Heart and Soul Pursuits

Not lost

2012-02-28T22:22:00.010+10:00

'Not all those who wander are lost' ... I read this thought somewhere recently and it really got me to thinking.

Because .... It is easy to feel lost in the day to day moments of life. We wander through life and sometimes wonder how on earth we got where we are, like right now ... in this moment! It is easy to feel lost in the piles of washing, the mountains of dishes and the escalating bills. I wish those things could get lost!!

I often ask myself 'How on earth did I get here?' (Especially when I am sitting beside my way too confident teenage child learning to drive and I hear my startled high pitched scream leap from somewhere deep within as we narrowly miss the oncoming vehicle ... I am lost for words, did my life just flash before my eyes!!)

And so I find that an aimless wander is .... well, very good. Actually, really beneficial!!!

I am really good at ambling along through life (Sometimes anyway!!), particularly if there is a magnificent view along a weather beaten track via a coastal hill and a coffee nook at the end! (The sort of wandering I most love)

During certain junctures of life, especially when I NEED to embrace a moment of solitude ... or when life has me in a head lock ... or when push comes to shove and I just have to take a very deep breath, it is then that I actually enjoy wandering (and sincerely wish I really could get lost if but for a moment, just so I could find myself all over again!)

In all honesty however, my aimless wandering actually brings greater clarity and distinction to my life! (How can that be?) It is in this wandering (somewhere unchartered and new ... or just the beach will do) that the mish-mash of spinning thoughts and ideas slowly begin to take shape and form, the whirlwind inside my head begins to die down ... I give my thoughts permission and the opportunity to sort themselves out, to find their own path, to soar and dive and eventually settle in the well worn grooves of my grey matter.

Slowly my circling thoughts begin to find a spot to rest. Misplaced moments slot into place. My mind becomes uncluttered, sharper and more focused. My thoughts more even and purposeful. My heart rate slows ... my heart becomes more open. I can reassess, make better decesions and find that elusive significance and purpose. My soul reconnects, I hear the still small voice begging to be heard.

It is then that I am much more sure of where I am going. The out there and one day dreams still seem such a long way off, but I know that they are out there. Those hopes and dreams and divine realities. The path before me ... my path has covered more valleys and mountains than ever anticipated. Yet, when I take a moment to lose myself ... to lose myself in the loveliness of life, it is then that I discover I really am not lost at all.

Image Source

A voice from Heaven

2012-02-07T21:34:00.005+10:00

I heard my name

whispered on the wind today

'Abba, Father' was all I could say,
I heard it in the lingering breeze
in the singing birds, in rustling leaves,

arms are open ... grace is falling

destiny and hope are calling,

dispelling hurt ... my pain and tears

embracing me and all my cares,

a voice so firm and crystal clear

reaching out beyond my fears,

leading me through the darkest night

He guides my path and sets things right,

My heart is full and found it's home

for I will never be alone.
- K. Weight

Learning to listen

2012-02-03T21:20:00.002+10:00

With the start of the school year we have reinstated routine once again. It is amazing how quickly the family lapses into lax rules and attitudes when just a few rules shift sideways!!! So once again we are back to eating sensibly around the dinner table (and not the t.v) ... yes, during the holidays we camped out in the lounge room and ate dinner with our meals perched carefully across our laps. Let me tell you trying to get back to the dinner table was a bit of a chore at the beginning of the week!

But I hit the jackpot last night with the best dinner conversation I have had in weeks. We sat there for an hour chatting!!! ... yes, you heard right ... chatting with my teenagers for more than a few minutes! ... and I loved every minute of it as I heard what is going on in their world. I must admit I said a whole lot less than I usually do. I listened with open ears and an open heart. I am learning to listen more these days and say so much less. My days of parental hovering are indeed numbered. Letting go is never easy. Not that I am letting go in the full sense of the word because there is still so much to do (and say) ... but, there is a definite shift occurring as my kids embark on their own journeys and begin to find their own way in the world ... so I held my words of wisdom, insightful admonitions, clever advice and the other motherly thoughts to myself and did not give them voice last night. Instead I listened ... I listened to the emerging voices of hope, distant dreams and future longings. Hopes to go to university, to explore their faith, to find a profession, leave home (tears!!), get married (sigh) and have kids (aaahhh!!) but in all honesty I was proud to hear how grown up my children sounded (and maybe a little in awe of how amazing they really are, despite the ups and downs of everyday life and a few rule violations!!).

I am learning these days it is less about what I need to say or what I think they need to hear and more about what I don't say!

Ready, set, go!

2012-01-21T22:07:00.002+10:00

Well my classroom is set up and ready to go. I have even bought the class pets (a fighting fish and two hermit crabs) which will make their grand debut on Monday along with all the Grade One kiddies. My son has been enjoying the hermit crabs and has even made them a cardboard race track. They are fast little critters. I am sure they will keep us all entertained with their clever antics. They are pretty good climbers for having to carry a shell around on their back!

‘Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire’ - William Butler Yeats.

... what a privilege it is to set the world ablaze with the most open and engaging of young minds.

Looking forward to the start of the school year and all the fresh faced youngsters eager to learn how to read and write. The awe of it does not escape me. Teaching is both a privilege and an honour! How did I get so lucky?

Hello 2012

2012-01-08T21:42:00.010+10:00

Okay ... so I am a little late with the new year resolutions ... but, anyways ... this year we have decided to eat healthier (trying out the vegetarian lifestyle ... well, no red meat ... bring on the tofu!!), exercising more often (and running more than walking), undertaking a few home renovations, participating in a photography course and working at being happy when my baby girl graduates from high school at the end of the year!!

We have well and truly been enjoying our holidays, soaking up the summer sun, reading, lazing by the pool, camping and exploring places we have never been. Such fun!! I took a self imposed computer/internet break to spend some quality time with my precious family ... and loved it so very much. Therefore, I may not be back for another week or so until school starts back. Hope the new year is showing you a good time.

Swimming out to the falls - Exploring new territories.

One week in and the year is already off to a great start and I am really looking forward to a full and fabulous year. I will be working full time and am over the moon to be teaching Grade One. So excited about this and have been thinking about it all holidays. Am actually looking forward to the end of my six week break. As I have worked part time since the kids were little, it will be a bit of a balancing act. Now that they will both be in High School, we all felt that the time was now or never to take the plunge. Wish me luck.

Proverb Snaps

2011-12-20T21:52:00.005+10:00

Hey there lovely, so glad you found your way here.

This is my journey of contemplation and you are welcome to join in ... or just take the moment to pause and ponder. Either way I hope you feel inspired.

The objective is simple - to gather a collection of heartfelt thoughts, even one word (or one post) can change a perspective and shift a mind set. I hope you will join us and live inspired today ~ share the extraordinary moments of your life with us.

This is the last link up for the year.

Proverb Snaps

2011-12-13T18:47:00.000+10:00

'Proverb Snaps' - This is a blog link up. The objective is simple - to gather a collection of heartfelt thoughts, even one word (or one post) can change a perspective and shift a mind set. I hope you will join us and live inspired today ~ share the extraordinary moments of your life with us.

Proverb Snaps

2011-12-06T21:37:00.000+10:00

'Proverb Snaps' - This is a blog link up. The idea is to use a photo {from the archives is fine} and add a quote {a thought, proverb or a word}. The objective is simple - to gather a collection of heartfelt thoughts, even one word (or one post) can change a perspective and shift a mind set. Live inspired today.

Opportunity to change

2011-12-05T07:26:00.002+10:00

As we get older we discover that our weaknesses, failing and short comings are in fact opportunities ... opportunities to stretch, to grow and change.

Opportunities are favourable occasions allowing us the time to exchange a belief, transform a viewpoint, adjust our thinking and revolutionize our perspective. A chance to see life from a different angle. To see what was previously hidden from sight in a new light. It is a position from which to advance, to increase and make progress from.

Opportunities look different for everyone but they often find us catching our breath as we pause to consider the merit of such change. We calculate its purpose and dissect its relevance. We question it's validity and value - How does this change impact me and my world? What will I lose in the process? .... What might I gain?

Opportunities require fortitude and endurance. They may prove difficult to overcome, seem insurmountable or impossible to achieve. Yet, it is these very circumstances that can bring about the greatest and most significant breakthroughs in life. We must take courage, remain steadfast, tenacious and resolute in order to overcome an opposing doubt or ever-widening obstacle standing in our way. When we do so, we discover that we are indeed braver than we ever imagined and more courageous than once thought possible.

When we are ready to act instead of react we position ourselves for forward momentum. We can genuinely embrace our short comings and embrace a new way of doing, seeing and being.

Don't let life pass you by!

Train to Palma

What would you change today?

Link up coming tomorrow.

Friendship

2011-12-01T20:25:00.007+10:00

Good friends are like stars ….

You don’t always see them,

but you know they are always there.

- Unknown

A friend is someone who knows the song in your heart and can sing it back to you when you have forgotten the words.
- Bernard Meltzer

Friendship is a sheltering tree.

- Samuel Coleridge

Even after all this time, The sun never says to the earth, "You owe me."

Look what happens with

A love like that.

It lights the whole sky.

Crazy times!!

We all take different paths in life, but no matter what happens, we take a little of each other wherever we go. My friends have changed me in profound ways. Some are near and some are far. So blessed by the amazing individuals in my life.

Friends of the heart are friends forever. They impact your life in ways you never expect. This kind of friend is like a four leaf clover ... hard to find and lucky to have.

Love you all

xxx

One way

2011-11-28T19:09:00.006+10:00

'Proverb Snaps' - This is a blog link up. The idea is to use a photo {from the archives is fine} and add some text {a thought, proverb or a word} to it and inspire us all. My personal goal is to create a collection of thoughtful sayings that reflect significant moments and poignant seasons from life ... a visual diary or record of my thoughts, struggles and aspirations. The objective is simple - to gather a collection of heartfelt thoughts, even one word (or one post) can change a perspective and shift a mind set. (Guidelines here )

Graduation 2011

2011-11-25T21:21:00.002+10:00

Last night my son graduated from Year Seven

.... goodbye to the primary school years.

He has done me proud.

Today is his thirteenth birthday.

The years truly have flown by!!

Not sure I'm ready for this next phase :0

I can't believe

that I am now the mother

of two amazing teenagers.

I am so very blessed.

Passion, Potential and Purpose

2011-11-22T00:00:00.010+10:00

When we allow our passion to pursue potential possibilities we discover profound purpose - K.Weight.

This is a blog link up. The idea is to use a photo {from the archives is fine} and add some text {a thought, proverb or a word} to it and inspire us all. My personal goal is to create a collection of thoughtful sayings that reflect significant moments and poignant seasons from life ... a visual diary or record of my thoughts, struggles and aspirations. The objective is simple - to gather a collection of heartfelt thoughts, even one word (or one post) can change a perspective and shift a mind set. (Guidelines here)

Live inspired

2011-11-18T06:01:00.004+10:00

Live Inspired

'Live inspired' is an invitation to gather with a community of bloggers living their lives destined, devoted and daring.
It is a community of bloggy friends sharing the ordinary and extraordinarymoments along the way.
An opportunity to be inspired by the beauty of life
as we capture, celebrate and cherish every new day.
So whoever you are and wherever you come from, we would love to hear from you.

Check out the 'Inspire me' series and join our community of wonderful bloggers.

Link up here.(Submissions close in 43 days)

[in-spahy^uhr]
- to motivate and invigorate .... to inhale, breathe deep and breathe life into ... to draw forth and elicit action.

Check out 'Proverb Snaps' - a collection of inspiring thoughts and images.

My refuge

2011-11-14T19:43:00.014+10:00

Ruins on the island of Mallorca

Refuge ....

~ a shelter from danger

~ a place of safety

~ a place of exceptional protection.

... there are times in life when I need a stronghold, a sanctuary and a fortress. When life squeezes the breath out of me, I need a place to camp out and get away. My heart and soul takes refuge in a place of safety and exceptional protection ... under the shadow of the Almighty. It is my shelter from the storm.

....................................

This is my journey of contemplation and you are welcome to join in ... or just take the moment to pause and ponder. Either way I hope you feel inspired.

Trust.Believe.Hope.Pray.

2011-11-13T17:49:00.005+10:00

When you find yourself perched on the edge of reason, when difficulties are looming and struggles at hand, when the way seems ominous and the view obscured, when what holds you back keeps you small and contained,

release yourself.

Trust.Believe.Hope.Pray

Leap from that cliff of doubt and plunge into a sea of possibilities.

More inspiration with 'Proverb Snaps' here.

Link up ... blog hop on 11.11.11

2011-11-11T22:55:00.006+10:00

Live Inspired

'Live inspired' is an invitation to gather with girls across the earth living their lives destined, devoted and daring.
It is a community of bloggy friends sharing the ordinary and extraordinarymoments along the way.
An opportunity to be inspired by the beauty of life
as we capture, celebrate and cherish every new day.
So whoever you are and wherever you come from, we would love to hear from you.
Check out the 'Inspire me' series, join our community of wonderful bloggers below or link up with the latest blog hop each Monday ~ a collection of proverbs
(Proverb snaps.)

[in-spahy^uhr]
- to motivate and invigorate .... to inhale, breathe deep and breathe life into ... to draw forth and elicit action.

About the 'Inspire me' project.
My story.

Link up here.

(34 bloggers and 49 days to go)

Unexpected

2011-11-11T20:21:00.004+10:00

On Fridays around these parts we stop, drop, and write.

For fun, for love of the sound of words, for play, for delight, for joy and celebration at the art of communication.

For only five short, bold, beautiful minutes. Unscripted and unedited. We just write without worrying if it’s just right or not.

Won’t you join us?

Most importantly: leave a comment for the person who linked up before you – encouraging them in their writing!

This weeks word is - 'Unexpected'.

Life can be unexpected

with all the twists and turns.

Parenting is this way, really really unexpected.

I wasn't quite prepared for the way my heart enlarged

when I brought my baby home from hospital.

Or the way my heart ached when their heart ached.

The awe of being a mother was previously unimaginable,

hard to comprehend

and NOW hard to imagine any other way.

The teenage years are so very unexpected.

BUT it's not like you think.

Things happen, wheels spin, the world turns on its axis

and everything changes,

in ways that you never dreamed of.

It's all a bit of a surprise ...

the gaining of independence, the pulling away,

the learning to drive, of getting a job,

of securing their own future.

It's all kind of bitter sweet.

Unexpected joy, unexpected loss!

Act justly

2011-11-07T23:25:00.018+10:00

Micah 6:8

~ To walk justly is to be impartial in action or judgement. It is to be true, honest, fair and accurate ... without prejudice or bias.

When we cultivate an objective, equitable and open minded expectation we make room for impartial opportunities to manifest as absolute possibilities. If we remain stalwart in our irrefutable beliefs and live uncompromising in the light of truth, we give voice to distinct convictions and extraordinary persuasions that mobilise us to act with unequivocal certainty.
~ K.Weight

---------------------------------------------------------

This is my journey of contemplation and you are welcome to join in ... or just take the moment to reflect upon your own life. Either way I hope you feel inspired.

The idea is to use a photo {from the archives is fine} and add some text {a thought, proverb or a word} to it and inspire us all. My personal goal is to create a collection of thoughtful sayings that reflect significant moments and poignant seasons from life ... a visual diary or record of my thoughts, struggles and aspirations. The objective is simple - to gather a collection of heartfelt thoughts, even one word (or one post) can change a perspective and shift a mind set.

Share the places you have been, the things you have seen, the moments that captured your heart and soul. Link up below if you want to share a thought with us. (guidelines here)

~ Capture, cherish and celebrate your life.

Remember

2011-11-04T20:01:00.001+10:00

On Fridays around these parts we stop, drop, and write.

For fun, for love of the sound of words, for play, for delight, for joy and celebration at the art of communication.

For only five short, bold, beautiful minutes. Unscripted and unedited. We just write without worrying if it’s just right or not.

Won’t you join us?

Most importantly: leave a comment for the person who linked up before you – encouraging them in their writing!

OK, are you ready? Lets go: this weeks word is - Remember…

Just remember,

you will always be my baby.

No matter how big you get or how far you roam.

I want you to know that wherever you go in life,

I will always be there for you.

Even if you do go to the other side of the world

and travel to the ends of the earth.

I am only a phone call away.

No matter the reason

or the time of day

remember to call and say hey!

I carry you in my heart always

and hold my memories of you near.

On my mind in the morning

and the last thing I think about at night.

Remember that I will always be here.

A Collection of Proverbs - Flower of adversity

2011-10-31T19:31:00.010+10:00

Adversity makes us stronger. It is in the midst of trial and pain that we have the chance to face our fears and find our faith. Faith makes us dig deep.

A bend in the road is not the end of the road ... unless you fail to make the turn. ~ Author Unknown

This is a blog hop ... check out the guidelines here.
(The idea is to take a photo {yours} and add some text {a thought, proverb or a word} to it and inspire us all.)

Share the places you have been, the things you have seen, the moments that captured your heart and soul.

~ Capture, cherish and celebrate your life.

A mother's love

2011-10-30T19:59:00.004+10:00

A mothers love is gracious, kind, overflowing and limitless.

It knows no bounds, even amidst the angst and trial of everyday schedules, boundary setting and life's highs and lows it looks for the good in those impish grins and mischievous souls.

We find untapped potential in the barest of landscapes.

We can see the end before it has even begun.

Suddenly the horizon is clearer than once thought possible.

The stars not so hard to reach for

and dreams within our grasp.

We pick up those small bundles when they stumble and fall.

Their pain is our pain, we feel it to the core.

It is carried like a badge across our hearts.

We who offer an uncompromising love like a high flying kite,

are the bridge of hope across a gorge of doubt

and endless insecurities.

We long to see our children reach their full potential

and see the best in them, even when others don't.

We nurture fledgling self esteems ...

we cultivate, encourage and protect all ways.

Every day we begin anew
and pull out new reserves, new strength and new grace.

We can't help it ... we didn't know its pull before,
before the days of a babe in arms.
But we know it now,

this great big life force pulsing through our veins.

This wondrous and sacred thing!

Life like we once knew it has ceased to exist.

Our hearts melt in ways never before conceived.

We have been changed forever ...

in unimaginable ways.

It is who we are now

and what we will always be!

Spring clean

2011-10-29T16:14:00.001+10:00

Yay for spring!

credit

Time for a spring clean,

so this little blog of mine has undergone

its own little make over.

Something fresh and ... well,
different was needed.

And I just loved this quaint

postage stamp theme.

Don't forget to link up
with our 'Living inspired'

community here.

(34 blogs and 62 days to go)

Relevant

2011-10-28T21:32:00.005+10:00

On Fridays around these parts we stop, drop, and write. I am linking up with the Gypsy Mama for fun, for love of the sound of words, for play, for delight, for joy and celebration at the art of communication.

For only five short, bold, beautiful minutes. Unscripted and unedited. We just write without worrying if it’s just right or not.

Won’t you join us? This weeks word is relevant.

Most importantly: leave a comment for the person who linked up before you – encouraging them in their writing!

OK, here I go ....

Being relevant

is living consistently.

It is being harmonious.

It is about connection.

It is a journey of significance.

~ Learning to live relevant ~

A collection of proverbs

2011-10-24T19:23:00.011+10:00

African Savannah

They say a picture is worth a thousand words! ... but more often than not I am captured by a simple saying, something that arrests my attention and makes me think differently. I love words, even one word with the right picture has the potential to change our perspective.

Mediterranean sea

A proverb is a simple saying expressing truth and inspirational thought. Proverbs are based on common sense and practical experience with the purpose of teaching simple lessons about life. They have the ability to provoke deep thought or spontaneous laughter and allow us room to expand our heart and soul.

Proverbs 23:19

A society's culture and beliefs are succinctly reflected through these short and pithy sayings. They are often metaphorical in nature and usually alliterative, but not always! Trying to come up with a proverb is not easy ... for one thing there are already so many out there and two it really does take a bit of time to make it work.

So here's the thing ~ I thought it would be fun to gather a collection of proverbs from bloggers around the world and share a little proverbia around. I envision proverb snaps from a great community of bloggers open to sharing through the lens of their camera a little wisdom or light hearted inspiration from their very own life.

- Lets find a proverb, word or thought that clearly reflects the poignant, funny or memorable moments from the ordinary and extraordinary moments of this wonderful life. It can be one that speaks to you or one you have made up. Whatever works for you. The idea is to take a photo (of yours) and add some heartfelt words in order to inspire others.

The Rules
1. Reflect the story of your life by using your own photo/photos.
2. Add a proverb, a word or saying to your photo or be creative and write your own.
3. Give credit where credit is due and acknowledge the author if known.
4. Grab a button and add into your post/blog. Link up with a permalink (from your published post and not your blog.)

Share the places you have been, the things you have seen, the moments that captured your heart and soul.

~ Capture, cherish and celebrate your life .

This is a brand new blog hop from AUSTRALIA ... yay!! (for the low down on what 'Living inspired' is all about check it out here.)

I have an idea

2011-10-23T21:33:00.001+10:00

I have an idea ... it's going to be really fun ... I've been thinking about it all day. I think your going to love it and I want to share it with you but it's been a big day and its late here in Oz (Australia) so I'm off to bed for now. I will see you tomorrow and tell you all about it then.

Sweet dreams.
(I'll leave you with this clue ... I do so love words :)

Open your heart and soul

2011-10-22T08:28:00.010+10:00

'A dream is an anticipated expectation, a vision or mental image with incredible power and ability to create something possible out of the seemingly impossible.' - K.Weight

Image Source

Join Heart n Soul's community of inspirational bloggers here.

Also linking up with

Out there Beyond

2011-10-21T22:02:00.003+10:00

Out beyond that wild blue yonder are my unfettered and wild at heart dreams,

Somewhere there between reality and possibility lay my hopes it would seem.

Out there beyond the horizon is where destiny meets heart and soul,

It is there in that place of secret longings and quiet solitude

that passionate pursuits delicately sway.

grace beyond comprehending

hope beyond understanding

a love all encompassing.

Out there way beyond ...

What I could ever dream or hope to imagine,

gracefully balanced

between this world and the next.

Heavens perspective and earths magnificence

ravelled together out there beyond.

Embrace your future by owning your now.

2011-10-18T08:41:00.033+10:00

Linking this post up with 'October followers fest' ... and introducing my little bit of the blogosphere - a blog with heart and soul and a 'heart 4 humanity'. This is my little place of inspiration.

It is an opportunity to be inspired by the beauty of life.
~ to capture, celebrate and cherish the ordinary and the extraordinary.

My thought for the day ~ Learning to live inspired.

I took this photo at the Musee d'Orsay looking towards the Louvre in Paris. It was a random snap that day and I didn't really get the clock from a good angle but when I was looking through my pics today for a little inspiration, it seemed to fit perfectly. I was trying to come up with a great life quote but couldn't think of anything. These simple words popped into my head instead (Not so easy being original and authentic!) ... and I am most definitely talking to myself here!! I so long to embrace all that is in my future and am at times impatient with the progress (or lack there of). Time seems to pass so slowly when your in the day to day. However I realise more and more that it is my now that positions me for the next moment, the next step and the next adventure. What I choose to invest my time, talent and treasure into impacts the days ahead. My NOW moment aligns me with my future!
Linking up with Jen at Finding Heaven and Shanda at A Pause on the Path.

Check this out

What has inspired you?
Share a thought, a story or some words
of encouragement and live inspired today.

Link up here (32 blogs and 74 days to go)

Link up ... living inspired

2011-10-17T23:06:00.004+10:00

Capture, celebrate and cherish your life ... join us and be inspired by the ordinary and extraordinary moments of life. (Only 74 days to go!)

Share your story with us.
(Click the button below to link up)

Invest your life

2011-10-17T06:23:00.010+10:00

Whatever you choose to invest your life in, be sure that whatever you do it is storing treasure of eternal value.

Wisdom

2011-10-11T09:24:00.011+10:00

Wisdom is allowing our failings to become our teacher.

Wisdom is learning from our short comings and changing our response. It is the ability to effectively and efficiently apply our knowledge, perceptions and schema (what we know to be true) so that we can produce positive outcomes. Wisdom is not about just comprehending what is right, good and true but also activating sound judgement to also do what is right. It is controlling our emotions, passions and reactions to bring about a favourable action. Good sense and reason prevail and as a result insight and discernment are firmly established in our life. Gaining wisdom is a life long lesson. I am still learning!

Link up for a bit of inspiration here.

Heart words .... simply said.

2011-10-09T19:49:00.007+10:00

Letting go

2011-10-07T22:44:00.007+10:00

I got older this week (another birthday)... and it makes you think about growing, changing and letting go. I am beginning anew by throwing away a few old things. I am clearing out a few things to make a bit of room for some new things and hopefully a few new experiences too .... clearing out old shoes, old clothes and a lot of old stuff. I use to hold on to these things because who knows when you might need it .... it may suddenly increase in value and might become valuable or even vintage! But I am thinking that I will let someone else appreciate and discover the value in these old things. Sometimes the things we hold onto can actually keep us small, contained and ... well boring. It's time to make room for more ... more room, more dreams and more of this life.

The paradox is that in order to embrace the new, we have to be willing to let go ... to let go of old things so we can hold on to something different and new. We have to be willing to open our hands and let go of the old, the things weighing us down and the things keeping us contained.

In order to hold on to something we have to be willing to let go of something.

A ray of hope

2011-10-03T23:29:00.004+10:00

When we truly see and behold his splendour, we cannot help but be moved and enveloped by his bountiful and merciful love. A love that reaches out and permeates our heart and soul in ways that only He can do. When it has embraced you and touched the very depths of you ... nothing is ever the same! His mercy, peace and grace pierce the very core of who we are, securely embedding itself within as a ray of hope ... a beacon guiding us home.

It is this hope that anchors us through the storms of life. Hope accomplishes the same thing for our soul as an anchor does for a ship. It holds us fast and steady. As the winds of life whip around us, we can be assured of being firmly secured by God's love and grace ... offering us eternal hope.

Hope is the anchor and our faith the chain securing us firmly so we do not run aground. Faith stands in the gap for what hope desires, longs for and intentionally anticipates. So glad I have this hope to carry me through this season.

Heart words .... simply said.

2011-10-02T20:24:00.003+10:00

Your love is all encompassing ... expansive and never ending, it reaches from the heavens to the depths of the earth. Your faithfulness is limitless ... filling the horizon, it stretches forth into eternity.

Happiness and honour

2011-10-01T08:57:00.003+10:00

'How far you go in life depends on your being tender with the young, compassionate with the aged, sympathetic with the striving and tolerant of the weak and strong. Because someday in your life you will have been all of these.'

~ George Washington Carver.

George Washington Carver was a black man born into slavery and kidnapped as a baby ... he fought hard to get an education and eventually became an American scientist, botanist, educator and inventor ... his tombstone reads 'he found happiness and honour in being helpful to the world.' .... a truly remarkable life!!

Carver viewed his faith as a means of destroying both barriers of racial disharmony and social stratification. He responded to critics with this: "When you do the common things in life in an uncommon way, you will command the attention of the world." ... WOW!!

Link up here

Friends

2011-09-30T18:53:00.002+10:00

I was once told that you should be able to count on one hand the kind of friends that are heart and soul kind of friends .... friends that know you inside out, love you despite your flaws and stick with you in the hard times. These kind of friends share all of life's moments. They don't sweat the hard stuff, they laugh in the good times and cry with you in the sad times ... they are not only a shoulder to cry on but a tower to lean on. Distance does not diminish the friendship and time is not a barrier. These kind of friends enrich your life and make you grow far beyond what is conceivable and challenge you to reach even greater heights. Instead of keeping you small they throw open the window of providence and pull you through it.

If you have just one friend like this,

then you are blessed.

I am!

Heart words ... simply said.

2011-09-25T21:34:00.004+10:00

Growing

2011-09-23T16:09:00.004+10:00

Five minute Friday with the Gypsy Mama

.... todays theme - 'Growing'.

Yesterday we planted some vege seeds and come Summer we hope to have grown a few vegetables. My son decided that caring for a garden would be a great spring holiday idea. His enthusiasm is infectious. We don't have much space for doing this so it will be an interesting little adventure. He has been carefully extracting the seeds from various fruits and vegetables over the last week. It all started with an experiment he did with some grape seeds a few months ago. He had the grape seeds lying dormant in the fridge for ages and recently took them out to awaken them from their chilly slumber.

I have to say I am most impressed ... he was over the moon when they finally sprouted at the beginning of the holidays. This week he has dissected and examined capsicum, cucumber, tomatoes, peas and strawberry seeds. Today he was even harvesting kiwifruit seeds ... hmmm, I wont tell him just yet that it will take years for any fruit to materialise! It will be interesting watching my son develop patience as he lovingly tends his latest garden experiment ... I love that he will learn how to carefully nurture hidden potential.

Tuesdays around the world

2011-09-20T18:48:00.002+10:00

Relaxing by the pool, reading a good book .... love spring :)

The naked earth is warm with Spring,
And with green grass and bursting trees
Leans to the sun's kiss glorying,
And quivers in the sunny breeze.
~Julian Grenfell

The sun on my face ... truly a simple pleasure.

Beyond reason or sensibility

2011-09-20T09:56:00.004+10:00

Part 1 - Rain Falling

Part 2

The light that pours forth is all encompassing. Mesmerised, my eyes never leave the rainbow of light flickering before me. It's rays of brilliance dance up and down in front of me. Touching my skin, it seeps into my pores, spreading to the farthest reaches of my soul. Caressing the hidden parts of me, the secret places within that no man knows and where no one can go. This light is not only brilliant but effervescent and so incredibly tangible. Encircled by its radiance, a shiver impulsively escapes from the core of my being. Gingerly I reach out and touch the pulsating light, slipping my hand into the glowing softness. Velvety and smooth it caresses my skin reaching deep into my heart and on into my soul. The storm within suddenly dies down, the restlessness on the horizon ceases to exist. Everything within me is swept up in a sea of tranquility. Serenity surrounds me and I find myself drifting in this vast ocean of unexpected calm. Beyond reason or sensibility I am lulled into an unexplainable and unimaginable peacefulness. Time and understanding are transcended. I am swallowed up in its beauty and care for nothing but being suspended by this omnipotent reality and infinite power.

Philippians 4:7 ... His peace that transcends understanding will guard my heart and my soul. When all else fails His never ending, supreme and divine love, so full of grace and mercy invades every part of my being. It is complete and utterly beyond comprehension. He who knows me better than I know myself. He who so intimately delights in me, is there .... always there waiting ... even in this desert place - this vast and dry expanse that stretches before me. He is there still, he satiates my being, filling me up ... His peace is a soothing balm to my weary soul. What seems impossible, unachievable and totally out of reach rests in His hands. I am safe in His embrace.

Joy with the Gypsy Mama

2011-09-16T15:52:00.005+10:00

Joy is a bubble that wells up from within ... it is infinite elation, pure delight, sunshine and laughter. It is that never ending feeling of frivolity and unexpected surprise. Joy can sneak up on you and blow your socks off. Joy is the kiss of heaven, a babe in arms, a glorious sunset and a mischievous grin!! It comes in many ways, when you least expect it ... you know joy has touched you because it leaves a path of delicious satisfaction in its wake. There is a smile on your face long after the joy has escaped you. It is the little things and the big things ... it brings serenity to your soul and a twinkle to your eye like nothing else can!

Linking up with the Gypsy Mama ...

for '5 minute Friday'.
Head on over and read her inspiring post.

Heart words ... simply said.

2011-09-15T11:44:00.004+10:00

Walk through the valley .... keep on going and don't stop! Hope is just around the corner.

Heart words .... simply said.

2011-09-14T19:08:00.002+10:00

Meandering the village streets in Palma, Mallorca I found this little store front. So quaint!

more visual images with words here.

Follow your heart

2011-09-13T17:10:00.006+10:00

Figure out what you do best ... and do it today.

The richness of life lies in discovering your potential
and applying it purposefully.
Dig deep to find the treasure hidden within.

Follow the map of your heart
Look to the clues marked out across your soul.

It has always been a dream of mine to visit Monet's garden in Giverny ...
his gardens truly are the closest thing to what I imagine Eden must have looked like
- it really was breathtaking!

Unearth the gems buried in the secret places of your heart and soul.

Heart words .... simply said.

2011-09-13T09:24:00.018+10:00

Visual images with Heart n Soul.
(Holiday snaps taken while travelling in Mallorca, Spain.)

I did it!

2011-09-10T18:58:00.001+10:00

I did the hike for Hope today and ran/walked the 10K's in 65 mins. It was a gorgeous day to run the coast line. Brilliant blue skies over head, sea gulls soaring, the wind in my face and my boy cheering me on. Couldn't have asked for a more perfect day. The cool breeze that blew in from the ocean was even refreshing. Love the feeling of achieving something purposeful and being part of something bigger than myself ... while I ran I reminded myself about the medical clinic that would now be established in Mityana, Uganda. It helped to spur me on and push myself just that little bit further. Just knowing that I had the opportunity to be a part of something that places value on humanity is so very significant. Who knows, one day I may even get to visit.

Hike 4 Hope

2011-09-05T20:25:00.005+10:00

This Saturday I am participating in a 10Km hike to raise funds to build a community medical clinic in Mityana, Uganda. Thousands of children are dying everyday from preventable diseases: the leading two being Malaria and diarrhoea.

A work colleague recently established the charity 100% hOPE to provide ongoing support for this small African community in Uganda. 100% hOPE is bringing a hope and a future to Africa's most vulnerable by developing self sustainable communities. It is a non-profit registered charity run by a group of volunteers. All funds raised through this event will go directly to the building of the medical clinic. The goal is to raise the $10,000 required to establish this much needed clinic... hard to believe that this is all it will take to make a difference to hundreds of lives.

For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11

If you would like to support me this Saturday in the hike (or in visiting Uganda) then please feel free to message me for further details. Cheer me on with your encouragement, together we can make a difference.

Rest for the soul

2011-09-03T10:17:00.004+10:00

5 Minute Friday: Rest

Linking with the Gypsy Mama today. (Even though it is Saturday in Australia, so I am a bit late.)

Here are the rules:

1. Write for 5 minutes flat – no editing, no over thinking, no backtracking.
2. Link back here and invite others to join in.
3. Go a little overboard encouraging the writer who linked up before you.

so here we go ...

When my body is tired and weary there is nothing better than taking time out to just sit and relax. Relaxing on the swing outside or sitting with a cup of tea is a favourite of mine. I love the opportunity to feel the warmth of the sun on my skin, to reflect or contemplate life ... But how about the soul, how do you let your soul rest?

When the busyness of life invades deep into the core of who you are ... right to your heart and soul ... when the breath is knocked out of you, when wounds open up or pain runs deep ... how does you soul fare?

I am currently on a journey ... and discovering how to allow my soul to rest amidst the storms of life ... to allow my soul to be still in the eye of the storm ... to pause when storm clouds threaten ... to rest even when the horizon is dark and ominous.

Video clip - All is well with my soul.
History behind the song

Heavens perspective

2011-08-30T11:32:00.014+10:00

Fluttering Humanity

We spend our lives trying to fit in, be accepted, play by the rules and do the right thing and yet over time our dreams can seem more elusive leaving us feeling alone, dejected or empty. As the years pass the gap between reality and possibility widens, or so it seems. Fears creep in and we feel thwarted at every turn. Doubts whisper more persistently ... the world tightens around us. The distance between hopes and dreams seems insurmountable. Talents, skills and abilities have been discarded becoming a faded memory. We may have buried what makes us unique, individual and altogether lovely under a pile of societal expectations, family pressures or life's adversities. The freedom to be our unique selves has escaped us as we are swept up in the day to day business of life and the various roles we play as wife, mother, lover, confidante, nutritionist, disciplinarian and so on. Life can become defined by what we do instead of by who we are.

However

We get to play an irreplaceable role in our own lives. Unlike a play or performance, no one can play our part as well as we can. The world is our stage and an understudy just Will NOT DO! This is not a dress rehearsal. This is it! We have this time, this moment in history to be all that we were created to be.

Fly free - my art @ A Soul Soiree

I can just imagine the details of our lives being scripted with minute exactness, deftly written within the throne room of heaven. Discussed in hushed tones throughout the hallways of heaven as angels come and go, sneaking a peek at the masters plans as the vastness of eternity echoes in the distance. The air is alive with electric undercurrents as hope is forged, destinies formed and lives purposed. Limitless potential is carefully wrapped within our frail humanity and embedded deep within our core. The seeds of purpose and destiny sown in anticipation. Who are we then to question the validity of such a master plan? Who are we to allow such potential to go unmet? If we could but see from heavens perspective - our life divinely appointed for a time such as this!

We who are divinely designed, artistically crafted and so irresistibly delightful to the core, truly are altogether lovely!

So my beautiful friend, dig deep into your heart and soul and unearth what makes you unique, individual and altogether lovely. Allow the breath of heaven to do its work through you and in you today.

my art @ A Soul Soiree

join us @
and linking up with

Sunday snaphot

2011-08-28T16:49:00.002+10:00

and a link up with the Devotion Mama

Gazing out to sea

2011-08-25T06:39:00.002+10:00

One of life's simple pleasures is

gazing out to sea and contemplating life,

being swept up in the wildness of the ocean,

feeling the enveloping and permeating presence of more.

Knowing that there is something more significant out there,

that life is magnificent, wonderful and there for the taking.

Rain Falling

2011-08-21T16:25:00.010+10:00

The rain is falling outside. I love this quiet falling rain, its gentle soothing sound where tranquility abounds. Mesmerised by the rivulets of water streaming down the window, I am lulled into a state of reflective contemplation. My mind wanders down a well trodden path of inner observations as I carefully consider, thoughtfully examine and intentionally muse upon the life that continues to expand and widen before me. A graciously redeemed and heaven bought life. I take this moment to cast light upon my innermost thoughts, my deepest feelings and secret longings. I open the recesses of my heart and delve deep. I go past recent hurts and on through the pain of yesterdays .... pushing through the long ago aches of years gone by. I arrive at the securely guarded gates of my heart.

Image Source

It seems a little overgrown .... a few cares have got in the way. Gently I brush the surface of the gate and cast the cares aside. I step through its arc and walk up the worn and deserted path. I can make out the imprints of a heavily ridged shoe edged into the dirt. I muse about who may have gone before me? Who's shoe walked this path I now tread? Arriving at the door to my heart, I lean heavily upon the wooden expanse. Pausing for a moment I take in a deep breath and give the door a gentle push, expecting it to slowly open. It does not! Curiously I peek into the key hole where dust and dirt remain. I can see nothing. I jiggle the handles expecting this action to bring a creaky release. With greater determination I lean in and heave with all of my weight. The sturdy doors do not budge. It would seem that they are locked tight.

Frustrated I flop down and survey the horizon of my soul. Its quiet here in this place, alone with my thoughts. I wonder why these gates are so secured? .... I think about the reasons, the facts and an undeniable truth. I consult with reason and listen to sound judgement. I confront reasoning, understanding and intellect. I wonder about this place. I allow the thoughts to come and go and remain so very still in this space between hope and suspended horizons.

Image Source

A glimmer of light catches my eye, its resplendent glow inches forward and creeps from beneath the door and I wonder at its brilliance. This luminescent embrace spreads out, creeps forward and encircles me. It holds me securely. I hear a voice beyond the doors and wonder at is origin, so sure and strong and full of grace. A tremble escapes my soul, a fear dissipates and is discarded. A doubt becomes dislodged. I hear a sound as gentle as falling rain begin to call my name. Slowly, very slowly the doors begin to open.

Patience, perseverance and endurance

2011-08-16T11:40:00.001+10:00

Winter in Australia

Today I ran 1.5 kilometres along the beach front. I had to really push myself and gave myself a really good talking to ... willing myself to step it up and push through the no go zone, that place somewhere between quitting and taking it easy. Other joggers whizzed past me, effortless it would seem as I co-ordinated my breathing and jogging routine. Two months on and I am hanging in there, focusing on patience, perseverance and endurance. I am choosing to see the light at the end of the tunnel, the silver lining ... the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. I'm still waiting for the good-feeling endorphins to take over so I can really enjoy this thing ... I'm still waiting though (Maybe one day soon!!) In the meantime I am mastering the art of 'mind over matter' and catching my breath has been a refreshing change.

Let us run with perseverance the race set before us. (Heb 12:1-2)

Beauty

2011-08-12T20:06:00.007+10:00

This week the Gypsy Mama is on a beauty hunt... a search to discover what is truly beautiful in the hearts and minds of writers out there in the blog -0- sphere. She challenged us to write down where we find beauty.

'in the laundry folded in love, beds made, dinners cooked, lattes picked up for the husband at Starbucks. The red high heels, the swimsuit that shows off the wonder that your body has delivered, the family legacy of freckles. Even the tired eyes from being up all night with sick kids.' - the Gypsy Mama.

We get five minutes to write, so here i go ...

As I get older I am more and more awestruck by the beauty that surrounds us ..... from the voluptuous raindrop perfectly formed and balancing delicately on the tip of a leaf to the roar of the ocean pounding its resounding beat upon the sea shore. Beauty .... that small whisper flitting on the wind, the deafening shout of a mighty waterfall..... the kindness of siblings sharing, a friend in need, an old couple holding hands, a wrinkled face, a chubby grin, artistic flair, creative vices, colourful poetry, a tantalising musical ..... beauty is there if we but stop to see it and glimpse our world just a little differently.

Stop rushing, pause longer!

.... Take off the lens cap from your heart .... adjust the focus of your life, align your perspective and capture your hopes, dreams and future .... relish the beauty of life.

Breathing space

2011-08-11T22:29:00.002+10:00

My breathing space this week ...

Life is not be measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.

Watoto Choir

2011-08-08T20:12:00.003+10:00

Yesterday we had the privilege of seeing the Watoto Children's choir perform at our night service. This amazing choir of beautiful African children tours the world singing, dancing and sharing a message of hope. Many of the children have been orphaned or abandoned and have found a new family, life and purpose through the Watoto Program. The atrocities of war and the HIV aids virus have impacted many of Uganda's children. Watoto is rescuing, raising and rebuilding a nation by nurturing and caring for the lost children of East Africa. This story is truly inspiring.

Image Source

'Beautiful Africa - A new generation' is a dynamic, vibrant production touring late 2011 and into 2012. For more information about this new tour click here.

My adventures at Watoto.

Link up with Inspired Lives

2011-08-05T14:01:00.006+10:00

Image Source

Hey there lovely ... we would love to inspire you. If you haven't linked up yet with the amazing girls from 'Inspire me' then we would love to have you and be inspired by you. Please link up with the 'Inspire me' community here.

Do you need a little inspiration???

Then check this out ... Indulge magazine - inspiration for the spirit, soul and body.

Indulge eMagazine desires to see women become ‘whole - spirit, soul and body’. The magazine celebrates the journey of exceptional women. Wives, mothers, sisters, aunty's, friends .... every day girls bringing something extra to the ordinary moments of life.

Change

2011-08-02T23:03:00.010+10:00

Image Source

How do you respond when life throws you a curve ball?

Last week I found out about a few changes coming my way.

It's not that they are really big changes,

in fact they will be good changes.

But!!

It all means a change and shift in perspective.

It means change to my carefully laid out plans,

to my very exact expectations,

to my neatly ordered life,

to my weekend time,

kid time,

and my time.

This change got me thinking ...

about how easy it is to settle for ordinary ...

how we can so easily take things for granted

and just cruise through life on auto pilot.

It's not until change comes that we rethink, reevaluate and reset where we are going and what we are doing.

How do you gracefully embrace change or more importantly how will I embrace this change?

How will I grow,
alter a mind set,
vary my expectations,
amend my outlook?
I had to pause, take time out and get my head around it.
I needed to prioritise, contemplate and readjust.
I think I have done that.
I'm still processing it and getting good with it all.

But ...
No matter what,
I don't want to stay the same.

'Nobody can go back and start a new beginning, but anyone can start today and make a new ending.' - Maria Robinson.

Have you thought about a new ending lately?

Side note (the weekly linky is currently on hiatus indefinitely but please feel free to link up with my 'inspire me' page here.)

Link up

2011-07-27T11:37:00.007+10:00

Have you linked up to 'Inspire me' yet?

Inspire [in-spahy^uhr]
- to motivate and invigorate .... to inhale, breathe deep and breathe life into ... to draw forth and elicit action.

Live ardent, audacious, brave, fearless, certain, significant ... inspired!

Link up here

then take a moment,grab a cuppa and read some inspiring stories.

Sunday snippet

2011-07-24T16:57:00.007+10:00

No means of measure can define His limitless love.

He's enduringly strong, he's entirely sincere, he's eternally steadfast.

He's immortally graceful, he's imperially powerful, he's impartially merciful.

Do you know Him?

He is the greatest phenomenon

that has ever crossed the horizon of this world!

He's the centrepiece of civilisation.

He's unparalleled, he's unprecedented!

He is the loftiest idea in literature,

He is the highest personality in philosophy.

I wonder if you know him?

He is ...
*indescribable *incomprehensible *invincible *irresistible

(Official video)

Words by the late Dr. S. M Lockridge

Bio - Dr. S.M. Lockridge (born Shadrach Meshach Lockridge, March 7, 1913 – April 4, 2000) was the Pastor of Calvary Baptist Church, a prominent African-American congregation located in San Diego, California, from 1953 to 1993. He was known for his preaching across the United States and around the world. (Source)

Link up with 'Inspire me' here

a few favourite aha moments

2011-07-23T19:25:00.010+10:00

This week I undertook some conflict coaching and mediation training as part of my professional development as a teacher. The Peacewise training I participated in offers Christian solutions to conflict, focusing on developing skills in the ministry of reconciliation. It was an eye opening experience.

Perhaps the most profound (aha!) statement I was impacted by was this one .... ' All conflict originates in and is empowered by the elevation of SELF above others' - placing more importance on 'What I want!' .... how true is this? Conflict arises when our good desires over step the boundary and become demands to bend to our way, our wants and our will. What is in our heart influences how we act, what we say and how we behave.

Image Source

A few pearls of wisdom

(and some favourite aha moments)

- Desires hurt when they become demands

- Conflict offers opportunity to reconcile ourselves to the heart of others

- Conflict reveals what is in our heart - pride, selfishness, SELF (wanting our way!)

- A problem gets bigger when we focus on it
- Our soul must be nourished by repentance and forgiveness

- Reconciliation brings hope and freedom
- Peacemakers are people who breathe grace

Blessed are the peace makers

an inspiring thought

2011-07-21T00:01:00.010+10:00

image source

Where would your heart take you?

What adventure would you embark upon, what story would you write? .... what would you do?

You know that great big ole dream inside of you?

The one hidden deep within,

buried safely over the passages of time.

The one that comes to mind

when your alone...

the one that drifts back

from your subconscious

and reverberates throughout your mind.

That big magnificent dream

that whispers to you of so much more,

the one that scares you half to death

yep, that one that you think is just that - a dream!

Well its not,

Life is too short to worry about it

or the yesterdays, tomorrows or maybe's

stop wondering and just get out there,

NOW, I tell you!

and do it.

Take hold of that God dream -

Don't waste one more minute

of that special gift you were born with,

the job only you can do.

You were born for this moment,

.... this time in history!

I hope you have enjoyed the 'Inspire me' series over the last few weeks. It has been a lot of fun. The 'Inspire me' series is now on hiatus. We are taking a break ~ looking forward to the next inspiring project. Ciao for now.

Weekly linky on hiatus.

Inspired and Invigorated

2011-07-14T14:41:00.009+10:00

Inspire [in-spahy^uhr]
- to motivate and invigorate .... to inhale, breathe deep and breathe life into ... to draw forth and elicit action.

This week I am mixing things up and posting my bit of inspiration a little early.

At the beginning of my holidays I was tired, flat and ready to bury myself under a pile of blankets and soothe myself with mindless TV drama and endless cups of hot steamy tea. I was in need of a little inspiration. I decided to be purposeful and intentional with my time. I didn't want to resurface at the end of three weeks and allow time to have slipped away without being fully present.

I love writing but it takes up a lot of time, sometimes too much time. I really didn't want to get stuck in front of my lap top!! I wanted to spend time getting out and enjoying the world, fully engaging in moments of tranquility and serenity. I wanted to be audacious, fearless and brave. Ha!... so I thought. (Okay I decided to be fearless and brave but not in the way you might think.)

At first I was just getting out and about in the neighbourhood by visiting the park, the lake, the beach or the botanic gardens. I was even making it worthwhile by looking for picturesque views to snap but something very unexpected happened. (Firstly however, I need to give you a little background about me - I hate exercising!! ... hate being hot and sweaty!! ... and will avoid over exerting myself where punishing workouts are concerned... running - ugghh!!) Living in a humid, occasionally tropical climate means for most of the year we have deliciously hot summers and very short winters so exercising usually means hot sweaty work most of the time... eewww!! We are currently in the middle of winter (It's only really cold here for two months of the year and never below zero.... so what am I complaining about?.... bear with me :) It is sometimes a shock to have such cool, crisp air early in the morning and right on dusk when the sun still shines so beautifully throughout the day. It becomes freezing so very quickly. Usually I make sure we are bundled up inside so as to avoid the cool weather, especially as the chill sparks asthma with the kiddos.

But this year I changed my perspective and challenged a mind set. I decided to push myself out from the safety of my little cocoon world... pulling my weary body from the comfort of a nice warm bed, I intentionally ventured out into the cold cool world. Wrapping myself in a scarf I began pounding the pavement. At first I had two running conversations in my head .... 'What are you doing, your crazy!' (Just keep going) ... 'This is crazy???' (This is cool - literally) ... 'Wow my fingers are numb' (Look at the beauty around you, take a deep breath, push through) ... 'Oh, my teeth are chattering!!' (Oh look, fish are jumping out of the water, the water looks like glass - actually thats really breathtaking.) and so it went for the first week. By the end of that first week I discovered something about myself that I never knew - I actually enjoyed walking in the cool, crisp air with the sun waking over the horizon or filtering through the trees at dusk. It was actually invigorating, really inspiring and dare I say - intoxicating!.... By week two I started to feel alive.... fully alive and I was doing it minus the hot sweaty body. (BONUS!) Week three I was actually exercising and enjoying it, even looking forward to it (Surprise!), probably for the first time since ... uummm, possibly since childhood!

This week I was inspired by

brisk walking

cool, crisp air ... invigorating!

people walking their dogs ... dog walking people are friendly people.

fluffy clouds ... love how they flit across the sky.

my kids donning roller blades and coming with me (their inhalers safely tucked inside their pockets.)

walking at the beach

sitting on the rocks gazing out to sea ... peaceful.

dappled sunlight

a swan on the lake - so graceful

me - I actually attempted running!!

my daughter cheering me on... really inspiring.

and I just loved Kara's post and photos of her kids getting out exploring and experiencing the beauty of the world ...

Her post - 'The day is full of possibilities and opportunities' is really delightful. Check it out here.

What inspired you this week?

Link up permanently here and then connect via the weekly linky below .- capture, celebrate and cherish your life -

Inspire Me - Amanda

2011-07-08T14:47:00.005+10:00

Good friends are like stars ... you don't always see them but you know they are there!

Last week I gave tribute to a few friends who regardless of their circumstances, continue to smile at the future. One of these amazing women is my good friend Amanda. She is a devoted wife and mother who faces unique personal struggles yet rises each day with renewed strength and grace .... she truly inspires me.

Amanda has a heart condition that impacts many areas of her life. Doctors told her after her second child that she would be putting her health and life at risk if she fell pregnant again. This came as a blow to her as she had always imagined a big family. However, it has not stopped her from creating a big family feel within her home. She readily embraces people from all walks of life to the family dinner table. There are always people coming and going. She lives with an open door policy and all are welcome.

Amanda also suffers with Cealiac disease which seriously limits her eating choices but she refuses to allow it to limit her or keep her small or contained. She must cook different food for herself as she prepares her families meals each day which requires careful planning and consideration. Eating out brings its own set of unique problems and I have observed her patience and kindness with wait staff who show little understanding or regard for the food requests she must make to stay pain free. She meets questioning looks and arched eyebrows with ease.

Amanda has a wonderfully weird sense of humour and she laughs at odd things. She can laugh until she cries and her laugh is truly infectious. She can take a conversation to a deep level in a matter of seconds and gets to the heart of an issue before you even realise it. I am continually blown away with how she does this with complete strangers .... at the checkout, the hairdressers - anywhere - anytime - she is talking about life, its purpose and how God fits into the equation!

But perhaps what I admire most about Amanda is how she releases her husband to serve God with his time, talent and treasure. His devotion to building the church is paralleled by her devotion to the plans and purposes of God for all of their lives. I have never met a more selfless person! There have been countless hours of devotion on his part with many hours of absence, yet she continues to release him and smiles at the future. She does not live in the here and now but has her eye focused towards eternity.

She sure know how to have fun!!

Well, I am off to be a good friend ... she has just got out of hospital and I am going to sit with her for a few hours and keep her entertained .... although I suspect she will be the one making me laugh over her hospital antics. (I just got off the phone with her and she told me one of her clients was attending to her in hospital {she was rather amused by this turn of events}.... never one to miss an opportunity - I'm sure she now has a few more hairdressing appointments!!)

Linking up with

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What inspires you?Link up here or below.

Happy Birthday .. my darling girl

2011-07-08T13:21:00.005+10:00

* capturing an opportunity * celebrating the beauty of life * cherishing the everyday.

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Sweet Sixteen ...

So proud of who you are

my lovely.

... a few favourite moments this week.

Love you honey bun - sugar plum .... hip hip hooray!!

Breakfast out ..... a chilly morning except for the warmth of good food and great company.

Movies and dinner too .....amazing bbq spare ribs!!

Fun with family and friends.... celebrating sixteen wonderful years.

A fun day .... laughter, delight and spontaneity... Happy happy birthday Sunshine!!

Sweetness for the soul ...

2011-07-05T12:44:00.018+10:00

'Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body.' .... this thought from Proverbs is why I started blogging. Fifteen months on, I still feel the same. I believe that a kind word has the potential to bring healing and wholeness to a weary soul. That it can open up the heart and soothe the soul.

Pleasant, kind and gracious words are sweet, delicious and delightful. They embrace, console, relieve and heal. Intentional words of grace, hope and purpose are food for the inner part of us, giving life sustaining energy to our core. These kind of words have creative power and can change mindsets, bring hope and give new direction. The body requires energy to function and grow and it is sugar that provides this energy to the body. Without this energy our body becomes listless and lethargic. So to our soul without the sweetness of life giving words becomes silent and despondent. It fails to thrive…..we fail to rise.

Intentional means to purpose and plan concentrated and deliberate attention. With this thought in mind I want to ensure that my words are intentional and that I extend words that grow (put out shoots) into the very heart and soul of those in my world.

A healthy soul needs to be fed invigorating and refreshing words in order for it to successfully prosper and grow. As parents we are required to feed life-sustaining words into the very heart and soul of our children. As spouses we can grow the heart and soul of our loved one through a concentrated, deliberate and gracious word. As a friend we can purpose to offer heart and soul words into our relationships.

I want to make sure my words are:

Pleasant – satisfying, agreeable and enjoyable.

Kind – indulgent, considerate and helpful.

Gracious – benevolent, courteous, merciful and compassionate.

What intentional message will you give today?
How are you generous with your words?

This is why I post here.

Inspire me - Friends

2011-07-01T09:45:00.004+10:00

Today for 'Inspire me' I wanted to give room to honour a few beautiful and beloved individuals, people who really do inspire me beyond words. Wonderful, warm and caring girls who live life graciously, valiantly and bravely... who in varying seasons of life and despite their circumstances and struggles of ill health, a bitter divorce, a lost job, no baby, an empty home or an absent Dad are facing life's adversity with great courage. The storms of life have blown fierce and strong but still they remain rooted and grounded. Arising from the midst of heartache they smile at the future.

You too may know this girl! The one who stands resolute, face turned towards the sunrise, her eye focused on the future.... she embraces the new dawn with expectation and hauls herself over each new obstacle in her path refusing to give up or quit. She may be your mother, a sister, a daughter, a friend or perhaps she may even be you!

My dear friends,

I honour you today.

Today I was inspired by your courage, tenacity and grace

So brave of you to stand so tall .. a smile upon your face

For I glimpsed a light inside of you - it shone so brilliantly

Thou the way has been quite rough - you live life valiantly

The storm did not contain you nor did it keep you small

I saw a girl who walked with hope - A girl who gave it all

A girl embracing all her dreams

A life of purpose it would seem

So my friend, I cheer you on and love all that I see

For I know your heart is well and you are truly free.

Do you have an inspiring story to share? We would love to hear about it. Link up here.

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What inspires you?

It may be a thought, a painting, a photo, a verse or a friend!
Capture, celebrate and cherish a moment. Live inspired and link up below - old or new its up to you.

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