Scott Morrison announced the news that overnight the beauty industry would be closing due to Covid 19. She didn’t sleep that night. Tam was a single mother of two young girls who would have no business come morning, she knew she had to formulate a plan.

That plan, born out of a love for sewing and desperation to keep money flowing into the household became Bella Bands. Tams original humble idea was that if she sold 4 Bella Bands a week that would put $20 worth of fuel in her car and leave $80 for food for herself and her daughters.

I saw Tam’s call to action on Facebook when she made her first announcement about what she was doing and asked that if people didn’t want to buy her bands could they please share her post. I immediately bought 2 and shared the post and prayed for this lovely young woman who was doing her best to keep her head out of water.

I don’t actually wear head bands but these are beautifully made and I figured I could give them away to family or friends as gifts.

Obviously what touches one person touches many and within 8 weeks Bella Bands had over 10,000 followers on Facebook and Tam is making more bands then she ever imagined possible. Tam’s success story includes a bonus win for others locally within the beauty business as Bella Bands grew so fast that Tam needed to employ other people in order to help her fulfil the orders flooding in from all over the country and even overseas.

Tam has bought all her materials locally at our fantastic material shop Ace Drapers which has more variety then one would ever find in the city and tourists flock to it just for the purpose of seeing Alan’s enormous (and famous) range of materials.

Also – if I had bought my original headbands as a way to help, I bought the next two because they are fantastic products that I love to wear and the wire inside makes them so easy to use. Pure genius.

I listened to Tam’s story on Regional Roar, a podcast that is put out by two amazing ladies that are tapping into the wealth of great small business stories. I am passionate about entrepreneurs in regional areas as well so I understand the fascination.

I asked Tam what belief she had formed directly because of this experience.. https://www.facebook.com/Bella-Bands108263114158733

Kate, I would say wherever there is a will there is a way. The love of my girls gave me the drive and strength to get up and fight not to lose everything I had worked so hard for.

Dream, believe, achieve. never under estimate what a mother's love can make you capable of achieving. Get up, dress up and never give up"

Photo supplied by Dusty Creek - Ellie in her soap making workshopt

On Friday afternoon 21st August, I headed up to Meraki Reach to see what all the buzz was about.

I had heard Ellie had a way with relaxation and I have to say the buzz was correct.

I arrived around 1pm and after a tour around the facilities, which include an amazing sauna that is big enough to do hot yoga in and an outdoor spa, Ellie got to work on me. Two hours of floor work was followed by a sauna and then a rinse off and onto the table for another hour of out of this world massage.

By this stage it was dark outside and Ellie set me up in the heated spa with a view of the stars and the moon while she prepared our dinner. After dinner it was a further hour of sound healing, following which I poured myself into my big comfortable bed and slept almost dreamlessly until morning.

Ellie had relit the sauna and had it glowing hot by the time I rose just after dawn. An intense session of hot yoga and then breakfast and I was good to hit the road again For those not familiar with Ellie's other passion, handmade soaps, shampoos and creams you are in for a treat. These products are all chemical free and smell divine. They also work. My hair which usually needs shampooing every day has easily gone two since I returned and began using Ellie's products. The soaps are divine too. Beautiful natural ingredients are made up and bottled by hand to give an end result second to none.

I was at Meraki Reach barely 15 hours yet my rejuvenated body was fooled into thinking it had been away for days. What an amazing place. Book your stay today https://www.facebook.com/merakireach I cannot believe this gem of an eco resort is just down the road from Roma, situated a couple of turns on from the Westgrove road just past Injune. Ellie and Russell have had a crushing start to their dream with Covid 19 closing down the business just as it was emerging. If you are anywhere in the vicinity or even further afield (it's worth the trip) give Ellie a call and book your stay today.

Laurice, of Radiance Beauty Bar Roma is my go to lady for eyebrows, toes and everything in between.

Always a serene oasis no matter how many "things" I have going on in my life. I don't know how many times she has unknowingly cleaned out my head space at the same time as giving me a facial just by absorbing her calm, professional energy. I was chatting about the magazine with her yesterday whilst she dealt with my eyebrows when she asked "What about advertising? Can I advertise with you?"

This may seem odd, but I hadn't really considered advertising yet as a source of revenue. As my mind tumbled into a series of excited little leaps I replied "yes, absolutely - this month is for free though until I work out what it costs me in terms of work to add you into the magazine.

Laurice responded with some specials which are advertised on the following page. I strongly recommend these beautiful products, I use USPA myself and find them to be great. Check it out, click through to Laurice's page and if you want to be an advertiser in next month's magazine, let me know (contact details on the front page).

This combination is great for Sensitive Skin Types, the Nourish Cream Cleanser, Antioxidant Hydrating Gel, Desensitising Elixir helps the skin become less sensitive or the Sensitive Rescue Serum works in the same way & also reduces redness & soothes inflamed skin.

Buy 3 products & recieve a free Soothing Hydro Mist or Hydrating Mud Maskt

This combination is great for Aging/Mature Skin, the Awaken Foam Cleanser, Rejuvenating Micro-Exfoliant, Age Defying Moisture Cream & either a Pure C Complex Serum, Age-Defying Elixir or a Smoothing AHA Serum with Fruit Acids.

Buy 3 products & recieve a free Soothing Hydro Mist ($40 value) or a Hydrating Mud Mask Therapy, normally $50 You can contact Laurice to chat about your skin needs or book in for a complimentary skin analysis & what's recommended for your skin???t

Laurice offers many sorts of treatments including IPL, skin rejuvianation, working with acne, waxing, facials, pedicures and more. Call 0499163441 or go to her website (above) to find out more. https://www.radiancebeautybar.com.au/

Thanks for reading and don't forget to subscribe - next month looks even better than this one I enjoyed creating this first issue so much. The people, the connection and the sizzle of creativity have been quite a ride.

BY way of introduction, I am a poet, author and all round creative spark.

This magazine was originally supposed to be a newsletter for my blog athousandbitsofpaper.com I figured if I was going to create a publication, I may as well share the work of other humans too, because frankly I know all about me and I would rather hear other people's stories.

The magazine has global content because I chat with a number of international people every day through my socials and blog reading.

It's a dreadful. insidious disease Covid 19 but it is also a common human theme at present and it brings home the fact that the world is a small place.

As a species we are blessed and cursed more or less the same. We have a brain that fills our heads with thoughts, which in turn floods our bodies with emotion.

We suffer loss, we have moments of bliss and we all see the sun go down and rise again no matter where we are on this planet. If we are lucky and don't suffer from light pollution, we get to see the stars, the moon and wonder at the enormity of the universe.

We all have memories, we all have dreams, we worry about what is happening to nature on our planet. Or some of us do anyway and regardless we all share it. We live here for now. This is our home in this moment so why not listen to each other and help where we can?

Become one of my patrons here: https://www.patreon.com/AudaciousHumans Or check out more of my poetry here: blog https://athousandbitsofpaper.com/

See you 1st October.

In the meantime - keep sharing and have a fantastic month.

Oh hey and while you're sharing - I also have my indie published poetry book "The Steps We Take Within" coming out next month (1st October) it's going to be available for pre order from the middle of this month on Amazon.

Want to read something now? I have another poetry book on Amazon called "Healing the Broken Things" available on the link below.

Don't roll your eyes - I did a lot of writing for free to get to this point of a tiny paragraph of sales pitch and I am a seriously good poet so go and buy these audacious books. Yes the magazine will still be free regardless forever!

Buy current book here: Australia https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B0813Q3PF6

Subscribe to Audacity here: https://mailchi.mp/50d22854e480/s ubscribe-to-audacity-magazinetoday