Savouring Simple daily pleasures 

Designing an everyday life we love is a vitally important skill to master if we are to live a life of contentment. Because it is the everydays and the routines and the habits and rituals in our daily life which we reside for the vast majority of our time here on earth. 

This may seem an insurmountable goal if we are stuck in a daily grind from which we are currently deriving little joy, a job we don't like, or a financial situation we are struggling to improve. However, this is exactly my point. It is the ability to re-focus our thinking and re-frame the seemingly mundane, which will enable us to see the joy, the beauty, the worth and ultimately obtain a level of true contentment and gratefulness in our 'ordinary' days and lives. 

Once we begin to practice this life skill- and it is just that- we become better at it. It's like a muscle, not only does it gain strength and definition, but it also retains a certain amount of muscle memory- so even if we stumble, it becomes easier and more natural to be able to get right back on track. 

The simplest steps observed and taken regularly, daily, will start to strengthen your ability to see things from a more joyous position. finding the good, and as we have talked about in previous posts here on the blog- finding the ordinary magic in our everydays becomes second nature.  

Gratitude is not about what you have, it's about truly valuing what you do have. 

This change won't happen overnight- indeed it's essentially a lifelong project, it requires constant fine-tuning and re focussing- but it will become so ingrained in us, so much a part of the way we think, that finding the joy in the simplest of things will become second nature. A butterfly life cycle, a transformation allowing new growth and perspective- and of course, beauty.

Try to find one thing every morning before you get into work that you really appreciate for its beauty, for the spark of joy it provides you - however fleetingly. It may be the aroma of the freshly ground coffee, the rumble of an appreciative kitty, pulling over or pausing on your commute to admire the sky- it doesn't have to be picture perfect- I find big dark voluptuous rain clouds as staggeringly beautiful as whispy white streaks in a deep blue sky. Whatever it is you can consciously focus on, acknowledge how it makes you feel and savour that delicious moment- being fully present as you do so. Try this every morning, and every evening, consider journalling, sharing at the dinner table one thing from each family or household member that was good about their day or that they feel gratitude for- or even just uttering a small calming mantra before turning in for the night. 

On our recent rainy day bookstore outing, I picked up a delightful little book- a one-line-a-day five-year memory book. Each entry is a few short lines, to just jot down a few things to remember and be thankful for. A positive place. I have it on my nightstand with a pretty pen with copper ink and look forward to a peaceful moment just as I settle into bed each evening to read. 

Its all too easy- and I myself need constant reminders, to not get bogged down with the to do lists, but to enjoy this precious time we have on earth. I'm not suggesting we don't complete our chores and things we need to do in order for work and home life to run smoothly and efficiently, but we can come at it from a different attitude. If we work on reframing it, and putting the weight of our subconscious on how we want to be, how we want to show up in our own lives, what we prioritize, dream of, and desire, that what we 'need' to do just becomes a part of that process, as opposed to overshadowing any creativity, dreams or aspirations with the sinking feeling we all know of...but I can't possibly I have to ..... ***fill in the blanks.  We've all been there. The overwhelm grows- but the more we let it the more it takes hold and the faster it envelops us. 

If we practice these few simple techniques, over time we start to notice the differences, we start to observe the good and the beauty without looking for it, we start to re-focus so that the good and positive becomes louder than the mundane and the dreary and it eventually slinks off into the background. Leaving us to have a clarity on how we wish to design a life we love living. How we want to feel in our days. Giving us the courage to say no to things we don't want and to embrace new exciting prospects and challenges, even those as sweetly simple as taking coffee outside each morning with the paper. 

It might start with something as freeing as a daily walk, a decadent chocolate truffle with peppermint tea each evening, a bubble bath every Friday after the work week, a fresh croissant every Saturday; and then shape this into more prominent rituals as time goes along, shaping how your everyday looks and FEELS. Even if you are still in the same job, living in the same house, driving the same car. If we choose to love the life we live, we ultimately will be living a life of contentment and of our own intent and design. 

Take that first step. Picture how you want to show up to tomorrow, then set about making those minute changes in mindset, then develop the rituals, then habits, and watch it unfurl gratefully. Think about the life cycles of a butterfly, the magical metamorphosis that transpires when that plump caterpillar finds its special spot in which to cacoon itself, with total faith and complete submission that with patience,  will emerge an entirely different creature- able to soar and swoop and have an entirely different view of the world. The change enables a vast opportunity for growth and new perspective, unlocking a pathway, previously unseen, to embracing beauty and new potential. 

 Savouring simple daily pleasures

Gluten free, dairy free and sugar free recipe. No guilt or sore tummies involved.

You will need:

1 ripe banana

1 scoop protein powder of choice (I use vanilla protein whey isolate)

1 egg

1Tbs Almond meal

Splash water or nut milk if required

1 pinch salt

Optional- 1 tbs chis seeds, 1/2 cup frozen blueberries

Method

Mash the banana well with a fork, combine all other ingredients, and mix well. If using- fold berries through when the ix is thoroughly combined. If it's a very thick consistency ad a dash of water or plant-based milk. 

Heat a skillet/ frying pan on medium-low heat with a teaspoon or so of coconut oil, butter or ghee.

Add generous tablespoonfuls of mixture until nicely browned on the bottom side, then flip. Press lightly with a spatula to ensure even cooking. 

Cooking times vary but around 2-3 minutes on each side is ample. Just watch they don't catch. 

Serve with stewed fruit, fresh berries, a dollop of Greek or coconut yogurt, nuts, and a drizzle of maple syrup to satisfy your sweet tooth if desired. 

Enjoy. 

 Savouring simple daily pleasures

For most of my adult life, Martha Stewart has been a key influence and inspiration to me- along with countless others. A mentor of sorts. The first time one of our guests made a tongue-in-cheek remark about " eat your heart out Martha Stewart" I swelled with pride. 

Everything she did seemed effortless, always turned out perfectly and was unquestionably chic. Above all, it embraced and celebrated creating a beautiful home- and taking joy and pride in doing so. 

Several years ago I read her biography, before I became a parent a little not-so-guilty pleasure was to watch her daily show on days I had a spare moment, and when my girls were younger, she was a massive part of my home organization, cooking and decorating influence and inspiration. A Halloween party - in our then much smaller home- which - if I say so myself- rivaled many, and was SUCH fun- if a little time-consuming! 

I find myself this year,  (And with a clarity this week becoming apparent as my husband is out of town and my work steeps up a gear) feeling that what I am striving for is just out of reach, just not quite attainable, not enough hours in the day to accomplish the have- to's, wants, needs, musts and would -like- to's. My mind is like my laptop- too many tabs open, even random music coming from somewhere. So it was rather apt, and very much noted, that on the one evening, I was able to quietly sit for 1/2 an hour before heading up to bed, a Martha Stewart Documentary popped up. 

I sat, with my china cup of peppermint tea,  watching in awe as she confidently talked to the interviewer. She held their gaze. She sat with silence at times- comfortable and uncomfortable ones. She showed a hard nosed business woman as well as a vulnerable emotional lady. But what really struck me a new, was her purpose- her drive, was to make every day living beautiful, pleasurable and accessable to everyone. 

She coined, copywrited and branded the phrase Everyday living. 

When questioned about her chosen niche and area of expertise in home making, style and everyday living  she said simply:

"It has always been for me, a very serious subject"

This somewhat formidable business mogul, and first female billionaire, was wildly successful because she met the needs and dreams and aspirations of millions of people- mostly women. Over a subject and topic previously deemed frivolous, worthless and unimportant. 

Filling a need for yourself and then realizing that you are helping and serving others who also need it or are seeking it. 

"Its a good thing." A slogan coined by Martha encompasses all that we seek in our everyday lives. The little bright joy-filled nuggets of everyday. 

The company business plan for Martha Stewart Living was designed around a solar system with her at the center. What admirable confidence and gumption for a woman, to carry an enormous enterprise and brand, purely on her namesake and everyday skills and passion for good things. 

From an ordinary and rather modest upbringing, to a home-based catering company, to the world's first  billionaire business woman on the stock exchange. 

Not always displaying characteristics I would aspire to or welcome, but the drive and confidence and the passion. The conviction of her belief that everyday living was a good thing, and something achievable by anyone who wished to, is such a continued inspiration to me; renewed again by this documentary. Giving me a fresh drive, spark, and enthusiasm to keep pursuing my vocation, my message, and my intentions. Intentions rather than a goal as a goal has an endpoint, it has a finality to a completion, what I strive for is a lifelong way of living. a lifestyle, filled with life, and style, and gratitude, joy and a peaceful contentedness. 

A little and often. Keep learning, and growing knowledge and skills. Its not all or nothing, its something always. 

So, if needs be, please forgive me a brief pause in posts, while I pursue what I need to in order to create content and writing to reach further and spread my message wider. This was a vocation she pursued and strived for-and still -is over decades, even a prison sentence! And she's still going! 

I believe there are truly so many readers out there who can benefit, seek comfort, inspiration or a little calm from what I want to be able to offer. 

Thanks Martha. I needed that nudge. 

 Savoring Simple Everyday Pleasures

On my afternoon walk yesterday, following mowing lawns and before hosting book club, I was taken aback a new as to how fortunate and thus grateful I am to live where I do, and have trails such as the one I was walking along, literally on my doorstep. 

It was a warm Wednesday, but before schools and universities start their academic year and when many people are on holiday or taking annual summer leave, so I passed many people who were fairly apparently not locals per se. 

While I consciously observe and appreciate the big expanses of sea, sky and native bush, along with the tiny details of an unfurling leaf, an iridescent beetle, the bird song- each and every time I am enjoying one of my daily walks- I rarely look upon them these days from an 'outsiders' view. Yes from a place of wonder but not always from a place of obvious privilege. 

With everything going on in the world and on the news sometimes its hard to refocus on our immediate environment. Some of these fellow walkers were holiday makers and tourists from around the globe, some were perhaps from just across town, but few were in the fortunate position I was in that I walked from my home, within 10 minutes of my front door I am at the beginning of this native bush track up to an incredible series of viewpoints overlooking the Manukau heads, local beaches and ooodles of pristine native bush. 

I came across a term while listening to a podcast recently (Stories form the village of nothing much) 

 The word Sonder, which was coined by the author and neologist John Koenig in his work, The Dictionary of Obscure Sorrows. Described as follows: Sonder, noun, the realization that each random passerby is living a life as vivid and complex as your own, populated with their own ambitions, friends, routines, worries, and inherited craziness, an epic story that continues invisibly around you, like an anthill sprawling deep underground, with elaborate passageways to thousands of other lives that you'll never know existed, in which you might appear only once, as an extra sipping coffee in the background, as a blur of traffic passing on the highway, as a lighted window at dusk.

The word and its meaning resonated with me as I observed these people, all walking the same trail but all with different life stories- most, if not all of which, I will never know and possibly never cross paths with again.  Something about that realization- which is not a revelation as such, and an everyday occurrence for the majority of us, just gave me pause to think. To step back and see what I am so blessed with and have already in my life, and to allow enough space in my mind to re balance and reevaluate the few niggles and worries and outside stressors that have been building and resurfacing of late. 

As the summer days draw nearer the start of the new academic year, signaling getting back into our busy everyday routines and lives and schedules and work patterns sooner than we'd perhaps like, it is prudent to remind ourselves to be thankful for everything that is going well, what's right, what we have in abundance, friendships, loves, food in the fridge, a home, a job, the sun is shining, whatever it may be that you can use as an anchor- to realize that to these passers by, whom all have their own stories, and that we are in our own, and we can make it what we want it to be. Take a moment, or several, even note down if it helps- what is making you feel stressed, anxious or over committed. Be really honest with yourself and once you can see this "list" you can start shaping and forming it in to how you would prefer it to look- how you would like to feel. Imagine yourself waking to the realization that you are in control of these outward stress factors, and that your actions and mindset directly change, challenge or mould how your day will unfold. Granted there are always external events or pressures or situations we are not fully in control of - but what we can do is control our response to them. Have a plan, a mantra or a ritual that helps you achieve this in micro ways each and every day, in turn, allowing the bigger dreams and aspirations to develop and breathe and have room to grow. 

Step fully into your own life, allow yourself to let go of what doesn't serve your dreams, and channel your positive energies into leading a healthful life, making deep personal connections, and feeling true contentment in your everydays. This needn't be grand or complex. Its about being true to who you are and aspiring to fulfil your potential and savor the life you have been given to its fullest.

Dare to dream, then put measures and systems in place to help you realistically achieve those hopes and dreams. 

There are another 11 or so months of this year, so this morning I sat with my coffee and my new diary, and as I entered various events, holidays and commitments, I was mindful of the full potential simmering away ready for its chance- its outlet, as soon as I was able to focus on what it was I truly wanted it to look like, how I am hoping to feel as this new year comes to a close come December. What will I regret not having embarked upon or given my full attention too. What might I feel frustrated with myself about. What do I value most and what is important to me. 

It won't land in our laps, and it won't necessarily be easy- most good things require hard work and are worth working for. This may in turn require some sacrifices, letting go, re allocating your time or even finances to get closer to achieving your goal. One thing is for sure- not much will change unless you point yourself in the right direction and take the next best step. 

Now is the perfect opportunity and timing to cast your dreams into the universe, and see what magic comes back to you.

 Savoring Simple Daily pleasures

Having returned this past weekend from a wonderful summery beach week on the eve of my 47th birthday (!) I spent many moments on my long daily walks reflecting; reflecting on the big picture of life as my birthday drew near, and on the smaller details, the little pleasures, the milestones and of ambitions and acquiring new life skills, and relishing the daily ordinary magic -savoring the sense of time and space with which to do so, surrounded by such natural beauty and in one of my most treasured places on earth. 

I was mindful of being present, listening to the distant happy barks of dogs enjoying their first walks of the day, the scent of woodsmoke feint in the air from the dying embers of last night's bonfire, the salty tang of the breeze along the shoreline, squwarks of the oystercatchers at dawn and dusk calling to each other, the warm sun on my skin, the cool lapping of the waves at my toes, and the constant soothing rhythm of the waves reaching the shore throughout. 

I felt I could stay forever. The only missing piece was to have a pup of my own to walk ....one day. 

But, BUT. Life does resume its normal rhythms and rituals. I love my home and my community, and I'm so fortunate to have a loving family and a delightful place to live. But I long for the simplicity of our idyllic summer beach lives. 

I picked up little treasures most days, which I carefully transported home, so that when I see them here in my house, I can be transported back, hear the wind in the lines along a favorite trail, feel the salt air and the call of the gulls, and take big, deep, restorative breaths. It was my intention to have these little Portkeys (For those who aren't in the know,  a Portkey is an enchanted, yet everyday object that instantly transports anyone who touches it to a specific location) So that as I passed a pebble on the hallway table, the dried seagrass on the landing, the collection of feathers in the hallway or the pinecone on the dresser, I could instantly imagine myself there, taking deep lungfuls of the freshest air, and feel the sense of calm and ease wash over me. 

With an immanent busy and demanding return to work on the horizon, I knew I needed to equip myself with the tools to not only cope, but flourish, and be open to this brand new year. 

I release what no longer serves me, I am open to clarity, growth and abundance. 

So, I came up with an idea during these walks to inspire and spur us on for this bright new month and indeed year, of health, wellbeing, and longevity. To spring out of the sluggish indulgence that can often follow Christmas festivities- yes, even when it's not sub-zero outside, and to provide some tools and strategies to keep things light, mindful, and healthful going forward. 

We must learn and educate ourselves and be mindful of the interwoven relationship of our two greatest assets. Mind and Body. A healthy body requires an equally healthy mind, without which we cannot live our best life, The two go hand in hand, caring for our bodies includes our minds. 

 Find your portkey, and let's positively step into 2025 together, sharing tips and tools, growing our knowledge, discovering beauty in the every day and finding magic- Supporting one another in our community of like-minded folks. 

Below is a list of some good tools and springboards to help propel us into a healthful year.

1. Sleep. Try to get 7-9 hours of quality sleep.

Limit screens at least an hour before bed, dim lights, try to establish a sleep routine so your body can learn when it's time to sleep and in turn, to wake. Consider taking magnesium supplements and having a gentle stretch shortly before turning out the light. Backtrack from the time you need to wake up to plan what time is best to get ready for bed and "lights out'. 

2. Protein. You're likely having far less than your body requires. 

Use an online calculator to see what recommendations are for your height, weight, and age. Only have protein from clean, sustainable and lean whole/complete protein sources- fish, chicken, quality protein powders, beef, lamb,  tempeh, eggs, greek yoghurt or skyr. Supplement these with additional sources - not all are considered complete protein ( - so pay extra attention if you're vegetarian or vegan. ) Beans and legumes, cheeses, nuts and seeds, and tofu.  I personally aim for around 90-100gms per day- roughly 30 in a meal. This might look like a scoop of whey protein isolate in my smoothie with Greek yoghurt, a chicken salad with chickpeas, steamed fish and vegetables.

3. Up your leafy greens. You pretty much can't have too much.

Add spinach to kale to smoothies or salads. Have a side salad with lunch, sneak vegetables into most dishes by grating to sauteeing, and consider a greens powder for a boost.

4. Movement. Don't shy away from the word exercise, just MOVE your body. Regularly throughout the day.

Its better to keep moving periodically throughout the day than a huge intensity say at 6am then being sedentary for the remainder. On a typical day I work out first thing- which I vary, then I will walk, play golf or go to a ballet class every afternoon or evening- pretty much without exception, regardless of the weather. I also break up my day with short n=bouts of movement- shorter walks, take the stairs not a lift, walk to the store,  housework even, then a gentle stretch, yoga session or just an amble after dinner is a good way to space it out. Even try 10 squats every time you boil the kettle - it soon adds up!

5. HYDRATE! It's full summer here and I'm continually parched! 

I drink at least 600mls room temperature water upon waking, then ensure I'm drinking plenty throughout the day. I limit coffee to 2 a day- one espresso first thing, then an americano or a flat white with oat milk later on, green tea, electrolytes, sparkling water, tea, tisane- all counts.  Look out for hidden sugars and stay away from soda and fruit juice as much as possible. 

6. Read. Learn.

Grow your mind- listen to an educational podcast, try a new skill, read non-fiction, watch a foreign movie, go to a live theatre production, or play a word game. There are studies proving those people who continue to learn and grow and develop their minds are less likely to suffer Alzheimers or even depression later in life. Keep learning. You're never too old.

7. Skincare.  Look after your one and only

Whether you're into makeup or lotions and potions or not- use the best and cleanest quality products you can afford, and use them daily. Cleanse, exfoliate and moisturize. Use sunscreen, wear a hat outdoors and take care of your biggest organ. 

8. Likewise- teeth! Look after them. limit sugar. Brush and floss, Regular checkups. Done.

9. Meditation and mindful practices.

I would love to meditate and I'm working on the practice, but I'm no good- yet. However, I find my ritual of daily walks my place of peace and mindfulness, when I process, dream aspire and let go. Find your version and make it a regular habit. 

10. Connect. 

Connections are so important. I have a darling loving husband but my friends are so important to me- we inspire and support each other, laugh, share interests and enjoy each other's company. And while online communities such as this can be beautiful and rewarding, nothing compares to sitting next to someone, seeing a smiling face, or sharing an experience. 

Bonus: Release what no longer serves you. Be open to abundance. 

Savoring Simple Daily Pleasures  

A somewhat "frivolous" post today, 3 days into the new year.  I have so many topics, subjects, thoughts and ponderings whirring around that I'm excited to discuss and explore over the coming months, but for today, a brief little jaunt into my makeup bag.

As a woman who is embracing perimenopause, living her best life endeavouring to get plenty of good nutrition, exercise and quality sleep into my every days- it had become clear to me that during this transition and time of change, my skin has also jumped on the waggon. 

I have experienced hyper pigmentation (Melasma) with increasing prominence and depth of colour ever= since I had my girls, something I have learned, for the most part, to live with, deal with, or conceal reasonably well. Other than that I have been incredibly fortunate to suffer very little with any skin issues throughout all my years so far- even the teenage ones. But with this change in season of life, a few little niggles- or observations, if you will, have come to make themselves known. 

My eyelids became acutely sensitive, and even the high quality, trusted brands of eye shadows I have enjoyed using for years started to irritate, and if I didn't adjust the products was left with incredibly sore, swollen skin around the delicate eye area.  Not pleasent to experience and also frustrating not using some of my lovelier makeup- especially for evening wear or special occasions. 

My eye-makeup remover - again, a product I'd used for many years, suddenly became stingy and left my eyes burning and red.

On top of this my skin in general was constantly thirsty, dry even after applying moisturiser, or lotion.

So, I had to make some changes and adjust the products I used to accomodate my changing skins requirements.  Changing to balms, creams and liquids over anything powdery or drying.

First step was to switch out my old faithful Clarins make up remover for the Bobbi Brown cleansing balm. An thick gel consistency, which although perfumed seems to replenish not strip as it removes the traces of makeup before I step into my evening shower. 

I have had to abandon entirely the concealer Ive used for several years as after a few hours it began to look cakey and accentuate fine lines around the eye area. 

We are in full simmer here at present so my skin care routine in the morning -after washing my face - is to  apply a daytime moisturiser (Bobbi Brown face Base) followed by al roche posay sun screen tinted in SPF50.

I Have progressed to a cream blush and I was using a Chanel Soleil cream bronzer but when it was time to replace it I came across a bronzer- which is still a powder- by Terry, but with the benefits of providing hydration. Its buildable, long lasting and a beautiful colour- though at a rather higher price point. 

My latest addition which I am thrilled with I stumbled across having eliminated eye shadow entirely- even creams and pencils and smudge sticks- as everything was irritating and was causing a reaction to a point. This tiny bottle is the ultimate le no make up look tool! It provided an incredibly subtle coverage of my lids, masking any redness or tiny thread veins, and feels like silk to apply. Its a brand I had never come across (Probably well known to those who follow trends and new releases but to me a gem of a find) Perricone MD. No make up eyeshadow. Available in 4 shades, and Im so taken with it I have ordered a lighter shade to play with too! 

Their lip oil is a subtle and luxurious, your lips but better, so I have splurged on 2 of the shades. 

The packaging is minimal, and the whole ethos is to enhance what you have so subtly as to almost not notice you are wearing any makeup at all- which, I have come to realise, as a woman in my age and stage in life, is probably the best approach on the every day. Sparkle and glamour should probably be kept for evening and special occasions . As far as I can tell the ingredients are pretty clean, and the products are formulated to put goodness back into the skin rather than take from it. 

A last little cherry on the cake is my latest fragrance discovery- again something I happened upon without really looking while travelling overseas and fell for it in a way I haven't for a fragrance for many years. I adore perfumes and fragrances and love to peruse glossy departments stores and walk around in a cloud at duty free, but this one spoke to me- and simultaneously my husband. I last on my skin subtly, but all day, and I always receive compliments when I wear it. In theory its a limited edition- so my husband bing the lovely man he is, has sourced another 2 bottles for me to eek out and hopefully last quite some time! Again, its light, and naturally derived, and I don't know anyone else who wears it so its become my new signature scent after decades of Coco Chanel. 

Its actually been quite a fulfilling and pleasing journey to find and build  my new repertoire of staples and embrace the changes.