Get out of here

My sister gave me some really valuable advice around the time B was born. She told me that when its getting tough at home, its really good to get out.

I remember with B as a baby taking him for walks in the pram. I would do small bits of grocery shopping everyday. He would often fall asleep with the rhythm of the pavement. People would start to nod in recognition. The pram and I a familiar sight.  I started getting friendly with the supermarket checkout operators. I'd be a regular at cafe, they'd know my coffee preference. It felt good to be part of the community. A known local. But everything changes and nothing stays the same. B grew out of the pram and didn't like talking long walks as a toddler and then we moved house.

But the point is that a change of environment is good for the mood. The fresh air, a different view, newness opens your mind and eyes.

So the other day out we went. I didn't have a plan of where or what we would do, but I needed to get out. We found ourselves in the city's east end with more than a couple of hours to use up.

We walked and discovered some crazy crocheted bicycles. Ready to surprise the Tour Down Under fans.

These bikes are amazing. The time effort and work with detailed crocheting was inspiring for a novice.

B and Little Miss picked at the streets lined with money

Then we found ourselves at the Adelaide botanic gardens. And wondered what and who is a radio?

 We explored

Marvelled at nature's colours,


textures,


and beauty.




Played leaf racing,


and stopped for refreshments.


We learnt about the moon lilly that shyly only flowers at night when the gardens are closed.

So we could only imagine what she looks like open.


Then we visited Daddy's work and played with the office toy box. A very cool play space for both young and old. Plus there seemed to be a never ending supply of biscuits and mints.

It really is good to get out and explore, even in your own backyard.

Space Travel

The last words I heard from B last night were, "I'm hungry."

The first words I was woken with this morning from Little Miss were, "Mum can you make me my raisin toast now?"



With a couple of weeks to go before the new year of school starts I have to say I am really craving some child free space.

I would like to have two hours without being asked to do something, like preparing food or finding some small important piece of something or other.

I would like a couple of hours without hearing the word, Mum.

I would like to have a shower without Little Miss coming in the bathroom with her latest drama.

I would like to sit down and read a magazine from cover to cover.

I would love to drink a cup of tea complete, without it going cold.

Heck I would even settle for some time in the toilet alone.

It was really wonderful to have my husband home with us for two weeks over Christmas. It was lovely to see so much of him, but it was also good for him to see so much of the kids. Thankfully he noticed how full on they are, how its non stop noise, action and peace keeping until they are tucked up in bed.

We reminisced about how simple and easy life was when we were alone, when all we had to worry about were ourselves. But then Little Miss overheard us, and got very upset, she asked, "Were was I?" and we replied that, "You didn't exist then" then quick added, "You existed in our thoughts."

It's hard relentless work being a parent, everyday, every second for the rest of your life. Right now I would love to travel back in time for just an hour or two to live the life I had as a non-parent. Yes I'm having a hard parenting time right now. I confess I have been to Ikea twice in the last 10 days so the kids could have fun in the ball room, and I could have an hour alone.

I know that what I really need is some balance. When I have a bit more time for myself  I am a much better parent. So bring on the new school/kindy year and the lunch box routine. I am ready and waiting.

Life's a beach

when I am here

I let my worries wash away

the never ending pulse of the sea soothes me

breathing in the fresh salted air cleanses me

the thrill of the water, the chill that envelopes me, surrounding and supporting me

I become part of the bigger picture

buoyant, I am adrift from any cares


looking at the horizon I am humbled, I am tiny in the ocean

catching one pulse of the world on a wave into shore

its thrilling to live

I ride the rush of life

turn around and enter again, to wait for another chance

a chance that comes and sometimes is missed

but there will always be another wave

another wave is certain, but when? who knows?

I wait, knowing this is my time

my time to just touch the surface

feel the energy

and live