Do you ever feel as though the Universe is trying to send you a message?
That’s how it’s been for me the last few days.
The first text message came from Amy from across the road “Walkies in ten minutes?” she sent last Thursday afternoon, referring to our dogs. “I’ll pass” I reply. “Got a splitting headache.”
Then barely five minutes later another message arrived, from Lisa two houses up. “I’m thinking of going to Zumba tonight. Wanna come?”
I sent her a similar reply “I’d love to but I have a bad headache …”
Then I reconsidered. It was like something was urging me to go. I typed,”Maybe it would do me good. I think I’m stressed. It’s not a definite no …”
So, two hours, two Panadols, a light dinner and a glass of red later there we were. It had been far too long for me.
By the time I left an hour later, after an hour of shimmying and shaking, the music had worked its magic.
For an hour I focused on nothing but the music and the moves. The atmosphere in the small country hall that night was palpable, like an upbeat form of meditation amongst new friends.
I left full of energy that I’ve lacked this past month. My shoulders had lowered, my body had relaxed and it was like I could breathe deeply again.
Zumba is one of those feel good activities that allows us to lose ourselves in. We follow and yet we do our own thing, completely immersing ourselves in it.
It reminds me of the blogging world where we each have our own voice and yet we’re a part of something much bigger.
Have you ever met someone with whom you instantly connect with, who you don’t need to pretend and who you can be totally yourself with.
That’s how it is with some bloggers when we read their words.
“I like who I am when I’m with you.”
Yesterday (Friday) I met up with Di, a fellow Melbourne blogger who writes such inspiring posts on her beautiful blog Matters for the Heart.
For over four hours we spoke about everything, from our families and upbringing, to our hopes and dreams and, of course, our shared love of blogging.
Di is as warm, kind hearted and friendly in person as she appears on her blog and I felt as though I’d known her for years.
Already I would call her a friend. Sometimes we click instantly with people, just as I did earlier this year with fellow bloggers Louise and Deb.
That’s the beauty of blogging. Friendships are forged through opening our hearts and minds, through our connection of words, shared thoughts and experiences. By the time we meet we feel we already know each other. The 2017 version of pen pals on steroids.
This time next week the ABBAs will be held in London and Di and I jokingly commented that we should have our own bloggers get together in Melbourne.
Hayley, Louise, Kate, Lindsey, Kim, Sandra, Carol, Suzie, Peggy, Glenys, Mark, Barbara, so many online friends scattered around Australia … and then there are my special overseas and UK and American friends. You know who you are.
Here’s to friends, both old and new and to virtual connections that become real and genuine friendships.
May was slow but I have a feeling that the pace is picking up. Just as the tempo picked up at Zumba last night I feel as though it’s going to be a month of good vibes ahead.
Let’s shake off the old energy as the month starts.
Let’s step out of comfort zones and take some risks. Phone a friend, hug someone who needs it, reach out and connect with the world … when days are dark make your own sunshine and dance like there’s no one watching.
Happy June everyone. Let’s embrace life, each other and keep spreading love and kindness into the world.
In light and love (and happy Zumba steps) 💃💃
Oh I simply LOVE this! I was just saying to Di that we three should meet up soon! What a delight – so happy to see my blogger friends meeting in person. I certainly agree that the connection is so very real for many of us here. I hope to be present at the next one, and I think a local blogger meet up event would be amazing! Maybe even all shake what our Mamma’s gave us on the dance floor?! hehe 😉 xx
LikeLiked by 5 people
Absolutely! We actually spoke of you Hayley and mentioned that next time we’ll definitely have to catch up with you too. How awesome will it be for all of us to get together … and on the dance floor too. I love that idea. Let’s make it happen. Big hugs xo 😊
LikeLiked by 3 people
Count me in!! xo 😉
LikeLiked by 2 people
Oh yay, of course Deb! 🙂💕 xo
LikeLiked by 1 person
xo
LikeLike
Yes let’s! I actually thought you may be able to help Miriam, I know how well travelled you are here in Melbourne! My partner and I are looking for a nice cabin for a day or two this upcoming weekend, maybe open fire but not essential, close to nature! We’ve left it a bit late, any suggestions? Air bnb seem to be booking out fast – we’d like some privacy so our own cabin if you know of any! xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hmm, depends where you fancy going. How about Daylesford? I know of some gorgeous cosy cottages there that have fires and spas etc. Let me know what area you’re thinking of. I can always email you if you like. xo
LikeLiked by 1 person
Daylesford is a place we were thinking of! Any suggestions? xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
Absolutely. We’ve stayed at lots of amazing places there. The Thai Villas are awesome and another place that really stands out is Bergamo.Google it and you’ll see pictures. The spa suite is gorgeous, think handmade bricks, wooden ceilings, gorgeous gardens. Have a look and see what you think …
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you Miriam! You’re a star 💫🙏🏻 xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
Happy to help. Have fun, wherever you end up going. xo 🌷
LikeLiked by 1 person
Zumba, it one the dance crazes here. Nice to be a part of your community Miriam 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
And nice to have you here too Arlene. Have a great weekend 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Ok you have me all inspired up…let’s go Zumba! I feel like your the coach in the locker room giving us the pep talk before the big game…in this case the game is life and what an awesome send-off you just gave! Yes let’s shake off the old energy and don the new energy. I’m with you, June is filled with great vibrations, all we have to do is open up and receive them! How great to meet another blogger and yes there are many spread around in Australia, you should get together. You know Rob only lives like an hour and a half from me…someday I’ll have to go visit him. So glad you decided to get out it seems to have done you a world of good!! Big Zumba Hugs and Great Vibes Coming xo
LikeLiked by 1 person
Haha, that’s a picture, me a coach in the locker room! Well yep, okay team, let’s get to it and make some noise. 🙂 Seriously though, we both have some good vibes happening don’t we? I’m so looking forward to sitting down with your poems and my guitar next week (or even earlier hopefully). You should absolutely go visit Rob. Hope all’s well with you. Have a great weekend and we’ll chat soon. Big Zumba hugs back xo
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes, we have great vibes going! I look forward to you sitting down with your guitar too and hearing what you come up with!! After your busy week you must be looking forward to a more peaceful, creative week. You’re probably off to bed or almost, so I wish you a soothing night’s sleep and we will talk soon! Much love & hugs xo
LikeLiked by 1 person
You’re right Deb, I’m just off to bed now, feeling very weary, but yes, I’m very much looking forward to some creative musical time soon. Have a lovely Saturday and we’ll talk soon.Big hugs xo
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you, I’m off to shower and start my day. Night, night, my dear friend…get some rest now!! Hugs xo
LikeLiked by 1 person
Its fascinating to see bloggers meets up in person…really great to see both of Miriam.
I would want to volunteer for a meet up ..if not for the our geography…lol…
LikeLiked by 3 people
Oh yes, I wish you were closer Mich.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Here’s to June! And to whatever beats stress (Zumba for some, paddling for others!)
Have a good weekend!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Paddling sounds pretty good to me too PC. Have a great weekend yourself. 🙂
LikeLike
Oh I’m glad you posted I was getting worried you weren’t ok. My choir on Monday night shakes it out of me. Glad you zumba-ed it out. Count me in, too. Great post XXX Louise
LikeLiked by 3 people
Oh, thanks Louise. So sweet of you to worry but I’m okay. Yep, Zumba was definitely therapeutic and the meet up with Di was lovely. Next time, when we go dancing, or zumbering or whatever, you’re coming too! xo
LikeLike
Absolutely!
LikeLiked by 1 person
ha ha ha thought you’d been flat Miriam so glad you two met … I was there in spirit 🙂 Maybe you can both do a quick trip up north so we can have a meet up up here?
LikeLiked by 2 people
Don’t tempt me, I’d love to! 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
no temptation, this is now a dare .. when are you coming??? 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Well let’s see. We’re heading up to the NT in three weeks, then back through Qld, along the east coast …
LikeLiked by 2 people
ah then you will pass my way … Sunshine Coast, let me know when you are getting close, please? 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
I will indeed. We’ll exchange phone numbers before we head off.
LikeLiked by 1 person
great, looking forward to meeting face to face 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes, hopefully. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
I think that the blogging friendships work so well because we really do bare our souls and put ourselves out there, Miriam, and that’s hard not to respond to. I’ve found several kindred spirits and I’m sure there are more.
I’ve felt very doldrums, for a number of reasons, this past week or two. Going to go and shake it all away at zumba this morning. Thanks for the good advice, and I hope you are on an upturn swing. 🙂 🙂
LikeLiked by 2 people
You’re right Jo, we do bare our souls with our writing, far more readily than we’d sometimes feel comfortable doing in person. Can’t be a bad thing hey?
Sorry to hear you’ve been in the doldrums. Hopefully a good zumba workout will fix that. Have fun. 😊💃
LikeLike
Thanks darlin! The sun’s out before a week of forecast rain so I’m off to the garden for breakfast first. Sending hugs! 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sounds nice. Make the most of it while you can. Hugs back 🙂
LikeLike
I keep meaning to give Zumba a try. You might just have inspired me. And you are so right about connecting instantly with some of the people you know/meet only online. I hope we’ll be able to meet in person somewhere, someday in Oz!
LikeLiked by 2 people
I hope so too Peggy. And do try Zumba if you get a chance. It’s so much fun. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’m afraid with all the twists and turns and jumps and swings, I might end up like a pretzel.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hardly. Besides, you can always stand at the back and do your own thing. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Great post heres to a great june
LikeLiked by 1 person
Absolutely. Thanks Bella x 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Next time I’m in Melbourne I’ll let you know!
I’ve made so many friends from blogging, and I’ve been honoured to meet several. They were already kindred spirits before we met but now we’re even closer.
LikeLiked by 1 person
That’s great to hear Carol, I’m not surprised at all . And yes, please do let us know when you’re next down here. It’d be wonderful to meet. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
I haven’t tried Zumba but I do love a good dance. I was at a concert the other day and danced the entire two hours away! So nice to hear you got to meet a fellow blogger from Melbourne. I’m from Melbourne too and this is such a wonderful city we live in 😀 Here’s to more Zumba for you and have a good June 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks so much Mabel. I didn’t realise you were from Melbourne. A fellow dancer hey? Time I paid you a visit. 🙂 Happy June to you too.
LikeLike
It is always amazing to connect with bloggers from Australia, more so if they are from Melbourne. I do hope you stay warm this June. It is cold 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
It certainly is. Winter’s hit with a vengeance. Have a great week Mabel. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hello beautiful Miriam,
What a wonderful post with your messages about reaching out, getting lost in moving our body to music, good vibes and new friendships.
We learnt that there are all kinds of friendships, and heartfelt, real connections can be made from sharing our lives through the written word first.
Thank you for such a generous and warm sharing of our meeting in person and one I’m very proud of. It was an utter delight to meet you and how the time flew…
Until next time, and perhaps with some of the lovely bloggers you mentioned… anything is possible now.
Happy June and to new horizons my friend.
Hugs to you 💐💕
LikeLiked by 1 person
The time did fly, didn’t it? I think we could quite happily have chatted into the night if the cafe hadn’t been closing! 🙂 It was lovely to get to know you and I’m sure we’ll do it again soon with most probably Hayley and more bloggers to get to know, how wonderful. Thanks again and yes, happy June to us and to new horizons ahead. Big hugs 💕🌷
LikeLiked by 1 person
That’s so great Miriam! Glad you had the chance to zumba to your hearts content, and to meet up with Di (who really is AWESOME)! It’s inspiring to me to see you bringing so many of your virtual relationships into the real world.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Oh Gabe, she really is awesome and blogging friendships are so real. Anyone who says otherwise just doesn’t understand the nature of what we do and how amazing this community is.
Hope you’re having a great weekend.
LikeLiked by 2 people
It is wonderful when you meet people you just instantly click with.. 🙂 I was delighted to read your headache soon disappeared. And I used to go to Zumba classes a couple of years ago with a dear friend.. 🙂 now though my gardening is enough exercise 🙂 lol..
Lovely to read and meet your friend..
Sending thoughts for a Happy Weekend ahead
Sue 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
A fellow Zumba lover, how wonderful. Yes, I love my garden too but somehow music and dancing just energises me like nothing else.🙂
Glad you’ve met Di too through my post, she’s pretty amazing. Have a lovely weekend Sue. xo
LikeLiked by 1 person
🙂 Sending LOVE, and Keep Dancing! ❤
LikeLiked by 1 person
Ohhh yay! So I’m not the only one who feels that the universe occasionally reaches out to me. Sometimes I get confused if I’m reading too much into stuff that’s perfectly normal. I’m happy for you that you found a way to relax. Zumba sounds great. I’ve never tried it but maybe I’ll give it a try sometime in the future! Blogging is such a wonderful way to connect to so many people across the globe. The community is so warm, welcoming. The motivation and confidence that we get by being a part of such an incredible community is too much to be expressed in words. That was a great post, Miriam! Here’s to taking risks. Wish you a great weekend! 😊
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hey Shweta, I agree that the motivation we get here is pretty amazing. Glad you enjoyed and that you could relate (to those signs that we sometimes get). Hope you get a chance to try zumba one day. You’d love it. Have a fabulous risk taking weekend. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’ll definitely let you know when I get a chance to get Zumba! You too, dear. Have an amazing, risk taking weekend. Take care. 😊
LikeLiked by 1 person
You too Shweta. 💕
LikeLiked by 1 person
How fun! It made me happy just reading this! Awesome!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Oh, that’s good. I’m glad. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
I love this post, friends are so very important. The snoopy picture made me smile.
Thank you for sharing.
Keep smiling.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks so much for dropping by. I’m glad you enjoyed and that it made you smile.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I agree. Making friends even in the blogging world is such a wonderful thing. Unfortunately I haven’t met any of them as none are from my city but we do interact via the phone. And that’s always something better than nothing.
LikeLiked by 1 person
It sure is NJ. Happy June and happy blogging.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Great post! I’ve met a few people in my life I’ve instantly ‘clicked’ with, plus I share your love of Zumba.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Good for you Alba. That’s so great 🙂
LikeLike
You’re so right, Miriam! Sometimes when we feel the least able to do something, that’s exactly when we need to do it. I’m so glad your friend encouraged you to go to Zumba and that brought you out of your funk. And I totally agree with blogging, the sharing our our thoughts and feelings has led us to connections and friendships that never would have happened if we hadn’t found the nerve to put our writing out there on the internet for all the world to see. And thanks for being one of my special blogging friends….
LikeLiked by 1 person
Aw, thanks so much Ann, I consider you one of my special blogging friends too. Reading your posts always makes me feel as though I’m sharing a comfortable, relaxing afternoon tea with a good friend. But you’re right, if we hadn’t had the nerve to put our writing out there (and boy did I have doubts initially) it wouldn’t have happened. Cheers xo
LikeLiked by 1 person
Your words resonated, I recently returned to my weekly early morning yoga class and realized how much I need this hour spending time in meditation and lovely stretches…your posts are like poetry and I love how they wash over me!
LikeLiked by 1 person
What a beautiful comment, thank you. And yes, I bet it’s good to return to that yoga class, we need that quiet time don’t we. Enjoy it all and have a great weekend. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you so much!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Good vibes… cheers! 👍
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks Maverick. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Very uplifting post. Happy June to you too, Miriam!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks so much Magarisa. x
LikeLiked by 1 person
My pleasure, Miriam.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I love your positive messages. Glad that your tempo is starting to beat a little faster. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks Claudette. It really is. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Miriam, I’m always enthralled how far your posts travel on topics and geography! From the freedom and joy of Zumba lifting your spirits, releasing the pain in your head to the depths of friendships developed near and far away on this platform of blogging. Friendships are pivotal in our lives even from a young age. There is magic and spark in that instant connection of true friendship, when you can be yourself…when years apart seem only minutes when meeting up again. When I started here on WP I never expected to form, what I consider, to be very close and meaningful friendships, I feel blessed and heartened to be proved so wrong. Thank you for your lovely post celebrating friends, the vital role they play in our lives and your inspiring message to us all. Yes, love and kindness is the way to go! hugs, my friend xx😀❤️ PS. I can’t stop smiling at Harry off to Zumba!! Unadulterated joy!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Annika, I always love your beautiful comments, you always seem to get to the very heart of my posts and I really appreciate that. Thank you. 🙂 You’re right about that instant spark of connection, when we can truly be ourselves, because we’ve already bared ourselves in our posts. Yes WP is pretty special in that respect. Big hugs back my lovely friend xo 💜
LikeLiked by 1 person
Love those messages from the universe! What a wonderful way to spend your time! Those connections are like soul food just so transcending! Lovely post, Miriam! Thank you.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks for a lovely comment. Soul food … I love that! Take care.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I was so excited to read that you and Di had met up. You are such inspiring bloggers. I am glad too that the zumba class gave you a lovely boost. Happy June. 😊
LikeLiked by 2 people
Aw, thank you for a lovely comment Brigid. I would put you in the same category! Happy June to you too. 🙂xo
LikeLiked by 2 people
😊
LikeLike
I feel the direct line between our hearts even over the thousands of miles between us.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I feel it too.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Oh my God, Miriam! I am so touched by this post. I love you, and I love Di, and I am so glad that you met up. The photo is amazing, and I bet the four hours went by so fast. 💓 Very Happy for you both!!
I am one of your American friends, and please know that I send you ever so much love. Debbie
PS -I love that peanuts graphic. Would you mind emailing it to me? My email again is weloveyou@forgivingconnects.com
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thanks for your gorgeous comment Debbie and you’re right, the time with Di just flew by.
Of course I’m happy to send you the peanuts graphic. Next time I’m on my laptop I’ll email it to you. Big hugs and lots of love xo 💕
LikeLiked by 2 people
Yippee! Thanks so much, Miriam!! ❤ Love
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hi Miriam– I’ve been wanting to try zumba– thanks for he encouragement to get going on it! And– you are so right– I’v emet some precious people writing back and forth on our blogs. great post friend! xo
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks Rhonda. Glad I could encourage you, hope you have a chance to try it out for yourself. Hope you’re doing well. xo
LikeLiked by 1 person
Oh I love Zumba too and you are so right, it just helps you to let go as it makes you only focus on your steps. I also feel yoga is doing the same thing. Anyway… wouldn’t it be fun to have a Melbourne blogger get together? And we will catch up soon as well. Promise!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Oh yeah, it would be awesome to have a Melbourne bloggers get together. I can definitely see it happening, maybe when I get back from my big trip up north I can organise something. And yes, you and I too! Promise. 🙂x
LikeLiked by 1 person
That would be fantastic!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Absolutely 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Make it summer and I’ll be in!! It is quite amazing how personalities show through in blogs and the number of people that you just click with. Same likes, same humour. Great post Miriam you’ve got us all thinking how lucky we are.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Glad I got you thinking Lindsey. And I’ll hold you to that! Still looking forward to our own catch up. 🙂
LikeLike
Yes indeed.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Zumba…loving it 😊
LikeLiked by 1 person
Absolutely. Thanks Mann. 💃
LikeLike
I know I’m supposed to say something like ‘How lovely’ or ‘Good for you two!’ But I really want to say…I’m so jealous!! 😉 you both look amazing and happy and I bet it was the best 4 hours! ❤
I've never done Zumba but that's not I feel after yoga. I bet Zumba is fun thought.
Fantastic quote from Wayne. ❤
And yes, I love that feeling of an instant connection. It's like two souls who already know each other. ❤
LikeLiked by 2 people
Well my jealousy resulted in typos. Shame on me. 😉
LikeLiked by 1 person
I didn’t pick any. 😏
LikeLike
Aww Nikki, if I could click my fingers I’d whisk you over here for hours and hours of talking, laughing, sharing … you name it. 🙂 Kindred spirits from afar my dear friend. The connections run deep, even over the air waves and ocean. xo 💖
LikeLiked by 2 people
❤
LikeLike
Thank you Nikki…it was a truly wonderful few hours and I second Miriam’s response to you too 🙋🏻💕💕
LikeLiked by 1 person
It is 1:30am in the night here and I was about to turn in but when I saw the instgram post that I had missed earlier, I knew I had to drop in just to read this post. Di, and you are two women I adore and respect and ti feels amazing to see you both radiating positivity and love just like in your words. ❤
LikeLiked by 1 person
Oh Amo, I’m so glad you visited and it’s lovely to see you here. Thank you my dear, the blogging community is so very special and I feel so blessed to be part of it. And to have you part of it too. Big hugs to you and sweet dreams (or good morning!) xo 💕
LikeLike
Yay! We both got selected for Nikki’s posts of note. 🙂 I already commented on your beautiful post & just wanted to say hi again and that I love you, Miriam. Blessings to you and to Di too. ~Debbie
LikeLiked by 1 person
Aw, hi to you and big hugs back Debbie and thanks again for stopping by. By the way I just emailed you the Snoopy graphic. 🙂 xo
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yeppers! I got it. So fun to email with you Miriam. ❤ And thanks again for the Snoopy graphic. Blessings, Debbie
LikeLiked by 1 person
Absolutely. And my pleasure Debbie. 🙂💜
LikeLike
Ah! You make me miss my zumba classes back in Houston. It’s been two years now. I love the music and the moves and it’s a great idea to host a bloggers award at your own neck of the woods.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Absolutely! Maybe you can find a new Zumba class close to where you are now.
LikeLike
As always Miriam, you left me feeling inspired and immensely happy after reading your post. I am so glad you reconsidered and let yourself go on the Zumba floor!
And, I am thrilled for you and Di, and the hours you were able to spend together. You are two beautiful souls, and I am not at all surprised that you connected and became friends. One day, I hope to make my way to your neck of the woods and visit with you both! xo
LikeLiked by 1 person
How absolutely awesome would that be! I’d love that Tanya. 💕
So many of us here have connected and formed bonds through our words and sharing our lives. It’s such a powerful platform isn’t it. I hope you’re well. Have a lovely weekend. xo 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
It most certainly is! You have a wonder weekend as well! 💕
LikeLike
I’m very behind in my postings and answerings but I so enjoyed this one Miriam. I’m glad you took up the challenge and went to zumba that day it seems it did you the world of good. XX
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hi Barbara, I know exactly what you mean! I’m now on a road trip up north, heading towards Uluru and have got limited wifi but just checking in now. Thanks for your comment. Hope all’s well with you back in sunny Vic! xo
LikeLike
Such a fun post to read. I love hearing how Zumba makes people happy again.
LikeLiked by 1 person
It definitely makes me happy and puts me in that feel good zone. Thanks for reading 🙂💃
LikeLiked by 1 person