tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-90296744793518473282024-03-12T22:15:45.114-07:00Country Garden Snippetsrosy mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03242844262732166407noreply@blogger.comBlogger72125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9029674479351847328.post-10133963529912794552023-02-02T21:58:00.001-08:002023-02-02T22:00:53.230-08:00Summertime...and the livin' ain't easy<p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /><div style="text-align: center;">The cicadas have been particularly strident this season. </div></span><p></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The noise exacerbates how hot & bothered I feel - the sound of summer at the peak of the heat. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I am surprised again by my January emotions. The sky shines bright blue and yet, a black cloud hovers above my shoulders. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Heavy. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I want to run away from home.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The sight of happy summer holiday photos all over social media doesn’t help. All cool in the pools and the clear blue sea. Relaxing and having fun. It seems the whole world is on holidays except us. We’re slogging away - it’s my husband’s busiest time of year and for gardeners - we’re flat out keeping up with watering and weeding.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The weeds always get away from me. By February I want to throw in the trowel.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Moving to a suburban block with synthetic grass sounds appealing.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I remember now - it’s like this every year.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; white-space: pre-wrap;">SAD - Seasonal Affective Disorder. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It’s a thing for me in Summer - not Winter like the Northern Hemisphere. I wilt and wither - especially in the humidity. I am in awe of women on the land, tradies and farmers who have no choice but to don their hats and get out into the work day. The needs of animals, crops and clients just don’t wait for a cool change. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Having to work in the heat sure takes some getting used to. I’m no early bird. I prefer to be out in the garden at the end of the day when the sun dips and work until it’s too dark to see anymore. I loathe the thought of stepping on a cane toad - or worse, something slithery.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Secret Garden feels more like the rambly jungle described in the fairy tale of Sleeping Beauty. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">A tangle of overgrown plants crowding each other and jostling for space. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Leggy and languising after busily flowering and fruiting.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I need to make tough decisions about what to cut back and cull but it’s hard to know what to sacrifice and where to start. It feels overwhelming,especially on a hot day. Once I begin, I get on a roll and don’t want to come inside. It’s the starting. The decision making. Non-decisioning is paralyzing. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">We wander around in aimless circles don’t we? Unproductive in our paralysis.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I guess the Secret Garden was overgrown when Mary first discovered it. She worked hard, taming the chaos and coaxing the beauty back. It is discouraging when you pull something into gear and then it gets away again. It’s a job to stay on top of it.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">To maintain some semblance of order to cultivate beauty is a discipline.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">At least it hasn't been a soggy summer yet here. A few scuds and showers but not heavy rain. It's actually quite dry but I'm not complaining. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The thought of flooding rain again is more than we could bear, especially for Brisbanites.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Perhaps that’s why it’s hard to cope - we’re not used to this heat and humidity up here in the mountains. You would get used to it over time, but the temperatures fluctuate so randomly, it takes us by surprise. </span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The beach is calling me. That longing for the sea is getting stronger as summer stretches ahead for yet another month. I don’t necessarily want to be on holidays. I just want to be cool. Immersed in clear blue water.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">And yet if we leave for too long, responsibilities are neglected and treasured plants I’ve tended to so carefully suffer.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Perhaps we can make a different plan this time next year.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Meanwhile - Autumn’s on its way.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2vmmi-W19F6V9pOX0HyqcnV2Oy8zA9GNjG8FrW3g0Bv_IOVygxVl6JGIdcw-r44fZg1HzgwMx-qXf-VuyYp9DkvDrKTiRMCoH1wUBSKUFcOT6ZY59bpbaWe-2tk2mtEmDPFbXvlTEkDfLXuTbIEJNkeWEeX7_M1DQE2RUAGZ8LQt4SJ1AC98HtQ0G/s2048/358136A5-A140-4C58-84F4-7DD24CB4120F.jpeg" style="font-family: Arial; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; white-space: pre-wrap;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1365" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2vmmi-W19F6V9pOX0HyqcnV2Oy8zA9GNjG8FrW3g0Bv_IOVygxVl6JGIdcw-r44fZg1HzgwMx-qXf-VuyYp9DkvDrKTiRMCoH1wUBSKUFcOT6ZY59bpbaWe-2tk2mtEmDPFbXvlTEkDfLXuTbIEJNkeWEeX7_M1DQE2RUAGZ8LQt4SJ1AC98HtQ0G/w266-h400/358136A5-A140-4C58-84F4-7DD24CB4120F.jpeg" width="266" /></a></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></p><p><br class="Apple-interchange-newline" /></p>rosy mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03242844262732166407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9029674479351847328.post-5428241512673881362022-12-08T18:07:00.005-08:002022-12-09T03:55:55.022-08:00hang in there<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Tentative steps forward, feet shifting to adjust as the heavy wings test the wind. I watched the hang glider with bated breath. Was he going to take off and soar out over the vast expanse of the deep blue ocean below that cliff?</p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">I expected a quick run and expert lift off as I stood back observing. Then realised it was a training session. The instructor stood right at the edge of the drop off, carefully monitoring every breath of wind, coaching, encouraging and cautioning the learner flyer. A few tense attempts. </p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">His feet actually did get airborne once or twice but scrambled back to earth after barely<br /> leaving the ground. His upper body certainly looked capable but it took every ounce of strength to control those big wings. It looked awkward and clumsy but I knew once airborne, hang gliding seemed effortless.</p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 16px;"><br /></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">The pair backed away from the edge and the coach helped unclip the harness and talked the student through the manoeuvres as they packed up the cumbersome contraption. </p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Another time. </p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">It’s all progress. Experience. Learning.</p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 16px;"><br /></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">The conditions were not ideal. The timing wasn’t right. He wasn’t ready yet.</p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;"><br /></p><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1800" data-original-width="2880" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihLn7LVNcuqnuBVzKUaCNehupLszT3BmWFh9Mxe1Y8Z-2G1VHJDq14ma558vh0W4wSGEA7P1FRbhevPrcAnR-EZo3_-ZCl8bQOyUe2g3AszDCacAgTE2rjWwXi_me2PQtCZUi1QKEq6mZIHReMce7WkFhhbqoIv5G3iFz6Q5q-Lb7LLA80fnnbE3P2/w640-h400/Screen%20Shot%202022-12-09%20at%209.40.39%20pm.png" style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 238); color: #0000ee; text-align: center; text-decoration: underline;" width="640" /></div><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><br /></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Our creative journey is similar. We want to fly, but first we have to take those important foundational steps. To launch early can be costly, even dangerous to our dreams.</p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Too much too soon and we can crash land, our ideas shattered and hearts bruised.</p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 16px;"><br /></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">We need to invest, work, build up our skills and establish a good foundation. We need a lot of practice. Simply showing up and going through the motions some days. </p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><br /></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Inspiration is as fleeting as a good breeze.</p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 16px;">It comes in its own time.</p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 16px;"><br /></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Opportunities and open doors are like that. When the time is just right, we simply step into and through the other side. It is amazing to experience that flow and favour. </p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">True, heartfelt success feels miraculous. </p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Exciting, yet peaceful.</p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 16px;"><br /></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Meanwhile, get ready. Prepare. Keep showing up. Keep practising. Keep stepping forward. And trust. Trust the process and trust your Coach.</p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">You’ll soar at just the right moment and it will seem effortless.</p>rosy mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03242844262732166407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9029674479351847328.post-66780650464926602192022-05-13T22:36:00.001-07:002022-05-13T23:12:22.486-07:00rain rain go away<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">It’s not raining. It’s more like constant water just flowing from the sky. I’ve been holding my breath all week as I think about those who may be flooding AGAIN. I can’t bear to think about their distress as families and business owners watch and wait. More cancellations and activities postponed. It all feels surreal.</p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">We are thankfully well and truly high and dry here. Both dams are pouring over - you could kayak from one to the other now along the overflow. A mini version of white water rafting. The garden is soggily sodden and my husband turned the fountain on just because it’s chockas. I am wondering how on earth I am going to tackle the garden when it eventually clears up.</p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">The whole microclimate has changed as shrubs and trees have overgrown areas that have now become deep shade. It feels very secret-garden-ish actually. All mysterious and rambly shambly.</p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">It is an opportunity to reconsider the landscape. That’s a positive outlook I guess as I have been considering overhauling a few areas. The winter will see some destructive reconstruction. Things often look worse before they look better. We need to make tough decisions to progress forward into improvement.</p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">Since I can’t be outside in the pouring rain, I have been pottering inside but I can’t seem to get stuck into anything. My work is gardening, so I subconsciously feel like I’m on holidays when it’s wet! </p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">I miss the light. Perhaps that is why I haven’t used this wet week wisely to be creative indoors, or get stuck into housework.</p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">I have been flitting from one task to the other. Studying a garden design course online, (very boring and one dimensional for this people person), knitting, reading two books at once, writing, hemming curtains and too many mini-series. </p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">The house feels messy with the damp but if I wait until it’s perfect, I would never get anything creative underway.</p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">And so - in the midst of it all, I sat in my multi-task space and picked up my paintbrush.</p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">The sketch I had started stalled. I wanted to do justice to capture my daughter’s wedding bouquet. Tricky when the flowers were cream and white! But as I started dabbling last night - it happened.</p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">I clicked into the flow of enjoying the process. Joy!</p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">It’s been so long since I have done any art that I am out of sync. It’s good to just do it for the practice though. No expectations. Aim high and have a reason, but just relax and enJOY the experience.</p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">I love it. It’s not to do anything with - I will try another for my daughter. I’m happy to simply practice and improve. </p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;"><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiclAApfgirf_OcSuQCXdPZn34fgcMY1PLYyKTwCB0CztjeP24KRGIuBl1Hh9TBhXKYlhOsjQoFwgZE79ZZegQEfgal1-TdFqDHKy1glV24l9rKHYQE-5KU6xtMlhphKnrhwEJWfa6B1_BwEfMzkX2KBOmJQ8u6zp5W8YXpbj0rxEcOhiFHTVBauVmb/s4032/5CDA0879-DA29-4E89-8FA9-E3E460F9D1C3.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiclAApfgirf_OcSuQCXdPZn34fgcMY1PLYyKTwCB0CztjeP24KRGIuBl1Hh9TBhXKYlhOsjQoFwgZE79ZZegQEfgal1-TdFqDHKy1glV24l9rKHYQE-5KU6xtMlhphKnrhwEJWfa6B1_BwEfMzkX2KBOmJQ8u6zp5W8YXpbj0rxEcOhiFHTVBauVmb/s320/5CDA0879-DA29-4E89-8FA9-E3E460F9D1C3.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">What would you like to get stuck into? Do you find overcast weather affects your mojo?</p><div><br /></div>rosy mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03242844262732166407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9029674479351847328.post-8534891491588239132020-06-01T19:44:00.001-07:002020-06-01T19:46:45.065-07:00coming of age<br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
My son has just turned 21. We moved here the day he was due.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Tim was born right here, peacefully and safely at home. I
guess that makes him a local.<o:p></o:p></div>
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He is well and truly all grown up now – a mature man with
his own business. <o:p></o:p></div>
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He came home to play the other day. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjYBXsvecqU7Ygqv2bHhLI5LfbdbGs_DPDRiCsKk3s70b0D9pCmJXdWv76mfI5R5crSOI8C4vZDBk2KnWEXX8sElueZgbo_OjRPFjhE967NiUPyxnIy_tM-DrnUlWEcxUH1SRdgv1CnOk/s1600/IMG_5872.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjYBXsvecqU7Ygqv2bHhLI5LfbdbGs_DPDRiCsKk3s70b0D9pCmJXdWv76mfI5R5crSOI8C4vZDBk2KnWEXX8sElueZgbo_OjRPFjhE967NiUPyxnIy_tM-DrnUlWEcxUH1SRdgv1CnOk/s640/IMG_5872.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Tim has graduated from
playing Tonka trucks in the paddock to operating the huge machines that make
mountains into molehills.<o:p></o:p></div>
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He climbed into the yellow cabin of a 20 tonne excavator and
made short work clearing a mess of privet, lantana and scrubby wattles in the
beautiful part of our property where the tall gums grow. We named this place
after the towering Tallowood trees.<o:p></o:p></div>
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He knew what he was doing. It’s instinctive and he’s wanted
to do that for years.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Life has come full circle.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ3ya_lN8KWCpvTym3_4bCEQfgZnjPfGaD1ZN5IJh5Vbnry5UA-Xehkz2iJkdCxSXdQu0_-e0QCUNDhuxc4xxPLiGeStxhSLj2of3fg3fLffWNGR1C8tJ5UOnQKc8us8QLuygYd_i12_I/s1600/IMG_5409.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ3ya_lN8KWCpvTym3_4bCEQfgZnjPfGaD1ZN5IJh5Vbnry5UA-Xehkz2iJkdCxSXdQu0_-e0QCUNDhuxc4xxPLiGeStxhSLj2of3fg3fLffWNGR1C8tJ5UOnQKc8us8QLuygYd_i12_I/s640/IMG_5409.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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In our first year here, I had a bee in my bonnet to tackle
the bush and tame it. We had all that beautiful space and land. It just needed
clearing. <o:p></o:p></div>
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We had five children under 10 and then baby Tim joined the
crew.<o:p></o:p></div>
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There were so many things I’d dreamed of doing. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Building a swing in a big tree and clearing the way for a long
flying fox was on that list.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Undaunted and naive, I ventured out into the bush with the
children, wielding a big brush hook, wearing my baby boy in the mei tai sling.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Slashing and bashing through lantana with a vengeance, I had
my eye on clearing to a beautiful big native fig tree. I could just imagine the
swing! <o:p></o:p></div>
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After three days I was angry, frustrated and utterly,
tearily exhausted. I could hardly summon the strength to cook tea. <o:p></o:p></div>
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My husband, who wasn’t involved because he was busy working
elsewhere, kindly sat me down with these wise words.<o:p></o:p></div>
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“Stay inside the fence.”<o:p></o:p></div>
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It was such a relief that I didn’t have to feel responsible
for 27 acres all at once.<o:p></o:p></div>
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We narrowed it down to two around the house and built a swing
set instead. It’s hardly been used to be honest. <o:p></o:p></div>
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A few years ago, Tim and his youngest brother, Daniel were
busy outside. I was busy inside and didn’t really take any notice of what they
were up to.<o:p></o:p></div>
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They were busy for days. I was happy they were happy working
together. <o:p></o:p></div>
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“Mum, come and see what we’ve been doing.” <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I put that off until I finally did follow them
out.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Out into the wild bush around the Tallowoods.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Déjà vu.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The boys had cleared the whole area around the fig tree...and they had rigged up a big rope swing.</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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rosy mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03242844262732166407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9029674479351847328.post-35012460521714741392020-05-10T21:36:00.000-07:002020-05-10T21:36:47.858-07:00gathering IRL<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
There’s been a lot of focus on the blessings this time is
for introverts. Yay for them.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I love slow solitude at the best of times.<o:p></o:p></div>
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During these not-so-best times though, I realise afresh that
I am a people-person.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I love gatherings. I love meeting people IRL. In Real Life –
capital letters. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Gosh I miss it.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I’m not such a huggy person, but I bounce off other people’s
energy and body language. I talk with my hands. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Who’s with me?<o:p></o:p></div>
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I love my loved ones. They are constant and comforting. We
have our ups and downs. Familiarity can breed contempt, but I don’t take family
for granted. We need extra grace in our household just as much as you do. Each
one in my family is precious to me.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
But I MISS MY FRIENDS!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Do you?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Do you miss getting together with friends? Gathering in
small groups? Bouncing ideas off each other? Understanding easily as we communicate
and connect with kindred spirits.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I cannot cope with zoom. I don’t like it at all. Anyone
else?<o:p></o:p></div>
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I don’t mind a one-on-one facetime call. I like talking on
the phone, but I don’t do group gathering on technology. I miss the vibes. The
synergy of creative people bouncing off each other and the multiplication
factor of that for our own creative sparks.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
I love seeing what my friends have been up to when we visit
each other. Sharing projects and possibilities with ideas and inspiration.
Tangible evidence. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
I love workshops. I do not like learning online and piles of
paperwork without interaction. I love
meeting new people and discovering new interests. Learning and growing and
stretching. I love spontaneous adventures and serendipity. I need things to look forward to in order to
keep moving and motivated. I need big ideas and external pressure outside my
own four walls.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I get restless and stale sometimes. It’s a pattern I recognise as I get older. As
I face that again, I feel discouraged. Is that a weakness in my personality? <o:p></o:p></div>
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I need fresh vistas to foster contentment. That sounds like
a contradiction, but it’s true. Exploring new places makes me appreciate afresh
where I have built my own life. Road trips stimulate our senses as they broaden
our horizons and introduce us to new ideas to interpret and come home to. New
ideas to translate and perhaps fold into our own lives in different ways.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Curtailing all that has been lonely, frustrating and
discouraging for me personally as I face those aspects of my personality and
wade through ways to deal with this and come through strong.<o:p></o:p></div>
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What has helped you over the hurdles you’ve encountered
during this strange time?<o:p></o:p></div>
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What are you looking forward to when the restrictions lift?<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4pevfLn37vQ_hRZDvn-Rwwo-TyGzKn75mv6CJclxyIVOqXX46QYgG5XaTsefWIhrDFH2f34SVtttQK9FM8XH1u2qwoRKhBpvBwNJl3K0R6WH1Gp8YvxUTMCyvjE-hvQmxEPXkVsow0LI/s1600/IMG_4900.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4pevfLn37vQ_hRZDvn-Rwwo-TyGzKn75mv6CJclxyIVOqXX46QYgG5XaTsefWIhrDFH2f34SVtttQK9FM8XH1u2qwoRKhBpvBwNJl3K0R6WH1Gp8YvxUTMCyvjE-hvQmxEPXkVsow0LI/s640/IMG_4900.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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It is so special to be welcomed into a friend’s home. </div>
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To know
your company is anticipated and prepared for. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
I visited a dear friend just before
all these restrictions unfolded and felt such a heartwarming welcome as I saw
her beautiful attention to detail in preparing afternoon tea for us, pictured above.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
I am longing to share our beautiful autumn garden with
friends. I look forward to welcoming them with a lovely tea party. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Here’s to saying ‘cheers’ with a beverage in fine china or clinking
a glass of something bubbly in jolly good company.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />rosy mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03242844262732166407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9029674479351847328.post-3220984291233030802020-02-11T03:44:00.000-08:002020-02-11T03:44:01.417-08:00sacrificial giving<br />
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The plea for donations keeps coming. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
More money to rescue
more animals. More money for relief organisations like the Red Cross and the
Salvos. More money needed to rebuild and repair houses, schools, businesses,
farms and livelihoods in rural communities. <o:p></o:p></div>
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My husband is a generous man. He supports many organisations
doing wonderful work all over the world and at home with hard earned finances.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b>The greatest gift he’s giving this week is himself.<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
A donation of time and energy. <span style="color: red;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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He has flown south to help battle bushfires with more than 200
volunteers from rural Queensland brigades.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Instead of reaching deep into his pocket, he dons his yellow
uniform and forfeits income as a solo business operator to work alongside fire
fighters from across regional Australia. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Andrew used to travel a lot for work. Our children are older
now, so we don’t miss him quite as much as we did when they were little. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
To have daddy gone for a week was huge. Not only was I solo parenting,
we homeschooled too, so there was no reinforcement at the end of a long day
with a handful of children at different ages.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I longed for emotional support and physical help loving
them. Reading the bedtime stories and tucking them into bed with fresh love and
a kiss. Doing the early morning toddler shift when I was too tired to rally after
a broken night rocking a baby. <o:p></o:p></div>
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This week he is on risky night shift taming a monster down
south. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Another one.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
He fought fires here in Ravensbourne late last year then flew
south to Nowra with a local team in January to back up the fire fighters on the
south coast.<o:p></o:p></div>
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This time it’s Canberra. As I write, there has been at least
80,000ha of bush burnt. That must be a fair chunk of the ACT. <o:p></o:p></div>
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The fires have been relentless this summer. Everyone is
aware of that.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
What many don’t think about is the fire fighter’s family at
home.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>While dads are out on the fire front, mums are holding down
the home front.<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
They do their part for the cause by carrying the family load
in order to free them up to go. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
One of my young mama friends farewelled her husband again this
past week. She bravely shoulders the responsibility for four young children and
homeschooling too.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
My daughter-in-law does this every week as she regularly
waves our son off to work as a professional full-time fireman. She is a hero
too.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
I salute all the mums with little ones. As they wave daddy
off, they turn to pick up parenting duty single handedly. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs4SxPAT94m5F86JWg33aXlk3h-a5-1yCBg0fnOL-MN6wOQuLdTd52XU155jAQoHdE2UZNbckO20i27jD-1GPSIDSCjAtz9QO13USMXGSCCTnIcgOGK0feoEE4ff0Ga35e6wgMqQ-nxIo/s1600/DSC_0346.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1065" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs4SxPAT94m5F86JWg33aXlk3h-a5-1yCBg0fnOL-MN6wOQuLdTd52XU155jAQoHdE2UZNbckO20i27jD-1GPSIDSCjAtz9QO13USMXGSCCTnIcgOGK0feoEE4ff0Ga35e6wgMqQ-nxIo/s640/DSC_0346.JPG" width="424" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Our men are helping with the back end of the fires. My heart
goes out to the women who continue to wait and wonder when their men will return
safely home from the raging front line.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
It reminds me of wartime. The enemy is a fire breathing
dragon and the battle seems relentless against the onslaught of destruction to
flora, fauna and even whole towns.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
These long weeks, and now months, are a glimpse into what
others experienced over <i>years</i>, watching and waiting, wondering when or <i>if</i>
their menfolk would return home.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
We experience a micro-glimpse of restless sleep,
oversensitive to bumps in the night and hyper-alert as a solo parent needs to
be when there’s no reassuring offsider to share responsibilities for the family’s
safety. We feel vulnerable and fragile. Humbly aware that safety and wellbeing
is never something to take for granted. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
It is tiring for the teams who have already been at the fire
front fighting fierce flames for days in the heat and the hot wind. Someone still
needs to monitor the back end of burnt land. Massive logs can smoulder for months.
Mop up work needs to be vigilant and thorough. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Monitoring the blaze is often tedious work, with long, boring
hours of maintenance, keeping a watchful eye out for sparks and embers, aware
that the wind can change and danger is a real possibility. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
That’s where these back-up crews come in, bringing relief
and reinforcements.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b>A heartfelt donation.<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
*Of course, I realise there are women involved in fire
fighting too. Full-time and volunteers. For the purpose of this piece, I am
writing from a wife’s perspective with her husband is away. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
rosy mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03242844262732166407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9029674479351847328.post-64646510873329639152019-07-07T23:46:00.001-07:002019-07-07T23:46:33.118-07:00mid-winter wonder<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Mid-winter is when my favourite treasure bursts into
spectacular bloom.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
A Vulcan Magnolia tree. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Its rich magenta flowers are as big
as your open hand. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
The branches are completely bare except for the furry buds and
flowers. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
They sure stand out!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
One day there are only bare branches and plump furry
buds with a hint of colour. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Then I wake up and see the glorious surprise of the
magnificent flowers. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOlRvpJf7ldQ4Bq8Xi-ClanVk7B3j2z33SqeQbWka42a_52mtMxKtC_wDgoCtqIVaM17TZS0OmWV7cOUdH_ntshW9WhTnHnY8tdH1UzWLaIcn3DyhE95xJLbzjTmZz7ajsnL5BniX_yj8/s1600/IMG_0131.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1494" data-original-width="1494" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOlRvpJf7ldQ4Bq8Xi-ClanVk7B3j2z33SqeQbWka42a_52mtMxKtC_wDgoCtqIVaM17TZS0OmWV7cOUdH_ntshW9WhTnHnY8tdH1UzWLaIcn3DyhE95xJLbzjTmZz7ajsnL5BniX_yj8/s320/IMG_0131.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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rosy mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03242844262732166407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9029674479351847328.post-19182070515289832622019-03-30T04:00:00.000-07:002019-03-30T04:00:22.456-07:00cést si bon<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">It’s been a deliciously damp drizzly Saturday with very
welcome wet weather and the cool change at last.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">It is more cosy to stay home than to head out the door and
into rain. Far better to bake up a storm in the kitchen and potter about. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">There is a strong café culture these days. It’s tempting to
pop out for a special coffee close by. We have a beautiful café just up the
road. I have always declined buying a coffee machine because I'd rather a special treat where really good coffee is an artform.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">To actually enjoy being together at home is a lost art I
suspect. Families are fragmented every day of the week with everyone going in
different directions. It is nice to gather at home in each other’s
company with the chance to really relax and save some money by cooking something
special at a fraction of the cost of going out. It is wonderful to be sociable,
but you don’t necessarily need visitors and extra company to experience those special touches of hospitality.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt3atT-zEBiNJxO5004lBjZxNgh2Z-NufPDquyq1a-WYkvXM-Rd0ss4gWlN903_X1ivP3kvRPpLStxAMOC5OP-hoIR0fLM0Ih2nOZp1W8Z7CJVF4idP6nTlrO00BySID3FDqqkj3pY1T0/s1600/IMG_1014+%25281%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt3atT-zEBiNJxO5004lBjZxNgh2Z-NufPDquyq1a-WYkvXM-Rd0ss4gWlN903_X1ivP3kvRPpLStxAMOC5OP-hoIR0fLM0Ih2nOZp1W8Z7CJVF4idP6nTlrO00BySID3FDqqkj3pY1T0/s640/IMG_1014+%25281%2529.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">I love watching some of my children get creative in the
kitchen. For two in particular, it is their way of relaxing. The more fiddly
the recipe, the more they enjoy the process.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">My son relished a slow start to his weekend. It is so
different getting up early to catch a school bus and be away each day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To stay home is luxurious for a schoolboy.
Especially on a rainy day.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">One of the few souvenirs from Daniel’s travels last year was
to bring home an épandeur de crêpe, a wooden tool for spreading crepe batter. It
is quite tricky to make a good melt-in-your-mouth French crepe. He certainly mastered
them this morning! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Daniel was inspired by the beautiful visual feasts of @_foodstories_ </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://ourfoodstories.com/">https://ourfoodstories.com/</a> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"> and their recipe for crepes with apple and berry sauce. He adapted the
gluten free recipe and used coconut milk. They were soft and delicate, just as a
good French crepe should be.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Here’s to home cooked hospitality – food made with love for one
another - just because.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Serenity & Olivia Script"; font-size: 48.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS Mincho";"> Bon <span style="background: white;">appétit!</span></span><o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />rosy mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03242844262732166407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9029674479351847328.post-16940459801817738652019-03-14T04:59:00.001-07:002019-03-14T04:59:41.416-07:00escapees<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We can find hidden beauty wherever we are.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
I discovered these beautiful dahlias growing wild amidst the weeds and grasses down in a ditch. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The vibrant pink pop of colour was so cheerful, it just made my day!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I love that their seeds jumped the fence and escaped the confines of a garden to brighten up the roadside.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I spotted them out for a jaunt on a bicycle on a recent visit to Tenterfield. Such a leisurely way to explore a new town! You can go slowly enough to really see things instead of a fleeting glimpse in a car.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<div style="text-align: center;">
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
<br />rosy mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03242844262732166407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9029674479351847328.post-24732330585557737232018-07-25T20:29:00.000-07:002018-07-25T20:29:13.602-07:00compost<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Out the back door,</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"> down the steps, through the hedge, </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">behind
the shed</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Is a pile.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">A mucky messy pile.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">The scraps of life.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Fragile, broken eggshells, </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">squished up, used up peels and pips
and dregs. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Refuse tossed from the kitchen.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Compost</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi5RVnBZW6D384heylBWjfB0x7W2kMpQaSKizXR-uMYCNiofKgObOWMktIbiKseLlO-DeZxGOAJ-VLix0CKFr89lRo28nnqqwnbzJx7SG1HX9qAS4pkbTa0-Wxbac0HPANQhCmXVKz2_c/s1600/CGS_011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1143" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi5RVnBZW6D384heylBWjfB0x7W2kMpQaSKizXR-uMYCNiofKgObOWMktIbiKseLlO-DeZxGOAJ-VLix0CKFr89lRo28nnqqwnbzJx7SG1HX9qAS4pkbTa0-Wxbac0HPANQhCmXVKz2_c/s640/CGS_011.jpg" width="452" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">All simmering and shrinking imperceptibly into a small pile of delectable new soil.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">The hidden ingredient is time.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">God’s work takes time too.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">He takes the mucky mess, the fragile, broken pieces and uses it all to work things out for good.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAxO1UrOWNTkG0sd6cHxZ8SluXv23PPu0Ulens2SR10uBYE-akYe4AI895Cx0wdrc-fJwHrjmU7RYrZau7uc8BigSwvDy707Z42g_jbZ787a-Ol4Ft47foB3Fenh6v3jDe-52tH4uPKro/s1600/CGS_010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1143" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAxO1UrOWNTkG0sd6cHxZ8SluXv23PPu0Ulens2SR10uBYE-akYe4AI895Cx0wdrc-fJwHrjmU7RYrZau7uc8BigSwvDy707Z42g_jbZ787a-Ol4Ft47foB3Fenh6v3jDe-52tH4uPKro/s640/CGS_010.jpg" width="452" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">God makes all things new in His time</span></div>
rosy mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03242844262732166407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9029674479351847328.post-3948769036449323602018-07-17T06:23:00.000-07:002020-06-02T00:08:56.604-07:00a glimpse into our travels<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">We went to Europe!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">We really did. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">A great big geography excursion with our youngest two
children.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">World schooling. History, art, architecture…lessons for real
life!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">It's weeks since our return to “normal".<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">The buzz of adventure has faded to a gentle hum.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Our hearts and horizons have expanded.</span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">While we did visit London, Paris and Rome, we really did not
enjoy the main tourist attractions so much.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Our favourite experiences were meandering around the back
roads, exploring the countryside on bicycles and wandering cobbled streets in little
villages.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Visitors, not tourists.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br /></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">The highlight was meeting local people.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Travelling can be quite lonely coming in as an outsider.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">We flit across the surface of a new country for a brief
overview. The best times were connecting with local people and experiencing everyday
life in a different culture.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">An elderly gentleman hanging out his washing in a little
stone courtyard. </span></div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">He wore a beret. So natural. So French. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">An elderly lady hanging out her washing in a tiny garden
with a gorgeous clump of dark red peonies blooming their pretty heads off in amongst the unmown grass and weeds.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Italian farmers bouncing along the steep ploughed fields on
tractors with tracks.</span></div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Italian farmhands pruning gnarly old olive trees.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Bicycle riders bearing baguettes in their baskets after
morning shopping. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
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<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Being a tourist sounds exhausting! Our experience wasn't about always <i>doing</i> something whiz bang.</span></div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">The simplicity was <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">being</i>
there. Waking up in a cottage in the Italian or French countryside. </span></div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Listening to
people talking in a foreign language. Shopping for unusual groceries, sipping
coffee on a sidewalk café, watching the people around us living their daily
lives. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">It was <i>marvelous</i>.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">I hope you might enjoy a glimpse into some special memories from our travels.</span></div>
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rosy mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03242844262732166407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9029674479351847328.post-73611354797391403192018-07-17T05:21:00.001-07:002018-07-17T05:22:18.923-07:00A blue kettle kind of day<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Our kettle broke. Our lovely red kettle.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">A mini catastrophe.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Teatime is a hub of our family culture and we don’t live
near town. Visitors were coming any minute.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Instead of scurrying off to buy a new one, I remembered we
had a kettle we hadn’t christened.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">A beautiful blue enamel kettle.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">I’d been longing to take it camping for steaming mugs of tea
in the bush.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">We often stress and scramble when we could choose to be more
resourceful.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">The blue kettle has stayed and actually makes a pretty
picture in the kitchen.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">It turns an ordinary routine into a moment of beauty. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I feel
cheerful just looking at it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">It is also very sketchable.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">I sketched it one morning last week. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Something I want to
make more time for. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">To just <i>do</i> instead of making excuses. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">To capture the simple beauty of an ordinary moment.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"> What is it you keep jotting down on your want-to-make-time-for list?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">What do you keep writing and just not getting to?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">It is really satisfying to actually do. that. thing. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">It can be
so simple. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">To go for a walk. To read aloud to my children.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">To sketch something.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">To tidy that hideous cupboard. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Today I did and felt quite pleased with myself.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">It also gave momentum.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Once that was behind me, I felt liberated to keep going with
another tough task.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Or keep sketching!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />rosy mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03242844262732166407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9029674479351847328.post-44640376817716463182018-04-21T01:16:00.000-07:002018-04-21T01:16:04.809-07:00fruition<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH6hUa0opAWyBlyqd0poyDYh6WGfKhDgHLkw_jyImFfPi9CbiW7KMf6ej29h0C15wA28grXNdqF_CUbTW779eIWJk3xQbQDMJkWxTBtZVaDYmY8SyKnozwyk5d9lBifSt87umCM0xXl8s/s1600/CGS_013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1143" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH6hUa0opAWyBlyqd0poyDYh6WGfKhDgHLkw_jyImFfPi9CbiW7KMf6ej29h0C15wA28grXNdqF_CUbTW779eIWJk3xQbQDMJkWxTBtZVaDYmY8SyKnozwyk5d9lBifSt87umCM0xXl8s/s640/CGS_013.jpg" width="452" /></a></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
Some dreams are too poignant and precious to put into words.
Like delicate bubbles, they are fragile. To expose them to the light of day too
soon might threaten to burst the exquisite sense of anticipation. Of
possibility.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
To talk about personal ideas publicly threatens to belittle them.
Unuttered, they are like hidden treasure, buried safely away where words cannot
express something too deep for words.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I have held a dream in my heart that God has tucked safely
away for decades. Until now, it has not been the right season. Like a bulb,
buried in the earth, the dream is about to burst forth and blossom.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It is hard to comprehend. Now it is finally time. I am about to embark on something so wonderful
I can hardly speak of it and put it ‘out there’.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
But the motivation behind sharing is to inspire you to dream
of your own adventure and put the hard work in to make it a reality.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggpik_IbhZK0h3gxWdPytysiKnSwNxIHcxslJUHn1Vv1CbPFVDWwXjKSyKSwL4HfVJGB2o7e3_hLR2WmlvBw66V9R0qp-FhpThT6rAvd2LBj0yZG8EVhkkq_N_ajgZyGOgz5eON9D3bwY/s1600/CGS_007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1143" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggpik_IbhZK0h3gxWdPytysiKnSwNxIHcxslJUHn1Vv1CbPFVDWwXjKSyKSwL4HfVJGB2o7e3_hLR2WmlvBw66V9R0qp-FhpThT6rAvd2LBj0yZG8EVhkkq_N_ajgZyGOgz5eON9D3bwY/s640/CGS_007.jpg" width="452" /></a></div>
<br />
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Flowers can transport you. In my case, they really are taking
me places. Flowers have bought my ticket to travel. Well, actually, my
husband’s ticket. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I have longed to go to Europe since before I met Andrew. He
said we would go together one day.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Now we are – <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>35 years
later. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It became my catchcry. Andrew is not as keen to travel as I
am, but I said if I bought his ticket, he couldn’t say no!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
That has been the reason behind growing hundreds of flowers
to sell these past two years.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
To take him to Italy.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
How can a full-time, home schooling mother of eight children
living in a rural area make some money to contemplate the possibility of
travelling? How can I earn some funds to explore this big wide beautiful world?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Do what you can with what you’ve got where you are.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
That’s my motto.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I live in an area with deliciously rich soil, plenty of
water and I love gardening.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So I grew flowers!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Commit your plans to the Lord and He shall bring them to
pass. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I did and He has.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
He is the caretaker of the deepest desires of our hearts. If
something is meant to be, those hopes and dreams are safe with Him. He sifts
and sorts our plans and ideas as we walk with Him and follow His lead. God is
never in a hurry. He has work to accomplish in the preparation. Those three
words….In The Meantime. Oh!! Those loooonnnnggg meantimes. The waiting. The
wondering. The doubts, the questions. The chaffing as He polishes us and
refines the very essence of our character. The lessons in trust and patience. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 315.85pt;">
The peace that can only come when
we trust God’s perfect timing.<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 315.85pt;">
I do not want to wait until my
children are grown and leave home to fulfil the longing for adventure. It will
be awhile off yet! Eight children, roughly two years apart. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 315.85pt;">
I actually want to have some fun
with them along the way! We can explore together and share the journey!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 315.85pt;">
I like their company. And I hope
they don’t mind mine. I don’t think they will say no to Paris, London or Rome.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 315.85pt;">
Even writing those words is
surreal. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 315.85pt;">
I am pinching myself. Paris?
London? Rome?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 315.85pt;">
Europe? Moi?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 315.85pt;">
This time tomorrow, the four of
us will be winging our way across to the other side of this great big beautiful
world to explore together.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 315.85pt;">
My husband and me with our two
youngest children as a grand hurrah to homeschooling for 25 years.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Home educating is multi faceted. It is not one dimensional.
Books and pages and words.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Education can be so much more. Experiences bring learning to
life. To travel is to open up a whole new world.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 315.85pt;">
I am excited not to be a tourist.
I just want to absorb other cultures. To listen and touch and smell and taste and
see that the Lord is good over there too. To watch people live their lives in
another culture. Italians. French. To revisit the Scottish and the English and
introduce my children to places that seem so familiar because we have read
about them together since they were babies.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 315.85pt;">
Visiting Britain was like walking
into books I’d grown up with and then shared with my children. I am looking
forward to sharing those familiar places, especially Arthur Ransome’s Lake
District. We shall definitely be messing about in boats.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Au revoir!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 315.85pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 315.85pt;">
Photos by Briony Scotton</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 315.85pt;">
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<br />rosy mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03242844262732166407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9029674479351847328.post-1300462795711809602017-10-23T21:17:00.002-07:002017-11-06T00:38:04.162-08:00sunday afternoons<div style="text-align: center;">
When was the last time you pulled up a chair and sat in the sunshine? </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We are meant to enjoy being in our garden. To simply <b>be</b>. Not <b>do</b>. I am pretty good at turning a blind eye to 'to dos'. I think that's a gift, just quietly. If I waited until everything was ticked off, I would never relax!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This sunny spring weather beckons me outdoors.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Last week was big. I actually wrote down everything that happened and nearly hyperventilated. It wasn't busy. It was <i>big</i>. A friend's death and then funeral, extended family visiting leading to my dad's 80th birthday party, family issues and even the dog getting pregnant from Jo Blo up-the-road. (stressful) There's always something going on! Saying farewell to my daughter going off to Africa for nine weeks in the midst of preparing church music, having young adults to stay and hosting a homeschooling afternoon sharing a lesson in watercolour painting. Phew. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Sunday afternoon was a time to breathe.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I kicked off my shoes and sat outside with a cuppa and a book. Then opened my art eyes and got inspired by this gorgeous Vulcan magnolia in all its magenta glory. I actually did some sketching!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It was bliss.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ6L7U7Xsbd4-q0obQC4IJ3GQkonSvOZVNFKKdjQWqBqXP9uE8RaIfWX_W18f3qqmjQHZp0Zfbzto6d-0peOEuwAStxGFfUHU0vPoUVOGRA-OK0NxoC5UGEyCO5LtKDes4oUmd9d3Far4/s1600/IMG_1804.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ6L7U7Xsbd4-q0obQC4IJ3GQkonSvOZVNFKKdjQWqBqXP9uE8RaIfWX_W18f3qqmjQHZp0Zfbzto6d-0peOEuwAStxGFfUHU0vPoUVOGRA-OK0NxoC5UGEyCO5LtKDes4oUmd9d3Far4/s640/IMG_1804.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
rosy mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03242844262732166407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9029674479351847328.post-91945478362228522932017-10-23T21:12:00.002-07:002017-10-23T21:12:56.392-07:00pretty imperfection<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Heavy rain - as in ONE FOOT of rain (300mls) this month has been fantabulous.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It was so hot and dry in September that we were desperate. The season forgot it was spring and thought it had skipped ahead to summer!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The little patch of delphiniums was parched and struggling. We bought half a tank of water for the first time since we moved here 18 years ago, just to keep the garden alive and hoped to pull through the flowers we had invested in.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Then it rained and I thought they would drown!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
They sprouted in all directions and became so sodden, the heavy stems bent under the weight of the flowers.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I picked up two soggy stems that had snapped off short and put them in a tiny vase. The colours were surreal. Beautiful shades of blue tinged with mauve.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
They made my fingers tingle to capture them in this little watercolour painting.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
They remind me not to underestimate the beauty of imperfection.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We tend to reject something if we compare it to what it should look like.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Appreciate something on its own merit.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It can stand tall alone.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It doesn't have to measure up to something else.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I am just a dabbler in art. There sure is plenty of room for improvement!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I have given myself permission to appreciate all that I am learning and practicing. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
To enjoy the journey.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It is so much fun to splash gorgeous colours around.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I don't want to spoil my own enjoyment by comparing myself to others - especially experts who have studied art and painted for years. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It just makes me happy!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And I am surprised how it touches others with a breath of fresh air because it is loose and light and breezy.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Do something that makes your heart sing this week. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
You don't have to be an expert in whatever it is you want to try.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Relax and enjoy the process.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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rosy mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03242844262732166407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9029674479351847328.post-72570038779670706302017-10-23T21:11:00.002-07:002017-10-23T21:11:53.613-07:00rugosa roses<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdpIReYIduI5mRIDr5nghWegWgcArdWfZUngl6QmBmQDpEuS3DL0FzMMf2zMxcOnA_Txtb2bZYJQdLqKdPAUdQf6f_jP3P6IfWyWD6A7_PIjMGvt9PngfAkRxmjwsBr10EVhX7QtuG5n0/s1600/IMG_2752.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdpIReYIduI5mRIDr5nghWegWgcArdWfZUngl6QmBmQDpEuS3DL0FzMMf2zMxcOnA_Txtb2bZYJQdLqKdPAUdQf6f_jP3P6IfWyWD6A7_PIjMGvt9PngfAkRxmjwsBr10EVhX7QtuG5n0/s640/IMG_2752.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Rugosa roses are lovely. The rich colour and scent is something special. I remember reading in the beautiful cookbook "Rose Petal Jam" by Beata Zatorska, that her Polish grandmother made rose petal jam out of this variety.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I noticed a different kind of beauty here once the petals fell and before the blooms turned into a rosehip.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I like these quirky spiky bits.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We get so fixated on a finished product that we overlook the process. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We disregard the different stages. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The garden communicates all sorts of messages when I listen.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
What is your garden telling you this week?</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
rosy mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03242844262732166407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9029674479351847328.post-25740136695905599722017-10-23T19:30:00.000-07:002017-10-23T21:20:30.128-07:00spring cleaning<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">We are doing a major overhaul here at
our place.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Recently, I was head down, tail up, cleaning out disgusting, black mucky sludge from the base of the fountain. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Not
very elegant. And the smell? Hooeee! </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">(Thank goodness for lovely Crabtree and Evelyn
hand scrub for gardeners.)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;">Gardening sure ain’t</span><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;"> </span><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;">glamorous.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">You wouldn’t think so, looking at this
idyllic pic would you?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Maintenance is not my strong point.
I’m an ideas gal. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">I like the theory of a pretty
fountain. Long term practicality however, includes maintenance. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">I'd noticed ours was not fountaining as it should be. I thought the pump was the problem.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Turns out, a fountain gets all clogged up with
the go-slows when mucky sludge blocks the inflow and output.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">It needs to be emptied, pulled apart
and cleaned out before we can put it back together, fill it up and reconnect
the power.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Does that sound familiar? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Sometimes we need to be emptied,
pulled apart and cleaned out to be filled up and reconnected to the power
source.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">I think my heart might need a revamp.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The sludge of comparison, envy,
insecurity and frustration is clogging my arteries. I feel weak and heavy
laden. I’d better take it to the Lord in
prayer. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Spring cleaning time.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
rosy mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03242844262732166407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9029674479351847328.post-23108941356343568792017-06-12T04:56:00.000-07:002017-06-12T04:56:08.394-07:00random acts of kindness<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">You cannot put God in a box. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">He often surprises us and sometimes answers prayers that we
don’t even utter.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">The garden has had the upper hand this year. Big pruning and
hedging work has needed doing for months and it has been so overwhelming, it
makes me want to run away from home!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">I look at all the work that is beyond me, sigh, and go and
make (another) cup of tea!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">There is a dearth of gardening help in our local vicinity. Those
green VIP guys don’t come out our way. My capable son is working elsewhere and
my hubby is out of action with a bung shoulder. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">A few months ago, I wondered how I could find a WOOFer
(workers on organic farms) – the only trouble is, we’re not really organic!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Then along came Nicolas.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">God just dropped a new friend into our family, courtesy of
our capable son who suggested I might like a hand in the garden in return for a
place to stay for a week or two.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">(I think Tim was relieved he didn’t have to do the hedges.)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nicolas is from France. He finished his agricultural studies and
is spending a year travelling in Australia experiencing various work
opportunities. He met Tim working for friends on the cotton harvest.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">It is amazing what an energetic young guy can do in a few
days!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">He has been so willing and enthusiastic, it has blessed our
socks off.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Pictured below : Nicolas helping our youngest son with a bridge building project.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4fkI0LNUpKSqpa-1vWaP8QDd20S0aUw5UqBk1sg6Ys0Yvlcd8hf-OmpWCBQzlPd9KwSfUD5_nDqlFgknuI4SXGDx1MZscbZZ9g4ms-qOTXv_0o3lxPmbGogFCALc934v8gF1xUnqf1gM/s1600/IMG_20170610_170714.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1348" data-original-width="1600" height="538" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4fkI0LNUpKSqpa-1vWaP8QDd20S0aUw5UqBk1sg6Ys0Yvlcd8hf-OmpWCBQzlPd9KwSfUD5_nDqlFgknuI4SXGDx1MZscbZZ9g4ms-qOTXv_0o3lxPmbGogFCALc934v8gF1xUnqf1gM/s640/IMG_20170610_170714.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">There are many fine young people in this next generation.
Cheerful, honest and trustworthy. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Despite the negative news reports bombarding our senses,
there is so much good in this world.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Let’s focus on the positives.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">“There are no strangers here; only friends you haven’t met
yet.” William Butler Yeats<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
rosy mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03242844262732166407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9029674479351847328.post-85915518288522163762017-05-30T15:42:00.000-07:002017-05-30T15:42:03.214-07:00sit still<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn5zbe5kHfwhas5EY3W-AoR96CeyHvWPqIQqKHsf0JocsFlbdEFkw093h-jYlU6QTf5ZfOWN4_jsd6pOO3ZJJzMQgMNMntQjLWR6rNCfZlquURQ-5cee01mvEdwK6MQbJDuhyphenhyphennw610o1E/s1600/DSC_0169+%25281%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1061" data-original-width="1600" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn5zbe5kHfwhas5EY3W-AoR96CeyHvWPqIQqKHsf0JocsFlbdEFkw093h-jYlU6QTf5ZfOWN4_jsd6pOO3ZJJzMQgMNMntQjLWR6rNCfZlquURQ-5cee01mvEdwK6MQbJDuhyphenhyphennw610o1E/s640/DSC_0169+%25281%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">It seems surreal to sit still this morning.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">As I prepare to share my stories with a roomful of younger mummies in the thick of babies, toddlers, pre-schoolers, middle úns and teens, it does not seem so long since I was in such an intense season of motherhood.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">I sip hot tea in the quiet and almost want to pinch myself.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">How can this be? I am a mother of eight children!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">All those years of clamour and being needed and woken by little ones, thinking it would never end. Now it is such a contrast. My youngest two are older and often sleep in. I let them. Our days tend to be longer at the other end.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">I savour and soak in the morning peace.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"> I have grandbabies to cuddle now, but not in the middle of the night.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">I want to reassure these dear mums that "this too shall pass". Not with a trite platitude, but to encourage them to embrace this season and make the most of any moment to sit still. Not to fill up the cracks of time with distracted busyness, but to stop and notice the joy of today. Even while folding endless washing. Even if it is at four oçlock in the morning. It can be a gift to have that opportunity to relish the calm in the house and (sleepily) gaze into the face of this precious baby in your arms.There is always much to be thankful for. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">I don't miss those years. I treasure them. I loved the crazy, full days. Draining every ounce of energy, but fulfilled in believing that pouring into my family mattered.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">I want to cheer mothers on. It is so worthwhile to love our precious little ones through a beautiful childhood. Giving each child a solid foundation. A springboard for the adventure of their lives.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">"Home is where your story begins"</span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Annie Danielson</div>
<br />
<br />rosy mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03242844262732166407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9029674479351847328.post-15246298959026723252017-05-30T03:28:00.002-07:002017-05-30T03:28:23.120-07:00anchored<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgsTa4SFhyP9Wgbmzk6ETH93xnwtgcRjQfp1X89umTFmYkVcr5_9dgtQz6fGPsl2Z9P2jvY6zbnu6dz7JY229YU6HBEcjcmHSKLRG0FPIJepOzcM21aZP2dejeneisNbZQJqYqWGKhdOg/s1600/DSC_0105-001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1061" data-original-width="1600" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgsTa4SFhyP9Wgbmzk6ETH93xnwtgcRjQfp1X89umTFmYkVcr5_9dgtQz6fGPsl2Z9P2jvY6zbnu6dz7JY229YU6HBEcjcmHSKLRG0FPIJepOzcM21aZP2dejeneisNbZQJqYqWGKhdOg/s640/DSC_0105-001.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large; text-align: center;">The golden autumn light has been exquisite this week.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKDD56OFP9HvKW2UFBEgFmiiAgvyNcvEonB51Cx_WHPTPs34txNN0Z4DwBTqUc7rNgn492G95MSPR4iKpJB_6fIUsrN-YrFD_fFqcaaMwPTvijhN8esb8napSe3PL4FIwYzdNJ5PJWPeg/s1600/DSC_0106-001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1360" data-original-width="1600" height="544" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKDD56OFP9HvKW2UFBEgFmiiAgvyNcvEonB51Cx_WHPTPs34txNN0Z4DwBTqUc7rNgn492G95MSPR4iKpJB_6fIUsrN-YrFD_fFqcaaMwPTvijhN8esb8napSe3PL4FIwYzdNJ5PJWPeg/s640/DSC_0106-001.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">The morning shimmers with a gentle glow through the mist until the sunlight shines everything awake. The soundtrack of whipbirds echoes their cracking calls around the hedges enclosing the secret garden.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh37DUVQfVuixuhksnH0HBPhY44ODJpxYTa9UPqpvxWaCQjKfaHRsYVTH9GvEItdg6MLeG1Z2MBG870ZRuKO7N59MjqmGWDAhF0zCAcReIvn4Tfk_L0Gmw0Afz0k1tJtSzV9xuDFoe9C1k/s1600/DSC_0109-001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1061" data-original-width="1600" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh37DUVQfVuixuhksnH0HBPhY44ODJpxYTa9UPqpvxWaCQjKfaHRsYVTH9GvEItdg6MLeG1Z2MBG870ZRuKO7N59MjqmGWDAhF0zCAcReIvn4Tfk_L0Gmw0Afz0k1tJtSzV9xuDFoe9C1k/s640/DSC_0109-001.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">It is quite balmy and still. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Such a surprise for this time of year. It will be June in a handful of days. Even though it doesn't feel quite normal, I am relishing the reprieve of mild weather before the chill of winter bites. and happily venture outside in the not-too-fresh air to explore what is new in the garden today.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">The fountain gently trickles a cheery greeting.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh78tOtLe6HnDmMLM7nJntSDtGDDK4c-wBZXYWr4acGFiBAwtRPP6-t-_E6w5PutOPd3rw4-LRO2W1VOwRxUoVIRYH9VSwAlTfh39Qm-3UYEH4LSh8EgxgY7VjnqUy-spg-kb3tVOpdYCw/s1600/DSC_0058.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1379" data-original-width="1600" height="550" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh78tOtLe6HnDmMLM7nJntSDtGDDK4c-wBZXYWr4acGFiBAwtRPP6-t-_E6w5PutOPd3rw4-LRO2W1VOwRxUoVIRYH9VSwAlTfh39Qm-3UYEH4LSh8EgxgY7VjnqUy-spg-kb3tVOpdYCw/s640/DSC_0058.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">After a southern sojourn, I embrace here with renewed appreciation. tuned in to the positives and notice all the blessings right under my nose with fresh eyes.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Home. I am re-anchored where my heart belongs.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">It takes going away to come back. Wholeheartedly. My heart is prone to wander. I inherited a restless nature that ebbs and flows. It is a relief to satisfy that pull away and gently return like a homing pigeon.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">To dig back into my own backyard content to settle again.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZfhFlFFu_WMy3NBKa33PkILOrALxARh1iDMcTlV3Qa7b49iAWhAbw2z0SbW5mNlco1WIQF0sfSnjTGfKn3fU29-DYxUJ-vlYz_WMLvqzisCKRVU1G8hf0yxJOH3hCTQwBjWID8CjUIck/s1600/DSC_0034.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="934" data-original-width="1600" height="372" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZfhFlFFu_WMy3NBKa33PkILOrALxARh1iDMcTlV3Qa7b49iAWhAbw2z0SbW5mNlco1WIQF0sfSnjTGfKn3fU29-DYxUJ-vlYz_WMLvqzisCKRVU1G8hf0yxJOH3hCTQwBjWID8CjUIck/s640/DSC_0034.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
rosy mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03242844262732166407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9029674479351847328.post-13349134695603589982017-03-24T03:47:00.001-07:002017-03-24T03:47:54.907-07:00let it ramble<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Our garden is all rambly shambly. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
The grass has become
unruly after delicious damp and drizzly weather for the past fortnight. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
The
weed seeds are sprouting by the gadzillions and the kikuyu is running amok all
through the flower beds.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
The right side of my brain says it feels <i>relaxing</i>. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
The left side of my brain
paces around in frustration that everything-at-once needs taming and tidying to
bring a sense of order before things get really out of control.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
There must be a happy medium. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Calm, yet a little freedom
round the edges.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
It is appealing to see a neat, orderly garden. It is restful
in a satisfying way.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
However, a symmetrical, formal clipped garden with nary a
leaf out of place makes me hyperventilate. So.much.work to keep it that way!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
No time to sit under a shady tree or stop and smell the
roses.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Isn’t that like our lives? </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
There is a difference between
chaotic and calm. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
While calm doesn’t necessarily mean spit spot, there is a
restfulness that is evident in an environment that is lived in, yet peaceful.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
If we spend every spare minute to tidy and dust and clean
the house, we don’t have time to sit still and relax with a good book or
snuggle a little one with a story, because there are “things to be done!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
There is a difference between dirty mess and disorganised
mahem versus the evidence of a little clutter from a lived-in and loving home.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Enjoy your home.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Enjoy your garden.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
And make time to stop
and smell the roses.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzuqxHqlKQg2ogUKVr8hBIMOeUF6aC0GS5xtb1t09uf0F0EFlsYjl_mwgBIJaE674DTmEVO0kcdDCzyLQ3AKc8SvLEzD5se_Svfr3heuTVAy26yyww4Qv5N5fV5TU17abLzSzIK02eiZA/s1600/DSC_6048.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzuqxHqlKQg2ogUKVr8hBIMOeUF6aC0GS5xtb1t09uf0F0EFlsYjl_mwgBIJaE674DTmEVO0kcdDCzyLQ3AKc8SvLEzD5se_Svfr3heuTVAy26yyww4Qv5N5fV5TU17abLzSzIK02eiZA/s640/DSC_6048.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Photo by Mikaela Moseling</div>
rosy mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03242844262732166407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9029674479351847328.post-65070201368880419352017-03-14T04:33:00.000-07:002017-03-14T04:33:48.797-07:00sidestep<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Sometimes it’s nice to take a little side step out of our daily
routine. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
To take a little RDO.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Homeschooling mamas can take a Rostered Day Off too you
know! <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
When was the last time you did something that made your
heart sing?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
What is it that triggers that happy hoppity skip of delight
for you?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
For me – it’s colour.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKegB6uzzIWfvdrlStYJ5L5H_a7aUNhDsiEkrS474ohh8bPrvy4ijrQjBkVOdUwdB8qaBFdHLkEBL4JStc0hqEdeX5PNAF2lXFtzQ_rSLxtvEXoS_Eq2S5yUhbtJDIRst-xz-AmbkPR4E/s1600/IMG_0214.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="287" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKegB6uzzIWfvdrlStYJ5L5H_a7aUNhDsiEkrS474ohh8bPrvy4ijrQjBkVOdUwdB8qaBFdHLkEBL4JStc0hqEdeX5PNAF2lXFtzQ_rSLxtvEXoS_Eq2S5yUhbtJDIRst-xz-AmbkPR4E/s400/IMG_0214.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
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Playing with flowers or splashing some paint just makes me
feel brighter.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
I did that today and it was just what I needed.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
The housework, the bookwork, the dishes and the duties of
every day routine will still be there tomorrow. But today, I took a day off.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
It feels quite delicious having a Saturday kind of a day
mid-week.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
I have found a key to me remaining steadfast, is to pace
myself and take time out now and then.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
I think it is healthy for us to experience the delight of
enjoying an interest. It models a love of learning for our children and keeps
our enthusiasm fresh to instil that motivation in them to stretch and grow with
developing skills and interests.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
I only have two out of our eight students left to finish our
home schooling journey. It is a challenge for me to stay focused and content
when I occasionally chaff to run ahead
into the next era.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
I inherited a distinctly restless nature from my dear dad.
And I really have to rein in that urge to take off and explore. One can’t just
go adventuring any old time!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
But hey! A day off can make all the difference to help me
settle back into routine again.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
I cringe when I see quotes like “do more of what makes you
happy”. But honestly? When WAS the last time you did something that actually.made.you.<i>feel</i>.<i>happy</i>?<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
There’s nothing like dropping some turquoise, bright yellow
or pink ink onto some wet paper to lift off the slough of despond. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Highly
recommended!<o:p></o:p></div>
rosy mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03242844262732166407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9029674479351847328.post-74396983389941191172017-02-22T04:50:00.001-08:002017-02-22T05:15:59.872-08:00Go ManGo<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
We have a little mango tree on our property that has been
laden with fruit this summer.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Mangoes are deeee<i>licious</i>. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
I remember sitting on the beach at Byron Bay in a bikini one teenage summer (a
looooong time ago) slurping fresh prawns and whole mangoes. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
The essence of summer.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
I have really relished fruit this season.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
What is your favourite? Watermelon? Sweet pineapple? Juicy
peaches? <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Alas, our orchard full of stone fruit has gone to the birds.<br />
<br />
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<br />
But the mango tree up the back was a secret they didn’t discover!<br />
<br />
A singular
possum must have, because we found evidence each morning that one mango at a
time was picked and eaten, leaving a clean seed stashed under a nearby tree.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
I came up with quite a spectacular dish that combines all
the yummy flavours capturing summer in a salad. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Arrange the following on the biggest prettiest platter you
can find.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
A mixture of greenery – Cos and Frilly lettuce, baby spinach
and rocket leaves, avocado, chopped red capsicum, cherry tomatoes ( I halved some of those cute little orange ones) snow peas, diced cucumber and
mango chunks. Blanched florets of broccoli plus chopped asparagus if you like too!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Then sprinkle with roughly chopped toasted macadamia nuts. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Chicken breast fillets – I used three – slice and fry in a
pan until nice and golden. If you find this dry, you could poach and shred the
chicken.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Set the chicken aside. Using the frypan, stir in a squidge
of lemongrass, a generous squirt or two of ginger (you can find tubes of these
in the veggie section at the supermarket) then add the juice and zest of a
fresh lime. Stir in half a cup of coconut cream too if you like and add salt to
taste.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Mix well over low heat, then stir in the chicken and leave
to cool and marinate as it soaks up the sauce.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Drizzle and plop the saucy chicken over the salad. It messes
it up a bit to toss, but it mixes the flavours better. Wait for people to
admire it suitably, then toss it and serve it up!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
rosy mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03242844262732166407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9029674479351847328.post-28877066384990756692017-01-06T23:03:00.000-08:002017-01-06T23:04:02.323-08:00young energy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Home is not just a house.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It is not just family who lives there.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Home is a place for the heart. A place to belong. A place to feel comfy.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
When my older children come "home", it isn't just to see us. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It is to be where their hearts belong until they establish a home of their own.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I am learning to step back and let them take charge of their own ideas.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
To detach and not feel responsible for making all the action happen.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Or even feeding everybody all of the time!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I love it when they take the initiative.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Their ideas are so fresh and so fun!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Our outdoorsy celebrations for Christmas and New Year felt like stepping into instagram.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It was beautiful to see everything unfold.</div>
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Sparks flew!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
New faces and new friends change the dynamics.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It keeps my heart young.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I don't need to keep up.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It is interesting to step make more as an observer.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I love the vibrant energy of young people.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I don't need to be in the center of the action.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I get to cuddle the grandbabies!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
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<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Having little ones in our home brings back the wonder and delight of giving gifts.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
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rosy mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03242844262732166407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9029674479351847328.post-28413491380916202322017-01-06T22:13:00.001-08:002017-01-06T22:13:25.003-08:00recalibrating<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
My soul feels saturated after an intense few weeks of feasting and merriment.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We had a lovely Christmas Eve dinner outside in the garden and a celebratory gathering in the paddock to see in the new year. It was fun to shake up the dynamics and set up the tables outside with fairy lights and candles.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Our hearts and home full with family and friends coming and going.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Dear little grandchildren have come and gone now.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
While the house echoes quietly with orderly space once again, there are empty places in our hearts. Having young children filling our home reminds me how life bursts at the seams with little ones. Every day is chockablock with LIFE. And life is loud and messy and ... marvellous.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It is intense. It is tiring. It is...beautiful.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Though our home is far from empty, I am taking the opportunity to press the pause button before life snowballs along with a different routine for 2017.</div>
<br />
<br />
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<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
I picked up a wonderful pod chair on my road trip. We have rigged it up to swing in the breeze on the verandah and it is so comfy to curl up and tuck myself away.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This very welcome cool change in the weather is much more condusive to contemplation than the oppressive energy-sapping heat.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
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</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
How do you recalibrate?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
To re-set a "new normal" before launching into a fresh new year full of possibilities and potential?</div>
rosy mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03242844262732166407noreply@blogger.com0