13. January 2025

Starting a new year is always a time of excitement as we shake off the doldrums of the previous year. This is a time of planning and looking forward to our next vacation, our next course and challenges. We often set resolutions that we want to eat better, exercise or just be a better person and more mindful. As the cold of January grips us slowly the resolutions loose some of their strength. The will to resist those chocolate cookies is too strong and we crack. We need to stop depriving...

25. December 2024

Happy Christmas! As we gather together as a family we are always reminded of those who are no longer with us at our table. The holidays are especially challenging as this is when we are expected to be happy and jolly. However, sometimes we are not feeling particularly joyful. The days leading up to Christmas are always a struggle as they often are a trigger for our grief. Recently, I heard something that really resonated with me. Grief is like a stone in your pocket, it never goes away but gets...

14. October 2024

As I continue my grief journey, I find this holiday weekend particularly challenging. Even armed with the knowledge that the holidays are often a trigger does not provide an emotional immunity in order to deal with what is arising. The tendency to fight which arises is natural. Choosing distraction activities such as a run -particularly useful especially if you are not a runner. Then, running makes you focus on the breath by necessity. Also, being super busy Marie Kondo your cupboard/base

06. October 2024

As we jump into the fall season, the garden starts to change. Tomatoes that were green slowly are turning a golden yellow. Strawberries, started from seed are bearing fruit! Thank you, West Coast Seeds. The strawberries are truly delicious. Unfortunately, the squirrels and rabbits have been eating most of the fruit. Now the small bunnies have discovered a love of cherry tomatoes and romaine. This is after battling slugs all summer who attacked the tomatoes with a gusto! Yet, still I do not give...

26. August 2024

Now is the time to savour each day of summer. It is as if there is a countdown going on. Take time to go to beach, a park or even any greens pace and just enjoy the sunshine and the sound of the birds, leaves, water rushing by. Be present in the present moment. Just be. Don't think of anything at all for a moment, focus on the external sounds. This will bring a sense of calm. Slowly you will start to unwind and be grateful for the ears you have to listen to sounds and to be able to see the...

09. July 2024

My best friend Bella passed away yesterday. It was a difficult decision but, was made easier as the vet came directly to my home to look after Bella. Bella was a wonderful companion who loved long walks by the lake and greeting all the neighbours. Everyone in the neighbourhood knew Bella. Bella even loved watching me cook every night in the kitchen. She did not want to miss a single thing. Now, she is in peace. I am so grateful to have her in my life for 17 years!

28. May 2024

Finally some warm weather has arrived. It is a time to enjoy those quiet moments in nature and appreciate the beauty around you. It is also a time to make time to meditate and to focus on being present in the present moment. As we enter the summertime we can make time to be grateful for the small things as we encounter new challenges in our journeys. Find some time to enjoy those simple things like gelato and sitting in the warm sunshine and just doing nothing for a change. Sometimes when we...

08. March 2024

Finally we are in March a time of renewal and change. It is an exciting time as the garden slowly starts to come to life. As the temperature starts to warm up it is a great time for walking mindfully and just noticing the trees, sky and water. Nothing is more relaxing then ,hearing the waves crashing! It is important to take time to recharge during this time of change. Set some new intentions and goals and move forward leaving debris from the past behind! Look for inspiration for your new...

12. February 2024

February is usually a difficult winter month however, this year the warm spring-like temperatures and occasional sparks of sunshine have been inspirational of better times. The garden is a mud haven for the dog! And it does look hideous now! However, this is the perfect time to plan for veggies in the spring. Starting any seeds indoors always gives you a head start to the new season. It also makes you think of renewal and change. Time to take stock of where you are and where you want to go. As...

25. December 2023

Happy Christmas! It is a time of celebration as we gather with friends and family during this magical time. Although, this year feels a little less magical, a little more difficult as I am missing someone very special. When grieving during the holidays one way to cope with your loss is to allow yourself to have those waves of sadness. Let the feelings arise and just try to watch them with curiosity. Don't try to stop them just let them happen. Notice what is coming up. Breathe. Breathe again....