Mid year clarity and camping

Posted on by Miriam

img_5070What a crazy six months it’s been. It’s been a time of upheaval and change, of chaos and unrest, of bush-fires that seem a lifetime ago and a global pandemic that instigated personal reflection and a search for clarity.

Clarity was, in fact, my theme word for this year. But have I gained it?

Amidst all of the change of 2020 I’ve tried to maintain a sense of inner peace amongst the fear and confusion that’s permeated life this year. Doing Mindful in May and continuing now with The MindLife Project has helped.

Life here has been quiet, punctuated by mindful walks, a lot of writing, personal projects and ordinary day to day stuff.  And now slowly we’re moving again.

Things are changing daily and last weekend, finally, we were given the green light. You know what that means …

Hitting the open road again felt so good. Heading north past Benalla we set up camp riverside. We met strangers that became friends. We cooked delicious meals in the great outdoors and froze our arses off as we walked a 4.5km circuit track around Lake Benalla. We got our four wheel drive bogged at the bottom of a hill in the Strathbogie Ranges. And we winched ourselves out of it. That’s a story in itself!

We learnt a few lessons along the way and and we’ll no doubt keep learning.

Appreciating the small things at Lake Benalla
Fog, frost and tarnished reflections under the bridge on our walk

I reflect on the bliss of getting out and about again, the allure of adventure and the risk of the unknown.

Life is constantly changing. It’s challenging and, whilst there’s still uncertainty about, there’s also hope and a fierce unified determination that somehow we’re emerging from this with some new insights. A few simple truths.

Less is more

The simple things can be the best.

We really can make do with less can’t we? It’s the same when we’re travelling and camping. Getting back to basics is about living richly and in focus, with what matters. We often over complicate things unnecessarily.

Most of us are fortunate enough to have all we need, at least physically. We have food and shelter and the basic necessities of life to make us comfortable. It’s the same when we plan our trips. We take away what we need and that gets us through.

Our recent getaway reaffirmed why I love camping so much. Spending even just a few days camping and on the road offers freedom, peace and ease with the focus on being rather than having. It’s a rich life in every way that matters.

“The secret of happiness, you see, is not found in seeking more, but in developing the capacity to enjoy less.” Socrates

Gratitude Shines

Every day is another beginning, a chance to reflect and reset our mindset if the sparkle has waned. No matter what’s gone on the day before we can always find something to be grateful for. It’s all about perspective.

Limit the mainstream news and be discerning. Question what you hear. Be aware of the nature of negativity and how it can drain us. A tonic? Our immune system thrives on fresh air, sunshine and a positive mindset and grateful heart. Get up early and watch the sun rise, wherever you are. You don’t have to be camped lakeside to take in the beauty of a new day.

Find joy in simple things. Look up at the stars at night and ponder on an infinite universe. Live each day with awareness. When worries takes hold, focus on your breath and the fact that you’re alive. That in itself is a miracle.

“I’m still thanking all the stars. One by one.” Marissa Meyer

Humans need hugs

Zumba with Zoe (via Zoom) has been kinda cool, but I do miss being in the same physical space with others.  That energy is almost palpable in a real live zumba class, music and dancing anytime lifts the soul.

What do you miss the most. For me, it’s the hugs. It’s something we all instinctively crave. It’s not natural to be apart long term and, though I understand the why’s, I miss it, the warmth, the touches and the comfort. It’s like depriving ourselves of sunlight over a long period of time. And we all know how good sunshine is for our health and state of mind!

Hugging is the same and Oxytocin, affectionately known as the “cuddle chemical”  is, in my opinion, the best medicine. Roll on the day we can all hug each other freely.

Everybody is valuable

I remember months ago waving to the garbage truck driver as he emptied our bins and I stopped to say hello. I got such a great response, one of real appreciation and connection. These simple gestures seem more common today as we look at all people, no matter what their job is, with a new level of respect.

There’s been a real shift in attitude in many ways, an acknowledgement of, not just our amazing front line medical workers, but those doing just as necessary work that society in the past has classed as mundane. No role in life is unimportant.

What about all those thousands of workers working from home. Whilst this pandemic has proven how flexible and productive people can be, I wonder how our economies and employment will look in the future, post isolation. Time will tell but we all have a role to play.

Nature is healing

A new season means change and renewal. Here in Australia, Autumn has shed its leaves and made way for cold wintry nights and invigorating days that fuel a sense of aliveness. Those bursts of sunshine and brisk walks undeniably strengthens our immune system.

In the garden, with soil under my fingers, I feel the connection with the earth. And on my walks the birds seem to be chattier and more playful than ever. Maybe I’m picking up on their vibe.

As we stayed at home our planet has begun to heal with clearer skies, clean waterways and Mother Nature thriving. Will it remain that way as the world wakes up from its lull? Can we truly change our future and sustain a cleaner earth?

Community matters

Heading in the same direction

Times of crisis bring people together. All over the world, the energy is rising. When love leads the way there’s a sense of alignment and, even from afar, we realise that distance is irrelevant. We’re all connected.

When people do come together with the same intention and purpose, in that collective consciousness, miracles can happen.

On a physical level this was never more apparent than when hundreds of Emergency workers and volunteers came together recently to search for 14 year old autistic boy William Callaghan, who went missing on Mount Disappointment for over two freezing days. It was such a happy, feel good ending to this story.

So, have I gained clarity? There’s movement and cracks in the earth and uncertainty in our tomorrows. No one knows what’s to come or the intentions of the powers that be but we all have our own power inside us. Maybe that’s what we need to focus on. Connected by love, united in humanity.

Time moves fast. Nothing is forever and “this too shall pass”. Hopefully what we’ve learnt won’t be forgotten and will move us forward in a more powerful and positive way. A new kind of normal is slowly emerging.

May it be full of love, free of prejudice and hatred and filled with the possibilities of infinite peace, joy and enlightenment.

Wishing you a peaceful heart as we navigate through the second half of this year. Here’s to bringing back adventure in our lives, living each day on purpose and maybe learning a few lessons along the way.

In love and light

We passed this sign in Benalla and I thought it was a powerful message, fitting for our times. May we live with our eyes wide open, in a new world of compassion, kindness and understanding.

115 thoughts on “Mid year clarity and camping”

  2. Beautiful words and photos as always dear Miriam, I hope the second half of the year gets better too 🤞 and don’t tell anybody but I’ve had a few sneaky hugs with friends, now that we are finally catching up in small groups.
    I don’t know about you but now that we are out and moving around more I’m finding so much writing inspiration everywhere. 🌈 Sending virtual hugs to you and Doug 👍

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    1. Thanks buddy. Yeah, I have to admit I’ve snuck in a couple too but nothing too serious. And I know what you mean about that writing inspiration, though with our van in for a repair it’ll be a couple of weeks before we can hit the road again. Happy writing Glenys and big virtual hugs back to you and Harry. 😍

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  4. Hear hear Miriam, to all that you say. Your post reminded me of Desiderata.

    And whether or not it is clear to you, no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should. Therefore be at peace with God, whatever you conceive Him to be. And whatever your labors and aspirations, in the noisy confusion of life, keep peace in your soul. With all its sham, drudgery and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world. Be cheerful. Strive to be happy.

    By Max Ehrmann © 1927
    Original text

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    1. Oh, thanks so much Barbara. Such a beautiful comment. I had forgotten the words of Desiderata. So much truth and wisdom in them. And yes, the world still is beautiful. Be well my friend. xx

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  5. Miriam, so wonderful to read your post as your share your reflections of the past few months … it is an incredible time for self-reflection, learning appreciation of life itself, from the tiniest leaf to the glory of sunrises! I would say you have gained a lot of clarity, and to know that this is an ongoing lesson!

    Oh, how amazing to be out and about again and I joined you with joy virtually. Still no sign when we can travel overnight yet but the smallest change was the biggest one for us on Saturday as possible to form a bubble with one single person! Hugs galore with my mother, we both cried and a wonder to sit at the same table, sharing a meal, talking … so thankful for even this little normal!

    Wishing you and your family well and many happy and new adventures ahead. Hugs xx ❤️

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    1. Annika, your ‘little normal’ sounds absolutely wonderful. Those simple joys of sharing a meal, talking and hugging our loved ones are the most precious now aren’t they. I’m so glad you got to enjoy that and I wish you many more ‘normal’ happy moments and hopefully soon also the chance to get out overnight and travel further. Take care my friend. And thank you for your lovely comment. Hugs to you and yours. xx ❤️

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  7. I have to restrain myself often from touching someone in sympathy. It’s life, isn’t it? But I don’t know when it will become acceptable again, sadly. I love the positive spin you always put on things, Miriam. Stay healthy and happy! 🤗💕

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  9. This is such a beautiful post, Miriam. These words in particular resonated with me. “Limit the mainstream news and be discerning. Question what you hear. Be aware of the nature of negativity and how it can drain us. A tonic? Our immune system thrives on fresh air, sunshine and a positive mindset and grateful heart. Get up early and watch the sun rise, wherever you are. You don’t have to be camped lakeside to take in the beauty of a new day.” Yes! Thank you for brightening my day. Your photo underneath the bridge is gorgeous!

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    1. Thanks Jill and glad to know my words resonated with you. They’re reminders for me too! I hope all’s well with you. Oh, and by the way, my hubby actually took that pic!

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  10. These are wise lessons and reminders Miriam. I’ve lived a simple life for many years, but still need practice on gratitude and enjoying less while building connections and community. Kudos on getting the green light to get out and about!

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  13. Another reflective and positive piece – we have to hope we’re learning and making the right moves about what really matters as we emerge into a changed world. We’ll see…
    We’re meeting some friends for a physically distanced beer on what I hope is a sun soaked patio this coming weekend. It’ll be good to see them, and to do something simple that we once took for granted.
    Thanks, Miriam!

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    1. It’s amazing isn’t it, how much we previously took for granted. I hope you have a wonderful time with your friends this weekend PC. I hope the sun is shining and the beer is ice cold and you make the most of the moment. That’s what it’s all about. Take care my friend.

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  14. Very inspiring post, my dear. It will be a new normal indeed. Beautifully written. Life’s almost returning back to what it was. Hopefully, the threat of this invisible virus will be over soon. Let’s keep everything crossed

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    1. I feel as though there’s a lot more going on under the surface so our “new normal” may be quite different. But time will tell. Here’s to staying hopeful and positive. Thanks Miriam 🙏

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      1. The new normal is definitely way different. Things will probably never be the same again until we find a vaccine. Here’s to staying positive. I believe you meant Thanks, Shweta 😉. That’s alright. Typos happen. You’re very welcome, my dear

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  16. Miriam, your post is so warm and positive in spite of the fear we all experienced, we have overcome and enjoyed the small things and found how they matter. You mention so many things that I felt like respond to but I will leave with the quote from you that seemed to matter most to me:

    “What do you miss the most. For me, it’s the hugs. It’s something we all instinctively crave. It’s not natural to be apart long term and, though I understand the why’s, I miss it, the warmth, the touches and the comfort. It’s like depriving ourselves of sunlight over a long period of time. And we all know how good sunshine is for our health and state of mind! “

    We have a way to go yet before moving about too much but then again, England is more crowded than Australia.

    Miriam

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    1. True, England is more crowded than Australia. I think fundamentally though we’re all facing the same uncertainties as we head into a different future. Let’s hope we can all unite in love and faith and make it a better one. Take care Miriam and thanks for your warm comment. Keep enjoying those small things. xx

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  17. Oh I love this post, I can relate to it so much, I just said yesterday, was it really only this year and end of last we didn’t have fresh air? It seems so long ago! I also read about William Callaghan and it brought tears to my eyes, the two Dads words and the community bond👌 Too much for me to say, so thanks for this post, the hope, mindfulness, and the “arses” don’t often get to read it written that way👌😂

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    1. Hi Kellie, yeah it feels like a different world at the moment and like so much has happened yet stayed still at the same time these past six months, what a strange time in history. That human feel good story of William being found are the ones that lift my heart. Love really is the core isn’t it, and faith and hope. I guess that’s what we need to focus on. Thanks for your warm kind comment. 😍
      P.S Loved your last line!!

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  18. We have been given a wonderful space Miriam and you have captured it in your heartfelt post! We swapped a meaningless more for a meaningful less and it was eye-opening! Your photos are all beautiful, I think your under bridge shot is special! Xx

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    1. Oh, these are definitely eye opening times Marie and I couldn’t agree more “we swapped a meaningless more for a meaningful less”. How very true. Thanks for your kind words. Wishing you well. xx

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  20. Your photos are absolutely beautiful and so ethereal…they make me long for winter even though we are on the eve of
    summer (I treasure all the seasons and their magic). Your mid-year post is a wonderful reminder for us all, Miriam and yes, less is more and there is much to love and wonder at…

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    1. Thanks Kim. It’s a good reminder for me too, to focus on all the blessings. I know you treasure the seasons. I’ve just finished reading your last gorgeous amble with the crow and the music. So many wonders and simple joys around us. Enjoy them all my friend.

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  21. these photos and words perfectly reflect your sense of serenity and contentment as you emerge from isolation Miriam … a big HUG to you!

    You will just have to hug those you love more until it’s okay to hug the wider community ❤

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  23. A lovely and inspiring post Miriam. You must be over the moon to be out in the wild once again, even for a short time. Nature is our best friend in times of unease and discontent. We certainly have much to learn.
    I particularly liked the photo taken under the bridge. I feel like it is a doorway to another world waiting to be discovered. Enjoy every day with new eyes..sending much love🦋🦋🦋

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    1. Thanks Zoey and yes I’ve loved being able to get out again. Nature has been such a tonic to the soul these past few months.
      Doug took that photo under the bridge, it’s gorgeous isn’t it and I agree, it feels almost other worldly. Hope you’re well and enjoying life and all it’s wonders. Big hugs and love 💕🙏

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  25. Lovely post Miriam, especially like the ‘less is more’ comments. Couldn’t agree more about that and it is so apparent at the moment during our lockdown that people are really appreciating the little things in life and generally realising just what is important. Hopefully that will continue but not sure if it will as a lot may just drift back to their old ways. Be wonderful if society kept some of that shared appreciation and community-spirit that this has created.

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    1. Thanks Jonno. I guess only time will tell. I think you’re right though, that some may revert back to old ways but I have a feeling that even more may just bring about more lasting changes for a better society. At least that’s my hope. Take care. xx

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  32. Such beautiful words and photos Miriam! I’m so glad you are able to get out and about again and enjoy the freedom. The year has been diabolical in many ways but you always seem to have the right words to rise above it. Clarity is. a great word for the year for you and i wish you clarity as the year progresses. I miss hugs too and I really didn’t think I was a huggy person! Take care xx

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  34. Congratulations Out an’ About! I have nominated you for the Kennedy Award of Excellence! Please see my latest blog post for details (which will be published today). ✨🌞💜🙏✨

    It was wonderful to read your new post Miriam, it made me feel refreshed and hopeful. Somehow it just feels right – you being back on the road and telling us about your wonderful adventures – sharing with us all the beauty and light you find along the way. Thank you, dear friend. 💖🌼

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    1. Hi Lily, I’ve just read ‘Touched by Nature’ which is absolutely beautiful. Will go back to leave a proper comment very soon. 🌹
      Congratulations on your award. I’m so proud of you! And thank you so much for nominating me. I actually stopped doing awards a long time ago so I hope you understand. The amazing comments I receive are enough for me these days. 🙏 But thank you my friend. I really do appreciate it. Happy blogging, keep inspiring us on your new journey and much love and hugs to you. xx 💕🌈🌸

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      1. Thank you Miriam for your lovely reply, and for reading ‘Touched by Nature”, I’m so glad you enjoyed it – thank you for your beautiful comment! 🌞🌹
        Of course, I understand and respect your wishes regarding the award nomination. Being a new blogger, I am still trying to understand how the blog awards work. ✨
        Sending much love and hugs, happiness and blessings 🌻💕🎈💛

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  35. your thought here are reflections of how peaceful and calm you are in the middle of this chaos. i love the photos too. i hope one day i can do the same; travel by road and camping and more of outdoor activities.
    thanks for this inspiring piece as always Miriam

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  36. Cara amiga, you truly are such a brilliant and inspiring wordsmith and shining light!
    Sometimes one comes away from reading something and it doesn´t really leave an imprint in one´s consciousness. Your words do, though, leave their beautiful traces in mine every single time cara! Kudos to you for moving us, inspiring us, for thinking big and shining the light on what truly matters. Love the photos, especially the one from the bridge and its frosty reflection, and, of course, the brilliant Gandhi-mural! Also love your deep insights, which I agree with wholeheartedly- I also really miss the hugs!!! So grateful for our divinely cute dog friends:) Gotta get that Oxytocin in, right? So happy you could venture out and about again! I plan on doing more travel throughout Spain in autumn/winter, when there´s less tourism going on – Spain has just opened its borders again yesterday. A wonderful, an exquisite post my dear friend. Sending much love and hugs from Andalusia! I still plan on sending that email!! Lol. Tanti baci y mucho amor 💕🥰💕🥰

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    1. You sure know how to put a smile on my face Maria! Grazie my cara amica, your words are like sunshine on a gray wintery day (which it is today).
      You know that your posts do the same for me, shining a light, inspiring me and leaving me with beautiful thoughts and imagery, so thank you!
      Glad to hear that Spain has opened its borders again. Hopefully soon you’ll be able to venture out again and enjoy some travels. In the meantime enjoy the lovely weather, your cheeky pooch and all those simple fun things we’re learning not to take for granted anymore.
      Yes, I’m still looking forward to that Wayne Dyer email from you. 😄 Big hugs and tanti baci. xxxx 🥰🌹

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      1. Cara friend, I am more than happy to provide you with sunshiny words anytime, because you and your word artistry bloody deserve it❤️ Thank you so much for your wonderful words here, its so good to know that my writing serves you in this way, how awesome!! And thanks for your wishes also – Lucky just chewed through my Laptop charger but fortunately have an old laptop to work from until my new one arrives! Always up to shenanigans the little one😀 YES I want to send you the email this week! Will make a NOTE! lol. Big kiss and much love xoxoxo Enjoy beautiful Australia xoxo

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        1. Oh, that cheeky puppy. Life’s never boring with our four legged friends getting up to mischief, is it! Enjoy the rest of your week Maria and look forward to getting your email when you have time. No pressure, just whenever. Big hugs and love from me xx ❤️🌼🌈

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  37. Hi Miriam,
    So glad you are able to be out and about, again. Dan and took 5 days around our anniversary at the beginning of June to get out and camp. It was on private land, so we were all by ourselves – calming and quiet. I’m like you, I miss the hugs. Covid is still with us, so we haven’t seen our children or grandchildren. That is hard.
    Your photos are stunning, as usual. Especially love the one of the mist under the bridge. Almost surreal.
    Here’s to the second half of 2020…I hope the lessons of the first half are not forgotten and the move forward is kinder, gentler, and more just.

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    1. Hi Nancy, glad you and Dan were able to get away for a few days. We need it in these times don’t we. Must be hard though being apart from your children and grand children. Hopefully things will change in the near future and we’ll be able to hug the ones we love again. Take care. xx

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  38. I’m so glad you’re able to go camping again!! Any bit of normalcy helps these days, and being out in nature is always so very healing. I think I’ve gained some clarity in these past few months as well…..I have learned to live with less, and I learned that it’s possible to take a virus seriously without living in deathly fear of it. Mostly, I’ve learned that human connection is what’s most important. During the time when we were in strictest lockdown, it helped so much to have phone calls, emails, etc. from friends and family. And now that we can see some of them on a limited basis, I enjoy it all the more. Being around people is what I missed the most during this whole thing!

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    1. Yes, me too Ann. I miss that human contact. Unfortunately here there’s been a second wave and it looks like our restrictions will be ramped up again. A few group of people doing the wrong thing and it affects everyone. It’s so hard to know what to believe and I really hate the fear mongering that the media and officials perpetrates everyday with the rising of numbers. So yes, life is moving but I feel as though it’s going backwards again. So disheartening but I guess I simply have to take my own advice and just be in the moment. And be grateful for it. That’s all we can do. Take care.

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      1. Oh, I’m so sorry! I live in fear of the second wave too, and wish that more people would just wear their masks and social distance, so the rest of us could get on with things! It is so hard. And here in the states, it doesn’t help that it’s an election year, so the media is heavily invested in perpetuating the fear and conflict. What a beautiful world it would be if we all dealt in truth and tolerance…… Hang in there, Miriam! Things really will get better soon!

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        1. Yes, I know they will. But you’re right, it’s hard when most people are trying to do the right thing. The media has a lot to answer for. And so do some people. But I do live in hope and we WILL get through this won’t we. Take care. x

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  39. Lovely post, Miriam! I’m glad you were able to get back to camping. My husband and I are planning a trip to the beach in the coming weeks. We are need of some recharging and looking forward to it. I miss my family the most during this time. Normally, I spend multiple weeks visiting family during our summer months and this year I’m not sure I’m prepared to travel that far. May we live with our eyes wide open indeed!! xx

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    1. Thanks Amy and I hope you and your husband thoroughly enjoy your beach getaway. Sounds like it’ll be a great way to recharge and reset. I agree, it’s been hard being apart from family. Wishing you and yours all the very best. Take care. xx

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  41. Oh, so loved this post Miriam… Not only did it speak to my heart, but with your words here
    “Times of crisis bring people together. All over the world, the energy is rising. When love leads the way there’s a sense of alignment and, even from afar, we realise that distance is irrelevant. We’re all connected.”
    Shows us that clarity does begin to form, when chaos reigns… And sometimes we are pushed into these challenging situations which test us, and sorts out the wheat from the chaff… But it in challenging us, it also helps bring those fundamental ‘basics’ out of each of us… As we care and share more… Appreciate and treasure the small things in life..

    Like that beautiful frosted leaf… I often forget you are heading into Winter while here we have today unusual High Temps.. 31C on my thermometer outside today…
    Growing weather for the gardens..

    Sending Huge hugs dearest Miriam.. So pleased you are getting out and about again, and so pleased you managed to winch yourselves out of the situation you found yourselves in too…
    I am sure the world will also find itself able to manoeuvre itself clear, when all question, and seek the right tools to help them lift themselves out of their own ruts..

    Lots of love Miriam… Beautiful post and so loved your images.. ❤ 🙂 ❤

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    1. Hi Sue, I had to smile when reading both our respective comments on each other’s blogs. We might be in different hemispheres and seasons but we really are aligned and on the same page aren’t we. I love it!
      Thank you for your thoughtful words and kind wishes. Yes, here’s to the world manoeuvring through this time with clarity and consciousness. Sending you big warm hugs and lots of love. ❤️🙏

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  42. So wonderful to know that you were able to be out and about again. As much as you love to go camping, it must be dreadful not being able to do that for months. As someone said, we don’t know how to appreciate what we have until they are not there anymore. I walked with you and watched with you. This pandemic caused us to appreciate a dried leaf in the open ground. Your photo of under the bridge looked like a fantasy land. And the community, yes, I think we surely miss being with the community.

    We got a chance to get together with just a few of the family members while kept the distancing, ate our own food, and sitting in the open area. It was a surreal feeling that we could finally do it.

    Thank you for all the thoughts you shared, Miriam.

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  44. Dear Miriam, so refreshing to read your post, IAM enjoying your cold outdoor experience during our heatwave… going back to basics and receiving clarity! Oh yes, we’re doing a happy dance together from across the world. AND as we dance others follow as we radiate the truth! YES… for the rest life is going to happen anyway! Sending you virtual hugs and I know the time will come for the real ones. Much love and joy, Barbara x

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    1. Thank you Barbara for your kind words and good wishes. Sending you some cool relief during your heatwave and yes, here’s to us holding hands together as we forge forward into a happy dance for a new world. xx

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  45. Miriam, such a positive post rich with lessons offering clarity that we should strive for during the pandemic and
    catching our senses, the negativity on how positivity can score high, awareness on how we behave and need be kinder souls to humans. Absolutely love this superb post. Sending you vibes.and love.

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  46. Miriam, Clarity is a fascinating, thought-provoking word on many levels. Your phrase “ordinary day to day stuff” made me stop and think. 
“Appreciating the small things” seems to follow this thought pattern. “Insights” “Simple truths” great words. We are also huge campers. We leave all the amenities of our house/home and we live in bliss in our eight foot camper. You are a kindred spirit, Miriam, and it appears you have found many kindred spirits. I am nodding my head “yes” to all of your post. Yes, the same physical space with others. I used to attend an almost daily Bikram yoga practice. Now, it is Youtube Yoga. And a huge yes, on Hugs. When my daughter and I, and my grandchildren and I hugged for the first time after three months, no words. Just tears. The feeling, priceless. I believe ‘the new normal’ will be bright and positive. Like you say, Miriam “filled with possibilities of infinite peace, joy and enlightenment.” Thank you for sharing your words, a beautiful post! ❤️

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    1. Thank you so much Erica for such a wonderful comment. From your words it’s clear we share many traits and interests. How wonderful! I love that you’re also a camper, that you appreciate those ordinary moments and clearly that we both love nature. I think it’s becoming more and more important to many, living our lives with gratitude and a new appreciation for many things that we perhaps once took for granted. Like hugs! I miss them. Here it’s looking like a big second wave has hit (even though we’re not personally feeling it) and I have a feeling we’re going to be restricted and locked down once again. So unfortunately our return to camping may be short lived. But I try and remain positive. Things will work out and I love what you said … “ I believe the new normal will be bright and positive”. Amen to that. Take care. 💕

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      1. I am concerned about everything I am reading about the second wave. You also take care and I look forward to reading more of your adventures and misadventures, Miriam. 💕

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