Enough ...

It's mid afternoon during the warmest hour of the day and I'm outside trudging in gumboots over our muddy farm, rugged up complete with beanie and scarf, dreaming of what could have been.

If it wasn't for this devastating pandemic, I would feel grains of fine, soft sand massaging my toes in between delicious, cool dips in a pristine ocean; all the while being kissed by a radiant, warm, welcoming sun.

Yes, I would, as we speak, be immersing myself for two whole, glorious weeks in beautiful Bali's familiar culture and all that it has to offer ... but sadly not to be.

Under these virus circumstances, I fear this South Gippsland winter will be cold, wet and extremely long, especially without travel options. I wonder how I will cope? What plan do I need to generate into action to keep myself and consequently those around me sane?

The worries I tend to escape for a short while in Bali, have cleverly cemented themselves to my emotional brain, like barnacles hang on for dear life to submerged boat hulls.

Removing myself from my norm to soak in beloved holiday surroundings keeps my worrying thoughts at bay, napping in the background. I am nourished, revitalised and filled with strength, hope and newly formed, lingering memories to once again carry on back home.

These concerns are not mine to wear, yet inadvertently yield great power over my subconscious mind. They affect loved ones, which in turn affect me, although I am fully aware I am incapable of waving a magic wand to manifest instant, peaceful solutions.

I am only responsible and in control of my own thoughts and actions ... but most times this is easier said than done.

I frustratingly reach a point of annoyance and defeat and swear to throw in the towel, this time for good. However, the welcoming relief only lasts a day or so before the quiet niggling voice of empathy intensifies and deafens me once more.

Like a dog with its tail between its legs, I retract my steps to again attempt to motivate, persuade and eventually beg loved ones to perceive and consider situations differently; in a more positive light.

I quietly whisper to myself, "Maybe today is the day I will be truly heard and understood. Maybe today a corner will be turned."

So, how will I conquer this inevitable dreary, cold winter season to ease my worrying mind?

As I've gone about my days in recent, solemn, isolation weeks, I've consciously reviewed my life choices, trying to decipher and make sense of my motivations behind my thoughts and actions.

Suddenly, as I was sweeping out our shed of manure, I felt a subjective wake up slap and all my brain cells seemed to light up like a Christmas tree!

My motivations, all of them, are about everyone else, my precious animals included.

I am last in line!

I realised when everyone around me feels happy and content, only then do I experience desired peace of mind. However, how can everyone be happy and content all at the same time? That's unrealistically insane!

Everyone who walks this life leads their own journey. Each person is to take responsibility for themselves and must realise every action creates a reaction. It's up to us to choose the outcomes we prefer.

It's not up to me to carry detrimental issues others face, especially to the degree of causing myself ill health.

So finally, gaining this significant insight, my future path is clearly paved to change the way I fuel my intentions - if I choose to.

Knowledge is a powerful tool, but half a century of worrying for others is not easy to unlearn. I am certain my DNA consists mostly of empathy and nurture. It's engrained in my make up, stemming from my  dear, late father and his ancestors.

However, if my cup is not filled, how am I equipped to reach out to others with an altruistic hand of strength, sincere empathy and compassion?

Enough is enough!

I pledge from this day I will attentively listen more closely to my intuition and heed its messages and guidance.

I will continue to generously offer support and comfort to those around me, however I will ask them to meet me halfway. I am no longer able to carry other's loads. My broad shoulders have become too bent and weary over the years to continue this trend.

I will strive to take better care of myself wholistically. I will breathe more deeply. I will from now on mindfully go about my day, ensuring I notice every exquisite reflection of natural beauty, such as listening for the vocal symphonies of visiting bird life or admiring angelic butterflies that cross my path.

These simple acts offer peace, contentment, inner strength and grounding, allowing my cup to transform into a beautiful waterfall bearing endless gifts.

I will finally claim time for me because like others, I too am deserving.

Out Of The Mouths Of Babes ...

Sadly not being a mother myself, I was interested to find out how our local youngsters feel about corona induced social/physical distancing and isolation, and the impact it creates, through their unique, vulnerable perceptions, within their young lives.

I imagine these surreal and uncertain times are difficult for a small child to understand. I mean, hell, it's hard enough for adults to get their heads around!

Sensing mum and dad's initial anxiety and fear for loved ones' health and safety would prove daunting for a young kid. Suddenly, perhaps, everyone in the immediate family is homebound and nan and pop aren't allowed to visit, bearing their usual goodies and endless hugs.

Abruptly not being allowed to socialise with friends, nor attend school, nor play in public playgrounds or participate in their beloved team sports must be frustrating and confusing for littlies. They can't even shop with mum!

... and what if the Easter bunny had fallen ill with Covid-19? What if Santa gets sick? What then?

I approached a few dear friends of mine to explore what their gorgeous children thought of the current, strange, corona circumstances and here's what the munchkins had to say after being thrown some thought-provoking questions:

Zander, 6, Tarwin Lower -

"I'm just sad because I can't go to school or the beach or anywhere!"

Riley, 10, Walkerville -

“I miss seeing my friends and being able to learn with others. I miss my sports, basketball and footy, but I like it when mum goes to work and my big brother looks after me cause I eat whatever I want!"

William, 5, Korumburra -

"I am sad because we can't give Grandpa cuddles he needs. He is very sick."

Peter, 7, Meeniyan -

"I'm angry and bored staying home all the time and only going on stupid walks and bike rides."

Harvey, 5, Tarwin Lower -

“I like building and playing in my fort, but the virus is bad and we need to make it go away. I miss playing with my friends and my cousins and I want to go to Walkerville.”

Edward, 3, Tarwin Lower -

“Because the virus is not gone, we have to stay at home. My favorite part was doing concrete with poppy and going to the jungle, but now we can't go anywhere and I want to go to Walkerville in my camper trailer.”

Julia, 10. Leongatha -

“Well, my favorite thing about isolation is going on the ipad, but what I don't like is the school work. I sort of miss school. I really miss my friends.”

Oliver, 8, Meeniyan -

“I like that I can stay home, but I don't like that it's different!”

Patrick, 6, Walkerville -

I like playing at home and watching TV/movies, but I miss seeing my friends and going to the park.”

The common denominator speaks for itself! Friends are sorely missed. The kids are craving social interaction, especially with their peers.

I asked my accommodating friends and mums of these expressive children, how they best manage and assist their offspring to remain content and hopeful.

The ladies assured me, providing acknowledging, comforting, honest answers to each child's questions was the key to minimising stress, fear and sometimes even a little impatience. They remind their kids often this phase is temporary and will pass, and encourage them to imagine how wonderful it will be to reunite with their friends, and to once again pursue their favorite hobbies, for now placed on hold.

One exhausted girlfriend stated, “Our time at home is assessed and structured on a day to day, sometimes hour by hour, basis and is predominantly influenced by the ever-changing moods and attitudes of our children.”

Another friend added, “A touch of bribery now and again always helps!"

Thankfully school resumes on May 26th for youngsters. No doubt there will be plenty of smiles on that glorious day, and not just on kid's faces.

            Harvey and his younger brother, Edward, playing in their backyard fort.

Never A Dull Moment ...

I had an interesting day today!

It started this morning with some essential, weekly food shopping in a Leongatha supermarket. I typically aim to shop early. It's usually not a busy time and allows me to run in and out, leaving a big chunk of my remaining day for productive tasks.

I was surprised to find quite a few items I searched for unavailable on the supermarket shelves. I'm not talking of 'panic buying' goods. Moreso dry biscuit brands or favorite, common cuppa soup flavours my hubby prefers. 

However it is what it is at present. Maybe next time they will have miraculously appeared.

Half way through shopping, I was walking down an isle and suddenly choked on a mint I was swirling too eagerly around my mouth. With tremendous restraint, I desperately shoved down my urges to cough, not wanting to draw attention to myself, but I knew a distasteful, fully-forced coughing fit was longing to explode from within.

I don't know how, but thankfully I managed to somehow calm my throat, although one, tiny, faint cough escaped, and oh my goodness! A middle aged lady, standing perhaps four metres away, pierced her eyes in horror at me and fled the scene faster than the speed of light.

Yes, I seemed to have leprosy! That's how I felt.

A little emotionally deflated after that reaction, I finished my shopping quickly. I sanitised my hands and trolley with available wipes on the way out and headed in the direction of my safe, trusty car.

An elderly lady was walking towards the supermarket entrance, whom I warmly greeted, as I passed her by. I reached my car and upon turning around, happened to notice this woman was flashing a large price tag dangling half way down the back of her gorgeous jumper.

Social distancing or not, I had to do something! I quickly called out "Excuse me," before this woman disappeared from my sight. She thankfully turned around in surprise. 

"Have you just bought this lovely jumper?" I asked, while walking towards her. "Yes dear, I did," the lady dumbfoundedly answered. "Well, let's not tell the world how much it was," I said giggling. With that I let her know about the tag and, with her permission, ripped it from the jumper's label and handed it to her. "Oh my, thank you, dear," she gratefully exclaimed and continued on her way.

Job well done, I thought. I saved that nice lady lots of silly looks!

I packed my shopping in my car boot and decided I was in need of an 'essential' coffee for my travels home.

Walking past a bakery toward the nearest cafe, I noticed a woman sitting in a parked car with the motor on, trying to gain the attention of a person inside the bakehouse, obviously with no luck.

As I was on foot, I asked her whom she was attempting to speak with. "My son is in there and I need another item I had forgotten about. I will ring him," she said. "No, I will tell him," I assured her, and with that I opened the bakery door and called the young man's name, once I knew it, and pointed to his mother.

Another job well done!

Two good deeds versus a crappy little cough scenario, which substituted my leprosy deflation with satisfaction and contentment. I win!

Off I went to complete my list of home jobs before later driving through Fish Creek to deliver food supplies to an elderly loved one, presently isolated within four walls - much to their disgust.

These visits are strained and challenging at the best of times, but I understand how difficult this corona phase is. I tried to offer emotional support, but failed to soothe the discontented, frustrated mood. I typically left feeling disappointed and powerless.

However, on the way home, the view of Wilson's Promontory nurtured my feelings of defeat with its striking beauty. I had to stop and park for a few moments to absorb the stunning scene. It was crystal clear and mesmerising. I could see for miles.

With that magnificent, lingering picture in mind, all was mostly well and as I continued my journey home, I felt thankful to be living in beautiful South Gippsland, where there seems to never be a dull moment.

That night, after I cooked dinner and cleaned up the kitchen, our comfy couch, already carrying hubby and two spoilt fur balls, called my name. I happened to buy my favorite block of chocolate whilst shopping that day (thank goodness chocolate is always ample on supermarket shelves), and I knew then was a good time to devour it. 

Of course I shared with hubby ... and just like that, my world was complete once more.

Let's see what surprises tomorrow brings!

A Paradise Asleep

Today my worrying thoughts gravitate more than ever to the mesmerising island of Bali, Indonesia - my happy place.

If it wasn't for this devastating, unforeseeable Covid-19 pandemic, I would once again excitedly board a plane tonight, with gifts in hand, to surprise the tropical, spirited island and its beautiful, humble people.

I close my eyes and clearly imagine the familiar, warm, laid back, uplifting vibe on the stunning Seminyak beach carrying the many friendly, jovial beach workers, eager to chat and sell their precious treasures.

I envision soaking up the sun and surf by day, and later watching a brilliant sea of multi-coloured beach umbrellas and beanbags set up by strong, efficient, young, Balinese men, ready for the evening guests to comfortably experience the exquisite island's extraordinary, ever-changing sunsets.

I reminisce of my lovely, temporary home at Puri Saron Hotel in Seminyak, where I predominantly stay. The picturesque environment, right on the beach, never fails to spoil me with the peace, serenity and an ocean scent I long for.

My spacious room typically overlooks beautifully-maintained, tropical gardens, complete with a Balinese kitty, who loves to keep me company and whom I adore taking under my wing for the duration of my visits.

I feel a deep gratitude for the passionate, efficient hotel staff, who endlessly offer to move mountains, assuring my happiness and comfort, not that there is ever any need.

I am completely in my element in Bali, as soon as my feet touch Indonesian soil and I smell the sweet aroma of familiar, exotic incense.

I recall the exquisite, handmade canang sari, sacredly, mindfully placed mornings and evenings at each entrance of occupied buildings as prayer and praise offerings to the Hindu gods. I laugh remembering the cheeky tupai seemingly scurrying from nowhere to nibble at the delicious gifts when they think no one is watching.

How I miss the hustle and bustle of chaotic, yet organised, scooter and pedestrian traffic, and roaming, stray animals I love to feed. I am continually prepared with pet food I purchase on my way to Seminyak from the airport, tucked readily inside my handbag.

I miss the soulful variations of restaurant music, sometimes confusingly blending into one, and the waft of delicious Indonesian cuisine teasing my taste buds.

I am in awe of the many luminous, colored lights and dancing lanterns every which way I turn during dusk, while spasmodic fireworks spray magnificent rainbows above the beach musicians, brilliantly lighting up the night sky.

I long for the freedom of wearing light clothing and feeling the soothing, hot sun and gentle breeze stroke my skin during daily beach strolls. The worries I carry from home at times, simply melt away and become insignificant, even if only for a little while, but always long enough to nurture my soul.

I miss devouring my regular, fresh coconuts I buy amidst my beach walks, either from Cookie's Bar in Legian or a gorgeous, local mother of five in Seminyak, whose glowing, grateful smile is forever etched in my mind.

I dream of sipping a few araks in the evenings poured by my adopted son and favorite bartender, while admiring and applauding my talented Balinese musician family at Santa Fe Bar & Grill. On foot I head there most nights, pausing to greet and chat with the many shop keepers and bar staff I've met over time and grown fond of along the way.

I miss Villa Kitty Animal Shelter, now situated in Lodtunduh, where I'm given endless cuddles from eager, adorable Balinese fluff balls longing to soak up my attention and ample love. How I wish I could fly them all to Australia to give them a deserving forever home on our spacious, welcoming farm.

But mostly I yearn for my cherished, accommodating Balinese friends and family, who have graciously invited and included me in beautiful weddings and significant ceremonies held in their authentic villages, far away from the tourist precinct. Occasionally they've taken me home just to meet their extended families.

I cannot tell you how honored and humbled I felt … and now my heart bleeds for each and every one of them during these uncertain times.

Will there still be a Bali tourist island, as we know it, in future?

The Balinese are resourceful people with a positive, faithful attitude towards life. They have suffered through bombings, tsunamis, earthquakes and now, like the rest of us, are trying to ride the wave of survival through Covid-19 pandemic.

There is no longer tourism. So many are without work or financial assistance. The impact on their economy is heartbreaking.

People are struggling to feed their families, and god forbid if any fall sick - not just corona virus, but malaria and dengue fever where numbers are already high in the north.

What will become of beautiful Bail?

I pray this pandemic is contained and slowed as quickly as it has swept through our globe, so every country, every person, may once again breathe easy.

I pray Bali will survive and become stronger, busier and healthier than ever before, so I may fly over to give my endearing family and friends relieved, heartfelt hugs as soon as possible.

Please Bali, stay strong. 🙏❤️

Home Schooling - Happy Days!

The Covid-19 pandemic is proving to have a significant impact on people's lives. Well in the throws, we are able to decipher the negatives, and surprisingly a number of positives, within our inner and outer worlds.

One of the biggest, stress-provoking challenges many parents and carers are trying to get their head around is home schooling.

Guiding children through learning at home can be tricky, especially if you're also working from home. Throw into the equation adored pets excitedly running amok enjoying their humans home, and you've got yourself a chaotic safe haven.

Wanting to pull your hair out seems justifiable!

However, parents are not expected to duplicate teacher's years of experience. All that is asked is you do your best, while giving your kids various activities to keep them engaged and stimulated.

The main thing is to help your children feel safe and secure with limited anxiety.

Be creative.

While structure is important, don't worry if you can't stick to a 'school day' routine. Play is one of the best learning tools for kids and can also be fun for adults.

There are many valuable lessons to be learned in the 'school of life'.

* Bake with your kids and have them measure ingredients to practise their mathematical skills.

* Watch a world animal documentary together to improve geography and science.

* Have your children read books aloud to enhance their English.

* Sing with your child for musical stimulation, or if you play an instrument, pass your skills on.

* Dance around your lounge room and fill your hearts with smiles.

* Galleries and museums across the world are offering free virtual tours for children to take interesting and fun excursions. Loads of historical learning at your child's finger tips.

* Venture outside and play a game of Chasey to break up the indoor lessons while refreshing everyone's concentration. There's physical education taken care of right there!

There are many useful websites contributing to online learning, sure to ignite curiosity and wonder in your child. Have a browse, but make sure you read all that's been sent home by your children's teachers and try and incorporate the school's resources into your planning wherever possible … and importantly, keep in touch with the teachers for support and reassurance.

Find ways for your child to stay in touch with their school friends. This is vital. Encourage them to read, play or even spend recess together via Zoom or the like.

Just remember, you're doing a great job!

Pat yourself on the back. No one has gone completely insane yet. Be kind to yourself and trust in your abilities ... and don't forget to breathe.

Let's hope we are soon in a safe position to resume school normality for the good of everyone involved - so you won't need to turn to the drink after all!

You've got this.

A Commendable Commitment ...

I am continually in awe of wildlife shelters, and the kind, competent people behind the scenes determined to make an on-going difference to the lives of beautiful native creatures.

Two of these lovely ladies are Sue Moore from Tarwin Lower and Kylie Laing from Venus Bay, Australia.

For the past fifteen years, Sue has passionately cared for local wildlife and is presently nursing four koalas (one of them a baby), one pygmy possum, two eastern rosellas and one galah.

Sue manages her shelter around her busy part-time job and currently misses her six grandchildren (due to social distancing), who visit often and are a huge help with her furry patients.

Kylie has two decades of wildlife experience up her sleeve, which began when she discovered a helpless baby wombat in Venus Bay. She's presently nurturing two wombats in her shelter and has just recently released one back into the wild after three months of care. 

The vet initially advised this wombat had no chance of surviving.

Kylie also works part-time and is currently overseeing the home schooling of her two children.

Sue and Kylie initially both researched shelters and their involvement before completing Wildlife and Rescue training to consequently earn their licences. Since this time, they've devotedly forged ahead, assisting native fluff balls whichever way they can.

Each year the number of animals, birds and reptiles needing support has increased. Last year's statistics revealed, on average, five creatures per week had been rescued and cared for within each of the shelters in the South Gippsland region. This trend has so far continued into 2020.

The amount of time, energy and money - predominantly self funded - involved in running a wildlife and rescue shelter is enormous.

The following is an approximate daily example:

• 4 hourly orphan feeds around the clock
• Daily sanitisation of cages
• Food shopping
• Food preparation
• Extensive washing
• Night grass picking
• Transportation to vet appointments or other more appropriately set up shelters
• Driving to reported locations to pick up rescued creatures, including vets
• Returning healed wildlife to their natural habitats for release
• On call 24 hours a day
• Answering advice calls from the public
• Answering police calls

I absolutely admire these amazing souls, who go above and beyond to help unique wildlife. Their guiding light is their love for the animals and when tasks seem tough and time or money scarce, their unwavering commitment remains strong.

They do what they can with the available resources and quietly, humbly get on with it.

Funding for wildlife shelters is spasmodic and minimal. These dedicated animal lovers greatly appreciate donations in the form of money, food or goods.

If you are able and wish to support this worthy cause, please call your local shelter to be advised of present needs or to ensure your kind money offerings are immediately added to their Wildlife Patient kitties.

Some important tips to leave you with:

Do not feed mince meat to baby magpies, or any baby birds for that matter. It can cause serious harm.

Do not just feed sunflower seeds to birds, even though they love them. They too can be harmful.

If you happen to find an animal, bird or reptile needing help, please call your local wildlife emergency response number.

If you are able to pick up the injured creature, please retain in a warm, quiet, dark place to de-stress or wrap in a towel or blanket while you ring for assistance. Please Do Not Feed!