indulge emagazine - eternity

Indulge | April 2011 | 1

Indulgespirit|soul|body

www.indulgemagazine.com.au April 2011

Snr Pastor Vanessa Hoyes -“Mystery - Eternity’s Echo”The Father’s View

Easter in Acrostics

Emerging Beauty - The White Butterfly ProjectHope in the Midst of...

The Perfect FoundationWinter Wardrobe Essentials

Chocolate to the Rescue!

2 | www.indulgemagazine.com.au

The CoverCover Snr Pastor Vanessa HoyesPhotography Natasha Smith, NSP Studio PhotographyBeauty & Styling Tanya Epis

iluvthoseshoes Projectwww.iluvthoseshoes.com

General EnquiriesT 0450 066 116 E [email protected] eMagazine is published monthly by the ILTS Project Pty Ltd (ACN 147832906). All rights are reserved and the contents are copyright and may not be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher. ILTS Project (“the Publisher”), their related companies and officers herby disclaim, to the full extent permitted by law, all liability, damages, costs and expenses whatsoever arising from or in connection with copy information or other material in this magazine, any negligence of the publisher, or any person’s actions in reliance therein. Any dispute or complaint regarding placed advertisements must be made within seven days of publication. Inclusion of any copy must not be taken as any endorsement of the Publisher. Views expressed by contributors are personal views and they are not necessarily endorsed by the Publisher. All reasonable efforts have been made to trace copyright holders by the Publisher. The Publisher and the authors do not accept any liability whatsoever in respect of any action taken by readers in reliance on the recommendation set out in this magazine.

Indulge eMagazine is part of the iluvthoseshoes Project which seeks to empower women in their journey through life by resourcing them, spirit, soul and body.Empower = make more confident; to give authorityResource = source of help; solutions to problems

Publisheriluvthoseshoes Project www.iluvthoseshoes.com

Editor-in-ChiefCharissa Steffens [email protected]

Creative DirectorNatasha Smith [email protected]

Technical DirectorDavid Steffens [email protected]

Senior EditorsChristy CareyNicky Hurle

Theological AdvisorReverend Malcolm Keynes (Dip. Ministry)

Fashion EditorTanya Epis

Food EditorAngela Frost

ContributorsSnr Pastor Vanessa HoyesNicky HurleCharissa SteffensBirgit Peterson GlassonCandice SchmidtDr Cristina BeerSandra Stewart

Editorial & Production AssistantAndrew Nicholson

Technical Adviser Brendan Smith

AdvertisingPhone 0405 066 116Email [email protected]

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contents

26

spiritSenior Pastor Vanessa Hoyes

"Mystery - Eternity's Echo"

Easter in Acrostics

The Father's View

soulBirgit Peterson GlassonThe White Butterfly Project

Hope in the Midst of Grief & Loss

Soul Scars

bodyThe Perfect Foundation

Winter Wardrobe Essentials

Chocolate to the Rescue

h h

hh

h

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Dr Cristina Beer Medical PractionerCristina was born in Portugal to Portuguese parents and immigrated to Australia at the age of 5 years old. She has lived and studied for the most part on the Gold Coast. Cristina attained university degrees in Biomedical Science and Bachelor of Medicine/Bachelor of Surgery. She is also a qualified personal fitness trainer and nutritionist. “I have a special interest in holistic medicine, with a focus on natural and anti-aging medicine”. She is currently working in general practice on the Gold Coast. Cristina is married to a wonderfully supportive man, named Brad, who is a physiotherapist on the Gold Coast. “I have a burning desire to see people live whole, healthy, and balanced lives in the fullness of God’s plan for them”.

Candice Schmidt CounsellorCandice desires to see people thrive in every area of life. She has been married for 15 years to a Paediatrician and they have lived in South Africa, New Zealand and Canada but have called the Gold Coast, Australia home for the last 4 years.

They have four children between the ages of 4 and 12. Her passion is to “Live well, laugh often, love much”. She has a Degree in Psychology and a Diploma

in Counselling. She loves to help people live to their full God-given potential spirit, soul and body. She enjoys individual, couple and family counselling and

watching God bring healing and restoration. She is a trained facilitator of ‘Toolbox Parenting’ which offers families hot tips on parenting well.

Nicky Hurle Educator & Writer

Nicky is a talented and passionate educator who has taught in both Primary and Secondary school in a career that is a vocational calling. She has a Biblical Diploma and a recently completed Masters in Gifted Education. Her involvement with young people spans more than twenty years in various roles including youth leader and mentor. Nicky is currently a House Parent at the Australian Institute of Sport in Canberra where, with her husband David, she is responsible for looking after the welfare of residential athletes. She is presently writing her first novel and loves reading, movies and music.

This month...

Sandra Stewart Stylist

Sandra Stewart is the owner and director of Sydney Stylists. She has studied at many prestigious fashion and makeup academies and has a background in beauty therapy and makeup artistry. Sandra is also a regular contributor to fashion magazines and online productions.

Sandra loves to see women flourish, "amazing things can happen when a woman feels confident enough to pursue her dreams. For a stylist the reward is seeing a women go home feeling happy and confident - because her inner-self reflects her outer-self." She says that "most stylists love what they do and would do it regardless. If you enjoy what you do and work hard you will usually find a way to succeed."

hopehopehope


Love Charissa

from the editorIt is Easter time! I love Easter for so many reasons. The weather has changed, and the humidity is replaced by cooling breezes and soft rain on the rooftops. As you walk passed the baker the mouth watering smell of fresh Hot Cross Buns wafts to meet you and of course the shops are overflowing with indulgent chocolate.

Easter is also a reminder to us that Jesus died upon the cross and then three days later rose again. So often we say these words but miss the power in those actions. The Son of God came to earth and gave all for you and I because He and His Father longed for us to become part of their eternal family. While He was on this Earth Jesus taught us so much; He healed, He taught, He loved. He showed us how to live until our time to leave this world comes. My prayer for everyone this month is that you will know and understand the wondrous love that is available because of His extraordinary grace and the hope that emerges from this for us.

This month we are sharing with you a very special matter. Pastor Vanessa Hoyes has opened her heart to speak to us about the loss of her precious daughter Anastasia Zoe. The journey of losing a child during pregnancy is heart wrenching, and I wanted to give voice to this area in 'Indulge' as it affects tens of thousands of women in Australia every year.

To help women who have or are walking this journey, we are sharing with you some of the wonderful organisations, such as The White Butterfly Project, that exist to help. You do not need to do this journey alone. The gifted Candice Schmidt has also written an excellent article regarding grief and loss which I recommend you read and keep.

While this may seem like a 'heavy' issue, loss is a real everyday occurrence that we all journey through. We have seen so much loss around the world this year already. My desire is to help those who are walking this journey to come through it in the most positive way with hope and an eternal perspective.


http://www.nspstudio.com.au


Spirit


Spirit

Eternity

Just over two years ago, in the midst of incredible growth in their church, Senior Pastors Andrew and Vanessa Hoyes lost their fourth daughter during pregnancy.

As Pastor Vanessa walked through the most harrowing journey any parent must face, it was with great dignity and strength that she rose above the grief to share her eternal perspective and hope of what lies ahead.

This is her story...



for the fourth baby we were expecting. Being our fourth child there was so many aspects of the pregnancy that were familiar and already known to us. This ultrasound was one of them. We were approaching the scan with so much flippancy – even pushing the date as far along as possible to get as much confirmation on the gender as we could.

Although we were very excited to discover what the gender of our baby was, (the pressure was on because we already had 3 beautiful little girls!) my husband had a trip planned to Europe and his departure fell on the same day. So we had decided I would just text him as soon as I found out the gender through the ultrasound.

The pregnancy had been a difficult one – but that was completely normal for me. Nausea and vomiting up to 20 times a day, real feelings of darkness and depression, a tangible pause on life and all its meaning. My husband would always describe pregnancy as a time he would ‘lose his wife’ to the numbness and disconnect that all the hormones inside my body were producing.

Mystery - Eternity’s Echo

Each year our church, Generation, has held The White Butterfly Project – a reflection service which has come out of the heart

of our ‘house’ to support those individuals and families who have lost children during pregnancy. For some this is an annual event in the life of their family and friends as a memorial to those children they have lost; for others it is a one-off event that brings closure to a chapter in their life.

All of those who contribute to the White Butterfly Reflection Service have experienced a loss of a child during their pregnancy. Some recently, some many years ago, some just one, others many. They are some of the most courageous and insightful people I know. One of those people is Birgit. She also features in this month’s magazine.

For Andrew and I this journey became very personal as 6 weeks prior to the reflection service in 2009 we had the

privilege of giving birth to a baby girl who had been gifted to us for just 20 weeks in my womb. We named her Anastasia Zoe, which means Resurrection Life, because we know she is now forever risen and alive in eternity.

Our family collided with the destiny of this little girl and her life has added substance and meaning to our lives in a way that nothing else ever will. It has been our privilege to carry her life and allow God to use our bodies to create her and my womb to cradle her.

It is two years ago this month that I was about to enter the examination room for our 20 week scan

Words Snr Pastor Vanessa HoyesPhotography Natasha Smith NSP Studio PhotographyMakeup & Hair Tanya EpisPainting Anthony Pieters

“The pregnancy had

been a difficult one –

but that was completely

normal for me.”


The second difference was noticeable to those who were more inclined towards understanding how our bodies ‘talk’. I remember going for a facial with a beautiful and mature therapist from Eastern Europe who has such a passion for skin. She asked me around the same time, 18 weeks, if there was something going on in my body, was I sick because my skin was looking ‘toxic’. At that point I still believed the sickness was just typical of my pregnancies.

Lying on the bed waiting for the ultrasound, I was so excited. I had my sister and my father with me in

There were only two noticeable differences to this pregnancy – the darkness and depression became almost suicidal around 18 weeks of

pregnancy. This I had never experienced before. There was a morning I woke up and decided I must be completely honest with my husband about how I was feeling; asking him to stay close that day because the thoughts and feelings were more overwhelming.

the room. We had never let anyone know the gender of our babies during pregnancy so this was a first to ever have anyone else in the room and the first time I was letting anyone in on the surprise. I had also left my three little girls at home promising as soon as I returned we could start coming up with names for this baby!So the news that came 30 seconds after the nurse had placed the monitor on my belly and began her

scan seemed unbelievable at first – “I am so sorry we cannot find a heartbeat”… it was like the whole world stopped. I screamed and then started sobbing. Both my sister and my father began praying in their own personal way. The very first question I had was a practical one – “What happens from here? My husband is flying out to Europe right now?” The nurse had brought a doctor in for a second opinion who confirmed the report and he said “Tomorrow you will need to go into labour, this has to be done as soon as possible because the baby’s heart stopped beating two weeks ago and your body is becoming toxic.”


I called my husband’s mobile three times before he answered and I asked him to get off the plane he had just boarded and come home. The first

miracle was his flight had re-routed to Melbourne and had not left the country when it should have been on its way to Singapore.

So I headed home having organized my sister to take my other girls before they could see me; at that point I was numb and in shock. I called for a girlfriend just for some initial company. But

the powerful moments were to come on my own. For those next few hours I just cried to myself those deep, deep sobs that come from somewhere in your soul that is releasing grief and pain you just didn’t know was possible.

By the time Andrew came home I think the tears had run out and now it was his turn. We began talking about how I had felt two weeks earlier. I tracked the most depressive moment of my pregnancy and I realised the suicidal day had actually fallen on the same date that they said the baby’s heartbeat had stopped.

“I am so sorry we cannot find a heartbeat”… it was like the whole world stopped.


Andrew also shared a vision he had around that same time at 18 weeks pregnant. He had asked the Lord to show Him what we

were having and he saw a picture of a little girl with a beautiful golden dress on, dancing with Jesus. At the time he just felt that God was preparing him for the news of another girl. But now we know it was the moment heaven had received our baby girl into the arms of Jesus!

At this point we did not know whether we were having a boy or girl and the doctors had told me that I might not know until we gave birth the next day. But Andrew already knew it was going to be a girl and he told me that night he wanted to call her Anastasia.

The next day was tender and emotional and the most difficult day of our lives. You have so many ‘what ifs?’ around such a day. “What if the scan wasn’t right and the baby is still alive?’ The labour was the most painful I had ever experienced because of all the loss attached to the day. As we gave birth the doctor confirmed it was a little girl and at that moment there was our first sense of God watching over us as He had already prompted us with her name.

The staff were so gentle and dignifying and even gave us some time to spend with our little girl Anastasia. Leaving the hospital without our baby was the most devastating moment we have ever felt. But overriding it was a deep sense of peace and closure having been able to see her and spend a moment with her beautiful body.

Coming home to 3 little girls who, at this point, did not even know the news that had come to us the day before was so difficult. They were ready to hear whether they were getting a brother or another sister but instead we needed the wisdom of God to share what had just taken place. And God was SO in the room for that moment.

We talked about their little sister going straight to Jesus and there was such an understanding about that moment. I truly believe children have a grasp on eternity and they were all excited at the thought of seeing her again one day in heaven. It was actually quite refreshing!

When Andrew felt to name our little girl Anastasia he told our children and my eldest straight away said “I like that name but I also want her to be called Zoe”… so we said “great, her name will be Anastasia Zoe” … the most powerful moment in this whole situation was when a friend told me she loved the meaning of our baby’s name and we did not yet know it but Anastasia means resurrection and Zoe means life.. so our family had spoken over


“The next day was tender and emotional

the most difficult day of our lives.”


Hope

her exactly where she was now… experiencing Resurrection Life.

This name has become our hope – we will see her again and her beautiful body healed and made whole and experiencing resurrection life! Now if you ask our girls how many children do we have, they quickly tell you we have FIVE girls – one who is also in heaven. They say her name regularly and include her in much of their play and their prayers and Andrew and I love that because it keeps her short moment on this earth in my womb a beautiful reminder of the eternal nature of our lives.

We are learning how to live in mystery. This side of eternity we will most

probably only gain a glimpse of the truth.

The word MYSTERY comes from:

A Greek word ‘musterion’ which means to close the eyes and the lips - This mystery of loss we are giving expression to is incomprehensible with our eyes or indescribable with words;

Mystery is defined as:“something difficult or impossible to cognitively understand” – this is why in the White Butterfly Reflection Service we try and give expression to the journey via the arts because it resonates differently with different people.

It also means “a secret imparted to the initiated” – only those of us who have lost children like this are entrusted to this particular mystery – many of you reading today will have experienced this kind of painful loss and our heart is that in reading this article you will realize you are not alone.


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‘Mystery’ also means “what is unknown until it is revealed”-

All these mysteries will be revealed to us on the other side of eternity – until then we must learn to live with the unknown and unanswered factors of our life.

Living with mystery can actually provide amazing opportunity in our life: Mystery beckons us forward Mystery draws us closer to ‘Who’ rather than ‘why?’ Mystery sees with unveiled eyes a glimpse of the eternal Mystery hears supernatural promptings of words not yet given voice Mystery causes yieldedness to the unresolved Mystery interprets the unanswered yearnings of my heart Mystery provides a providential awakening to the present NOW Mystery deepens our conviction to search out the Answer Himself Mystery gives expression to our tears and heart-wrenching aches Mystery finds me resting in the arms of the One who holds me close

But what I do know for sure is the children we have lost are all known and deeply loved!

And what else I have been sensing is that one of the words to be spoken over everyone of you who have had the honour of creating and nurturing life in the womb and releasing it directly into eternity where they await our arrival – is a whisper from HEAVEN saying THANKYOU!

I believe God in heaven is saying ‘thank you for being trustworthy of this life for this moment in time’

known


“What I do know for sure is that the children we have lost are all known and

deeply loved!”


There is a beautiful Psalm 139 I have read before but it holds much more weight for me now… our children in heaven are held lovingly in the arms of Jesus Christ and they can be heard saying:

O LORD, you have searched me [thoroughly] and I am known by you 2 You know when I sit and when I rise;

you perceive my thoughts from afar. 3 You sift and search out my path and my lying down, and You are

acquainted with all my ways. I am never out of your sight 4 For there is not a word in my tongue, behold, O Lord, You know it altogether.

5 You hem me in—behind and before; you have laid your hand upon me. 6 Such knowledge is too mysterious to comprehend, too high for me to understand.

This is too much, too wonderful— I can’t take it all in 7 Where can I go from your Spirit; or where can I flee from your presence

8 If I ascend up into heaven, You are there; if I make my bed in Sheol, behold, You are there 9 If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea,

10 even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast. 11 If I say, “Surely the darkness will hide me”

12 but even the darkness will not be dark to you; you are eternal light and I am always seen by you 13 You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body and knit me together in my mother’s womb.

14 Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex! Your workmanship is marvelous—how well I know it.

15 You watched me as I was being formed in utter seclusion, as I was woven together in the dark of the womb. My frame was not hidden from You when I was being formed in secret [and] intricately and

curiously wrought [as if embroidered with various colors] in the depths of the earth [a region of darkness and mystery].

16 Your eyes saw my unformed body, and in Your book all the days [of my life] were written before ever they took shape, when as yet there was none of them.

17 Your thoughts—how rare, how beautiful! God, I’ll never comprehend them! I couldn’t even begin to count them— any more than I could count

the sand of the sea. Oh, let me rise in the morning and live always with you!...

24 you lead me in the way eternal.


I do not know why Anastasia Zoe did not survive on this earth. This is the mystery I will live with. But what I do know is that she is KNOWN –

deeply and intimately.

God as Father knew what it was like to release His child to eternity before what seemed to be ‘fair or right’.

And Jesus Christ not only lived on earth with this deep compassion for those living life in a fallen, broken world – but He now lives eternally waiting for all of us to arrive where He has our children and this is His promise found in the last book of the Bible,

“Look, look! God has moved into the neighbourhood, making his home with men and women! They are his people, he’s their God. He’ll wipe every tear from their eyes. Death is gone for good; tears gone, crying

gone, pain gone, all the first order of things gone... Look I’m making everything new...”

Revelation 21:1-4 (MSG)

Eternal life is a gift from God – it is a doorway we enter when we pass from this life to the next. It is where our children are waiting for us. The only thing required from you and I this side of eternity is to open the door to the One who is knocking on our hearts – His name is Jesus Christ and you are deeply loved by Him. He will not only give you the gift of eternal life when you open your heart to Him, He also gives you an anchor for your soul and an ‘overflowing’ kind of life here on earth. He is our reason we can live with this eternal confidence.

In the ‘balloon moment’ of the White Butterfly Reflection Service the team walks through the crowd and offers balloons, which represents those children lost. We attach a card to the balloon which people are welcome to write in. People keep this card or let it go when the balloons are released.

The purpose of the balloon release is to allow our eyes to follow what is released from our hearts. The physical release and ensuing gaze is a reminder to

ALWAYS LIFT YOUR EYES HEAVENWARD and keep an eternal perspective upon this loss.

If I can leave you with one final thought – a poem


Echoes of Eternitybeauty with its own

strange gravity

attracts my soul, it calls forth

a longing for more than

mere eyes can see

what’s there?what’s there?

beyond the thinly woven veil

that is drawn between realities and worlds

interwoven mystery cries out

surrounds me as I stop to find

songs in the silence that were always present

but seldom heard

faint whispers of tomorrow’s promise emerge,

time’s gossamer lattice begins to fade

as I pause to embrace echoes of eternity

might not yet already be

found in now?

by Michelle Perry

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May this journey - the mystery and the echoes of eternity keep locating you in the present – not only longing for the reunion with who you have lost but tenderly cherishing what you also have NOW! This is what Anastasia Zoe has done for us!

We have the great privilege of doing life with some very courageous and insightful people who are walking this same path. They are willing and available to assist you in whatever way they possibly can. If there is anything we can do to support you further then we would love to hear from you. You can contact The White Butterfly Project Team on:T 07 5522 0905E [email protected] www.whitebutterflyproject.org


About Pastor Vanessa HoyesTogether with her husband Andrew and their 4 young girls, Vanessa has a passion to see the global church emerge strong as a solution to the earth's pain and humanity's suffering. With a global vision unfolding, Generation has grown rapidly, having become a multi-campus church located across Australia's Gold Coast, Bali Indonesia, Chicago USA and soon to be, Prague in Europe.

Vanessa loves the full life that comes with marriage, motherhood and ministry to people. Vanessa leads 'Soul Sista', a women’s movement bringing soul to each city in a way only women can do!

a


Evil, Arrogant Serpent, Tempted Eve’s Resistance �E v i c t i o n A s S i n n e r s

T e r m i n a t e d E d e n ’ s R e l a t i o n s h i p

Exacting A Sentence That Encompassed Rejection

Eventually Arrested, Stripped, Thrashed, Evidence Random

Endless Agonising Stagger Through Eyewitness Rabble

Elevated Above Spectators, Thief’s Exoneration Results�

Expiring Appeals Spoken Through Excruciating

Rawness Egoless Atonement Securing Total Eternal Redemption!Eliminating Access, Sealed Tomb Encased Redeemer,

Emerging At Sunrise, Trouncing Evils Rule,

Ensuring All Seekers True Everlasting Resurrection!

East

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n A

cros

tics

Nicky Hurle

Elijah And Samuel Tried Eliciting Repentance Established Ancient Seers Targeted Edifying Rebukes Elders Argued Superior Talmud, Encouraging

Rebellion Enough Accumulated Sins Tarnished Everyone’s Reputation � Escape? A Sacrificial Transaction Effecting Rescue Emissary Angel Spoke

To Eager Recipient Expecting A Son, The Enemy Resistor Ecumenical Agent Sent To End Rift � Enlightening Adult Sermonising Truths Everywhere

Receptive Elected A Squad, Trained Endorsed Representatives


“From noon to three, the whole earth was dark…” (Matthew 27:45 MSG)

His Son was dying; it was the darkest moment. He had known this time would come. His Beloved, with whom He was well pleased, was in the hands of men. Men who had chosen to reject Him time and time again… eat the apple; build the tower; send us back to Egypt; we want a king; the rooster crows; CRUCIFY HIM… His Son was in their hands.

Could He have saved Him? YesDid He save Him? No

"His Son cried out “My God! My God! Why have you abandoned me?” (Mark 15:34, NIV)

The Father had withdrawn His presence from His Son and the silence filled eternity. It was an agonising moment that only they could comprehend. God had turned His back upon Him who had done no wrong. His Son had given up heaven to teach and heal on Earth and now He was alone and dying. The Father was silent, but His heart broke in grief; He is a Father who understands loss.

Why? Why would He do this?

“This is how much God loved the world: He gave His Son, His one and only Son… so that NO ONE need be destroyed; by believing in Him, anyone can have a whole and lasting life.” (John 3:16 MSG) He grieved the One; He gave one for many… because He loves. His love goes beyond that moment; it is the

beginning and the end. It is unfathomable; it never gives up or runs out. We are inseparable from Him because of that moment.

Can we trust? In a Son who would go to His death for people who would reject Him?In a Father who would love you and I enough to give of Himself upon a cross?

Trust… ‘The firm belief in the reliability, truth and strength of someone else.”

Trust is personal, relational; we don’t trust people we don’t know. He believed in us, had faith is us… why would He allow His Son to die unless He loved us?

Do you believe in Him?

“…he went into the Tomb, took one look at the evidence, and believed.” (John 20:8, NIV)

The Father triumphant as a son believed.

The Father's View...

Elijah And Samuel Tried Eliciting Repentance Established Ancient Seers Targeted Edifying Rebukes Elders Argued Superior Talmud, Encouraging

Rebellion Enough Accumulated Sins Tarnished Everyone’s Reputation � Escape? A Sacrificial Transaction Effecting Rescue Emissary Angel Spoke

To Eager Recipient Expecting A Son, The Enemy Resistor Ecumenical Agent Sent To End Rift � Enlightening Adult Sermonising Truths Everywhere

Receptive Elected A Squad, Trained Endorsed Representatives

Charissa Steffens


Soul

The White Butterfly Project


The White Butterfly Project


Emerging Beauty

"To grant [consolation and joy] to those who mourn in Zion - to give them an ornament (a garland or diadem) of beauty instead of ashes..."

Isaiah 61:3 Amplified Bible

Beauty instead of ashes. These words continued to resonate deep within my soul, beckoning me to come and follow an invitation, even a promise, to enter into a movement between seemingly unreconcilable opposites. I have been pondering this notion for quite some time...as a matter of fact for years, and “following” has become my journey. A journey with many seasons, rhythms, and elements shaping the essence of who I am becoming.

As Mother’s Day is approaching, I sense vulnerability, gratitude and joy. Vulnerability because I am a Mum to unborn children whom I will not be able to hold until eternity. Gratefulness for the ebbs and flows of my journey and the priceless gift of our champion son, and joy as I sense God unfolding and increasing a spaciousness in my heart toward His calling. My journey of loss became a gateway to draw closer to the eternal wellspring of life, and the lover of my soul Jesus. It became a source of compassion, empathy, hope and purpose colliding with the much larger story of God’s redemption plan for his aching, broken humanity. Out of the heart of Generation Church the White Butterfly Project was birthed to walk alongside, to strengthen and encourage individuals and families who have experienced the loss of children during pregnancy and infancy. It is our prayer that people

may draw closer to the affectionate, tender heart of God whose unmeasurable, unconditional love meets us right in the midst of our pain.

Annually, on the day before Mother’s Day our family is part of the White Butterfly Reflection Service. We love the beautifully creative and grace-based atmosphere of this open air dawn service. Held at a lakeside it presents an opportunity for families and individuals to come and gather, to bring their memories, find and renew their hope, gain a new perspective, and a sense of peace. For me personally, this morning extends an invitation to seize a moment, a flash in time, when the infinite, invisible world intersects with the finite, temporal one, allowing me to catch a glimpse of the eternal belonging, and the echo of our unborn children laughing.

With each passing year I notice a shift. It is a shift from the emotional rawness and need for withdrawal, to a place of flowing tears, and increasing sense of divine solidarity. It is an invitation to dance within the divine embrace, and with each step moving from darkness and despair toward the dawning light of eternal hope. As the spectrum of my grey widens toward the richness and grandeur of a rainbow. I begin to understand the possibility of fruitfulness, a blossoming of divine beauty. Humming the song about the oak inside the acorn with our six year old son, I am reminded that “there is no way to light or glory except through the sore ground under the weight of the cross” (O'Donohue,1998). As the little acorn could only transform into an oak tree because it fell to the ground and broke so can beauty only emerge out of the ashes, as I dare to embrace the process of mourning, and continue following the divine whisper Come my Beloved.

Allowing beauty to emerge out of ashes requires courage, effort, and the life-giving breath of God. Desiring to create a space to unveil a journey toward emotional, mental and spiritual wholeness, The White Butterfly Project invites women to explore

Words Birgit Peterson GlassonPhotography Natasha Smith NSP Studio PhotographyMakeup & Hair Tanya Epis


“ Allowing beauty to emerge out of ashes

requires courage, effort, and the

life-giving breathof God. ”


healing pathways for dealing with this kind of grief and loss. A six week Lifecourse offers uniquely designed creative and reflective workshops, or alternatively an exquisite 2 day retreat is held during the week of the International Day of Pregnancy & Infancy Loss in October.

It is our heart’s desire that no one would do this journey alone, and it is in togetherness that we can move forward within the unforced rhythms of eternal hope and divine grace. Come...

Journeys

Divine imagination

thoughts since ancient days.

Unique design and purpose

envisioned your path of life

A masterpiece creation

fashioned with delight

‘ Illuminate humanity!’

was purposed for this child

Eternal longing beckoned

bypassed earthly ground.

Gaze into everlasting kindness

assures of heaven’s home.

The promise being taken

wrestling twilight setting in.

Solid rock a steady anchor

and silence best companion.

The veil is lifting slowly

greyscales brushed to green.

Embraced by glorious presence

lies newness in the dawn.

Blessing the space between us

Until that wondrous day.

Flowing in step with Jesus

in love with the Divine.

Birgit Peterson Glasson 29.08.09


ReferencesO’Donohue, J. (1998). Eternal echoes: Exploring our hunger to belong. London: Bantam Books.Peterson, B. U. (2009). Journeys [Poem]. White butterfly remembrance service. Unpublished artwork.

WhiteButterflyWhite

Butterfly Project

Finding hope and an eternal perspective ...

The White Butterfly Project exists to support,strengthen & encourage individuals and families whohave experienced loss during pregnancy and infancy.

White Butterfly Reflection Service

The annual White Butterfly Reflection Service acknowledgesthe loss of children during pregnancy and infancy. It is hosted on Saturday 7th May 2011, the day before Mother’s Day at 7am at Delfin House (Varsity Lakes). In a supportive, creative, & grace-based atmosphere it presentsan opportunity to find hope & new perspective, and a sense ofpeace amidst the pain of loss.

White Butterfly LifeCourse

In a nurturing and healing environment the White ButterflyLifeCourse invites women to explore pathways for dealing withgrief and loss. Uniquely designed creative & reflective work-shops are held over a 6 week period, providing an opportunityto explore this kind of loss, and unveiling a journey towardsemotional, mental and spiritual wholeness.

Hope Illuminates Retreat

This five star Retreat purposes to embrace women who haveexperienced loss during pregnancy and infancy, to ‘press pause’over 2 days in the spectacular Peppers Ruffles Lodge & Spa inthe Gold Coast Hinterland, encouraging the participant tomove forward in the unforced rhythms of eternal hope andgrace. It coincides with the 15th October, acknowledging theInternational Day of Pregnancy & Infancy Loss.

White Butterfly Angels

Purchasing a delicate White Butterfly Angel may provide an opportunity to uniquely express a heartfelt support to a lovedone who has experienced this kind of loss.

White Butterfly Grief Counselling

"Grieving allows us to heal, to remember with love rather thanpain" (Remen). In this process of letting go & rebuilding lives itmay be helpful to invite a professional counsellor to comealongside.

You don’t have to do this journey alone ...

T: 07 5522 0905

E: [email protected]

W: www.whitebutterflyproject.org

White Butterfly Reflection Service / 7th May / 7am / Delfin

House (Pontoon) 235 Varsity Parade, Varisity Lakes

E: [email protected]: www.whitebutterflyproject.org

http://www.whitebutterflyproject.org

www.bearsofhope.org.au32 | www.indulgemagazine.com.au

http://www.bearsofhope.org.au


Empty is a beautiful book that shares Kerryn-Liisa Pocklington's personal journey of loss through miscarriage. Out of her own experiences rose a desire to be a support and comfort to others walking this path.

"My journey is now a book called ‘Empty’ & it is ready to comfort so many more lives by showing how God got me through & made me stronger. If you’ve ever wondered what to say to someone who has lost a baby, this book can say the words for you."

Kerryn-Liisa

If you would like to order a copy, the cost is $25 plus $3 postage for a set of 2 books (so you have one for yourself & one ready for a friend in need).

To contact Kerryn-Liisa:fb: www.facebook.com/empty.miscarriage.journeye: [email protected]

"When my husband & I first decided to try for a baby we never imagined the possibility of having a miscarriage. It was a complete shock... I had never felt such grief & cried many tears over the lost life of our much wanted baby. I believe your book "Empty" is a valuable testimony of a woman who has travelled this journey & who understands that the healing process for each person is unique."

"When I began reading your book shortly after my 2nd miscarriage I felt so encouraged. Finally someone who understands!!! I felt that Empty is the perfect blend of empathy and encouragement. It really encouraged me to deal with my reality and yet look forward with hope... Empty, in its simplicity is profound and brings great healing.Thanks Kerryn for your honesty and obedience."

Praise for Empty

"The perfect blend of empathy and encouragement"

http://www.facebook.com/empty.miscarriage.journey


“BLESSED ARE THOSE WHO MOURN, FOR THEY WILL BE COMFORTED” MATTHEW 5:4

We have all experienced the loss of something we cherish. Grief and mourning is experienced to varying degrees following: The death of a loved one; The loss of a baby through miscarriage, stillbirth or abortion; The loss of a marriage or an important relationship; Loss of good friends and support; Moving house or geographic location or living in a different culture; Loss of finance or possessions; The loss of your health or the health of someone close to you; The loss of a job, your church or ministry; The loss of a beloved pet; Loss of being able to have children due to infertility; The loss of innocence and trust through Childhood abuse, trauma or neglect; The loss of dreams, our youth, our hope or the loss of what was “normal” as our life circumstances change, etc.

It is worth taking a moment to consider all the losses you can remember from childhood to now. Significant events for us over time can have a cumulative effect.

The intensity of our reaction to a loss also depends on the suddenness or magnitude of the event, the meaning and perceived impact on you and your family along with your support and coping mechanisms.

Do you have Unresolved Grief?So often we try to numb the pain of unpleasant emotions or are not given permission to grieve due to pressure to get on with life. Grieving is healthy and normal and blocking the process can lead to mental, physical and social problems.

Wound analogy – we form soul ties and attachments to people and things in our lives. When that is lost, we experience a tearing, a wound. There is a saying “time heals all wounds” however this is only true when the wound is attended to. Allowing yourself to feel the pain, cry the tears, process the loss and the impact on your world is appropriate. Then with time, comes acceptance of our new reality, healing and a new hope for the future. A healed wound may leave a scar but it is no longer painful even if the memory is alive. But what happens to a wound that is not attended to? It gets infected, the surrounding areas get inflamed and painful and the wound impairs our ability to do life well. The wounds in our life can become the lens through which we see the world. Infection in grief is unresolved feelings after loss that may come to life later in the form of emotional or physical problems. Depression, anxiety, getting

by Candice Schmidtin the midst of Grief and Loss

hope


angry or having a “short fuse”, blaming, “losing it” or displaying excessive emotion, overeating, unexplained physical pain, feeling sad, grumpy, teary, feeling physically, spiritually or emotionally drained, etc. could be signs of unresolved grief. “Tearless grief bleeds inwardly”.

Understanding the effects of Grief and LossThe effects of loss can impact our thoughts, actions, feelings and our body and the effects are interconnected (see diagram):

Dealing with grief and loss can severely impact our relationships. Our energies are used for the work of grieving and it can be difficult to understand and communicate with each other because of the intensity of our pain. Studies show up to 70% of couples who sustain major trauma or loss, suffer a marriage break up in the first year. Loss can reignite issues of our past – memories, unresolved issues, recurring negative life experiences and negative self talk. Guilt, Shame and unforgiveness further complicate issues of Grief and Loss.

Jigsaw analogy - Imagine your life as a jigsaw puzzle. All the pieces fit together and then a loss occurs, perhaps the death of a loved one. Most people just focus on what was lost, that one piece in the jigsaw of our life. However, we need to consider that one piece is intricately connected to all the other pieces of our jigsaw and the loss is felt over all areas of our life. It affects our ability to get out of bed and face the day, our ability to do our work, parent our children, connect with our spouse, family and friends. Our dreams and hopes for the future are shaken or maybe even destroyed. We cannot “fix” the puzzle and replace the piece.

We can eventually come to accept the loss and adjust to find new meaning in living without what was cherished and lost. Over time we start to find hope for the future and rebuild a new life jigsaw.

Tears help us heal – Scientific studies have found after crying, people do feel better, both physically and psychologically – and they feel worse by suppressing their tears. Research has shown that tears produced by emotional crying release chemicals built up by the body during stress. Crying stimulates the release of endorphins, substances that elevate our mood and are natural painkillers.

Thoughts Emotions Behaviours Physical"Why?" Blame - self/

others/GodCrying No energy

"What if...?" Anger Yearning Loss of inti-macy

"If only..." Anguish Withdrawal DepressionShock Fear Escaping (al-

cohol, exces-sive eating, spending etc)

No interest in sex

Disbelief Sadness Overly busy Can't concen-trate

Denial Anxiety Can't cope HeadachesBargaining Panic Poor bounda-

riesIrritable bowel

Despair Apathy Restless Weight loss/gain

Recurring thoughts re loss

Numb Irritable Insomina, broken sleep, or oversleep-ing

Negative thinking

Disconnect etc Can't enjoy life

etc Guilt etcShame


Spiritual – an eternal perspective:Isaiah 61: 1 "The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the broken-hearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners, 2 to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favour and the day of vengeance of our God, to comfort all who mourn, 3 and provide for those who grieve in Zion— to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair."

Invite God in. Jesus can heal us everywhere we hurt. He wants to help us mentally, emotionally, spiritually and physically. Trust in and rely confidently on Him to lead you through the pain to the other side to wholeness, restoration and beauty for ashes. In Him we have a hope and a future. Talk to God and bring him the hurt and pain. Tell Him how you feel. God can handle our emotions and questions.

Receive God’s love and forgiveness and forgive others.Focus on what God is doing – not what He hasn’t Speak life and hope as you take a step of Faith for the futureSpend time reading God’s word as it will transform your thoughts and breathe life into us Spirit, soul and body.

“You can’t replace a loved one but if you allow it, God can fill the void that is left behind”

Emotional and Behavioural:Identify and feel your feelings. Be honest with your pain and sorrow, it is valid.Talk to a supportive friend or family member, a support group or a Counsellor.Journal - feelings, thoughts, hopes, dreams, struggles, prayers.Ask for what you need. Accept help.Think about what is positive in your world and be thankful. Give yourself permission to make the most of today. When ready, do something you enjoy, laugh, take a holiday, be kind to yourself.Stay connected with friends, family, or your church. Loneliness can creep in when we disconnect ourselves from others.White butterfly/Hope Illuminates – Having special times to remember what was lost.

Physical:Much of grief is felt in the body. The Bounce back/resilience factor is strengthened when you take care of yourself.Eat wellDrink waterSleep and restExercise for heart and bone health and stress release

for the futurehealing & hopeH – HONOUR the reality of the loss (accept

the loss and don’t minimise the impact)

E – EXPERIENCE the pain and emotions of the

loss (“EXPRESS, NOT REPRESS”). A balance

between controlling emotional outbursts and

expressing feelings.

A – ADJUST to the new environment without

what was lost

L – LOVE your new reality (The Chinese writing

symbol for “crisis” is identical for the symbol

for “opportunity”.) Embrace a hope for a

future as you can still thrive in the face of loss

and adversity. (Ron Sterling M.D)


Good vitamin supplements replenish what our diet may be missing.Every person has a different pathway and timing to grieve and there may be good days and hard days. We need to be prepared for those triggers that bring the memories and pain up again - such as anniversaries, birthdays, Mother/Father’s days, a book, a tv program or conversation. Allow yourself to go through the H.E.A.L. cycle again.

someone who is grievingsupporting

The awkward feeling of not knowing what to say or do prevents many of us from providing support to a friend who has suffered a loss. By simply sitting down and being there, you show support. You can admit you do not know what to say, but that you care.

Listen allowing them to talk and reminisce. Help them identify and accept the many feelings that they are feeling, You don’t need to cheer them up. Avoid clichésUnderstand grieving takes time and there will be better days and days when it is hard, allow time and space for recoveryOffer practical helpMake regular contactWrite a personal noteBe aware of holidays and anniversaries. Encourage self-care such as hygiene, nutrition and exercise.

“Working through our endings allows us to redefine our relationships, to surrender what is dead and to accept what is alive, and to be in the world more fully to face the new situation” Standley Keleman.

http://www.revolutionchurch.com.au/


Soul ScarsSoul Scars

We all bear marks on our souls. These are wounds that may have come about

through circumstances or situations where we have felt hurt, disgraced, abused, abandoned, guilty, disregarded, or embarrassed. They may have been caused by something someone has done to us or something we have chosen to do to ourselves. These wounds have the same effect – they create shame. Shame is not a physical wound as such, but an indelible imprint on our emotional memory. Shame is an emotion in which you perceive yourself as defective, unacceptable, or fundamentally damaged. Perhaps I can share with you a story to expand on this further.

A beautiful friend of mine has gone through a battle with cancer and so she bears a physical scar from surgery she has undergone. But her scar is not just skin deep. It extends deep into her soul. Every part of her being will remember the emotions and thoughts associated with the diagnosis. The fear, discouragement, uncertainty, and loneliness of the experience has bruised and battered her intimately. Shame soon set it. She agonised over why it was her that had to go through this experience. She asked herself whether her faith had let her down. Did God abandon her? Was there something terribly sinful that she did to deserve this? Yet, while she is working through the answers to these questions,

Wounded for our transgression, Being Love in full expression,

He washes us clean from night to day,

So our wounds may fade away, But what is left is a scar so deep,

That it is ours to Earthly keep, Though when I touch

it’s lost the sting, I can’t help but remembering,

A thorn in my side, I try to hide,

But, His Love is greater still,

The hole in my heart He does fill, I understand, He says to me, I too have a wound to see,

Though when I touch it’s lost the sting,

I can’t help but remembering, The pain now gone and joy is left,

So live your life to the best, Our pain was not for us only,But to share our testimony…

Cristina Beer

Dr Cris Beer

d


one certainty remains. The scar did not penetrate to her spirit. Like all of ours, her spirit is spotless and untouched. It has been regenerated in the image of Christ. That’s how God sees us. He sees our spirit, which is the real you and I. As I once heard Joyce Meyer put it, “…we need to separate who we really are, from what we do.” We need to start seeing ourselves the way God sees us. Shame keeps us from God’s best in our lives. Not because He withholds his best, but because we are often so focussed on soothing our own wounds that we don’t reach out to take hold of God’s perfect plan. He wishes to heal our wounds for us. How does He do this? With the cleansing and healing power of His Word. By spending time with God in His Word, we are made whole. Any attempts that we make to heal or hide our own wounds or to soothe these, be it with partially helpful or not so helpful means, will result in a partially healed or festering wound, respectively. We need to trust and have hope in God, and this, “hope never disappoints or deludes or shames us” (Romans 5:5 Amplified). What are we actually hoping in? Well, Jesus Christ is the hope of the world.

He bore our wounds so that we don’t have to bear them any longer. His blood washes us clean constantly. We are constantly being renewed. You are not the same person you were a minute ago. You are changing from Glory to Glory and becoming whiter than snow, not by your efforts but by His. This is occurring even as we continue

to sin. Our spirits are leading a different life than our physical body – a completely Holy Life. Experientially though, in order to live a life without the pain of our scars causing a cycle of despair and self-soothing, we need to allow God to transform us from inside out. Only then will we realise that our wounds are being healed; albeit, the memory will not leave us. This memory forms the basis of our testimony. Our testimony of God’s healing forms the basis, in turn, of helping others to be free from the wounds of their past. Honestly, some deep thorns in our sides may fade with time but may never go away but may remain anaesthetised by the washing of God’s Word. We have no need to be ashamed by our soul scars. We all have them. God does not look down on these scars condemningly but sees that his grace is sufficient to heal them. Life on Earth is short compared to life in eternity, let’s live the best life that we can and help others to do the same. Ultimately, our future is certain, our identity secure. In the end, that’s all that really matters.

Hope never disappoints or deludes or shames us

Romans 5:5“ ”


body



Your face is a blank canvas. Makeup exists to enhance your features and it all starts with the Foundation. Here are some tips to help you find the perfect foundation for your skin....

Natural is Best!Always go for a natural look when you are applying foundation... Make sure it matches you own natural skin tones.

So how do you check to see if it’s the right colour? For years women have checked it on the back of their hands... This is the worst place to try, the skin on your hands is very different from your face. The best place to try it is on your jaw line. You shouldn’t be able to tell where the foundation line ends, so try and get it as close as possible to your skin tone.

Use Natural LightNever get a foundation lighter than your actual skin tone. You can look older and pasty (not a good look) Put foundation on in natural light, that way you get ‘the true colour’.

Summer vs Winter SkinYour winter skin tone is different from summer skin tone (this change is quite significant in some people). Most people’s skin goes lighter during the winter months and darker during the summer months. It is important to change your foundation's colour during this time (some people’s colour change can be 2 shades)

The Perfect FoundationTips for looking your best and getting it right...

Check the IngredientsRead the ingredients of your foundation. Natural is always best. There are some fabulous ‘mineral based’ foundations out now.

Liquid or Powder? Now this is up to you... Liquid is better for older skin as it acts like a moisturizer. As we get older, our skin needs more moisture. Younger skin works better with ‘powder’ foundations as they absorb oils.

Do Foundation Primers work? Yes, they are amazing... You can really see the difference when using a primer, your foundation goes on smoother and stays put for longer. It also refines your skin and closes your pores (giving your skin a smoother look).

Foundation ApplicationApply foundation all over the face with a sponge placing it over the eyes and lips down past the jaw line into the neck (this ensures it’s blended), sweep the sponge gently over the face. Wait 30 seconds and take a second look as often you will need to add extra over the cheekbone area and forehead.

Remember...Foundation should never look caked on or too thick, it should look light, smooth and natural.

Love Tanya

Words Tanya Epis Photography Natasha Smith NSP Photography


With the cooler season just around the corner, it’s time to start thinking about your winter

wardrobe. Investing in winter essentials and adding the season’s hottest trends is the best way to look fabulous this winter and carry you through to the next.

The Classic Trench – A must have on any women’s winter wish list. A great trench will carry you through winter and last for years. Let’s face it, winter is all about the outerwear, throw on a great trench and you're set!

The Fabulous Boot – A great boot will not only keep your toes warm, it will transform your winter outfit. Opt for a classic black or brown that has a comfortable mid heel height and falls below the knee. Keep in mind the winter weather and stay away from suedes and delicate natural leathers that may not be resistant to the elements.

Your Essential Winter WardrobeWords $ Sandra Stewart Sydney Stylists

www.sydneystylists.com

The Textual Scarf – Look for a knit or chunky weave for warmth or choose a printed pattern for visual interest. team with skinny jeans, a draping cardigan and flats for a relaxed chic winter look.

The Winter Dresses – Choose an interesting print or colour to add vibrancy to your winter ensemble. Wear it with black opaque stockings, heels or boots and cinch at the waist with a belt. Voilà!... Winter chic. The most important rule – choose a cut that works for your body shape!

Accentuate with Trends- Now that you have your essentials sorted, it’s time to stylise your winter wardrobe with the season’s hottest trends. Try a leopard belt with your trench, a statement necklace with your winter dress or a seasonal bag with your boots. Look out for animal prints, luxe sequins, and military inspired pieces. Add this season’s makeup and nail trends for a cost effective revamp.

www.polyvore.com

www.becomegorgeous.com

www.vivendifashionsita.wordpress.com


to the rescue!

Extraordinary Chocolate CracklesThese are made with real dark chocolate, no copha in sight! Now you and the kids can enjoy these treats over Easter. Makes 12 Prep 10 minutes Refrigerate 30 minutes 200g dark chocolate100g unsalted butter5 tbsp golden syrup3 1/2 cups rice bubbles1/4 cup desiccated coconutEaster eggs to decorate 1 Place rice bubbles and coconut into a large bowl.2 Melt chocolate, butter and golden syrup in a small saucepan. Pour over rice bubbles and mix well.3 Drop spoonfuls of mixture into patty cases. Top with Easter eggs and refrigerate until set.

Words Angela FrostPhotography Angela Frost & Tanya Epis

Chocolate


Makes 1x 27cm cake

Prep 15min | Cook 60-70 min 3 eggs (59g approx) each1 1/4 cups caster sugar1 1/4 cups vegetable oil2 tsp vanilla essence2 1/4 cups grated carrots2 1/4 cups self-raising flour3/4 tsp baking soda1/2 tsp salt3/4 cup cocoa

Chocolate Carrot Cake 1 Heat oven to 175°c. Lightly grease and flour a 27cm cake tin. Whisk eggs and sugar until pale. Slowly add oil and vanilla. Stir in carrots.2 Sift in dry ingredients and mix well.3 Pour into prepared tin and bake for 60-70 minutes or until skewer comes out fairly clean. Cool.

Chocolate Cream-cheese Icing75g soft butter150g cream cheese3 1/2 cups icing sugar100g dark chocolate melted and cooled 1 Beat together butter and cream cheese. Add sugar and beat until smooth, then add chocolate.


Chocolate Fruit & Nut ClustersMakes 12 Large - 18 medium Prep + refrigeration time 30 minutes 150g butter, chopped1/2 cup caster sugar2 tbsp honey3 1/2 cups Cornflakes1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped coarsely1/2 cup flaked almonds. roasted1/2 cup pistachios, roasted, chopped coarsely1/3 cup dried Paw Paw, chopped coarsely60g melted chocolate, to drizzle 1 Line Muffin pan with paper cases2 Stir butter, sugar and honey in a small saucepan over a low heat until sugar dissolves.3 Combine cornflakes, cranber-ries, almonds, pistachios and dried paw paw in a large bowl. Stir in butter mixture.4 Spoon mixture into paper cases. 5 Drizzle over your favourite melted chocolate, either dark, milk or white. Refrigerate until set.


Serves 6-8 |Prep 15 mins | Cook 60+mins 6 egg whites300g caster sugar3 tbsp cocoa powder - sieved1 tsp balsamic vinegar50g dark chocolate - finely chopped

TOPPINGWhipped CreamFresh Raspberries2-3 tbsp dark chocolate - grated

1 Preheat oven to 180°c. Line a baking tray with baking paper. Mark out a circle approximately 23cm

in diameter.2 Beat the egg whites until soft peaks form, then beat in the sugar a spoonful at a time. When the meringue is stiff and shiny sprinkle over cocoa, vinegar and chopped chocolate. Fold until cocoa is thoroughly mixed. Mound onto the baking paper, smoothing the sides and top.3 Place in the oven, then turn down to 150°c and cook for about an 1 hour or until crisp on the outside and soft in the middle. Turn off the oven andopen door slightly, and let the meringue cool. 4 Place pavlova on a serving platter top with cream, raspberries and grated chocolate.

Chocolate Pavlova with Raspberries and Cream


Chocolate Dipped StrawberriesServes 8 | Prep 20 mins | Refrigerate 15 mins 150g Milk Chocolate150g Dark Chocolate150g White Chocolate2 Punnets of Strawberries, washed and dried

1 Line a baking tray with baking paper.2 Place milk chocolate into a heat-proof bowl. Melt chocolate either in the microwave or double-boiler,stir with a metal spoon until smooth3 Dip 1/3 of the strawberries into the chocolate and place onto tray, repeat with dark and white chocolate. Refrigerate until set


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