Savoring simple everyday pleasures

It has been fairly challenging this past week- and not necessarily in a negative way but new feelings and having somewhat confronting emotions paired with less than ideal sleep and a full working week.

But it has given me a unique opportunity for self growth, to learn though experience and to savor and relish, even more than I usually do, the moments of quiet and solitude.

After an early start (5am) most days, a workout then general household chores like laundry, making lunches, preparing element of the evening meal and straightening up the house before setting out for the day, I prefer to walk to work. Occasionally I have to drive due to sever weather, (a little rain doesn't bother me)  time constraints, or heavy items to tote in with me, but more often than not I chose to walk. After the organized chaos and busyness of our household starting their school and work days, the 20-25 minute walk to my place of work enables me to regroup, focus, breathe and feel prepared.

 I really noticed this week as emotions ran high at home, that the quiet pockets between the passing cars, or messages pinging, or locals greeting me as they also start their day, we so special and beautiful they made me smile broadly as I walked. The song and trill and call of the various birds seemed to be magnified and like a special piece of music being created for me to remain present, positive and calm. 

The more I noticed these brief moments, the more of them I discovered throughout my days. I like to be conscious of my surrounding and I certainly intentional draw a peace and stillness from nature each and every day, but this seemed different. It seemed the universe was tuning me in, creating these little instants to continuously and consistently ground me. Allowing me to experience my emotions without out the over whelm, think though the issues or scenarios without the angst, and feel guided and as though I was being gently carried through my day- being exactly where I was meant to be. 

The world seems vast and tiny all at the same time for me and the juxtaposition is a little fragile. While my elder daughter is on the other side of the world having life changing experiences, I too (We too, as the three of us left behind- our youngest, my husband and myself) are feeling the miles in our own ways and interpretations. Evoking memories of travel, adventure, cultures, childhood, holidays and homesickness. I finally appreciate fully how our families, in particular my darling Mother, felt when we ventured into the big wide world as teens- in the days long before what communications are today, and video calls were reserved for sci fi movies. 

I have also found a sense of wisdom, under the raw emotions, and a deep, deep understanding of the passing of time, of life's rich weaving of experiences and emotions and space, and our place within those. these quiet pauses during my days of tuning into the birds and sounds of nature have aided me and enveloped me with a sense of belonging and peace I so needed. Letting me slowly and gently process the turmoil in my head. 

I'll be open that its been tough- a true roller coaster of tears, relief, laughter, confidence, anxiety and apprehension. But even this relatively short time has taught me so much, about myself, my relationships with family, the unwavering support and unconditional love of my husband, the value of true friendship and a trusted support network and community, of skeletons I may still need to deal with in my dusty closet, and of complete faith. 

I feel like a fog has lifted somewhat and I can see a clearer path as to who I truly am, and where I am headed. Its renewed my ambition, given me clarity and elevated my mindset. There's even a frission of excitement about what the future can hold. 

It was an exhausting, but necessary week, for me to learn a little more about myself and to grow. The birds were my soundtrack, and a spirit lifting one at that. I topped off my long week with a pot of tea and finishing the novel I was reading curled up on our big sofa after walking home from work. A little luxury I rarely have the opportunity for at that time of day- or allow myself. 

SO, while looking forward to a fun and social evening we have planned tonight with some friends, I am headed out to get a second dose of fresh air and bird song for the day, and to allow a peace to fill my lungs and the melodies to fill my ears. 

Oooh AND fresh linen on the bed waiting to climb into after a fun soiree X

No Buy Year- another minor whoopsie- a cashmere sweater in a charity shop/ good will for less than $20...... I couldn't very well leave it there! 

 Savoring Simple Everyday Pleasures

It was during a recent walk - I loop I frequent regularly around the local neighborhood and down the to beach- an unexpected clarity descended on me, bringing with it a sense of peace and belonging. 

I had chosen to walk without listening to a podcast or audio book this particular day, and happily tuned into the quiet sounds of nature and the distant buzz of my communities everyday life around me. A distant hummm of a lawnmower,  a far off tapping of a hammer, a plethora of bird song and the odd purr of a passing car. 

I was filled with a sense of over whelming gratitude and a calm balance and focus. A truly appreciative  acceptance of my place in this world - both in the physical space I occupy and the present moment. This came in such a rush of emotion and took me by such a surprise - in my tracks almost - as the tranquility and stillness of the moment settled upon me and I felt I could breathe deeply. 

I experienced this on a morning barely 24 hours after my "little girl" had flown to the other side of the world- alone, and I was not only sleep deprived having tracked her flight throughout the night but, naturally an anxious mama. It was almost as if everything came into focus and a weight physically lifted from my shoulders. I could feel beneath my feet my place on this globe and the sensation of all being well washed over me in a welcome wave. 

It is so vital we give ourselves the opportunities to pause and reflect. To allow our minds the space to process and think deeply, letting thoughts swirl and penetrate and at the same time allowing others to pass through and be discarded or dealt with or acknowledged. 

Its easy for us to fall into the busy trap of flitting from one task to the next, hopping between to-do lists, and I am guilty of this at times too, but we do need to remind ourselves to pause. To take stock, practice gratitude and to be still. 

This circles back to mother nature again and being conscious of being present, noticing the little things. I promise, once you allow yourself to pause, these things come into focus without having to try too hard. It becomes a habit, naturally, and a sense of space and peace you look forward to.  

Lack of sleep can pay havoc with our minds, and while I am an advocate for a good long restorative 8 hours, we all experience nights when sleep doesn't come for whatever reason. Be gentle with yourself. Listen to your body. And listening to your body, not your mind, is crucial on these days- If I've had a disturbed night, I crave coffee, sugar and carbs and have a seemingly insatiable appetite. But if you try super hard to tune out that voice, what you actually need is to be gently nurtured, not jarred with caffeine and sugar and spiking and crashing insulin levels! If you can resist and help your poor tired self with plenty of fluids, minimal caffeine, plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables and protein, plus some time outdoors, you will undoubtedly feel better and recover quicker. Plus, setting you up and equipping you for a better nights rest the next night. 

To clarify, solitude isn't loneliness. Solitude is, in my opinion, a necessary piece of the patchwork of life. Allowing ourselves the time is not a luxury and it is certainly not a punishment. Its like ongoing maintenance and heeling. Being alone doesn't have to feel bereft of company- and shouldn't- and it doesn't need to be for lengthy periods of time. I find my daily walks and a peppering of being "home alone" to potter while the rest of the household is out doing whatever throughout the week, is enough for me to have a little head space, time to think, process, write and just absorb the peace. It recharges me enough and brings me back to the present and a place of gratitude to continue my role of busy working mum, while still loving my life and keeping any overwhelm in check. 

Start small if this is new to you, pop the kettle on for a pot of tea and light a candle, sit and savor your cup of tea in peace and quiet rather than rushing and slurping while multitasking. The magic will happen if you give it just the tiniest space to flourish. 

 

 Savoring simple daily pleasures

It is, more often than not, the simplest of things that afford such pleasure or feelings of gratitude and fullness. 

 In just the last 12-24 hours, I have been so fortunate to experience a cluster of these such experiences:

Walking to the village on a sparkling frosty morning for coffee was the start to my day yesterday.

A sunny crisp afternoon 9 holes on a lush green course amongst the long shadows with a group of wonderful ladies and many birds keeping us company on the greens.

An early hot shower yesterday evening, and after a movie in front of a crackling fire with the family, and I was tucked up in bed with my book and a snuggly kitty before 9pm. 

An early walk this morning again with a group of ladies just after the sun rose in frigid temperatures but with plenty of laughs, companionship, splendid views and bright sunshine- and two happy dogs in tow.

Upon returning, hanging my freshly laundered bed linens on the line and stopping to watch the hawk circling and calling way over head and swooping low so I could even make out the markings on his breast feathers. I felt privileged to be present in that moment. standing on my lawn with an armful of damp sheets and a first full of wooden dolly pegs- stopped still watching in awe. 

And just a few moments ago, making an oat milk flat white coffee in a Spode mug, to sit at my peaceful sunny desk and notice a rejuvenated orchid bursting with no less than 14 new buds and one beautiful pure white bloom. 

Arguably, none of these things cost per se. (or not in those moments, as for the golf) and yet the pleasure derived from the experiences, the uplift in mood setting a vibe for the day, and the valuable reminder to pause, be fully present, and enjoy these moments. 

I feel so blessed to be surrounded with wonderful friends and supportive loving family, to feel the sun on my face and the sparkle of frost, and to be someone who looks for the good, the positive, the beauty and the uniqueness of everydays. 

With that said, I'm keeping this post brief this week, and I am choosing to gently potter through my weekend, getting tasks accomplished but with no sense of pressure or duty, and relaxing into time with my family before "my baby" takes off for an adventure on the other side of the world. 

 Savoring simple daily pleasures

I have just walked back into my sun filled cozy home, with the fire still burning in the hearth- lit before dawn, from a long, frosty and unimaginably beautiful walk. It was a true winter wonderland out there - something here in the upper North Island we don't experience that frequently in winter. The course I took for my delicious coffee pause in the village was around 9Km, and while it mostly followed the road, a large park and lots of green space boarders the route and some wide expansive views across trees to the water. 

I was genuinely thrilled to be fortunate enough to experience such an outrageously beautiful morning, and countless picturesque vignettes.  I felt exhilarated and with each fridged breath felt my heart soar a little higher and my well of gratitude fill to the very brim.  I wish I could bottle that feeling and bring it out when I need it. Everything felt right with the world and I felt so at peace. And so incredibly blessed and content. 

While we are navigating some bumpy territory as a family at present, and doing our best to remain positive and grounded, when I'm walking out in nature- (whatever the weather but on a breathtakingly beautiful morning as this even more so-) You cannot but be in the present moment. Absorbing the delights of the season and mother nature's magic asks of you, very persuasively, to be here in the now. In these rich moments it would require a conscious effort to dwell on the past or think too much of the future. As I walk in these surroundings, one foot in front of the other, no distractions, not even a breeze, just bird song, I know, deep, deep down, that everything will work out. It is all happening for a reason. And I am right here in this exact moment, exactly where I should be. 

It is these vital times, this space we afford ourselves regularly, that provides an environment and mindset for the grounding and reflection we need. Some may find this space in other ways and from different sources, but as a self diagnosed HSP (highly sensitive person) and an extroverted introvert- I love the company of others, but I need to have the ability to dial it back afterwards and have time alone, to recharge, digest and reset. 

We have a home which is well set up for entertaining (Not that that is required to entertain but it helps! We have lived in far smaller homes and still filled it with the company of family and friends regularly) And I love to entertain- I enjoy cooking and hosting, planning, creating - lighting candles, or the open fire or the Barbecue, polishing glassware, placing fresh towels in the powder room, fresh flowers in the entrance way, re stocking amenities so guest feel welcome and catered for, and preparing food and drinks to delight and satiate. But I have also learned I need to top myself back up after these events or gatherings. I have an inbuilt expectation how long these things may go for, and when approach that boundary I start to feel drained not enlivened. I know I need time alone to process and refuel afterwards- even after a casual coffee, or a full blown 5 course late dinner and house guests. 

Partly, this may be to do with age and maturity, but I seem to recall always feeling a little like this. These days it is also comforting to know I am not alone- through a likeminded on line community, various authors and bloggers I follow, and friends- who feel just the same. I was delighted to discover a lovely girlfriend of mine was tickled we had tickets to a matinee performance in the city, as it meant we could enjoy lunch out and the show and still both be home for a relaxing shower, an easy supper (A rare "naughty" treat of granola and yoghurt for dinner!) and some peaceful restorative quiet time before bed. 

It is important to know your own social boundaries and your expectations- don't let others set those for you. Your needs are yours. When extending invitations or making plans - be clear on a time frame. If needs be, give yourself a get out.

"Do pop in for coffee- 10.30am would be great as we have to head out just before 12"

"We'd love you to come for a casual dinner, lets eat early as its a school night so come around 5.30pm"

"Shall we meet for afternoon tea then we can all be home and cosy before it gets dark and cold?"

You can still be a perfect, gracious hostess, just within the limitations of your energy levels, so hosting wont leave you anxious and fatigued, but allow you to thoroughly enjoy company. Even when My dear Mother comes for dinner, I enjoy the alone time doing the dishes and resetting the kitchen at the end of the evening- having always treasured her time with us all. 

I am feeling energized and uplifted after my dreamy morning;

Waking before my alarm (always so much more refreshing that an abrupt awakening- especially if its very dark and sub zero outside!) 

A tall glass of water with a squeeze of lemon before a strong black coffee as the fire crackled into life and the shapes of the silhouetted tress began to take form outside the windows. 

Hanging white, freshly laundered sheets on the line at first light with numb fingers, then my revitalizing and inspiring walk- punctuated with a delicious warming oat milk coffee.

And home to my sunny warm sanctuary, affectionate kitties, a nourishing breakfast, and a gentle hour of peace and tranquility in which to write. 

A pretty perfect start to the weekend. A heart filled with gratitude, fresh linen on the bed, a warm, tidy and inviting home, and after a round of golf with the ladies this afternoon in the sun, a good book to cozy up with by the fire this evening. My coffee was $7. The rest of this glorious day is priceless. 

 Savoring simple everyday pleasures

After a busy, full, but positive week topped off with a public holiday and some gorgeous wintry sunshine, I'm keeping it simple with this weeks post- A list of things I find excellent tools to help me stay calm, positive, and remain present:

1. Start the day right- Upon waking, I have a long tall glass of room temperate water to rehydrate after what was hopefully a restful sleep. Regardless, your body needs water and to flush out any toxins. I vary between just water, water with a pinch of Himalayan rock salt to help with electrolyte balance, and there have been times when I've regularly taken it with a squeeze of fresh lemon, to zing it up, add some vitamin C and aide digestion. 

2. A 10 minute yoga stretch, or some meditation. I am working on my meditation skills- or trying to - my mind keeps wandering(!) But to feel your breath and wake up the body gently with a good dose of gratitude is always a good idea. We can all squeeze in10 minutes even if its before bed and not as you wake. 

3. A walk- for however long and where ever your legs take you- rain or shine. Be present, observe the nature surrounding you- even in a city there is plenty- birds, cloud formations, trees, parks. Its there if you seek it. Walking is my non negotiable daily dose of mindfulness and headspace. 

4. Read or browse something positive or inspirational. This might be a favorite blog, a passage from a book you love and have read and re read, a magazine article, a celebrity or sports personality whom you admire and aspire to their healthy vibrant way of living. A motivational you tube video- Ted talk, Oprah or an interesting author. Something to pep you up and push you forward. 

5. Bake a delicious treat for afternoon tea or cook something nutritious and delicious with no time constraints and some favorite music. I love to prepare dinner to Jazz, and bake to classical for instance. 

6. A green juice. Nothing makes me feel like I am nourishing my body and zapping it with the good stuff than a green juice: Green apple, spinach or kale, lemon juice, fresh ginger, iced water- blend until completely smooth and outrageously green, drink immediately- preferably outside. 

7. If the season permits- sit by a cracking fire and just listen. Its so soothing and such a basic act that has served all our ancestors in one way or another- its very grounding and evocative. A fire pit or bonfire is equally charming - marshmallow toasting, baked potato roasting, or coastal - but the smell and crackle is unbeatable. 

8. Candles- the tranquility their light brings, the moment of lighting- even during the day, and my personal favorite is the scent. Instantly elevates my mood and immediate environment.

9. Breath in the ocean. I find there is little more a grounding location to keep me in the present than the beach. And while I love a tropical island as much as the next person, a rugged wintry shore is absolutely as beautiful if not better. A wind swept cliff top to blow the cobwebs away is pure magic, as is watching an amber globe melt into a warm ocean.  I am lucky enough to live in a coastal area, in fact, you are hard pushed to be anywhere in New Zealand too far from the ocean, but any body of water or river, lake, waterfall or stream serves just as worthy a purpose for lifting the spirits and boosting your outlook. 

10. Time in the garden. getting your hands dirty- literally. It ticks so many boxes- Fresh air, vitamin D, physical exercise, productive, rewarding, and wonderful for the spirit.  Even just mowing the lawns makes me feel centered. Gardening allows you to pause and step back and relish the changing seasons, the wonders of mother nature, and the rhythms which surround us throughout the year. Their predictability and routine and cycles help me reflect, compose myself and take huge rejuvenating breaths.

And a bonus 11. Is there anything more luxurious, rejuvenating and rewarding than sinking into a hot bath with gently flickering candles and a book or a podcast or some music or just peace at the end of a long day of work, gardening, housework, exercise ....well , anything. Top that off with climbing into fresh line dried sheets......

 Savoring simple daily pleasures

This week has been a week of lessons and self-discovery. Whilst it has been tumultuous for several reasons - Which I wont get into here- It has also been of great value and encouraged me to reflect, be brutally honest with myself and my chosen life path, and to listen to my gut instinct. It has been, at times, stressful and emotionally demanding- yet has taught me such valuable life lessons, and lessons I either needed to learn about myself or at least re visit, that I am left buoyed, lighter, and all the wiser for it.

I am now enjoying a beautiful sense of calm and contentment and a feeling of completeness, that if these situations hadn't arisen, I would have been oblivious to their timely necessity.

Something I deeply appreciated over the past days has been the power of the outdoors, natural light and a sense of space. During some of the more challenging moments I took myself on walks and each time, (sometimes alone, sometimes with a friend or my husband) there was a deep peace that came with the fresh air, big skies and magical hues. It became a coping mechanism which truly worked, it put the issues into perspective, allowed reflection, a little distance- physically and metaphorically, and was so incredibly calming and reassuring, I was instantly more focused, less anxious and more positive, just through being out in nature and taking great deep lungful's of fresh crisp air. Allowing time and space to let my inner voice be heard, and importantly, acknowledged. 

I like to think that Everyday Contentment is a place of positivity, beauty and gratitude, as indeed that was the thought behind its creation, but sometimes part of that process is going though the not- so- lovely bits, reevaluating, reflecting and coming back full circle to being truly thankful and content with what is already in your life. 

I have learned some boundaries, some triggers, a clearly defined comfort zone, and have gratefully absorbed the abundance of unconditional love and friendship I am so lucky to be surrounded with. 

It has sharpened my focus on the directions I do wish to pursue, areas I need to improve, and skill sets I'd like to acquire and master. Perhaps others I don't, and can leave those to someone else to perfect. 

It feels like a new chapter, a fresh start, and a clarity of vision which makes me excited and hugely optimistic for the opportunities still out there, patiently waiting for the right time. My right time. 

The mantra - you are in exactly the right place, at exactly the right time, doing exactly the right thing, has been a solid comfort to me. And I do believe it's the case. 

Here's to a deep breath filled, peaceful, relaxed and contented weekend full of love, gratitude- and plenty of fresh air and time outdoors. 

 Savoring Simple Everyday Pleasures

Hard to believe we are already halfway thought the year almost- this coming week will be our shortest day here in New Zealand- hurrah! The down hill to Spring! As regular readers will know I actually enjoy and savor all the seasons for their unique qualities, but I do struggle with the lack of day light hours in the depths of winter- When it feels as though you are racing the clock to get everything you want achieved in natural light, before the draw to be cosy and snuggled in for the night becomes irresistible. 

So I am halfway through my no buy year- which is quite extraordinary really. And probably high time for a few home truths...

A year was probably a little ambitious- it's rather a long time to see round corners- and hard to predict what twists and turns life may take which inadvertently then "require" new/different/specific garments to be purchased or acquired. 

My willpower is also just not that strong! While I haven't directly bought new clothes, I have bought some sportswear, running shoes, and suggested to my lovely family they might like to gift me a woolen wrap coat I spied on sale for my Mothers Day gift! Which happily they did!

Oh, and a much-needed rain jacket for walking in the downpours as I frequently do- but that was purchased with Airpoints....

Then, just this past week, a huge development in working life and a job offer that just a month ago was inconceivable let alone in my sights. Pair this timing with the news one of my favorite Highstreet but quality timeless classic brands, SPORTSCRAFT is yet another casualty in this recession, and is ceasing trade. 

Consequently, this meant that several of their classic and rather lovely pieces were heavily discounted; timely with my recent requirement for some slightly more formal office attire! 

So, I made 2 purchases;

A classic wool blazer in camel, and a burgundy silk shirt. Classic, elegant, timeless and elevated. 

I am being gentle with myself, and not allowing myself to feel too much guilt or shame for not quite meeting my end of the promise. I will continue to be very mindful and intentional for the remainder of the year, but I have learned to be focused, appreciative and creative with what I am so fortunate to own already. Items I have introduced are genuinely required and will work for me, and with existing pieces for years to come. They were not frivolous items, or spur of the moment impulse buys. 

It is still quite possible I will need to add one or two more pieces to my working wardrobe, as the job and environment has changed considerably. But I will keep you updated, and I promise not to be silly, thoughtless or extravagant. Here's to the next 6 months and to an ongoing appreciation of what I already have, and a mindfulness of adding quality pieces as needed.

 

 Savoring simple everyday pleasures

As I came to the end of one of my early evening walks this week, just as dusk fell in earnest, a blue VW Kombi Van drove past me- my eyesight is not what it was, but even before I could see it clearly, I anticipated the predictable sight of the owners Red setter dogs ears and soft muzzle protruding out of the open window taking in all the sights and smells. 

Predictable, as although I do not know the owner or the pup, this van, with its distinctive engine noise and passenger, has been around the neighborhood for many, many years. Now, its quite possible there have been more than one beloved Red Setter over the years, but what spoke to me was the comfort and soothing quality of the routine, the sheer simplicity of contentment, as this dogs muzzle was noticeably greyer then when I last noticed, suggesting this is a daily ritual, has been enjoyed by both occupants, over many years. The peacefulness and harmony of the scene really stuck a chord with me- particularly after a somewhat challenging week. 

The obvious delight this pair take in their journey - I'm guessing to the beach- enjoying the air, the scenery, the companionship and the routine, was delightfully calming to witness. 

I took real comfort in their regular habit, the time honored routine in amongst the chaos and business of life if we don't consciously stop, pause, and savor these moments. 

I am not a patient person with regards to myself, in fact I'm a terrible patient when I'm sick and have been battling an arm injury of late which I'm finding so frustrating as its preventing doing things I love - I just want it better NOW. 

And throughout this rather fraught week, the universe has gently pushed little signs and reminders my way, of practicing patience, of time being something we are not in control of, of its passing if we desire it to quickly or not, it passes at its steady continuous pace regardless. 

The D Day landings were commemorated this week- those veterans are the last handful of those brave souls still living, and while they were looking elderly and frail for the most part, I imagine those memories are as sharp and vivid as ever they were. My dear Grandfathers along with their brothers, plus my brave courageous Grandmothers all served. I would think that when they reflect on those harrowing days it seems as though no time has passed. They went on to bring up children and have careers, welcome many grandchildren into their lives and some great grandchildren even- As they grew older, the daily habits and rituals become such a comfort and even source of joy for them- particularly after retirement. It gave their days purpose and structure. They were lucky enough to mostly live good long fulfilling lives- and it gives me comfort to reflect on their gentleness and their conservative and respectful use of time: Writing letters, time in the garden, savoring the seasons for their beauty, bounty and harvest, watching grandchildren grow, nurturing relationships and friendships in their village and being involved in their church community, preparing a meal from scratch as there was no other way, growing vegetables, making jam, collecting fire wood, reading the paper. Phones were in one place with a chord attached to the wall (and telephone numbers were 3 digits long!). News was delivered to the doorstep rolled up, shops closed at 12noon on Saturdays and were never open on Sundays, holidays were packing up the car and driving an hour or two away- to friends or with a tent, roasts were on Sundays after church with the family all present, cakes were decorated with smarties and were full of sugar, butter (and gluten!) Bellows were used to re start the fires embers on a cold morning, tea was in a pot- always- roses bloomed every summer, copper and brass were polished every month, and "40 Winks" were enjoyed every afternoon- on the swing seat in the garden in warmer months, and tucked up by the fire in winter. 

I think I am craving not only a simpler life at the moment, but also the calm, 'can do' attitude that was a given to them, along with the 'make do' sentiment. No racing, no rushing, no over commitment. 

This weekend I feel a deep desire to step back, take things slow, re evaluate and re appreciate everything in my life. To give time and space to my genuine gratitude, and to reflect a little on how fast time passes, willed or no. 

A sunny day is forecast and dinner with good friends, punctuated with walks and books and restorative sleep is my hope. A weekend to savor indeed. 

 Savoring simple everyday pleasures 

This week has been out of the ordinary in so many ways, which in itself I find rather exhausting. 

"You are in Exactly the right place, at exactly the right time, doing exactly the right thing" Oprah 

This has been a comfort and source of strength and encouragement to me throughout the week in various situations. 

Two things I've had to remind myself of during the last few days:

Not to over commit, some weeks - such as this- it can't be helped, but having a jam-packed schedule sprinkled with a few high stress situations and several late nights left me feeling wrung out and exhausted. 

Thank fully we are having a full but very pleasant long weekend, full of relaxed social engagements, errands, time in the garden and time with each other- So I'm starting to feel more refreshed and relaxed and very grateful for the Monday holiday! For me this involves equal measures of down time, social interactions and fresh air- along with feeling organized and prepared for the coming week. 

Secondly, we have to be prepared for storms- metaphorical ones and the thunder and lightening kind. They're going to happen periodically and while we can prepare to an extent, we can never fully know their full effect until after the fact. It's wise to step back, take stock, plan, make provisions, and approach the "clear up" as an opportunity for fresh growth and new beginnings. 

Recession is very real and evident here at this point. Many business are struggling and in the past week alone 3 large retailers- one a veritable institution of over 140 years, are closing their doors for good. So very sad for all the hundreds of employees and inevitably heartbreaking for the owners and those who's had to make such a hard call.

 Its also been a week where 3 friends/ colleagues have very sadly lost loved ones, not entirely unexpectedly but devastating never the less, and leaving the families understandably reeling. 

Even in these darker moments, we must remind ourselves to seek the good- stay positive, and have faith there is a plan- We are in the right place at the right time doing the right thing....A new business venture comes to the fore as another one wraps up, an opportunity to travel that didn't present itself before, a loved one slipping away peacefully from their pain and suffering after a good long life. A career change that wasn't remotely on the horizon until a turn of events. A special person you are about to meet, a new friendship about to blossom, or reconnecting with an old friend.

My lovely Mum has taken it upon herself to adopt a very elderly cat this week- one of the poor souls who passed away a few days ago left behind her much loved 21 year old cat- yes, 21! So she now has a new home with Grannie- a tentative decision at first but as it turns out a very lovely and gentle union. A pussycat who is well in herself but so advanced in years she cant possibly be here for a huge amount longer, a sweet, petite gentle little thing who's world has been utterly turned upside down, now she and my Mother are keeping each other company and adjusting to their new life together- however temporary- a warm loving, peaceful and  quiet last home for the cat, and an unexpected bit of much missed furry company for a lifetime cat lover. Its really very touching. And of somewhat of a relief to the family left behind that the treasured kitty whom they were unable to take on, has a comforting and supportive new home for as long as she requires it. 

As I type at the kitchen table with a coffee on this grey Sunday morning, a piece of music just came on (KUSC) which just pulled me instantly back about 40 years! It was the music in a story cassette tape I used to listen to in my bedroom as a child of the Secret Garden, Francis Hodgson Burnett. Isn't it extraordinary how a smell or sound can transport you so completely!?  Another timely reminder that our tour here on earth is finite and goes by quickly. We need to savor all these little moments along with the big ones, as its all these compiled that make up our lives. All these events, people, jobs, joys and losses, gains and wins, pets, family, loves and experiences, ultimately make up the rich tapestry of our own lives. 

My Own copy, still treasured; gifted to me by my mother on my 10th Birthday. 36 years ago!

On that note we are off to celebrate a dear friends 50th - which I know she's had a little wobble about, but age truly is just a number, and she's one of the fittest, healthiest people I know and a true friend and inspiration. SO here's to 50 more happy healthy years ahead! Why not!?