No Power, No Worries

Posted on by Miriam

Easter was one we’ll all remember this year. A quiet time of reflection and contemplation. For us, as disappointed as we were not to be able to visit our daughter in the High Country of Victoria, we bunkered down and, like most people around the world, stayed home.

It was a “time to chill, reflect and enjoy” as a friend so aptly wrote in a text.

Reflecting is something I’ve been doing a lot of lately, especially out on my local walks, past the wetlands where I often see this bird. He’s always alone. Is he lonely or is he savouring the solitude?

I’m somewhere in between.

Our Easter passed happily, with a couple of unexpected interruptions thrown in. On Saturday my hubby responded to a local distress call, from someone on our Facebook Community Page. Someone had left their hand break off and their car had rolled, crashed and wedged itself into a fence. A four wheel drive and winch was needed

Never one to leave a person stranded, out hub went to rescue the distraught local. Personally I think he just wanted to use his new winch and pretend he was on the tracks.

Before the call he’d released his inner Jamie Oliver and prepared a batch of scones to bake for afternoon tea. Multi-talented, that’s my man!

Then the rain and high winds came and the power went out. For over five hours. No oven, no scones but the rescue went ahead. Later that night, and still with no electricity, dinner was a barbecued steak, cooked underneath our decking, and a big fresh garden salad. With lots of candies.

It was quiet and peaceful. There was no humming, no white noise anywhere in the house. All the phones had gone flat. No one could contact us. The rain had eased to a light drizzle and our cosy wood fire was crackling in the background.

It was like we were camping.

We had no power but we were content. Then bang, the lights came on and all the devices in the house cranked into life and started bleeping.

It felt like an intrusion and I was almost disappointed. Almost. Hub got to cook his long overdue scones after dinner and we had the weirdest timed Devonshire tea for late night dessert.

I do love camping for that very reason. Getting back to basics and making great meals with very little fuss. We can do with so much less than we realise.

Easter was less about food this year than it was about connection and finding joy in the simple. There were video chats with family, phone calls, texts and check ins. Okay, electricity and power IS useful. We often take it for granted, don’t we?

It was a time to get out in the garden and pull out grass and weeds, the dirt underneath my fingertips a tangible and earthy reminder of our connection to Mother Earth.

On my walks with Harry I feel such a sense of connectedness. I’m aware of what’s happening in the wider world, but my focus is not on fear. It’s on faith.

I feel the possibility of the unknown, and I feel a sense of hope for our planet in this time of slowing down.

My focus more than ever is on nature and what’s around us. It’s in the care that I see, that most people are trying to do the right thing. It’s in the sense of community that I feel around me. My focus is on love.

It’s about care for this earth, no matter how it might look right now. Renewing, ravaged, shabby, a bit like this wind strewn path I walked along the other day, a whirlwind of mess and chaos.

At least that’s what the media wants us to think. In reality, maybe everything is exactly the way it’s meant to be.

I feel love for the people around me, those I can’t see and miss so much. And it’s about honouring this time of isolation to love myself and allow myself the freedom to feel and reconnect with what matters.

I’m not always okay. At home I have moments where the enormity of it all hits me and my moods nose dive. I become so cranky. But I don’t stay there long. On goes the music, out comes the guitar or a book. I take myself outside or away to my bestie, my Gratitude Journal. The power of writing can’t be denied. I recently rewrote a song for our current times and posted it on Instagram. Here it is, if you want to hear me sing Planting seeds for a Changing World.

Now is all we have, so make the most of today, the next 24 hours and then the next. We deal with each day as it arises, because that’s all that’s in front of us. The rest will take care of itself.

My backyard is my sanctuary and in it is my favourite tree below.

Need healing, go on, hug a tree

Breath. Deeply. Focus on your breath. Look around and give thanks. Life is all still here. It might look different but “a change is as good as a holiday”. Well, I’m not sure any of us ever envisaged such an enforced break at home but maybe that’s exactly what the earth needs.

“If nothing ever changed, there’d be no butterflies. “

So embody the moment … enjoy the basics. Life is as it is and it’s up to each and every one of us how we ride out this year of change.

Focus on nurturing your own patch and who knows what will thrive in these reflective, ever evolving times.

Be kind to yourself and to those around you. Stay safe and remember, all you have is now.

In love and light

This bright little specimen is out the front of my yard. Hubby threatened to pull it out a few weeks ago, thinking it was a weed. But look at it now, my resilient little Hollyhock is thriving!

103 thoughts on “No Power, No Worries”

  1. So much time to contemplate and you have such beautiful thoughts, Miriam. Yes, we all feel low when the enormity of what’s happening hits us, I don’t feel like getting out of the bed…but then, it passes! Yes, power is a blessing but every once in a while when there is a outage, it helps to put things in a perspective. Those pretty hollyhocks are so hardy, isn’t it!
    Thank you so much for sharing a slice of your life, Miriam. Such a beautiful Easter this was. ❤️

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    1. Yes, it always passes, doesn’t it, that enormity of what we’re all going through. And then we carry on. Thanks for your kind thoughts and feedback Punam. Hope your Easter was a happy one. 🙏

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  2. I’m totally taking just one day at a time and actually finding it pretty relaxing so far. No use getting too far ahead of ourselves just appreciating the little things every day. It’s so important to have that garden, bushland or beach to ground yourself every day. Breathe in, breathe out and take notice of details in our daily routines. Take care and good on Doug. 👍

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    1. Yes, one day at a time is absolutely the best philosophy Glenys. We’re both so lucky to be surrounded by nature. Your beach photos in particular always look so relaxing. Take care and enjoy. 😍

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        3. It’s in my post here. ‘Planting seeds for a better world’. If you click on it, it should take you to Insta and my song. Let me know if it doesn’t work.

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  4. Bless you for your attitude toward life, Miriam. You are so right we only have today, nothing more. Let’s focus on that and make the best of it. No longer do I focus on this world for in so doing, my panic button is pushed. Every one of your pictures spoke volumes to me. My life personally has not slowed down yet the quiet and the clean air have been such Gifts to me! Most people that have been crossing paths with me have a delightful attitude and they seem not to be worrying about what is going on. Things do have a way of working out. Keep on breathing! Today I continue in my gardens …. as I just immerse myself in the moment. Much love to you! xo

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    1. I can so relate to your words Amy. Aside from my garden being my refuge and nature’s walks being a highlight of my days I’m also finding people remarkably peaceful and accepting. There are so many more out walking these days and, whilst we all keep our distance, there’s always smiles and greetings. Yes, things will work out. Enjoy your garden my friend. Sending you much love in return. xx 💚

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      1. People …. ditto experience except for the occasional sour puss as my post today reveals …. which you read. (smile) It has been such a joy to interact with people who seem so peaceful and happy. May this “trend” stay!!! Happy day today! Sending much love to you!! xo

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        1. Yep, there’s always a sour puss around isn’t there or a “rotten apple in the barrel” as you put it. But mostly I think people are like you and I, peaceful and just getting on with it. Take care lovely and keep enjoying that garden of yours. xx 💚🌸

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  9. Applause! Applause, Miriam! I loved your peaceful time, with just the rain dripping. I was a bit anxious for the scones, but you’re right… in the end it’ll turn out for the best. With hugs and gratitude for another day 🙂 🙂

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  11. I’m glad you’re adapting and taking time to slow and savor life. I feel like in an alternate universe with me working and being busy. I hope good can come of this. I alternate with hope and despair, especially as I discover many weird things about this virus and how it is being handled.

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    1. I’m trying not to read or listen to too much mainstream news. But I guess it’s hard when you’re out there amongst it working,so I can totally understand your feelings and swings of mood. Take care of yourself Brad. 🙏

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  12. Another thoughtful post! I find I’m looking back rather than forward, and if I’m planning, it’s only what to eat the next couple days – any further forward, and I start to dream about camping trips or being on the road, and then not being able to gets me down. A minor and whiny complaint given how hard some people have it, and how brave many are being just to keep the real important stuff ticking along, in healthcare and food supplies etc.
    I heard a rumour spring could appear here next week – if it does, I might set up my solo tent on the balcony, although I’m afraid Mrs. PC might not let me back indoors…
    Take care!

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    1. Haha, I said something similar to my hub the other day. Our van is sitting out the front and it feels so tempting to go and move in, just for the change of scenery! Yep, planning ahead for me is also about thinking what’s on the menu tomorrow night, that’s about it. We’re pretty blessed really aren’t we and, like you, I feel immense gratitude for those on the front line keeping things ticking along. A strange world we’re living in for sure. Take care.

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  13. Love all the photos. And I get what you like being “off the grid” as it were when the power goes out. That’s a micro view of that macro life we’re all living now. Things will change and I hope for the better, as in, I hope slow downs continue in that wasn’t everything moving too fast anyway?

    And a million times this: “I feel the possibility of the unknown, and I feel a sense of hope for our planet in this time of slowing down.”

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    1. Yes, I hope things change for the better too Tara. I agree that things were moving way too fast. They’ve sure slowed down now but I guess time will tell what happens in the future. Take care.

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  14. What a lovely post, very wise words spoken! It’s a strange old time at the moment, but it’s given me time to pause a little and reflect. I am going no further than my four walls and the local park at the moment but I am finding I am finding enjoyment in the small things, like my daily walk around the park, I am very grateful for having that on my doorstep. And what a beautiful place you live in!! It looks absolutely gorgeous!

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    1. It sure is a strange old time. But, like you, I’m finding joy in my walks and time outside, it really is the best thing. Definitely a time to pause, reflect and give thanks for what we do have. Take care. 🙏

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  16. I’m loving the now and my solo walks…today is a good day, yesterday morning I woke up feeling defeated, taking the time to do some house cleaning grounded me and I had the most amazing walk in nature! Your posts are so light and nurturing, thank you, Miriam…

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    1. Thanks Kim. Isn’t it amazing how getting out of the house and into nature, even just for a short walk, can lift our spirits. Glad it helped you. For me, I always feel much happier outside these days. Take care. x

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  17. great reflective wisdom in this post, as usual Miriam 🙂 resonates deeply with me!

    Living off-grid is like a black out most nights, lights still work but easier to cook outside on the camp stove and enjoy the evening quiet.

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  22. A beautiful post Miriam. I am with you in the belief that “everything is exactly the way it’s meant to be.” Our dear Earth is getting a chance to heal at a very deep level, and there is lots of positive change all around us.

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  23. I know what you mean, Miriam! Usually I’m fine, but now and then….I’m suddenly not. The uncertainty is so hard to deal with, as is the loss of our “normal” lives, and the worry for the safety of those we love. I don’t really feel afraid very often, but I do feel frustrated and anxious at times. But faith, nature, and the support of family and friends always brings me back to a place of peace and acceptance. Focusing on the gifts that our new normal brings also helps: spending more time with my grandson, learning that I’m stronger than I thought I was, and seeing how many people are reaching out to support others restores much of my faith in human nature. Thank you for your beautiful post. It helps!!!!

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    1. Thanks Ann. I share your sense of frustration and occasional worry but I also look at the bigger picture and honestly believe the world is healing as we hibernate. Just this morning, now, I stepped outside in the quiet and felt such a deep sense of rightness and healing. Like things are exactly how they’re meant to be. Take care. It’s great you have your grandson to focus on.

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  26. I enjoyed reading your beautiful post, Miriam. Yes, Easter this year was the first one I didn’t go to church, didn’t sing in the church service. We watched live streaming at home. We didn’t have our regular Easter brunch at a restaurant. We usually sang for the Good Friday service, but not this year.

    Sorry to hear to power outage, but the candles looked very nice. I can imagine you disappointed. A little longer would have been nice.

    Have a great weekend! 😊

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    1. Thanks for your lovely comment Miriam. Easter must have felt very strange and unusual for you this year, especially as you’re so involved with your church. Still, I hope you found some of that peace online (never quite the same though, is it). Hope that you and your family are keeping well and safe in these uncertain times. Take care xx 🙂

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  27. Yet another inspirational post, Miriam. Your honesty & optimism, and your lovely captures, are a balm for a troubled time. Thank you for sharing intimately your ups & downs, the laughter & the crankiness. And for the beautiful rendition of your song.

    Hugs! Keep well & safe!

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  30. Over the years, we’ve had the occasional longer term power outage. They are most unnerving when in the middle of January and the outdoor temperature is hovering around zero or below, but in warmer weather, they allow a break from normalcy. Enjoyed the read (and those finance tips you shared in your guest post.)

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  32. You are a tree hugger too! Yes, it’s very relaxing to be in contact with a tree, we can feel her energy traveling through our body. I remember that when I was a kid, I loved when the power went off, my parents told us stories under the candlelight, since there wasn’t TV or radio to distract us. Yes, to the basic and tiny things in our life that most of the time we take for granted.

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  33. Dear Miriam, you have found so much loveliness in the world and in yourself to share with us – thank you. I am enjoying reading all of your stories, and it was really wonderful to see and hear you singing and playing guitar in the sunshine! Your Hollyhock is divine, and I think Buddha would be proud of you, for admiring it so…..”If we could see the miracle of a single flower clearly, our whole life would change.”- Buddha. In friendship, gratitude. love and light xx 🌻💕✨

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    1. Thank you my lovely friend for your very kind words here. And what a beautiful quote that is. Keep tending that garden Lily and feeding your dreams. Sending you much love and light 🌸🌺💕

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  34. Such a delight to read your musings around the home Miriam… not sure where I’ve been to miss your journaling for a while… Isn’t it wonderful that we find ourselves in our beautiful homes, enjoying the quiet and lazy days… time to look at what we’re focusing on. Fear or love! Enjoy this time, cause it’s up to each of us to birth our dream of newearth. Much love to you Miriam, Barbara x

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    1. Hi Barbara, how lovely to hear from you. Yes, I feel very blessed within my home and in the slow yet productive days I’m enjoying, savouring the peace and the quietness of life. Love and hugs back. xx

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  36. Sounds like a lovely, peaceful Easter. Even under stay home orders, with all our devices it seems we’re not as connected as we might be. A few years back after a big snow storm, we lost power for a week and spent days together and nights gathered around the fireplace. It was also lovely and peaceful.

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      1. Thank you, Miriam! I am really enjoying having extra time on my hands. It is really nice to catch up with my friends in the digital world. 🙂

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  38. You said it, Miriam! Your words have the power of making me feel so good. I know all those feelings you’re going through. Music and food has also been my refuge. I’m so glad your Easter was a quiet and happy one. We had a major Zoom call with my cousins and it was nice chatting and remembering our grandparents’ home. Take care my friend. xo

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    1. Sounds as though you had a nice Easter too Cheryl. Thank goodness for technology and being able to stay in touch virtually. Here’s to music, good food and the power of zoom. Sending love xxx

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  39. I am somewhere in between lonely and savoring the solitude as well. I’m sorry that you didn’t have power for that long swath of time but it sounds like you made many wonderful, lasting memories on Easter. I love that tree. It definitely looks perfect for hugging. While I’m lucky to live most of my life with time spent in reflection along with slowness and simplicity, I am really loving this time with all of my children home. We have so many interesting conversations (that doesn’t mean that there aren’t times when I just need my quiet space though. lol) and I am tucking away these little memories with much gratitude. Stay well, my friend. xx

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    1. Hi Amy. I love that you’re savouring this slow down time with your kids. Before we know it, it will have passed and we’ll have missed it. Finding that balance between loneliness and savouring the solitude is a daily challenge for all of us I think. Take care. xx

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  40. “I feel the possibility of the unknown, and I feel a sense of hope for our planet in this time of slowing down.” – This resonated with me. Our planet definitely needs healing. I hope this difficult situation will lead to an evaluation of how we are living and generate new ways of living that also care for our planet.
    I always appreciate your hopeful words. Take care my friend.

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  42. I was thinking how awesome your Easter meal sounded, so quiet and romantic by candlelight. Actually a kind of blessing!

    Your Hollyhock is absolutely stunning! Wow how vibrant that color! Thank you for that lovely eye candy. 😀

    Hope you’re doing well, my friend. I think of you every day. xoxox *hugs* ❤

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    1. It was a kind of blessing too, you’re right my friend. I hope you’re well sweet Ness. I think of you a lot too. Sending hugs and lots of love across the ocean. xxx 💙

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