Savoring simple daily pleasures

As I spoke about in the previous post, we are on the back of an exceptionally busy and full week, so I am bursting with gratitude that I am sat typing this in the warm sunshine, at a beach house, in shorts and bare feet! What a difference just a few days can make- my Thursday post was written cozied up in bed with a storm lashing!

 Last evening sent winter off with a bang as another dramatic thunderstorm shook the house, and this morning we woke to a bright fresh spring day, with a warmth in the sun we haven't felt these past several winter months. Its off season here, so we are enjoying total peace and relaxation, with the feeling of tranquility washing over us. Its not yet even 24 hours since we arrived and we all feel like we have enjoyed a true mini holiday already- our toes are thawed from the cold that's now past, the doors and windows are thrown open, alfresco dining and even a new bottle of sun lotion purchased. 

Its father's day here, paired with the first day of Spring, but long before our girls surfaced for the day, my husband and I watched the dawn over coffee/ hot lemon water, and headed up the 'Mountain" to watch the spring unfold from this majestic vantage point. 

The scale of the horizon and the unimaginable beauty were truly awe inspiring- and after this crazy, fraught, week, the sights and smells and sounds melted it all away. Just the two of us, feeling the warmth of those first spring rays, trekking up a reasonably challenging hill, and the knowledge we had the whole day- and part of tomorrow, stretching out before us was like a balm to the soul. We ended up taking the scenic route back down- taking far longer than we anticipated and involving a fair amount of scrambling and the final stretch across the rocks at sea level, to meet our two daughters for coffee. What a perfect way to celebrate such an incredible father - and husband- in such an unrushed way that we were able to really savor, and soak up and deeply appreciate it.  The offset of the busyness of the previous week made it all the more special and treasured. 

It is so important we remind our selves regularly that happiness is only an exterior thing- that we certainly can enjoy- often fleetingly but hopefully frequently, but contentment is from within. We can choose to be content each and every day. It has no strict permeameters, relays on no other body or soul, and is entirely up to us as individuals to tune in, nurture, and practice contentment each day. Easier on a blissful day such as this, less so racing round against the clock in the driving rain and cold, with a stressful work week trying to drain you and suck the positivity and the core of our contentment. 

But its always there, however the practice of tuning into it multiple times a day is something we need to be reminded of. To actively choose to rewire our brines, form these new pathways and keep retreading them so that they are so familiar to us we need less of a push to frequent them regularly; the practice becomes something we do several times a day- not quite sub consciously, as its vital to keep present and mindful of this feeling, but that it becomes so natural to look for the good, appreciate what we have, and be in the present- second nature. 

This ties in to the acceptance of our limitations and knowing and understanding our own limits- this week I wasn't kind to myself, and I knew better than to over commit to that extent. We need to get to know ourselves equally on this journey of contentment and peace, as part of being able to live a contented life is about a deep understanding of ourselves, who we are, what makes us tick, what we need to flourish and how best to carry ourselves through this life, in a kind and gentle way - we are the only beings capable of bringing contentment to ourselves- no one else can provide that. I'm now in my mid 40's and I think I'm only just starting to really know and begin to deeply understand myself- and have the confidence to allow my inner voice to be head when its required. To do that is brave, its brave to make yourself venerable while equally standing your ground. Its challenging to go against the grain- but if that's how you truly feel, and what you deeply believe is right for you- don't be drowned out. 

So, this daily practice has to be completely individual to you. And it will change and evolve and keep re shaping as we learn and grow and age. Its never a done deal. Its a habit, a healthy habit to carry with us for our entire life. And its never too late to take it up. 

With that, I'm going to wander down to the estuary now the tide has come in again, to watch the sea birds and my family frolic on the waves. 

Till next time. 

 

 savoring simple daily pleasures

I plan to write a further post over this coming weekend, with the luxury of time and an abundance of fresh sea air. But tonight I felt compelled to just jot down some thoughts on my experiences this week. 

I thought I was tuned into my limitations and necessities in regards to social commitments and filling my days and calendar. I am usually mindful of spacing events and engagements out. This week snowballed. I work full time, we are just coming through the depths of winter into the first glimmers of spring- so all a little fatigued, fighting off constant colds and winter viruses, and feeling thoroughly "wintered". 

(As you may know, I love and embrace all the seasonals equally for their own beauty qualities and uniqueness, but this doesn't always mean fatigue wont set in when dark mornings become a little more tiresome, evening chores a little more taxing, and a natural longing for warmth, unfurling,  and that delicious feeling of unfolding and stretching out - much like a new butterfly , emerging from its cocoon- ready to absorb and embrace the welcome wonders of spring.)

Foolishly, it turns out, (and I absolutely should have known better) I over committed. With an extra activity, social engagement, dance class, meeting, errand, appointment, entertaining or organizational tasks doubling op on every night of the week after a full days work, I hit an absolute wall when the last straw was an atrocious nights sleep- resulting in me decamping to the guest room to try to sleep in the early hours- something I have not done once in all our 20 something years together! 

Today I struggled to function efficiently all day. My mind kept drifting, my tasks we shoddy at times, I was snappy and even irrational. I held it together, performed my various duties and just about made it through my to do list before a delicious hot shower, and tucking myself into bed very early to write this, watching the room light up with dramatic flashes of lighteneing and bone shaking, house rattling rolls of thunder.  I couldn't be cozier or more content. 

I am wrung out, and a little annoyed with myself for not having the foresight to plan better. However, it has served as a valuable reminder, and I am so fortunate to be looking forward to a brief get away this weekend, of utter relaxation and time by the ocean with no plans or time constrains whatsoever. 

So, now to my new book chosen at our book club this week, for all of about 2 minutes before my eyes inevitably start to close. 

I have a quote written in chalk on the kitchen menu black board which is rather apt for this particular post-

We can do ANYTHING, but we cant do EVERYTHING. 

How true. I'd do well to remember that. 

 Savoring simple daily pleasures

Ok. I need to come clean. 

I started off with determination and gusto on my journey of a NO Buy Year. I was staunchly adamant that I would see it though without faltering. ....

That may have been a little ambitious.

I have continued to be mindful and very conscious with the items I have bought- and for at least the first full 6 months I stuck to within the parameters I'd allowed myself:

NO new purchases unless- replacing a frequently used item that has worn out or beyond repair, replacing athletic wear/ running shoes, or a pre- loved purchase for a wedding - or other significant event. 

Recently - for no other reasons that I can determine other than a sense of fatigue and an anticipation of a new season, a clarity of my own personal style, and, if I'm brutally honest, a longing for the buzz- the endorphins a new purchase can make you feel, I have succumbed to the very temptations and reasons I chose to embark on this challenge in the first place.

While I do, certainly, feel an element of guilt, and a little disappointment, that I have got to late August and have temporarily fallen off the wagon, I still feel I have learnt and grown though the journey thus far, and It is not a failure, and it isn't over yet. I am far more present and intentional with what I di peruse and choose to  cheat with. they are not impulse buys or stand alone items- they genuinely fill gaps and provide a solution, and are all the more appreciated and values- savored - for it. 

I will list below the items I have purchased (some of which I have mentioned in a previous post) and my thought process behind them, in an honest effort to, in some way, justify them:

 Running shoes

I have purchased 3 pairs of running shoes since January, and most recently my favorite brand ON, was having a sale, so while I didn't strictly need them, yet, They were a very good deal, and one of the pairs were a specialist waterproof trail shoe. Now, anyone who's been following EVERYDAY CONTENTMENT for any length of time will know, I walk, a lot. I run most morning and I walk every day without fail, regardless of the weather. So, I do truly ware running shoes out with frightening regularity. (Quality, well-made running shoes are not an inexpensive purchase!)

Cashmere Sweater

Upon perusing a charity shop/Op shop/ Good will store, I came across a pure cashmere, Pilar box red, scoop neck sweater. I needed it. It was very inexpensive, I didn't have that color in my wardrobe, and it was beautiful quality from a well-known, high end brand. Having carefully laundered it, and getting my darling Mother to repair two small holes (I am no seamstress) I have worn it several times already- its warm, cozy, a beautiful fit, and provides a wonderful pop of color under a blazer. I simply couldn't leave it there. 

Velvet Tuxedo jacket

An item I have long been Coverting for my wardrobe- such a versatile timeless piece; chic over jeans, or classic over evening wear. One came to my attention purely by chance, at a heavily discounted price. So, I bought it. I am yet to wear it but my husband and I have a couple of elevated evening events to attend over the next few weeks so I feel sure it will make its debut. 

Black leather Chelsea boots

I had been struggling with a gap which only classic black Chelsea boots could fill. My old Chelsea boots were past their best and long since donated, and the existing ankle style boots I had were in Olive green, Navy or Taupe. All lovely and different in their own way -but none in black. The only black I have are very high heel evening style bots- definitely not a style I would walk the 4Kms round trip to my place of work which I do more or less daily. So, again, a trusted brand- I have several other pairs of shoes by them, Sol Sana, popped up on sale, so I took advantage. They are beyond perfect. Day one I wore them with just thin stockings to walk to work, a full day on my feet and the walk home- the really telling part was I wore them to do exactly the same in them the following day. A true test of a well-made, well-designed, High-quality piece of footwear. 

'Ugg 'Boot Slippers

While I have a few pairs of slippers depending on the function and season, I was missing something that covered my ankle to provide warmth, as well as a practical sole to pop outside to the clothes line, or potter in the kitchen. So- while not UGGS, I did buy- on sale, some over the ankle sheep skin slippers. We are still very much in winter- with peeks of spring arriving daily, so they are a welcome coziness. 

So, while keeping with the full disclosure theme - I have also genuinely aquired a few other pieces over the course of a few months:

*A waterproof puffer jacket- in shocking pink! Mu daughter has outgrown it...and me!

* Two pairs of Lug Sole loafers, one tan suede, one ivory leather- a lovely friend purchased but were too small for her, but a perfect fit for me! 

* Two waterproof rain jackets- My husband treated me to, to keep me dry on my walks. 

Definitely a footwear thread running here me thinks..... But I always knew I was a bit of an Imelda Marcos 

OK, there we go, I've confessed. Onwards. 

 

 Savoring simple daily pleasures

A little bonus post this week: As I took my Saturday Walk to the village for coffee- as has become my savored and much anticipated weekend ritual, I pondered the qualities of how a day of mindful and intentional contentment might start, as we get ready for our days, and how this translates into how we present ourselves. I am in no way a fashionista, or even a follower of trends per se, but I do love clothing, I love quality fabrics and workmanship, and I enjoy feeling pulled together each day regardless the tasks ahead of me. We all love the feeling of that one killer outfit or pair of shoes we feel amazing in, and could rule the world in, why not cultivate that feeling in our every days- not just saved for special occasions. 

The layers we dress ourselves with on top of our secret glamour- the luxury of well-fitting quality lingerie, suited to our physique and in a style we enjoy for ourselves- are our foundational pieces. 

Whether we care to admit it or not, we consciously or unconsciously notice how someone is presented and their clothing choices when we meet them. It is usual for your eyes to make quick split second judgements, and observations - possibly even assumptions, before we have even opened our mouths to speak.  Regardless if we like this or not, it is fairly unavoidable in society - just as we eat with our eyes first before taking a bite when a meal is beautifully presented, or a cake thoughtfully and skillfully decorated-   How we choose to present ourselves is important and speaks volumes. And thus, how we are presenting ourselves is the cornerstone for how we conduct ourselves throughout our days. 

As a basic example- When I dress in my athleisure, or gym wear, I feel instantly energized, motivated and ready to go- accordingly, these garments are designed to move with you, and be comfortable and not cumbersome, and enable freedom of movement. Contrarily, a cozy turtleneck oversized sweater over perfectly worn-in stretch jeans sets the tone for comfort, warmth and relaxation. A stylish blazer over a crisp white shirt- I'm prepped, ready and feeling productive and professional. 

The key is, to have a commonality and signature style or look that links all the various functions and purpose of the varied styles clothes, while preserving your own unique identity. 

When picking out our clothes and composing our outfits, we are setting our intention for the day. 

1. A Classic Blazer. I have several blazers of varying weights, cuts, colours and fabrics in my wardrobe, but the classic, basic well-tailored, high-quality blazer is a timeless piece to elevate any outfit. Black, navy or tan. Paired over a pencil skirt, jeans and a tee, crepe pants or a floaty dress- providing an element of style, and a classic silhouette. Oversized blazers are en vouge at the moment but find a style, length and cut that flatters you, and stick with it until you are confident enough to play with it. 

2. Trench coat. Versatile, extremely useful, classic and timeless. Pick a length that works with your height and wardrobe- some are cropped some almost ankle length- as with the blazer they can be paired with a myriad of outfits, are lightweight, useful in most seasons, and add an element of chic- even with chucks. 

3. Well fitted jeans. No matter your style preference: skinny, high wasted, wide leg; find a brand, cut and style that works for you- the tasks you perform daily, the climate, and what makes you feel good. Be conscious of you stature and physique and accentuate what you have- for example a wider leg jean cropped above the ankle doesn't look good on every body shape. Find the one that speaks to you and makes you glow - and allows you to function adequately- and invest in a light and dark denim pair- and perhaps a saturated black and even a white pair too? 

4. Basic Tee Shirts. The better the quality the longer they last. A scoop or V neck can be more flattering but be mindful what you plan to pair them with. Black, White and light grey are a good starting point, and maybe in 2 sleeve length - and perhaps singlets for warmer months.  

5. Sweaters or cardigans. These depend on the climate you live in, in terms of how many you require-but a decent sweater can last years. I prefer  cashmere when the budget allows as wool ca irritate my skin- especially around the neck, but Cashmere can be expensive. Build your collection over time, keep an eye out for sales and bargains- even high quality pre loved. I picked up a red cashmere sweater recently for less than $30- handwashed and cared for in a mild wool specific detergent- I love it! I tend to stick to plain colours- no patterns or multicolor- perhaps a little detailing or cabling. Tan, black, charcoal/grey and a pop of something fun- pink, red, cornflower blue. 

6. Basic dress/ dresses. I have enjoyed wearing dresses year round for decades- varying the fabric, thickness, and style depending on the season and intended functionality.  A dress is a complete outfit in one. Pair with a scarf, a cardigan, a blazer or alone- with boots, ballet flats, heels, sandals or smoking slippers. Just beware of clinging fabrics, see through fabrics, and ensure you purchase a cut that suits your physique.  I love a belted denim dress with brown boots in the winter for a casual look, a linen floaty sundress in the heat of summer, and perhaps a soft button up shirt dress for spring.

7. Formal / evening dress. An LBD - (or not so little, or not so black) should be part of every ladies wardrobe. Go for a dark navy, a black, or perhaps a deep burgundy or forest green depending on preference or skin tone- but go for a classic silhouette if you are investing, making sure it can pair with varying heel heights and be worn under a shawl or coat or wrap.  Avoid pattered and fads and seasonal hem lines. Think Audrey Hepburn. And pearls. 

8. Skirt or shorts. I swore off shorts for years (and years!) but have since rediscovered that in the height of summer, when paired with the right top and a belt, tailored Bermuda style shorts can actually be quite chic- and are incredible practical. I adore the look of shorts and a blazer with perhaps a sleeveless silk blouse- but I haven't quite dared to pair that yet. I don't love my knees, so I'm honest with myself about that and know what length I feel comfortable- and confident in. Skirts throw a totally different vibe and can be worn year round in all kinds of fabrics, so pick a style you like for winter and then for hotter months, and invest in one or two when you can. I am loving a black pleated skirt with a leather jacket or long line cozy cardigan, and in the spring I'll bring out my button through linen. 

9. Button down shirt. If nothing else, pretty much everyone needs a classic high-quality crisp cotton button down shirt in their wardrobe. Year round. Totally versatile. Always chic. Wear open over a camisole, with tailored pants, under a blazer, tied up over denim cut offs. 

10. Scarves. The one item you will never, ever not fit. Go crazy. Silk, wool, cashmere, patterns, splashes of color, leopard. A scarf is pretty much always a good idea- and the finishing touch to so many outfits. When you feel you are missing an accessory or need to zhuzh it up a little.  

11. Nautical Tee. A la classic Coco Chanel. A nautical stripe boat neck tee is a classic to add interest and retain an element of fun while remaining classically stylish. Under a cardigan, a blazer, a denim jacket or alone. Always go horizontal stripes. Navy and white or black and white but have fun- Boden and Joules are my go to for quality and affordable luxury style. 

12. Fine Merino knit. We live in a sort of temperate climate here, but many homes and buildings are not adequately insulated for the colder days or harsh winds and bone chilling damp of winter. Thin, merino base layers are my Saviour. Even under a tailored fitter dress or a heavier sweater. Just a layer of warmth without the bulk. 

13. Denim jacket. So handy as a layer in spring and summer and even early autumn here- always stylish over a dress or linen wide leg pants. I'm not convinced by double denim though- sorry. Stick to one end- denim jeans or denim jacket. Youve got to be pretty special to carry off both and still look chic. 

14. Camisole. As a layer, under a blazer or cardigan or a peek of lace under a shirt with the top few buttons undone. I have 3 or 4 silk ones I have picked up over the years- they are delicious against your skin and elevate your outfit and feeling of style even when no one knows they are there. definitely worth the investment and when laundered properly will last many years. 

15. Shoes and Handbags. Okay, yep, definitely deserve their own category- if not an entirely separate post. And I have a not so secret shoe and bag obsession. 

At the very least you need the following-

A neutral clutch- suitable for evenings. A large leather tote sizable enough to fit a laptop/lunch/a scarf/ water bottle. A cross body bag in a neutral or an interesting leather- aligator/ leopard. and big enough for keys, wallet, sunglasses and a lippy. A straw shopper- for the farmers market.

And footwear:

Ballet flats- pointed or round toe -black or tan or both, knee high boots, and Chelsea style boots that can be worn with skirts or dresses too- at least one in black one in brown. a loafer or smoking slipper- go wild- leopard, zebra, olive- a pop of interest. A heeled sandal in neutral, black heels, a wedge sandal- suitable for walking, beach style casual slides- Birkenstock or such. Converse style chucks. A neutral flat sandal- I have been though several pairs of the Sam Edelman T strap sandals in Almond patient- they go with absolutely everything and you can walk MILES in them. and maybe a slip on woven leather mule as they are so versatile- wear with jeans, shorts dresses....

As you can see, I have serious trouble narrowing shoe choices down. But really, is too many shoes a thing?!

I will sign off this post there, a la Imelda Marcos, and perhaps look at a further list of lingerie and undergarments as well as outerwear next? 

 Savoring simple daily pleasures

In the space of a handful of days this week, I have been taken a back in a wonderfully surprising way by children showing respect, manners and tradition. Its so easy to lump them into the same box of too much screen time, no respect, no boundaries, technology driven, computer game altered..... they get a bad wrap a lot of the time these kids, (and by kids I'm referring to my personal experience dealing with 5-11 year olds on a daily basis.... and teens at home). 

While many of these less desirable attributes can be witnessed and more often than perhaps we'd like, there is always the counter characteristics. This blog, and indeed everyday contentment   is very much built on seeking the positive, remaining present, and practicing daily gratitude, so with that firmly in mind, I have three heart warming examples of beautifully mannered emerging adults who, I believe are a credit to their caregivers and society. 

The first instance I witnessed was a new student who had transferred from a different school, he was confident and excited and very polite. During an exchange and conversation taking place in the office, an elderly gentleman waking in- now, this gentleman is a whole 'nother story, but this student would have had no idea who he was or what his relationship with the school was. When it became apparent the local gentleman was leaving, our new student didn't hesitate to jump up and hold the door open for him, and when thanked for doing so, was gracious in response and gave eye contact in doing so. For a boy of 10 who surely must have been really rather nervous and anxious on a first day of a new school, I was really blown away with his self-assured confidence, and his grounding of good manners and respectful behavior. 

That same afternoon, as I walked home, the local high school bus pulled into a stop just ahead of me- I make sure to always greet the ex students I am familiar with- and gauge my level of interaction by the, sometimes, Luke warm response I receive in return- indeed, its not uncommon for an 11 year old primary school student to be somewhat needy, openly tearful and rather immature throughout their 6 years - then all of a sudden they are in a different uniform, its a handful on months down the track and they dont so much as grunt at you- let alone offer a smile or any kind of greeting, despite patching their knees up for years with band aids and sellotaping their first teeth Safley to note paper so as not to get lost before the tooth fairy visits! Its astounding that they can suddenly be so uncomfortable and embarrassed just to acknowledge your presence in passing! (Hey ho!) On this particular afternoon, a young girl who had been rather awkward and uncomfortable in her own skin for years then, happily, blossomed and transformed, waiting at the bus stop when she had just got off the bus, as I started to pass her I greeted her as usual and she said, "I was waiting for you, I just wanted to walk with you for a bit if that's ok?"  I was so touched, as she chatted easily about her day, told me about her class mates and how the school cross-country had gone- this little girl had historically become so distraught when she'd had any issues at school, or minor injuries and upsets-and he she was, choosing to accompany me and chatter away. I was tickled- and really rather touched. 

A day or so later, a neighbor called to ask if her son could walk home with me as she was caught up. When I went to find him and give him the message, he lit up, he said, I'd love to walk home any day- anytime! As I walked away, I overheard him announce to his friends that he was walking home with his neigbour afterschool like it was such a treat. He chattered amiably all the way home, telling me all sorts of things and engaging in conversation- even thanking me for walking with him once we reached his drive. 

These children. These examples. These are what we need to focus on and encourage, nurture, and yes, appreciate. They are gold. Absolute nuggets to cherish and glimmers of a real, genuine, hopeful future, where our world will be run by this passionate, respectful confident generation. 

Yes, there will always be those less respectful, less desirable, but there have always been those characters, in my youth and in my grandmothers, and her mothers- they just present a little differently each time the generation rolls round. What we need to do as parents, teachers and society, it nurture and encourage those gems, give them the space and room to blossom, and grow and mature- focus on these amazing GOOD kids.  Not dwell on the behavior and traits we don't appreciate in some of their peers. 

We should have their backs. 

I'm proud and honored to have been part of their little journey so far. 

 savoring simple everyday pleasures

It's Friday night, and as I sit here cozily, after a hot shower, in a fluffy robe, scented candles burning,  adding a calm glow to the room, soft piano music drifting, and the gentle clanking of the chimney as it heats back up again after the fire on the level below me was stoked with fresh logs, I feel so at peace, accomplished and the slower pace of the weekend is tangible, and like a delicious treat waiting just for me. After this somewhat hectic and full week, I feel I will appreciate and savor this weekend even more so. The forecast is for fine crisp days, and among the usual household chores and errands, time with family, walks with friends and ladies golf is planned. I feel a little buzz of energy too that I'm almost excited to get thoroughly organized again for the next week- without in any way wishing my weekend away. The feeling this past Sunday afternoon/ Monday morning of preparedness and calm organization was wonderful- setting me up with such a positive foot to step into the new week. I cant wait to manage that again. Its quite therapeutic- when you have the time and inclination- less so when we are over committed and stressed about the weekend to do list being seemingly unachievable in the two days, let alone fitting in any leisure time or relaxation or pauses. 

To punctuate my work week ending and this longed for 60 odd hours before Monday morning kicks in, I began with a beautiful chilly bush walk on a favorite local track, late afternoon as the light faded (although happily a little later noticeably each day now) and adorned with a clear rainbow. 

I am a great believer in routines and rituals, and find their rhythm and consistency soothing. Certain things I like to savor and enjoy over the weekends, baths, afternoons with time to sit with a book and a pot of tea, meal planning, re setting the laundry knowing I'm completely up to date, clean, dry, folded, ironed, fresh sheets and towels, school uniforms ready and outfits and workout gear ready. 

Mid week its easy to get caught up- especially I find in the winter, where with shorter days, it hard not to feel you are constantly racing, trying to beat the clock, and often longing to either have a few more moments in bed or to climb back in at night as its so dark and cold outside at both ends of the day! I find my daily afternoon walks help considerably with this, and I regularly refer to them as my mental heath moments- my morning workouts are for my bodies fitness, the afternoons are food for the soul, head space, and mindful resets. 

One afternoon this week I came in from one such walk and instantly felt the pressure of all the to dos left for that evening. I paused, tried to conjure the feeling of time and space I absorbed on my walks, and rather than racing through dinner preparation and multitasking, I put on some Frank Sinatra, lit a candle, and within a very short space of time, found myself dancing and twirling around wielding my bag of spinach or wooden spoon as I danced and hummed my way through cooking the family meal. It took me no longer, but was so much more pleasurable. A lighthearted literal spring in my step- energized  from fresh air and upbeat classic crooning. I highly recommend you try! 

Its incredible  how music can determine a mood and penetrate our thoughts and feelings. Just as now the gentle whirr of my laptop and the tippytap of my key board is accompanied by my peaceful piano. Signaling that after my writing time, I will make a peppermint tea, and re join the family by the crackling fire before climbing into my cosy bed, with our Saturday to look forward to. 

This week I have also consciously tried to go to sleep with a lovely positive thought in my head, then as soon as I've woken in the morning ready to start my day (with or without the aid of my alarm) I've encouraged myself to remember that thought. I am a morning person anyway, but to mindfully start your day with gratitude and a positive happy thought really does help set a tone for the day. To the point where though out the day if things get a little frayed, its easier and quicker to swiftly bring yourself back to a place of positivity and gratitude. Try it! It can be something tiny and very simple and sweet, as long as it resonates with you and makes you feel a warm inner glow or turns your mouth up at the corners- it'll do the job perfectly. 

Contentment is within us and how we choose to navigate our everyday.

 Savoring simple everyday pleasures

Life is in full swing here as we speed towards spring, and this week had been no exception with business, eventfulness and another 7 days flying by! The weather has been a complete mixed bag too- adding its own drama and uniqueness to the week, biblical rains and alfresco walm lunches, icy windy walks and pitch dark bush searches for lost children (Safely found eventually, thank goodness!)

The clear and resounding theme throughout all these varied events is community, spirit and belonging.

I'm feeling the renewed warm glow of a true sense of place and such gratitude that I am fortunate enough to live in a supportive, caring community. We are technically still part of a big sprawling city, but we are rural and on a peninsular of sorts surrounded by native bush, woodlands, and coastline. 

 I have come to realize that now, having lived in this immediate area for over 20 years (all be it in 3 homes over that time frame) that while I am so comforted and supported by our community, I am also very much a part of it too. I'm not an interloper or newby. We have been here for enough years to feel part of the fabric of that community, and a valuable cog in its diverse mix. Through my local job and having our own children grow up and attend kindergarten and school in the area, we have friends, neighbours, acquaintances and even just familiar faces passing regularly on walks, serving us our coffee, packing our grocery items, greeting us by name in the pharmacy, tooting and waving as they pass in their cars.  My mother lives a little way away but we still are near enough to frequent the same shops, cafes and markets so she is by extension still in our area. 

The events which unfolded this past week involving the young children from next door to us going missing in thick hazardous bush, in the dark and cold, for several hours - (and who were recovered perfectly unharmed just exhilarated by the adventure and a little muddy- unlike their poor parents who'd been frantic with worry!) demonstrated so completely and restored anew my gratitude, appreciation and my own place in this special community. 

Regardless of the cold and dark, and with no thought to these children being mostly unfamiliar with the locals and the area having only moved here this year, these incredible, selfless people turned out of their houses on a dark damp night in the middle of winter to search gardens, paths and call out the names of the missing little ones. Police were here very promptly as was the helicopter with its infra red scanner looking for 3 little figures and their pup. My husband sprung into action and boots and head torches were donned and any agenda or commitment or engagements any of us had that evening were quickly put aside and the search was top priority.  It was the net work of the locals which finally f9ound and identified them and safely returned them to their Mummy. 

It could have been such a different outcome, and we shudder to think. Multiple calls and messages flooded in to help and also to check in if they'd been found and again the next day several locals approached me to enquire after the families wellbeing and hear the full story. 

It takes a village is an old expression- so familiar we only use half of it these days- but BOY, does it!

So, while my "baby" is 18,000kms away, I feel enveloped in the friendship and security and support of this incredible community. 

On that, I am going to finish my lemon water, and now the watery day light has broken through the pinkish wintry dawn, I plan to walk up to the village for coffee before tackling the household chores and preparing for another full week- possibly a little less eventful and dramatic than last, with a lovely sense of comfort and place in society. A true and peaceful contentment that my place is right here.