Putting what matters most, first.

It is a soft dewy morning and I head out on the farm for a walk with the dogs. The lush green grass feels like carpet and everything looks so much prettier after the rain. There are white cockatoos, galahs, magpies and parrots throughout the trees. The horses are feeding with the warm sun on their backs. It is a delightful morning to be out taking photos but it is hardly a fitness challenge when I stop so often to take another shot.

Yesterday I was walking from Bondi to Bronte in Sydney. The sun rose over the sea as the city steadily came to life. I love going to the parts of the city where nature dominates and takes your breath away. I felt a real connection to the other people who were also enjoying the beach. Some people on bikes, others with surfboards under their arms; dear old locals sitting back after an early swim, as much a part of the scene as the sand, the water, the rocks and the salt. And I was there too, walking with my lovely friend, exchanging stories, viewpoints, laughter and questions. It was refreshing.

Today I walk on my own and yet I am not alone. The birds swoop overhead to see what I am doing, the horses come near and the dogs follow along with great enthusiasm and curiosity.  The sun literally spills through the gum trees, lighting up the wet leaves and mossy rocks. It feels good to be outside and moving my body, breathing in and smelling the gum trees, the wattle and the soil.

Once back in the house I throw on some washing, put the heater on in the office, boil the kettle and check my emails. I have enrolled in an online course with the Sydney Writers Centre called ‘Writing Picture Books’. In between bookwork and housework I will enjoy learning and writing, putting together a children’s book idea that has been in the back ground for too long.    

Howard is checking the sheep, cleaning grain and fertilizing some of the crop today. He will call in for morning tea before rushing out again. Brooke and I are meeting some friends for afternoon tea so I will make sure my timing is spot on, driving the 40kms to town and arriving at school by 3.15.

 I really want to enjoy this time left with only one of our four children still living at home.

The dynamics of the family, the farm, our social life and our personal routines are ever changing. As a mum my intention is to find ways to stay connected with my children, my husband and our friends but this doesn’t have to be hard work. Just like my connections with nature and the people who love it as much as I do, you just have to put what matters most, first.