Taking in the Good

Posted on by Miriam

Barely one month after restrictions were lifted in Victoria and we were free to move around and see friends and family again … Melbourne and all its suburbs is in lockdown again. Stage 3 restrictions. I think by now we all know what that means and the feelings that come with it.

But this post is not about venting frustration, angst, pointing fingers or bemoaning our fate, though I’ll admit to some of the above. It’s about leaning into patience and accepting a different sort of being. Welcome to round two everyone. Buckle up and hold on, it’s gonna be a wild ride!

Travelling is once again off the cards for awhile, but our minds are always free to wander and to reminisce. To dream wildly and conjure up new adventures. The plans we had made and places we love are still there, waiting for us once this passes.

Somehow it feels more important than ever to intentionally take in the good. Balancing the feelings of worry and negativity by focusing on all we have to be grateful for.

We had a month to enjoy a new normal and a freedom we once took for granted. And in that time, though we didn’t venture too far, it felt liberating to be able to move beyond our home. We had quiet catch ups with family members, an adventurous long weekend camping and a night away at the beach with friends.

These days I find I’m living more and more in the moment, taking in the pleasure wherever I am, trying to make it last. Pondering an uncertain future only fuels worry. However, there are times when looking back is therapeutic, especially in tough times when it involves capturing and holding onto those feel good feelings. Blogging and reminiscing helps.

Free camping near Benalla

There was so much to love on our long weekend away, free camping near Benalla, a night by the lake, two nights at James Reserve and relaxing by the river at Caseys Weir.

Memorable moments were many and included a beautiful morning walk around Lake Benalla and making damper by the river. We bushwalked through history in Ned Kelly Country at Stringybark Creek. And who can forget that adrenalin charged Dubious Detour that tested our skills, determination and marriage! Sometimes the Universe has an uncanny way of making us stop and take notice of where we’re going.

Life’s made up of small joys and big moments and this part of Victoria has some of the biggest and most amazing silo art. This is Artistry on the grandest scale.

Feeling Wild at Bushrangers Bay

I’d been wanting to visit Bushrangers Bay for a long time. It’s less than 90 minutes from Melbourne, tucked away near Cape Schanck on the Mornington Peninsula. Truly a hidden gem.

The views from the boardwalk from nearby Cape Schanck are spectacular but the lesser known walking trail of Two Fold Bay is especially worth seeking out. The 45 minute walk to the beach is magical, weaving through a trail of banksia trees and forest that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a Harry Potter movie.

At the bottom, steps lead to the beach and around the headland is a beautiful cove, stunning rock pools and a rocky path underneath limestone cliffs. As I stood on the rocks and the wind and waves crashed up around me I felt spectacularly alive.

We enjoyed a late bbq and prolonged our stay by visiting the Cape Schanck lighthouse at sunset. It was an awesome day trip!

Finding Solace at Point Lonsdale

What a fitting name for a house. Solace. Finding comfort. And that’s how it felt, tucked away inside this cute beach house in Point Lonsdale, cosy and warm with a log fire already stoked and ready to be lit. It was like camping with friends, with a few extra comforts thrown in.

During the day we were blessed with calm weather and winter sunshine as we walked along the pier at nearby Queenscliff. That night after a steak and red wine dinner we pulled out the playing cards, a dodgy set with extra aces that produced some elaborate scoring and a lot of laughs. Good friends and good times … that’s what life’s all about.

Our stay in Point Lonsdale was a last minute decision, booking through AirBnB. There was a feeling in the air that things were changing. Did we have an inkling of what was to come? Perhaps. So I’m grateful for our night away and that we got to share it with good friends.

Now, for the next six weeks, I’m once again staying home, like most people in Victoria, and appreciating what’s in my backyard, literally.

I’m currently reading a book by Rick Hanson called Resilient: How to Grow an Unshakable Core of Calm, Strength and Happiness.

It’s this months book in The six month MindLife Project I’m doing. In it he talks about how to, not just find the good but “install the good” into our lives. I love what he says here in his interview with Elise Bailyew.

“So we start with positive states, we activate it but if we don’t install it in the brain, it’s wasted on the brain. It’s momentarily pleasant, but it has no lasting value, there’s no learning …

That’s why taking the extra 10-20 seconds to stay with the experience, to try to feel it in the body, to open up to it, to have it be as rich as possible is key to turning positive mental states into lasting positive mental traits …

So the take away point is, you know, when you’re already having some ordinary positive experience, a moment of gratitude, a feeling of relief, a sense of someone being friendly towards you, a sense of accomplishment of finishing something, walking outside and seeing the beauty of the world, whatever it might be, at least a half dozen times a day don’t waste that positive experience.

Take the extra 10, 20, 30 seconds to give it to yourself like a beautiful gift. Opening yourself to it, sustaining your mindfulness on the experience so you stay with it rather than getting distracted.

Having a warmth toward yourself so you allow yourself to receive this beautiful positive experience so that it actually becomes a part of you … any single time you do that … it will gradually change your brain for the better.

Weaving these positive experiences into the fabric of your brain can be absolutely life changing …

We all know that, don’t we? That now, more than ever, we need to find the good in the moment and, when we do, hold onto it and savour it. Hard wire it in. It can be a challenge these days, but we CAN find a peaceful, loving and joyful alignment, even when the world around us feels like it’s falling apart. Look beyond the main stream media, beyond the fear and worry and let it in. The good. It’s there.

“Someday everything will make perfect sense. So for now laugh at the confusion, smile through the tears and keep reminding yourself that everything happens for a reason.”

Keep making the most of this crazy wild journey. Whatever else is going on, there’s one certainty. Life is precious, it’s for living so let’s focus on the moment and make it the best we can. Are you taking in the good?

In love and light.

Moments in time. Like this ship in Point Lonsdale, this too shall pass

110 thoughts on “Taking in the Good”

  6. Great post thank you, definitely love the advice to savour the good moments, and I agree things happen for a reason, though we may have to wait to find out why! Sorry to hear about Vic, hope it improves quickly. And that silo art is amazing! Did not know it existed ❤️

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    1. Thanks Kellie, yes I know, only time will tell how our new normal will look. All we can do is stay as positive as we can. As for that silo art, we actually have a whole silo art trail here in Victoria which is mighty impressive!

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  7. Miriam! I wanted to pop in and see how you are doing, and I am so happy that I did. As usual, you made me smile and provided some much-needed inspiration. I love the way you love and embrace life! Your words always feed me and give me something to hold on to. We are pretty lucky where I am, the pandemic is currently under control, and on our little island, we are doing well, so we are no longer in lockdown. Hopefully, they will get it somewhat contained over there again soon, so you can do some more travelling. I know you will make the most of your circumstances, though and enjoy life at home; that’s what you do. Take good care, and stay safe! I’ll talk to you again soon. Sending so much love and a gigantic hug. ❤️

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    1. Tanya! How wonderful to hear from you! I’m so glad to hear that things are well on your “little island” and I hope they stay that way. Yes, I’ll be trying to make the most of the new lockdown. I’m just back from my walk right now actually, which always makes me feel better and I have a few small projects in the pipeline which should keep me busy over the next little while. How is your book going? Have you been writing much? I hope life is treating you well. Wishing you loads of good wishes and again, wonderful to hear from you!!! Your kind words are like a soothing balm. Sending a BIG hug back to you my lovely friend and lots of love. xxxxx

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  8. What a lovely, wise, educational, inspirational, and comforting blog post. Thank you for writing and sharing it with the rest of us. I agree that we are in the midst — probably the very early stages if we broaden our perspective a bit — of “leaning into patience and accepting a different sort of being.” One of the only silver linings I’ve been able to find so far in the midst of this global pandemic is a stark reminder of the value of science + the inexorable power of natural processes — such as viruses spreading exponentially if unchecked. These natural processes cannot be spun or denied (as much as our president and some of our governors in the USA are attempting to do just that…) and I am hopeful that this will lead to a renewed respect for the challenges of climate change — which in many ways is hundreds of times more daunting/scary/overwhelming to wrap our minds around than our current pandemic. I have not traveled farther can I can walk or ride by bike since our stay-at-home/physical distancing orders went into place almost four months ago. And I am pretty sure, if we human beings truly want to get serious about climate change, this is going to be the “new normal” for all of us. However, I HAVE been enjoying some virtual travel via blog posts like yours. Again, thank you for sharing your wisdom, your process, and your photos with the rest of us.

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    1. Hi Will, it’s lovely to hear from you and I thank you for your kind, thoughtful and insightful comment. I think you’re right, we are no doubt still in the early stages of this new reality and I feel we have a long way to go before life settles into a new way of being, however that may look. My hope is that we emerge from this adversity into a more just, balanced, kind and compassionate future and yes, that somehow our climate and Mother Nature can be healed in the process. Time will tell. Stay safe and well, and keep up the positive vibes. I think virtual travel is the most that many of us will be doing for awhile. Good thing I have loads in reserve. Warmest wishes to you Will.

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  9. Marvelous, Banella and your positive attitude is so captivating, Miriam. Let us all laugh and be merry during these times of the pandemic and all this which has come will soon pass and our world be a better place to live. Thank you so much for your lovely share.

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    1. I love your optimism Kamal. And I share your sentiments entirely. Here’s to love, laughter and joy leading the way out of the darkness and into the light. Take care.

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  11. Miriam, you sense of calm and positive spirit resonates throughout your post during what must be a difficult second closure of the state. I feel for you all, for the world and all it is going through. It is a joy to read about your travels, the photos astonishing and I’m happy that you could experience this reprieve before the next six weeks. Although travel is allowed here we are cautious still, as so many are in this more packed country! An evening drive to the coast beckons though and if things remain calm maybe a longer break away. I feel your country is doing right to be so safe, here I worry that everything has been relaxed too early … time will tell.

    The book sounds wonderful and uplifting and one I’m going to look at closer.

    Here’s to living in the very moment more than ever! Take care, my friend and enjoy your beautiful home and garden! hugs xx ❤️

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    1. Hi Annika, thank you for your lovely words. I must admit I did enjoy putting this post together and reminiscing about our most recent travels. Particularly as we won’t be doing any for awhile. Such a strange time we’re living through, here, interstate, overseas, seems that we’re all in different stages of this strange new reality now. Enjoy your trips near and far, to the coast and beyond. Each day is a gift we’re given isn’t it. Yes, here’s to living in the moment. Big hugs back. xx ❤️

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  12. It’s been disappointing to see our Victorian family and friends have to endure more because of the negligence of just a few. But it’s also been a blatant reminder of how easily this virus spreads and how we still need to be on guard all the time. I hope you and your family stay safe and well Miriam, and are able to make the most of what must be so difficult. Short term pain for long term gain is what I’ve been telling myself.

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    1. Yes, the whole situation is disappointing but quite honestly I’m not overly surprised. Just a shame that for a few irresponsible people thousands have to suffer. But we WILL get through this. And maybe we’ll come out the other side even stronger. Take care Carol and thanks for your good wishes.

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  14. Sorry you are back in lockdown it is very frustrating. Even mindfulness doesn’t totally overcome that frustration but at least it allows for some reflection time. Bushrangers Bay looks and sounds wonderful!

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    1. I agree with you Sharon. There are times when feelings of frustration hits the overwhelm button … that’s when I know I’ve got to get out and walk! And yes, Bushrangers Bay was magic. Take care.

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  15. I think what has happened in our state was inevitable Miriam. I love being at home it’s my favourite place in the world but being told to stay there and not go out is a completely different kettle of fish. However, I have learned not to look to the future or back for that matter. Eckhart Tolle says In the Power of Now, that in looking back we only find regret and sadness (or words to that effect). Of course there are good memories too, but it isn’t long before something pops into the mind that plunges you into sadness of some kind. Your posts Miriam, are always uplifting and full of beautiful images of our country, in this post there are a few that I have visited myself. I shall make a note of your book it sounds most interesting and I am always on the lookout for a good read. I’ve probably said this before, but I’ll thank you again for your blog it must be one of the best in blogland and I look forward to your posts. Take care whilst we are in lockdown, I don’t think this virus is finished with us yet but we are strong and we CAN do this. XX

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    1. I love being at home too Barbara, but, like you, I don’t like being told to stay there and being restricted in so many ways. I think there are so many layers to our current situation and so much going on behind the scenes. But you’re right, looking to the future does no one any good, unless we can envisage one that’s better than where we are today. That’s a profound book by Eckhart Tolle, one I revisited only recently actually, and his words about living in the moment are more relevant than ever today. Finding joys in the little things and not letting fear about an unknown future in.

      Thank you for your kind words, I really do appreciate them. I’m finding writing quite therapeutic,, even though I blog far less than I used to. So good to know that my posts and words resonate with you. This virus may not have finished with us yet but somehow I think we’re going to learn a lot about ourselves in the process. And yes, I agree, we CAN do this. Take care and stay well and strong yourself Barbara. xx

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  18. YESSS! No surprises here, querida amiga, I LOVE your post!! Spoken and written like a true heroine and human lighthouse. Might your second name be solace? 😉 Honestly, I so love your fierce and uplifting commitment towards looking on the bright side of life. That shows such an awesome resilience and inspirational quality! I would love to check out the “Harry -Potter-movie” location one day, sounds like an absolutely magical spot. Thanks so much also for gifting us with the excellent exercise on how to anchor positive moments deeper into our minds… How good is that!!! I will totally try that out. I feel that in our world of distractions we are almost used to rushing and consuming non stop, so slowing down and REALLY savoring every piece of the delicious cake of life sounds like a really good treat 😉 and idea. Grazie grazie grazie for all you give, cara! Sending many hugs and plenty of good vibes from Andalusia to you in Melbourne. This too shall pass and teach us plenty… So much love cara!!!💖💖💖

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    1. Ciao cara, you’re right, we’re so used to living in the fast lane that I honestly think this unique time is gifting us with the chance to really slow down and savour the moments. I’ve never felt this slow and languid connection wth nature quite as I do now, every time I walk. So thank you, for your gorgeous comment about savouring “every piece of the delicious cake of life …” love it! As I do the rest of your fabulous comment. As always, you make me smile with your wonderful metaphors and descriptions. Yes, you would totally love Harry Potter’s moody beachside location, aka Bushrangers Bay! Thank you my lovely friend. And for your email too. I’ll get back to you as soon. In the meantime sending you big hugs, lotsa love and warm vibes from Melbourne. Till next time, keep smiling. xxx 💕🌼🥰

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      1. Cara rockstar-friend, thank you for your beautiful answer, so happy to hear this made you smile:) As you know I mean every single word and am already waiting anxiously for your book or own magazine to appear:) This is the only type of media I wanna dedicate my time and entry to my friend – media that reminds us of all that’s good in the world, which is and remains PLENTY!!! Thank you my dear, for keeping the spirit of hope and joy alive here and showing a path to a new way of thinking and being. All relaxed with the email, whenever it feels right for you and is doable:) So much love my dear!! And 1001 warm hugs 💕🥰 A presto querida 🙂

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        1. Oh, I can’t wait to talk to you!! And amen to all you said cara. We’re so aligned. 1002 warm hugs!! Talk presto. xxxx 💕🥰

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  19. It is lovely that you can start to live the new norm. Photos lovely as always
    Solace – what a beautiful name.

    I enjoyed your post, lovely, reflectful and full of growth. What is life we do not reflect and grow.

    This bit of your post is so true… “So we start with positive states, we activate it but if we don’t install it in the brain, it’s wasted on the brain. It’s momentarily pleasant, but it has no lasting value, there’s no learning …”

    We have to implement changes in our life, otherwise it just time passing and we never change. When we change, we grow, and that in itself bring an inner peace ; solace in our mind!

    Lovely post as always.

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    1. Hi Bella, thank you and I’m glad you enjoyed my post and all of the teachings from Rick Hanson’s book. Very uplifting ideas and I agree, what is life if we don’t reflect , change and grow? Sending hugs.

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    1. Hi Darren, yeah I won’t deny it’s not frustrating but it is what it is, hopefully the next six weeks will fly by! Take care and sending big hugs back to you my friend. x

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  23. As soon as the news of your second lockdown hit, my heart went out to you and yours…your lovely post echoes the very conversation Terry and I had after midnight last evening as we found ourselves reacting to the never-ending data, the many who are acting as if the pandemic is over and the cautious re- opening of our own province that is at risk to US visitors claiming they’re on the way to Alaska but end up spending time in new-found freedom without self-isolating for 14 days! We are indeed living in wild and wooly times, Miriam! All I can do is cultivate the wisdom of patience and find the calm I need to thrive in the eye of this unprecedented storm…

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    1. Well said Kim. We all need to find and cultivate that patience in these ever changing times. I think we’re a long way off being able to live a “normal” life but I try and remain positive in the fact that we’re comfortable and healthy. I wish you and yours the same Kim. Take care. x

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      1. I had a long talk with a dear friend yesterday evening and we reminded each other how far we’ve come through this pandemic…the word that came through for us was: resilience…we also forgave ourselves for wanting to be able to do more – solo walks, reading and connecting (& so much more!) are what’s required now and we’ve got to be OK with that! On a side note, I told her about the book you’re reading and guess what?, it’s on her shelf and you’ve inspired her to seek it out again, Miriam!

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        1. Oh, that’s wonderful Kim! And you’re right, we need to rediscover all those things that light up our soul. Keep seeking out the joys my friend. xx

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  25. I could just weep in utter frustration for the world at large regarding the hardships and heartbreak everyone is going through, Miriam. To be on lockdown again after just being set free, Oh Lord! I am so so sorry for this. How you are enduring this I don’t know. The pain that billions are enduring all due to a massive mismanagement corroborated with deliberate corruption if I allowed it to, would break my spirit completely. Even though we have more open here, not everything yet, I am not wandering far from home. I just don’t want to. As for you to be able to break free to go to a place you have wanted to is a miracle of sorts. Just loved looking at your pictures from your world and to “hear” the calmness in your “voice” gives me hope that we truly all are learning the lessons that are intended for our Higher Wellbeing. This too shall pass, yes this I do know.
    Fyi …. I actually contracted the virus. I was ill for 24 hours. And that is all. Yes I really felt unwell especially while with a fever. I KNOW others get it much worse and I KNOW it is a very contagious virus yet to the extent the world has gone to, makes no sense to me. I will keep you close in my heart and pray for you and your family. BIG (((HUGS))) from across the waters. xoxoxoxo

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    1. Hi Amy, your first sentence could have been written by me! In fact I wrote almost these same words on an instagram post last week. Yes, I do sometimes want to curl up and weep at the state of the world. And what we’re going through again with our second lockdown, but then I pick myself up and tell myself we’re doing okay. And we’ll come through this stronger. I’m thankful that we’re comfortable and healthy in the grand scheme of things. Yes, this too shall pass, as difficult as it is at the moment.
      Sorry to hear that you caught the virus but I’m also relieved and glad to hear that you pulled through fine after 24 hours. Makes you wonder about so much of what’s spread out there, all the conflicting stats and misleading information and how stringent the measures are. But I’d better not get started … stay well my friend, keep taking your amazing pics and focusing on all the beauty in the world. Thanks for the kind words, your good wishes and prayers. I send you the same back. Big hugs. xxxx

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      1. Dearest friend, a few years back I had an extremely bad flu with an extremely high temperature that left me bed bound for 3 days. Normally I do not get the flu so this really took me by surprise. It took weeks for me to recover. Compared to that, what I experienced was not pleasant, but a mere blip on the radar. What people have to keep in perspective is that people die from the flu. Humanity has become so dependent on vaccines that the fear that is raging is shocking. I don’t do vaccines either but rather do preventative measures and supplements to boost my immunity every day. I could talk your ear off at the injustices of today but I won’t. I pray we all come out of this stronger and better and that the enforced unreasonable restrictions one day be “mandated” never never to happen again as those whose eyes are open to love make sure our world is free from evil. Hang in there! God bless you and your family during these very strange times. (((HUGS)))!!! xo

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        1. I hear you my friend, loud and very clear. And I understand. I just wish so many others weren’t so blinded by what our leaders pertain to be the “truth”. It frustrates me no end to see the fear that they perpetrate in order to control the masses and keep them quarantined. I’m with you on preventative measures to boost our immunity and I’ll continue to be cautious but enjoy my walks in nature … yeah, I think we’re very much on the same page and could both talk each other’s ears off! But I’m hanging in there. It’s early days here … Stay well and sane Amy. Hugs xxxx

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        2. I refuse to get pulled into any media blitz, Mariam. The FEAR that hits me zaps me immediately putting me into a state of fear. I’m no longer wiling to do so, so I don’t. By stepping back to watch the “play” one begins to see the “chess game” being enacted. To give YOU hope, I’m seeing more and more people waking up, doing a roundabout so to speak, as the continued tyranny rages. SO many people are hurt and I am so concerned if the world at large will ever recover from this unforeseen blanket of suffocating dark. There are blessings in every cloud, remember that. There are times a LOT is required for people to crack in order to admit and see their own darkness. I believe with all I am that this is the Purpose for this time of history. HEALING. Will it effect all? No. There is a very clear line between love and fear, … no middle at all. In order to strengthen the light, I deliberately focus on that light and will ONLY frequent stores and such that I know are choosing love instead of fear. We can only effect those around us yet still, they and they alone must choose to look within in order for their hearts to change from that of fear to that of love. I am praying for our President, our country, for the world. And I am doing all I can to keep my head above the madness that threatens to destroy all in its path. I am staying well and sane and I pray the very same for you, dear friend. This virus is going nowheres and IF people think isolating people is the answer, they are in for a huge surprise. May we all be able to close our eyes, wake up, and find a beautiful world in place of the evils that have been released. BIG (((HUGS))) again!! xo

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        3. You echo so many of my thoughts Amy. Like you, I’m stepping back and can see the “play” that you speak of, oh yes, it’s like a game of chess for sure. But people ARE waking up to all the layers of inconsistencies. I can see that too, though many are still asleep and some simply don’t want to see beyond what’s presented to them in the MSM. I’m always going to look out for those blessings and silver linings because, quite honestly, the alternative is too dark to fathom. And I won’t go down that path. Here’s to love and faith over fear. Always. Take care my friend. xxxxx

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        4. Yes, right there with you! When I have in the past focused my eyes on the dark play, the fear that consumed me was a nightmare. I had to learn to step away and I have! I think there will be some that will not wake up because of how much pain is involved when they do. Not only are we dealing with our physical world but our inner as well …. it takes much courage to do this.
          I agree! Here is to love and faith always over fear. Many times when the terror creeps up on me, I repeat over and over again, “I AM SAFE. I AM LOVE. I AM LIGHT.” Much love! xoxoxo

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  26. Frustrating to endure another lockdown. I think these will happen on and off until there’s a viable vaccine. I hope that if/when we find ourselves locked down again, I’ve got even a smidge of the positivity and fortitude you’re showing.
    Take care, Miriam!

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    1. You’re very kind PC. Trust me, I’m not always this positive. There are days when it really gets to me. But I try and stay upbeat. Certainly hope you don’t have to go through this as well. Crazy times! Take care and stay well Adam.

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  28. I love that you’ve used the words “leaning into presence and acceptance”.

    Leaning in is very much the feeling I’ve experienced when surrendering to the moment.

    Recently, I’ve been hearing alot about lockdowns getting enforced throughout the country.

    What does a stage 3 lockdown mean for you?

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    1. Like in many places it means we can only go out for the reasons of shopping for food and essential items, care giving, a local walk and work if it’s an essential service. For me personally I work and write from home so I’m not hugely impacted and compared to many I do consider myself fortunate. But I don’t like what I’m seeing outside, what’s happening to the economy and the fear this is generating. I feel like this is just the beginning but I refuse to get sucked into the paranoia that’s building. Yes, here’s to leaning into patience and acceptance.

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      1. I’m a big believer in “shake-up events”. Adversity promotes growth, and change is something we need sooner rather than later.

        There will be a scar from this, but that is just tougher tissue for the next bigger challenge.

        Best of wishes to you. The lockdown intensity here in central U.S. is also increasing.

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        1. Thanks Brandon, your words hit home. ‘Adversity promotes growth’. ‘Tougher tissue for the next challenge’ … all so very true. Tough and challenging times indeed, for all of us. Best wishes to you too.

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  30. Good luck with the lockdown, Miriam. We are fortunate to be just outside it but I did have to retrieve the Middle Son from his university accommodation and bring him home for the duration. Today I went for a walk with a friend in the chilly sunshine along the Bellarine Rail Trail. The wattle is just starting to bloom, there were cows in the fields and it was lovely. As you have said, all we can do is take the moments and find the beauty in each one. I’m glad you got the chance to get out for a bit before the lockdown. Stay safe.

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    1. Thanks Heather. Glad you got your son home and that you have so much to enjoy near your home. Sounds lovely. And yes, we’ve all got pockets of joy we can tap into. Stay well and have a great week. x

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  31. You have such a great attitude toward this, Miriam! Still, I’m sorry that your restrictions are back, as I know how unsettling that can be. This virus has upended so much of our normal life, and it is hard to know just what to think of it. In my country, it has become a very political thing, which makes it even worse. On the one hand, we want to control the spread of the virus. On the other hand, the restrictions are devastating the economy, throwing literally millions of people out of work. And the poor seniors are really impacted: if they go out, they stand the chance of contacting the virus and we know it is much more likely to kill them. But months of forced isolation is also killing them, quite literally in many cases. Finding a balance is so very hard, and what that balance is seems to change daily. So all we can do find the joy in the moment, be kind to each other and ourselves, and patiently wait for a better future.

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    1. Yes, It’s taught us a lot of things Aixa and that’s certainly one of them. We’ll reflatten the curve, survive this and hopefully come out the other side even stronger. Thanks for reading. xx

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  35. I used to be such a planner. Now, with life as it is today, we get out when we can and enjoy life’s little pleasures. I am optimistic these times of struggle will pass.

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  36. Although I’m sure you’d much rather be traveling, I’m happy you have some recent travels to look back upon. The hubby and I spent the week of the 4th of July down at the beach…just the two of us! It was refreshing to take in the salt air and the ocean breezes. We also did some kayaking in the salt marshes and saw majestic egrets and herons taking flight, caught a glimpse of a manatee (which are rare that far north), and watched squadron after squadron of Pelican as they soared across the sky. It was a magical time. I don’t know if we’ll be traveling again anytime soon, but I’m thankful for the memories. I hope that you are doing well! xx

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    1. Hi Amy, your week at the beach sounds absolutely wonderful. So glad you and your hubby had that special time together. Yes, let’s hold onto those memories and trust that we’ll be able to make many new ones down the track. Take care my friend and yes, all is well here as I hope you are too. xx

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  37. Hi Miriam, I am catching up reading this week and your post is very timely. We are likely facing a lockdown again due to an ‘uptick’ in cases, especially in one specific area of our province. Not surprising, just disappointing. I love the way you word your feelings on the present day events, Miriam. Realistic, humourous and yet positive. The quote on Patience is perfect.

    We just came home from a weekend of camping in our Lower mainland area. My sister lives on a 5 acre pastoral setting about 100km outside of Vancouver. Social distancing, only staying outside and fist bumps. A good compromise to see our loved ones.

    I love all of your amazing photos. I also love the name “Solace.” I was taken aback by your reference to Rick Hanson since we have a Rick Hansen in British Columbia well known as an athlete and activist and famous for his Man in Motion World Tour. “Install in the brain” is powerful. “Hard wire it”. A huge “wow” about everything in this post. Thank you!xx❤️ Erica

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    1. Hi Erica, your weekend of camping sounds absolutely wonderful. I’m so glad you were able to get away for some time in nature and with family. Not surprising to hear of a pending lockdown in your area too, my impression is that it’s happening everywhere. Today is the first day here where wearing masks outside is mandatory and fines are threatened if you’re not. Things are changing fast into such an uncertain future but I’m holding onto hope and positivity and refusing to get sucked into the constant repetitive negativity of the MSM. That fear is rampant outside and so unhealthy for us.
      Thank you for your lovely words about my post. I do find comfort in mindfulness in the present but also remembering happy and fun camping times in the past. We’ll have them again won’t we. In the meantime stay well my friend and wishing you love and light. xxx ❤️

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      1. ‘They’ are still reluctant to make masks mandatory. A mixed response. I think it may become mandatory, soon, with a spike in cases. You also stay well, Miriam. I greatly appreciate the “good” you put into the Universe. Take care. xx 💕

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  38. Such a lovely post on mindful reflection, no matter the circumstances and yes allowing ourselves to stay with harmonious thoughts and moments indeed secures our experiencing more joy and loving moments. You’re such a great example of wellbeing Miriam 🙏🌈❤️ Enjoy these times😘

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  40. Pingback: A Year of Clarity – Out an' About

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