Welcome to Angelic Complementary Therapies June 2025 Newsletter - a tribute to my dad

As you may have read in my last newsletter, my dad became unwell at the beginning of May, and sadly, he passed away in the early hours of Saturday, 3rd May. Although he wanted to stay mentally, his heart was too tired. When I visited him on Friday, his chakras were barely moving, and when I went to bed that night, I called upon Archangel Azrael to be with him should it be time. I was woken in the early hours to take the phone call you never want to receive – the hospital was very sorry, but my dad had passed.

On Wednesday (28th May), my family and I said goodbye to not only our Dad but also Grandad, Great Grandad and dear husband. It was not just a time to mourn but also a time to smile at the memories formed through a life forged with genuine passion and individuality. 

My brother Pete read the eulogy that my brother, Simon, in Australia had compiled, and I wanted to share some of Dad’s story with you all. Sadly, Simon was unable to attend the funeral, but he managed to spend a few valuable days with me and Dad before Dad passed.

We all knew that as Pete relayed some of Dad’s story, Dad would have been looking down upon us, a little embarrassed by the attention yet proud, doing so with that smile that just draws you in and makes you smile along with him. 

My Dad was always a “Dorset lad” at heart, and it is fitting that he will be laid to rest in the part of the world where his spirit was forged and where he found his wings. For despite what Dad might say, he lived a life he could not have imagined when he was a young boy growing up in Dorchester and then attending Hardye’s Grammar School. However, it was his imagination, his particular view of the world, and his hope of what might be that shone through in his art, his love of nature, music, sport, and of course in all of us, his family, of which he was so proud.

1961 proved to be a landmark year for Dad. He passed his Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) exams, successfully secured a position in the Architects Department at County Hall, Dorchester, and received the Wessex Student Scholarship in Architecture. This enabled him to spend time exploring the magnificence of Rome, during which he was even able to attend the Pope’s Blessing in St. Peter’s Square. This trip had a profound impact on Dad, who often reflected on how fortunate he was to have such a wonderful opportunity when many of his peers had hardly, if ever, ventured beyond the county boundaries.

Mum and Dad

To top off 1961, in August Dad married Mary, our Mum. Without this, his five children—Simon, Anne, Jane, Pete, and myself—along with our own families would not be a loving part of Dad’s legacy. However, the trip to Rome ignited a spark for future travel, which has given his children so many “travels with Dad and Jill” tales to tell. In fact, Rome continued to hold a special place in Dad’s heart and was a city he repeatedly returned to visit.

Dad and Jill

Our first European camper van trip was truly epic, with nine of us aged between 4 and 14 crammed into one van (plus a small awning at night). Most people you tell this story to are amazed that we survived. It’s certainly a far cry from the holidays many families take nowadays. There were countless subsequent forays through Europe, extending to Scandinavia in the north, the far eastern border of Austria, and Spain and Greece in the southern reaches of Europe – all offering a mind-stretching education with memories that are still vivid today. 

While in many ways a very private individual, Dad’s painting provided the outlet that re-energised him, allowing him to recreate on canvas or paper his own detailed yet personal view of the world around him. I can recall many times when Dad would simply set up his easel and draw or paint what he saw, quickly surrounded by people admiring his skills. As much as he outwardly shunned the attention, inwardly he was very proud, as were we. 

This love of creating art with a personal take on how an individual views the world is special and has inspired others, including myself. I remember when Dad gave me a one-to-one “art class time” where he not only showed and taught me a whole range of brush and paint techniques as his artistry flowed with a natural ease but also embodied that simple, yet salient, lesson that such skills do not just happen overnight; they take years of practice – and patience – to develop. 

Dad was also a brilliant sportsman and enjoyed playing tennis and cricket. For those who appreciate cricket, Don Bradman's Test batting average was 99.94, while Jack Hobbs' was 56.94. Dad achieved an impressive average of 92.78 in his years - not bad to surpass Jack, though not quite The Don.

It is an extensive tapestry which may not be perfect in every detail, but as with his art, music and other loves, it is rich in colour and with an individual weave that is entrancing to reflect upon.

I embrace all that he was - he was my Dad. Dad and I had that special relationship where we could sit comfortably in each other's company, without the need to fill the silence. We understood each other. We were very similar in personality (and looks, Dad always said it was our hair :D)). Dad was extremely caring, and I can recall the times he looked after me or called me just to make sure I was okay. Even on the Tuesday before he passed, Dad was concerned that I’d be able to find my car in the hospital car park, even though he was so poorly, he was ready and willing to help me locate it.

Dad was also hugely supportive. When my first book was published, I wasn’t sure if Dad would want to read it; after all, it really wasn’t his genre. Then one day, I answered the phone, and instead of our usual greeting, he proceeded to read a passage from my book! Somehow, he knew I had published my first book and had ordered it! He continued to support me and read three out of four of them (the fourth remained on the side table, so he may have dipped into it; I don’t know for sure). Dad admitted it wasn’t his usual type of book, but he enjoyed the story.

One thing I know for sure is that he was immensely proud of each and every one of his children and grandchildren. Even on that special Tuesday before he passed, he proudly introduced me to every doctor, nurse, and healthcare assistant, saying, “This is my youngest, Katie.” Then, that Friday – May 2nd – he reached for Jill’s hand, and they held each other’s hands, an image that will be embedded in my mind forever.

I’ll miss hearing his voice when I phoned him. He used to say, “Ah Kato,” and then we’d greet each other in French. I’ll miss our goodbyes - our unique way every single time, from when I was a little girl.

The last thing I said to Dad was, “I love you”, and my word, I do. He may not have been perfect, but who is?

I'll miss you, Dad, more than I can comprehend right now, but I know you're here safely tucked away in my heart, and your legacy continues. Rest now, Dad and watch over us all with your love and that wonderful infectious smile. Love you so very much. Always your Katie/Kato xxxx

Mindfulness/Meditation

A simple way to start the day

These past few weeks, I have spent a significant amount of time reflecting on life and the highs and lows we all encounter. It wasn’t until I sat down and realised that in 2022, I lost my beautiful mum; in 2023, we lost my dear step-dad, Derrick. In 2024, my gorgeous Jefferson passed away, and now in 2025, my rock – my Dad. I feel that’s enough for now. It’s time for a break. These past four years have undoubtedly brought their challenges in terms of losing family and loved ones, whether through the end of life or circumstance. 

I have no idea what lessons life has in store for me next. All I know is that whatever comes my way, I will face it, and I will become all the stronger for it.

My spirituality has undoubtedly helped me; through my own lessons, I have become even more empathetic towards others. I’m able to see a much broader picture than I thought possible a few years ago. I know in my soul that my Guardian Angel is right beside me, supporting me every step of the way. Even on the morning of my Dad’s funeral, I woke at 4:44 – which is a message of stability and support from the angels.

Every morning, I meditate and take a moment for quiet contemplation, allowing my thoughts - which can race around my head at times - to settle. Even if it’s just for 10 minutes, it really helps, and it has proven essential of late.

This is my super simple morning – non-negotiable – mindful meditation practice. Try it every day for a week and see if it sets the tone for your day ahead.

• Set your alarm 20 mins earlier than you normally do – ideally before the house wakes

• Don’t reach for your mobile and get caught in the web of social media – this is time for you - your time.

• Take yourself to another room (or if the weather is nice, outside).

• Sit quietly. No pressure. No judgements. No expectations.

• If thoughts enter your mind (and they will), acknowledge them but refrain from allowing your mind to become preoccupied. Let them go for now. Concentrate on your breathing. Inhale positive energy, and exhale any negative thoughts that do not contribute to a positive purpose.

• Focus on your breath. Gently breathing in, gently breathing out.

• Set a simple intention for the rest of your day – for example, “I will carry this light with me”.

• After 5 or 10 minutes. Gently stretch, open your eyes and smile. Today is going to be a good day. Whatever the day holds for you, you’ll be ok. Take each moment at a time.

Quote for the moment

"To have a friend you must be a friend.”

Vicki Hinze

Crystal of the month

Smokey Quartz

Smoky quartz is a stunning crystal that is excellent for balancing emotions such as grief, anxiety, or depression. It brings a sense of calm in times of stress.

It is linked to the Root Chakra, which aids in feeling grounded and present. This crystal provides protection by absorbing and transmuting negative energy. protection 

Angel Card

Fresh Air

Angels Oracle Cards, Doreen Virtue

“Your body needs refreshment from oxygenated air generated by grass, trees, plants and flowers. Spend time outside today, as near to Mother Nature’s cradle as possible. Open your curtains and windows to refresh your home as well.”

I was fortunate enough to attend the Mind, Body, and Spirit fayre at Olympia just over a week ago. Seeing Kyle Gray was fabulous—he never disappoints. I was also approached by a psychic; he didn’t know anything about me, and I wasn’t seeking a reading. He explained he had to pass on a message for me. The message was that I am very protected, not only by angels and passed loved ones but also by my guardian angel. He also said they are telling me to teach (which I will be doing soon). Life seems to have other plans for me at the moment, but I will be teaching when the time is right in the not too distant future.

I wonder what this June has in store for each of us. Whatever it brings, may it be fun and peaceful. Maybe think of ways you can have quality time with the people in your life or quality time with yourself. Be present and, as I always say, be kind to all, but mostly yourself. I look forward to seeing you soon, with love and light.

Kate x ^i^ x

Kate Palmer-Marshallsay AoR BA (Hons)

Complementary Therapist

Angelic Complementary Therapies

Email – Kate@angelicct.com

Web – www.angelicct.com