Savoring Simple Daily Pleasures

However, the last couple of weeks I have taken advantage of a quiet home at the beginning of the week and my advanced meal planning and grocery shopping , by preparing 3 or 4 meals on a Monday to see me though the busiest part of the week- evenings racing to and from ballet classes, basketball matches or various appointments or parent teacher interviews.

 The feeling of being completely prepared and of gaining the time back has been so very lovely. None of the dishes prepared were complex or particularly sophisticated, just family favorites or crowd pleasers, but the feeling of gaining back the time and  enjoying the simplicity of taking the next whatever out of the fridge ready to pop in the oven, and then getting on with another task or freeing up 20 minutes to write, read, fold laundry, take a longer walk, or even preparing the side dishes but with far fewer dishes at the end or cleaning up to do as the bulk is prepared. 

This week some of the meals I prepared ahead were-

Marry me chicken- a baked version so it could go straight into the oven, then I just popped rice in the rice cooker when it was time to get dinner on the go and steamed some broccoli. 

A Quiche Lorraine-  paired with a simple side salad and re hearted in the oven

A beef and mozzarella pot pie- packed full of vegetables and very hearty so just popped back in the oven to heat through

And all time family fave- Spaghetti Bolognaise, so I just re heated the meatsauce on the stove as the pasta cooked. 

I felt like Martha Stewart, the family were happy and I seemed to reclaim several hours and a good deal of peace! I highly recommend giving a bit of batch cooking a try prior to a busy week and enjoy the rewards!

On a completely different note,  Its feeling very much like the end of Autumn is fast approaching and winter is starting to get her frosty fingers though all the cracks and blowing off the last of the autumn leaves.  

Yesterday was the most spectacular display of mist and early sun, and it was so good to feel the warm sun on my skin and get the laundry dry on the line again. 

We took a drive out to a local beach which was initially completely cut off by the vicious January storms and floods and then only accessible to residents. The land scape is forever scarred and the roads and many many homes still badly damaged or even washed away, but the beach was its usual magnificent, dramatic and majestic self.  It felt good to rug up in jeans, my trusty Hunter wellies, a trench and a woolen scarf- although after a walk though soft sand with a take away coffee it was rather too warm! 

 Savoring simple daily pleasures 

Sometimes, the simple act of donning my pinny, getting out my Kitchen aid, and switching on the oven to heat up, is the most calming, grounding and pleasurable way to bring myself back to the present, slow down and de stress. 

Baking on the fly, in a hurry, when you're too tired to re clean the kitchen again- or when you suddenly have to for a forgotten morning tea, bake sale or what have you, isn't relaxing whatso ever I find. 

But on a day when I have time, I enjoy the very process and find it immensely calming and satisfying.

 An early bright summery weekend morning, with my mason cash mixing bowl and a favorite sturdy whisk with its tactile wooden handle for a batch of waffles or pancakes, a rainy wintry afternoon with a warm spiced apple cake in anticipation of enjoying it after a blustery cold walk with a favorite pot of tea, a citrussy tart for an after dinner decadent treat with guests, or a tray of gooey, fudgy brownies ready for lunch boxes that I know will be appreciated and enjoyed beyond all else!

Its all about the mind set. Sometimes it can restore me but more often than not its the process itself that brings such calm satisfaction that the more I engage and focus the more I enjoy and the more love- literally and figuratively, is poured into the baking. You can taste the difference. It has its own energy!

It is a different emotion to that of preparing a meal, which is more about nourishment, and nutrients and full tummy's and healthy bodies. And I LOVE to cook. I love to plan, prepare, shop for and produce seasonal balanced meals for my family. 

Baking is almost always exclusively indulgent, a treat, a pocket of warm love and abundance. 

Especially paired with a cup of tea.

 Savoring Simple Daily Pleasures

I have several friends who thrive on being busy and jam packed all the time. Every evening has an activity, a meeting, a guest a dinner- something, and weekends are scheduled start to finish - even though much is fun and pleasurable it allows very little, if any, time to actually relax and just be. And more often that not in adequate sleep too. 

Having said that, while I have come to realize how vital "down time" is for me, "down time" is mainly productive for me, but in a gentle way. Another friend observed recently that I'm an Active relaxer, and I think that's spot on. I like to be home, to bake, read, write, tick off my housework list, meal plan, tidy, take walks, and allow quiet moments to savor the weather -calming rain, or a blue bird day. 

Enjoying and savoring the simplest of daily tasks and rituals; that first sip of coffee, putting the last of the laundry away, walking in to a fresh bedroom with the bed neatly made, smelling a bloom from the garden, petting my cats in the morning while they eagerly await their breakfast. 

One of of my most treasured moments in my week is waking up on a Saturday morning. I don't like to wake late (any time after 6.45am is getting on in my book)  but I like to wake naturally, allow myself time to fully come round and most of all to lie in bed- just for a few minutes, listening to the bird song, maybe the rain, and watch the trees moving in the breeze- or gale, or whatever mother nature has in store that day! I gather my thoughts, loosely map out the day and feel deep gratitude for all I have in my life and all there is to come. My husband and I usually then throw the bed covers back, the windows open and head down stairs for coffee and to feed the cats and have a chat before we start our respective morning fitness regimens. The girls are usually asleep and we can digest the week that was, and plan the weekend ahead. 

Other rituals I look forward to are my Friday evening bath, where once dinner is finished and cleared away and the kitchen is tidy and clean for the next day, I go up stairs, usually do a little yoga or stretching, while my bath runs, then sink into a hot deep bath with whatever salts, soaps, oils I feel like that evening, and either enjoy silence, my book, or a podcast. It seals and rewards the end of a busy week for me and shifts my mind set to weekend mode.

On a busier weekend I find I need to actively schedule in quieter moment's in order to cope and enjoy the more social or hectic elements. A full day celebrating my daughters birthday with friends out side of the home meant I kept the evening very simple and the following day a peaceful catch up day mostly at home to clean, iron, read, bake, write, walk and re set for the week.  If I don't balance the more busy and stimulating times with these more tranquil restorative moments I find my anxiety climbing and my stress level rising and a familiar and unpleasant feeling of over whelm creeping in.  

It is SO important to listen to what you need. I have recently come across the term HSP (Highly sensitive person)  across several platforms. No, this does not mean someone who blubs at advertisements and is emotionally unstable. But a person who is deeply affected by physical, emotional or social stimuli. This means we need to de compress, have time alone with our thoughts or pottering, and may find social situations very draining- even if we thoroughly enjoy them at the time. I brushed the term aside initially -not dismissing anyone who did identify with being and HSP but that I wasn't one. Turns out, I pretty much tick every box. And to a degree, that's actually very comforting and reassuring as it validates my feelings and need for tranquility, time in nature, and being home. 

For probably almost a decade now, I have been trying to curate my wardrobe with the bounds of a 10 item wardrobe, or at the very least and intentional wardrobe. My discipline and inspiration for this ebbs and flows, naturally. While I enjoy as much pleasure form a beautifully tissue wrapped new garment in a stiff branded bag with cotton handles, I also get an equal thrill and pleasure for a bargain snapped up second had of a quality item. I think its important to enjoy both, and the variety, whatever your budget. 

Some of my absolute staples were second hand but high end quality pieces- silk blouses, wool tailored blazers, Italian leather shoes (Brand new!)

I keep a note book in my walk in wardrobe to jot down items I need for the coming season, or things I'd like to find or invest in. I keep out of season clothes in fabric bins at the top of the wardrobe and switch the seasons out accordingly- editing as I go. Things that haven't stood the test of time, that don't wear as well as I'd hoped, that are uncomfortable, or are ill fitting. 

Recently, I changed over my spring /summer wardrobe to Autumn /Winter. I had a slightly unpleasant surprise when a few weeks after switching over, I dressed in a pair of pure wool, tailored Everlane navy pants. They were rather more snug than I'd have liked....  My husband kindly pointed out I have changed shape a little with participating in different fitness workouts- longer more strenuous walks and lifting light weights.  So its not weight gain per se (Hmmm) but these pants, that I ADORE were so tight and uncomfortable I ended up taking them out of circulation. Now, normally this would involve donating them, however, these are high quality pants from over seas, to make it worse I have the exact same pair in black too! So, I made an exception and have stored them away- just in case. Not forever but to give my body a chance before I make a rash decision. we'll see....

This consequently led me to re think my core style, the winter look I want to portray, and the general vibe and feel I am looking for in my wardrobe. 

For this season in particular, I am looking at classic, stylish tailoring.  (although I'm looking forward to sporting a more casual look in the warmer months of tailored linen shorts and the like too)  

I have a good selection of Blazers from over the years, most classic cut, one is more of a Chanel vibe in a boucle red black and cream and collarless. So combining those, one or two more structured skirts, well fitted denim in various hues, sweaters and cardigans in cashmere and merino, and a couple of coats for various temperatures and conditions, then accessories, footwear, belts bags etc, I'm creating my signature style. Or tweaking it. In summer I lean a little more organically- linen, natural fabrics, wrap dresses, jumpsuits, and sundresses. 

So, as much as for my own benefit as for your interest and perusal: here is my list of essential winter wardrobe items- which I will then spend tomorrow editing and curating to align with my ideals and thin out the extra or unwanted or unsuitable pieces- anything that doesn't sing to my signature style. Making dressing a breeze for work, casual, or special dinner. I'll know exactly what I have and which pieces work together. 

Lets go top to bottom:

Decide on the colour scheme and vibe that best suits you and what you wish to portray. 

1. Never forget quality well fitted, supportive and most importantly comfortable, undergarments' Nude, skin tone, black and white- then you can get more adventurous.

2. Camisoles- Silk or merino, or a non static fabric to provide both modesty and warmth. Black white and Neutral at least the you can add navy, plum- wat ever works with your color scheme. 

3. A variety of blouses and shirts with different neck lines and sleeves.  You cant go wrong with a Tailored fitted crisp white shirt, and maybe some softer flowy silkier blouses. remembering to keep them along the same lines of the colour scheme you've chosen but you can add a pop of colour with a blouse- for example, dark denim skinny jeans, a navy blazer and a hot pink or jade blouse.

4. Quality, well fitted denim. Whatever style you prefer and that suits you- skinny, boyfriend, bootleg. In a dark wash and a lighter one. I also have an olive green jean and a mid gray, which just elevate them enough above the standard denim for some occasions. (And white and cream for summer) 

5. Trousers/pants and skirts- I have a handful of pencil skirts for work, Navy, black, tan a hound's-tooth check and a floral.  Pants in dark colors mainly - Navy and Black. I also have 2 pairs of silk trousers , in navy and one black which are so versatile and can be dressed up for evening and paired with heels, flats, loafers or even elegant sandals. And a pair of culottes in Leopard. My favorite "neutral"!

6. Dresses. Ahhh, dresses. I had a fairly lengthy phase where I wore almost exclusively dresses no matter the weather or season. But for this winter wardrobe I have the following-

 A cashmere/ wool belted sweater dress in light tan

A navy and white long sleeve wrap dress

An emerald green silk shirt dress and a cream cord shirt dress

A " Boho" bell sleeve long ditzy floral dress in predominantly tan 

7. Sweaters and cardigans- I have longline chunky cardigans/coatigans for more casual days, cashmere more formal button up ones, a few cosy sweaters in mostly olives and creams and tans. And cashmere staples in tan, cream, black and grey. Also thin layering pieces - merino is perfect, that can be stand alone, under a blazer, a cardigan or even a dress. 

8. Outerwear- a classic trench in putty, a classic trench in black,  a long navy woolen double breasted and belted, and tan long length wool double breasted and belted, a long olive full length waterproof, denim jacket, black down puffa.

9. Footwear- this is so very personal and lifestyle dependent. We have very wet winters and I walk to work, so my shoe choices will be very different to yours maybe. 

Flats- pointed toe or classic round ballet flats. Navy, Black, Neutral/Tan, Leopard (Of course)

Ankle boots/ Booties, Black with heel (for evening wear), navy, classic tan Chelsea, olive green, 

 Long, knee high black, tan/ brown.

10. Scarves- oh so many! But keep in the color palette and have some for very cold days that are large and more wrap style, and some in silk to tie and outfit together, some as statement pieces that can be more whimsical and fun. 

 Savoring simple daily pleasures

I have had several days away from my work due to being unwell, the weekend and my work schedule. During this time I have mostly been at home punctuated by plenty of wet walks and fresh air. 

We are creatures of habit and on many occasions either on my morning walks or whilst walking to work I have passed the same elderly gentleman. Evidently he takes a walk (A fairly lengthy one I gather, too) pretty much every day, at around the same time, regardless of the weather. 

On this particular morning I was taking my walk in the opposite direction, so rather than passing him, we were walking in the same direction. I greeted him good morning as I approached to pass him and for the first time we exchanged more than the usual pleasantries- Good morning, Beautiful day, enjoy your walk etc.  We commented on how mild the weather has been and I mentioned we'd not yet lit our fire which is very unusual for this time of year. He replied that they'd been lighting there's for about a month already and we probably didn't feel it as we were young. Then he said ;

" Hold onto it for as long as you possibly can"

Wise words indeed. Its all too easy to become complacent about daily life and perceived drudgery when in fact, if we don't see every day, every moment for the preciousness it offers- all too quickly its not within our grasp anymore. 

A past neighbor of ours once commented on our energy as a young family and when it came to throwing dinner parties, as we did frequently, that she used to do it "Standing on her head" and now it takes it out of her: The planning, the preparation, the cooking, the cleaning up , the late night-  admittedly off set by a wonderful evening among friends but leaving her to recover somewhat, not bounce straight into the next day. 

Our boundless energy doesn't actually last forever but we can implement things to help draw it out into a later years for as long as we possibly can. 

This is what I've been reflecting on over the past few days. How to cherish and be grateful for what I'm capable of NOW, in this present moment, and how to best insure myself and my body for the future. A building term bandied around here a decade or so ago was " Future proofing" Its just that!

Nurture and nourish the body you have been blessed with- forgive it its lumps and bumps and imperfections and delight in how amazingly it all works- and your mind! Fuel it with good food, hydrate, sleep, stretch, MOVE. Or all too soon you may find it creeps up on you and you realize these simple things you took for granted are no longer so simple, or they ache, or are stiff and sore and maybe no longer achievable. 

NO need to be super strict or forbid your self from things- life is absolutely for living and for enjoying and having fun! But moderation is key, and using your body each and every day- yoga, walks, swimming- whatever it is. Keep exercising your mind too, don't stop being inquisitive, reading, trying new things, leaning something new, exploring. 

I am going to re instate my (mostly) daily gratitude journal - it helps quiet the mind and focus on the good. It also is a nice feeling to sit and reflect on all the positives in your life, even on more turbulent days. I am going to extend the journal by making it more of a "Commonplace book"  a term relatively new to me but a wonderful idea of keeping all these thoughts- notes on inspiration, gratitude, recipes, what your reading, watching, walks, weather- whatever you wish to include. what a joy to have it all in one place and to reflect upon in later years. I have a beautiful pearlescent leather note book that was a gift from my girls I'd been using so its sitting beside me now with a lovely ink pen and the minute I finish typing I fill a page or two before starting on dinner. 

 (n) A lover of rain: someone who finds joy and peace of mind on rainy days

Savoring simple daily pleasures

Its fortunate that I have recently diagnosed myself as a pluviophile- as the rain has fallen steadily here for days and days and there is no break on the horizon in the coming week. Still I see the incredible beauty in it. The layers of the landscape in similar hues and the droplets on the branches and leaves like little lights. I really quite like walking in the rain, I find the sound of gentle rain soothing and of downpours exhilarating. I don't enjoy staying in wet clothing, but as soon as I'm home and changed and my shoes are stuffed with paper and rain jacket hung to drip dry theres a contented glow which settles after a wet walk in any season. 

It is less fortunate that I have picked up a rather unpleasant head cold along with sore throat and a cough that disrupts my sleep terribly. Less fortunate still that we have had to cancel a much anticipated evening at a wonderful restaurant with dear friends because of it. 

However, I am grateful that my body has asked my to slow down, pause, recover, restore and allow my self not only to be unwell but to heal. Its nothing serious, just a bit frustrating- I don't like having to change plans and I don't run well on little sleep. BUT; this is perfect weather for it. It asks you to be home and potter at a slower pace. These days its even less acceptable to just battle on through and go to work or where ever when you are sick- quite rightly. I never wanted to pick up anyone's bugs before Covid. (This little beauty was a gift from my husband i believe whos spent two weeks feeling pretty awful sadly. ) So I stayed home from my work yesterday, took a gentle walk, and savored sitting with the French doors open, curled up on the sofa with a warm drink and my cats as the rain fell and the clock ticked and I just was. 

I equally love the gloriousness of a bright sunny day with my linens drying on the line and the sound of distant lawn mowers, but each day, each type of weather, of season, brings its own joys to savor and appreciate. I'm not just a fair weather girl. 

I have just returned from an afternoon loop to the beach and back in the gently falling rain, now sitting at the kitchen table with a pot of Lapsang soushong tea, the comforting noises of a wet cosy Saturday with the family home, and the anticipation of a delicious dinner and the Coronation of King Charles 3rd televised this evening. 

Its still making a good effort to try be Autumn here, with roses still in bloom, cicadas and crickets not yet silenced for the season and temperatures in the high teen and low twenties still. Usually by May we are starting to regularly light our open fire and log burner. 

Despite the warm evening, the sun sets earlier and earlier, and its dark around 6pm, so once I've got the kitchen in order after a days hungry family foraging and teenage baking ( Caramel slice to die for...and change waist bands for!) Ill make a warm comforting and decadent meal, take a hot bath, watch the Coronation and snuggle into bed dosed up in the hope I sleep and can recuperate a little ready for a simple, rainy, and contented Sunday. 

 Savoring simple daily pleasures

The very word, Nourishment, for many of us conjures up images of healthful foods, maybe iced water, or rainbow salads. 

But to live a "nourished" life, it runs so much deeper than that. 

I believe Nourishment (yes with a capital) is a very personal thing which we draw to us from many directions. 

Physically we can nourish our bodies with vital and restorative sleep; we are far better equipped to tackle our days, physically and mentally after a decent rest. Poor quality or lack of sleep has so many knock on effects- after a poor sleep we are more inclined to crave sugary or high carbohydrate foods, our hormones and circadian rhythm suffers, or brain gets foggy, in extreme cases our hair, skin and nails will also start to show evidence of insufficient sleep. 

We all have our magic number of hours which is optimal for us. Mine is 8. On 8 hours I'm energized, resorted and ready to go. Many people need far less,  But needing and receiving are very different. Famously Margaret Thatcher worked on 3-4 hours sleep a night, as does Martha Stewart (Sigh, my heroine) My husband is lucky to get 5 hours unbroken sleep but he NEEDS more. Just rarely gets it. 

The key is to find your ideal amount, then ease your evening routine- and morning routine, in such a way to give you the best chance of achieving it- at least most of the time. On a bust week I often miss out on a precious hour as I perhaps climb into bed at 10pm and my alarm is set for 5am- but if you keep it present in your mind and try to get there as often as you can, at the very least you can bank a few a week to keep stores high. 

Certainly, I draw much nourishment from nature- being in it, walking in it and breathing in deep lungful's each day.  I feel starved and a bit on edge if I haven't spent enough time out doors- whatever the weather- maybe walking, mowing the lawns, gardening, whatever it may be. My connection the the seasons, the weather and the environment that surrounds me is absolutely vital nourishment for me. For others this may be time on horse back, in or on the water, taker a 4 legged friend for a walk, on a bike, what every fills your cup and NOURISHES you in that respect. 

Yoga - even just a few minutes, I find magically nourishing. The rhythmic familiarity of the poses, the breath, and the stretching leaves me glowing, calm, and nourished and ready for what's next.  It slows me down, ensures I pause and reflect, and allows my body to heal and strengthen. 

Yoga can be deeply spiritual for people, as faith is - both can nourish the spirit and the mind. 

Of course, Nourishment comes from a balanced healthy diet- and balance in the wider sense that the odd treat or indulgence is just as important for wellbeing as the bowl of kale soup made with bone broth.  A cream egg at Easter is good for the soul.... 

Family and Friends are a source of nourishment for me. To nurture, be nurtured, inspire and to be inspired, to love and be loved, cherished and to cherish. Being able to share feelings and thoughts and woes with trusted friends, your spouse, significant other is a huge part of a nourished and fulfilled life.

A good, deep belly laugh when tears roll down your cheeks and the smile lasts long after is an absolute tonic we probably would all like more of. 

 Being able to be there for my girls to confide in, or to discuss things with my husband, support girlfriend's- is all equally giving needed nourishment to others and in receiving it yourself. The company we choose to keep and surround ourselves with is a major factor. Be aware of some relationships that may drain more than nourish: that may cause angst or mistrust, or hurt. Try to be as honest and as objective as you possibly can about these- no one need know your inner most thoughts, but you can change your actions and maybe maneuver in such a way that you spend less time in their company, or have inner strategies in order to help cope with more difficult relationships so that they don't drain you or diminish your "Nourished" self.  Be they family, friend or colleague. 

The gift of time is one of the most nourishing and luxurious things you can give yourself. Take a moment (or two or three) to asses where you require to spend time, where you would like to spend time- on what, with whom, how- It may be as simple as on a busy week night after a day at work and then racing back out to a Childs after school activity you choose a jarred pasta sauce over something more homemade and time consuming, it may be getting up an hour earlier to fit in the meditation, yoga, run, reading, shower, you need to nourish you and start your day as you wish, it may be turning in early to get that extra hours sleep you crave, it may be paying for someone to clean your home to free up your weekends, or planning the weeks meals and utilizing the croc pot to give you some evening back, re scheduling your day to fit in a nap with a blanket a book and a cup of tea before the busy evening kicks in.  Whatever it may be, there are few of us who don't wish for more time in the day, to slow the pace just a little, and feel less rushed and frazzled during a working week. 

Make a lost of your top things that allow you to feel nourished, not forgetting those things we know nourish us, like plenty of fruits and vegetables, sleep and hydration, and see if you can find a way to add more of them into your daily life. After all, its the everydays that make up our lives. 

Be brave enough to live by your own rules so that you can strive each day to live your best life. 

 Savoring simple daily pleasures

Its been more than a week since my last entry, due to a full and eventful few days away. 

I have been reflecting on the tiny seemingly insignificant things that can have a big impact or leave a lasting message, along with some huge things, that can be just as powerful. From little delicate blossoms adorned with twinkling due, to the majestic vastness of an alpine mountain range. 

We had a taste of both winter and adventure over the time we were away. This morning was a balmy 1 degree when I stepped outside to take my picturesque lakeside walk at 7am. For the first time in many months I wore layers of merino and a wool head band and gloves. It was still, peaceful, idyllic and FREEZING!  and I  LOVED it. I could have just kept walking, and walking- taking great lungful's of the crisp clean air, absorbing the beauty and relishing the time out and change of pace. My poor husband has been suffering with a dreadful flu the entire time so wasn't able to participate in everything or enjoy it as much as he'd hoped to. 

A couple of days ago (2 days later than planned due to weather conditions) my elder daughter and I walked the Tongariro Alpine Crossing- a renowned and challenging day hike, reaching over 1800M at its highest point, and a distance of just over 20KM. The landscape was breathtakingly dramatic and each segment of the trail was so very different from the last. The Journey takes you from boardwalks though alpine scenes, up craggy loose rack faces, incorporates views of volcanic wonders- craters and vibrant green Sulphur lakes, tough climbs, slippery descents, rising above the clouds where the air is thinner and so pure, back down through scrub, then the tree line, then damp dense bush. 

The feeling of space and awe, despite the many other hikers on the trail with us that day, left me in no doubt of the sense of something much greater than us at work on earth. The sense of accomplishment after years of wanting to tackle it- not to mention after the disappointment of having to postpone on the Friday (High winds- gale force, heavy rain and visibility of 20M meant it simply wasn't safe to attempt on the day we'd originally planned) and the relief of finally see my husband waiting for us at the end. So so proud of my girl for achieving it too. We got back to where we were staying to a sunny uplifting late afternoon, so to revive us we took the jetski on the lake- fresh! And I sat talking to my youngest on the jetty, dipping out legs (Mine very tired!) in the cold clear water, allowing the healing rejuvenating power to revive my feet and telling her of the mountain adventure. Such special moments I will treasure. 

And so on to a new week, a new school term, and more adventure. Our daughter is off on camp tomorrow, so we unpacked from our trip and repacked- named everything  and checked the gear lists.

SO many life affirming moments in so few days, its a lot to take in. So I will take a day or so to digest and reflect on it all and re look at the (Many!)photographs fondly. 

So very grateful.

 Savoring simple daily pleasures

As I sit here today, with some home made chicken soup simmering on the stove, feeling like a head cold is brewing, and the wind that's gathering force outside has finally got a true autumnal nip to it, I am reflecting on thoughts I had during a long, and very sunny walk I took yesterday morning. 

For the last few years, and more intently the last 12 months or so, I have been mindful to enjoy and appreciate what each day brings, to savor the little things, to appreciate the mundane as even that is not forever, to take a moment to step back and see my children blossoming, and likewise my parents aging- although both are incredibly fir and active and healthy for their ages, to have deep love and gratitude for my husband whos been by my side for well over 20 years now. In taking the time to slow and allow these thoughts, I also see how fast my girls are becoming young women, that the little dots in tutus at kindergarten, or snuggled up for stories after a bath, seems to have been so recently. And yet.... One is talking of learning to drive, of college, career paths, moving away. Soon they will be so much more independent even than now, which led me to my ponderings on my recent walk. 

As heart wrenching as it can be for a parent to observe and encourage their children to grow, be strong and flourish, its incredibly challenging to be selfless enough to give them the wings to fly , and watch them take off and soar- with out you, with their own hurdles to overcome, their own drive and life to lead- where you may not be their first confidant or port of call any longer. But this is how it should be, and if I have done my job well, they will continue to soar, learn, succeed and grow. 

Our responsibilities change and adapt, and are constantly fine tuning to their growing-up needs- as they will always. 

I even had a little tummy turner as I imagined a life where we knew our girls were happy, safe and content, and we also had adventures, weekends away, impromptu dinner out, and a completely different structure and feel to our days. Will the house seem huge? Quiet? Tidy!? Will my housework and laundry be vastly reduced. Will I finally have time for the garden to truly bloom and be cared for, will they regularly bumble home for home baking, a favorite dinner, a shoulder to cry on, a hug, to introduce a special someone?

I hope so. 

This is not immanent. But its a time that is fast approaching. So I wish to be mindful of all the moments together before this- even the cross words, the not- so- great decisions, the firsts and the lasts. The twinkle in my youngest eye as she throws an arm around my shoulder to remind me she is now taller than me! 

It leaves us in a juxtaposition- reminiscing about days long gone, and anticipating the days and years ahead. Its a tricky place to be as a parent. I can well imagine a little empty nest syndrome may creep in at some point (That's when I'll finally get my DOG!) 

None of us know what the future holds. So savor and see the joy in every day and all the little details. 

It doesn't mean we cant plan or look forward to future plans and endeavors. But don't rush. These days wont every come around again. Much like stuffing the stockings at midnight when your utterly exhausted and KNOW there will be an unearthly early start on Christmas morning- one day they'll sleep in late, the magic will fade a little, and you'll wish you'd bottled that sparkling children's magic and wonder. 

A family Saturday morning Brunch today was a perfect little moment to spend time together, enjoy delicious food, and come home to (Make soup!) garden, wash cars and bake. Jostling cozily along with nowhere we have to be, just allowing our Saturday to unfold and rejuvenate us. 

Perfect. 

 Savoring simple daily pleasures

Easter has rather crept up on me this year, which has left me feeling a little flustered and a bit disappointed that I haven't managed to organize my usual Easter treats and gifts- little eggs nests in letter boxes, hand painted Easter cards, gifts for colleagues. I have decorated, and got my Easter tea towels out for use, the Easter crockery and table linens are now waiting to be used tomorrow and I have baked a "Hot Cross Bun Cake," which looks scrumptious with its decadent cinnamon spiced cream cheese frosting. 

Despite us being well and truly into Autumn here in the southern hemisphere, we had soaring temperatures yesterday- the car registering 29 degrees, yet 3 nights ago we enjoyed a crackling log fire as it was so chilly. 

We lived opposite these majestic poplars for over a decade, and they would ring in the seasons for us, one was felled by a recent storm, another is on a lean, but they are slowly starting to succumb to Autumns will. They calmed me today on my early walk after an up and down kind of week. Their stoicism though winters and gales and droughts. 

I heard something this week which really resonated with me- to always be grateful for what the universe (God, whatever your beliefs) is doing FOR you- and To you. That nothing is by accident and every event, big or small, each moment is sent for you- especially you- for a lesson, and experience, a reward, a gift. Even if it may not feel like it at the time. It was something about the wording that struck me- and seemed so infinitely personal. 

Wishing you a peaceful, and wonderful Easter- no matter the season you find you self in, take the opportunity for fresh beginnings, new growth, and a positive, open outlook, ready to receive what ever may be in store for YOU. 

 Savoring Simple Daily Pleasures

Walking has become SUCH a huge and vital  part of my everyday routine. Its exceptionally rare for a day to pass without me managing at least one reasonable walk in the fresh air and nature. They have become my tonic, my way of grounding myself, a form of therapy, inspiration, calm, peace and vitality. Not to mention the health and wellbeing benefits. I can allow my mind to wander, to dream, to process and to work though issues or plans or just get things straight in my head ready to move forward into my day, my evening or my week. 

I often am lucky enough to have the company of friends for a walk, and frequently (Several times a week) my eldest daughter joins me. In her words- she can download and tell me things she either cant tell any one else or wouldn't feel comfortable in another situation. Walking id=s disarming, and opens us up to those possibilities and conversations.  I am so grateful for our precious time together and those moments are treasured. Most often I walk alone and regularly listen to a podcast, but the joy of the birdsong, crickets, cicadas, the sound of the rain falling or children splashing in swimming pools, is so special, and tranquil, I enjoy that the most. 

Our clocks change here in the southern hemisphere tonight, so an extra hour in bed, and a little more daylight in the mornings for a time before it catches up with itself. I look forward to the lighter start to my day- having hung laundry in the dark just yesterday at 7am shortly before the photo above was taken! But the darker evenings feel a little limiting. While the coziness of snuggling in with blankets and roaring fires is appealing, it shortens our days for outdoor activities and puts time restraints on my afternoon/ evening walks.