The Roller Coaster of Life

 It is written we typically progress through seven stages of our lives. These are noted as infancy, early childhood, middle childhood, adolescence, early adulthood, middle adulthood and later adulthood.

As I re-read the above words, I am somehow annoyed by their simple, uncompromising and blunt nature. To think of the many, colourful, chaotic shifts we endure or commemorate throughout our lives, these labels seem mere empty, cold words.

Life is one gruelling, dizzying, thrilling roller coaster of emotions. Gut-wrenching trials and tribulations, which can force us to our knees, have the power to change life in an instant. These occur either spontaneously flooring us from left field, or we take the initiatives ourselves to act on difficult, significant, life-changing decisions knowing in our hearts they are ultimately for the greater good.

Then there are the many triumphs, milestones and all the endless events in between, which offer joy, inspiration and cause to wholeheartedly celebrate. All is to be honoured on some level, even the despairing developments. Growth and transformation undeniably arise from the ashes of each experience.

According to Erikson's model of human development (one of many theories), infancy is recognised as the first couple of years after birth when a child is dependent, transitions into an active, inquisitive toddler and learns to speak. This stage, which promotes the most overall growth, is also where a sense of trust is formed.

During early childhood relationships and friendships are established. Healthy, functional connections depend greatly on the development of trust in infancy. Key aspects are independence verses dependence. Children learn to assert themselves, asking for their needs and wants to be met.

Middle childhood revolves around commencing school. Children learn to compare themselves with peers. Feelings of accomplishment or inferiority surface, hence self-esteem, or lack of, continues to form.

The adolescent stage is about developing a sense of self. This is also often referred to as the "identity crisis" period. It is a unique stretch of rapid physical and deep emotional changes. A confusing, uncomfortable, but also exciting time.

Early adulthood refers to our twenties where people begin to solidify their bonds and enter relationships or marriages. Studies or careers have begun and people move away from the nest.

Middle adulthood revolves around life's priorities one has chosen and established, such as raising a family and/or pursuing careers, often paying off a mortgage. Life is typically busy and time flies by. Before you know it, the fifties have arrived!

"Apparently" we have mastered life as we enter our fifties. Having been around half a century, we worry less about others opinions of us, while our self-acceptance, equanimity and contentment increases. Coming into our own and perhaps now freer of family obligations, our fifties allow us pockets of time and space to re-evaluate our existence. We've experienced a kaleidoscope of life's challenges and lessons and we are wiser. We know the drill, or do we?!

The time clock ticks louder. Our hearts break as we bury loved ones way before their time. By now marriages may have broken down, sometimes more than once, and life has changed directions. Numerous, pertinent questions arise, such as:

• What am I really about?

• Am I living the life I desire?

• Have I achieved that which I intended?

• What is it I am here to accomplish anyway?

• Am I making a meaningful contribution to the world?

• Am I fulfilled and happy?

The fifties can be confusing. Our bodies change, menopause may leave women with compromising residues and we perhaps feel a sense of urgency to assess our lives and create monumental changes, possibly well overdue. If we choose to listen, our hearts easily and promptly decipher the answers to our questions. It's our heads that predominantly get in the way of our personal truth.

However, after many interesting conversations with older folk, it seems once we enter our sixth decade confusion is typically replaced with a sweet sense of calm, confidence and clarity. While ageing may lead to various, undesirable physical issues, we tend to feel happier, content and generally more balanced than in previous years. We've sifted through our priorities, goals and dreams and confidently know how we wish to tackle our remaining senior years. Relinquishing old, limited identities we expand, become increasingly empowered and closer to our true selves. We learn not to sweat the small stuff.

At the end of the day, age is but a number. Whichever life stage you find yourself, choose wisely and embrace your selected path. Relish in the triumphs and realise the interwoven messiness, challenges and upheavals of life ultimately reward you with emotional strength, insight and personal growth. Have faith in yourself, always do your best, live life with integrity and act on your gut feelings. Do not allow fear to stand in your way. Remember, life is but a blink of an eye ...

Venus Bay's Local Dog Whisperer.

Christine Grant, a passionate, wise, empathetic woman, has treasured an innate connection with canines since early childhood. She adores the four-legged creatures and is unable to imagine her life without them.

Born and raised in Leongatha, Victoria, Australia, Christine worked as a disability support worker for many years. In 2000, an opportunity arose that was too good to refuse. Christine, her partner, and two cherished Labradors headed north on a road trip to commence work on a small cattle property in New South Wales.

It was there Christine stumbled upon a cattle dog trial, exhibiting the skills of working dogs and the amazing relationships they shared with their handlers. She was instantly in awe of the clear communication between man and beast, and the physical abilities, beauty and grace of the animals. It was on that exceptional day Christine discovered her calling.

During the inspiring event, Christine met Mick Davis, who would become her mentor, teacher and lifelong friend. Mick was a well known, respected horseman, cattleman, dogman and showman. Rough around the edges and direct, he would tell it like it was. Sadly, he passed away in 2019.

Mick would be gone with his dogs in tow three to four months of the year, travelling throughout New South Wales and Queensland to work as a stockman on cattle properties. Upon his return his twelve dogs were trustingly placed in Christine's care. Possessing the capacity to house them, she happily took the hard-working pooches in to feed, exercise and interact with daily.

During the months Mick was home, he returned the favour by sharing his extensive knowledge. He visited Christine three times a week to collectively train his and (by then), her six beloved dogs with encouragement, but stern harangue. “It was tough at times,” Christine claimed, “but I would do it all again in a heartbeat.”

Over time, additional canines joined Christine's pack and she too, headed up north for three years to work as a jillaroo on rugged cattle properties. She particularly enjoyed handling young cattle; teaching them to be respectful of the dogs, while being guided by them. A perfect example of symbiosis!

In 2007, through a sudden turn of events, Christine, her partner, and her then ten, precious, working collies returned to a farm in South Gippsland, Victoria. Acclimatising wasn't easy. In an attempt to fill a void, Christine sought out a local dog working group in Berrys Creek. At the time, this proved to be the perfect pursuit for herself and her furry friends. The connection shared among the dog enthusiasts, through a love for working dogs, was sincere and nurturing. For over two years Christine thoroughly enjoyed engaging with such a wonderful community, while learning a wealth of information.

In that time frame Christine also successfully completed Certificate III in Dog Behaviour and Training, offered by the National Dog Trainers Federation in Melbourne. Gaining accreditation as a comprehensive dog trainer, it was at the end of 2008 she excitedly launched her business 'Everydog Behaviour & Training'. She consequently began feeling her way within the industry, working locally, one on one, with dogs and their humans.

By 2010, life had taken another twist and Christine relocated to stunning Venus Bay with five dogs by her side. Sadly, all five  companions have since passed on, however a new, adorable friend, Fingers, arrived nine months ago. The two are inseparable, a pleasure to watch, and renowned in the area.

Christine delights in her coastal lifestyle and takes great pride in her dog training venture. She strongly believes teaching dog owners to read their pets' subtle body language so as to understand their communication, is vital towards gaining mutual respect. Christine affirms, “It's not rocket science. If dogs are settled, the relationships  between them and their owners flourish. It's about training people to train their dogs.”

Christine, fuelled with passion and expertise, has successfully assisted many breeds of dogs and their human families or individuals to bond on a deeper level. Her unique, kind and intuitive manner with canines is remarkable. For this reason, she is recognised throughout the community and surrounds as the local dog whisperer.

Christine & Fingers.

Nature Inspired.

The Corona virus restrictions in 2020, while frustrating and devastating for many, simultaneously bore wonderful, exciting initiatives. Young couple, Bianca Bennett and Eric Grattan from Victoria, Australia, utilised their lockdown periods last year to bring their dream of creating a meaningful online business to fruition.

Both possessing a love for the great outdoors, Bianca and Eric share a passion for living as environmentally friendly as possible, forever searching for new, sustainable resources to weave into their lifestyle. Wishing to motivate others to proceed in the same direction, their intention is to ultimately protect and honour the environment one step at a time.

Bianca holds a Bachelor of Science degree and majored in Ecology and Environmental Management, while Eric is a sole-trader carpenter. Both lead busy lives, each working demanding, full-time jobs. 

Over the last couple of years, Eric contributed to building their high-performing, eco-friendly home in stunning Venus Bay. The delighted couple, along with their adored pooch, recently moved in to enjoy the coastal area. The couple strive to protect their native surroundings by implementing green living products and practices, transitioning to attain a zero-waste lifestyle.

Every day the couple is inspired by nature. After some hesitation and contemplation, it was in July last year Bianca and Eric took the unnerving plunge and established their online business venture, naturally naming it 'Nature Inspired'. Initially sourcing plastic-free products for themselves, they were amazed and excited over the extensive range of green products available through numerous Australian businesses. They then proceeded to apply to various manufacturers to become wholesalers for their purposeful products. Bianca claims, "It's wonderful to collaborate with a like-minded, passionate business community and we often receive positive feedback for our efforts."

Nature Inspired makes eco shopping easy! Bianca and Eric pride themselves on tirelessly researching and sourcing merchandise to sell from the one online platform. Offering the best range of reusable, compostable and biodegradable products, all are shipped plastic-free. However, before any items are sold, the couple test-drives each product themselves.

Bianca and Eric's passion and motivation is to inspire and educate others to make a difference to our wonderful world. They aim to reduce the amount of waste going to landfill by providing sustainable solutions for everyday household items. Bianca says, "We encourage a continuous habit, similar to eating healthy or learning a new skill. People may slip up from time to time, but that's ok. As long as there's a willingness to take part in the journey. It's about making simple, but hugely impactful changes."

The motto behind Nature Inspired is:

"We don't need a handful of people doing zero waste perfectly. We need millions of people doing it imperfectly." - Anne Marie Bonneau, Zero Waste Chef.

Through consistent, interesting posts, showcasing available stock on Instagram, Facebook and the Nature Inspired website, Bianca and Eric receive weekly orders from all over Australia. Not only is this venture helping to protect the planet and the health and wellbeing of loved ones, but also the future of our children.

Well done, Bianca and Eric, for throwing caution to the wind and establishing a business with such an important message. Your efforts will surely continue to be rewarded.

Bianca & Eric at home exhibiting numerous varieties of eco-friendly household products.

The Challenges of Reporting.

Possessing a passion for the written word, I've in the past typically concentrated on documenting personal experiences as they occurred throughout my life. I found my sentences flowed easily in light of my emotional attachment as I 'felt' my way through the unfolding tales. My intention, besides relishing in writing, was to carve significant memories into stone; to revisit as I sit in my rocking chair during the winter of my life. My succeeding generations may even feel inclined to read my scribes one day.

However, over the last nine months through wonderful opportunities, I've tried my hand at reporting community stories around people, places, events, even animals. While this form of writing is foreign and sometimes challenging, it's simultaneously rewarding if my articles are well received.

The people I have connected with over time have been approachable, interesting and a pleasure to meet. I've even made new friends! Truth be known, occasionally my given topics didn't initially excite me and with no former knowledge I needed to thoroughly research my tasks before attempting to write informative articles. Once I investigated themes I engaged with the contacts I was asked to interview, either by phone or in person, to gather customised details and quotes. Together with my groundwork I blended the information to form the features. As I wrote I again imagined myself in the subject's shoes, striving to bring the sentences to life through assuming emotions.

Writing the stories seems to be the easy part of reporting! Trying to engage with contacts can be tricky. Co-ordinating days and times to catch up for interviews is often difficult as everyone's lives are busy - including mine. Once the stories are written, emailed, read and ticked off by the organisations or individuals I report of, I submit the articles to the editor. However, waiting on story confirmations can sometimes seem like forever, especially if I am to meet a deadline.

Often over numerous days, there's a back and forth of editing communication before a final draft is completed. This again is due to coordination and prioritisation of time involving all parties. For this reason I conscientiously begin the process of constructing my articles and interacting with the public as early as possible.

I recall I was once asked to write a 1000 word article on an animal refuge, given three weeks to complete. Over that time four meetings were locked in and subsequently cancelled, for one reason or another, by the interviewee. I couldn't hold off any longer knowing how much I fumbled around editing my completed pieces until I was happy with the end result.

I researched the shelter's website and blindly formulated a believable article around the information I interpreted. The story read as if I knew exactly what I was talking about which I found amusing not having ever visited the establishment! 

Being an avid animal lover, I coloured the content assuming how life within an animal shelter would appear. I then emailed my words to the refuge manager in the hope our pending and rather urgent conversation would be about filling in the blanks - and that's exactly what eventuated! A date and time was organised four days prior to the story's submission date, I was asked to add a few significant facts and my story was complete. Both the shelter staff and the editor loved the article. I couldn't believe what I had achieved! Nevertheless, while it was an interesting and exciting process, it's not something I'd like to make a habit of.

I've also come across a touch of language barrier. Occasionally people speak with a strong motherland accent or minimal English. Comprehending their words and phrases to really grasp what they're trying to voice can be tough, especially over the phone. Asking them to repeat themselves numerous times is awkward. However, communication comes in many forms and although it may take a little longer, a story is always successfully written.

I religiously make a point of emailing my completed articles to the people or businesses I've reported on. Without their final approval I wouldn't feel comfortable submitting my work; to cover both our butts! Maybe that's the norm in journalism. I wouldn't know, but I call it courtesy and common sense.

I've personally learned so much since formulating articles around community interests. Not only am I writing in a different format, but many topics I've never dreamt of entertaining I'm now knowledgeable of. My vocabulary is expanding and sometimes, as I'm about to document an intended word within a storyline, I suddenly find myself writing a completely different, more fitting one from left field. I have no idea how or why this happens, but I love it when it does!

I still enjoy writing stories of a personal nature. With only myself involved I can pick and choose the most appropriate times to indulge in my passion. There's no pressure, interviews or research to tackle and I don't second guess myself as I know my words are true - because it's my truth.

I love losing myself among words to formulate non-fiction stories. In fact, if it were possible I'd scribe all day, however that wouldn't buy the baby a new bonnet! Besides, sitting down for so long my ageing back would complain while my backside would inevitably spread to new dimensions.

My intention is to evolve my writing skills through  perseverance, learning and growing as a person along the way. Often I am approached by folk who compliment my articles, which for a short while places a spring in my step. At times others possessing writing credentials, occasionally advise me to thoroughly proof read my pieces before I submit them. That sets off alarm bells, but I appreciate the constructive criticism as it motivates me to become more diligent.

Most importantly, writing is my joy and presently keeps me sane and focused during this unprecedented and frustrating pandemic situation. Seeing my stories in print is just the delicious, sweet icing on the cake .

My little, furry writing companion. ❤️

A Corona Blessing ...

 I rang a dear friend the other day to enquire about her 2020 Christmas festivities. Each year she accommodates her extended families and cooks up the most amazing Christmas storm for all to enjoy. Mind you, it's not particularly by choice. Years ago Gayle's exceptional hospitality set the bench mark exceedingly high and the tradition carved itself into stone by a majority family vote. "It's my own doing," Gayle admits with a sigh.

However, in light of last year's corona virus restrictions, Gayle excitedly voiced only she, her husband and three children were home to relish in uncomplicated, meaningful Christmas moments. "I'm certainly no fan of the pandemic," Gayle exclaimed, "But what a blessing the restrictions during Christmas were for us!"

Typically each year on Christmas Day, relatives consecutively arrive during the morning, always earlier than expected. Most rush through the front door and stomp into the kitchen to greet an exhausted, stressed Gayle, who is trying to finish two full days of slaving over a hot stove and consequently running late because her guests are early! They park themselves in the kitchen, eye off the food and chat while she's trying to concentrate on completing her banquet, making it near impossible to think or freely move around.

Next the lounge room is invaded and as sleeping pets dart in all directions to escape the commotion, Christmas presents are almost thrown at one another with no orchestration or emotion. The appetising waft in the air teases the guests' tastebuds and complaints begin to echo through the home because lunch isn't ready.

Sizzling chat potatoes start to disappear from a hot pan by impatient fingers, while drinks are poured. Gayle's nephew then decides he's not waiting any longer, helps himself to the cuisine and sits down at the beautifully decorated dining table to eat - while Gayle is still cooking! Everyone follows suit and after the meal is devoured within minutes, the family 'jokingly' demands dessert as Gayle herself finally sits down to enjoy her meal. She then springs into action to dish up her many delicious, prepared sweets, attempting to keep the peace.

Once dessert is demolished, relatives complain of how tired and sick they suddenly feel. Some leave, others choose a comfortable piece of furniture to nap (and snore) on, while the remaining family members become increasingly intoxicated, loud and argumentative. A few typically don't speak to each other for one reason or another and attempting the flow of even superficial festive conversations throughout the day is like pulling teeth - until alcohol is thrown into the mix. Then the party really escalates!

Gayle just shakes her head in dismay and retreats into her kitchen to face the enormous pile of dishes with her name on them, secretly relieved to escape her so called family Christmas celebrations.

What a nightmare!

Yes, the corona virus circumstances truly were a blessing for Gayle's 2020 Christmas and I couldn't be happier for her ...

Meaningful, Country Connections

It's this time of year when appreciation and gratitude always tug at my heart strings. Christmas carols tend to have this power over me. The invaluable moments I was fortunate to enjoy among an agitated 2020, warmly gather in my mind and dominate my emotions. One of these pleasurable, reoccurring experiences was, and continues to be, the way I typically started my days around bouts of lockdown.

For numerous years, upon completing my morning chores, I've headed from my farm home into my local town of Tarwin Lower in South Gippsland. I check my post office box for mail, then drive a few kilometres further to reach a general store in the coastal town of Venus Bay. There I purchase the daily newspaper and devour my much-loved, caffeine heart starter.

Before any other surrounding shops open their doors, this store's coffee machine is ready and waiting to brew a delicious latté, served always with a dollop of love. Over time I have grown to know the endearing staff well, as they have me, and I appreciate their generous, friendly hospitality.

As the months progressed, I began noticing other regular, early bird, coffee lovers, and before long, strangers became acquaintances happily greeting each other.

Familiarity transpired into frequent morning gatherings of locals, whom I've grown extremely fond of. In fact, so much so, if one of us is not seen for more than two days, the rest of us become concerned.

Our little cluster blends contrasting ages and unique life experiences, yet as the seasons passed by, connections easily formed as our hands wrapped around our heated coffee cups - if only for a short while. I have the greatest respect and admiration for my lovely, humble, dawn companions, who ooze integrity and wisdom.

This almost daily occurrence has become a meaningful event. As I park outside the store and see familiar, smiling faces eager to exchange words of essence, I am assured I will have a wonderful day. It's mostly the little, spontaneous happenings in life which offer invaluable significance and contentment, and this for me is unmistakably one of them ...

Goodbye 2020 ...

Well, Christmas is once again upon our doorsteps, which means a new year is also just around the corner; a new, fresh year! How welcoming that rings.

As much as I've put on a brave face for many months and adapted to the enforced corona-induced restrictions to the best of my ability, I'm excited to finally turn a corner. Surely each combined, healing measure we achieve will soon surmount to a positive, revised normality across the board.

Will 2021 be kinder to us?

More so, has the pandemic taught us to dramatically change our ways? Are we able to support and nurture ourselves and our surroundings more prolifically?

I know I'm speaking broadly, but there is so much food for thought to consider. We've had a decent chance to reflect on all aspects of our lives during this turbulent year. If we envision a bright future for our children, becoming more proactive and mindful brings about an urgency.

So, as Australia hopefully continues to restore, open up and relax, inch by inch, how may you improve, balance, improvise or amplify your lifestyle in the coming year? How are you able to care for your environment more? Can you find time to somehow assist your community? How can you create a significant, positive difference to your existence? These are substantial questions to consider as this haunting year verges to a close and we prepare to turn another page.

2020 Christmas will look and feel a little different. Nevertheless, we can still draw on the Christmas spirit to shower generosity, hope and kindness to those around us. Simultaneously, we gift ourselves an abundance of joy knowing we brighten other's festivities.

I know some folk cringe and feel anxious just hearing the word 'Christmas', regardless of the looming virus cloud. It can be a complicated time for dysfunctional families and let's face it, many of us typically harbour them!

For those alone at this time of year, it's often a reflective, melancholic occasion. Please reach out to your isolated, elderly neighbours, those who are struggling with mental health or anyone alone you feel could use a helping hand. The smallest gesture can make such a huge difference in this often challenging time.

On that note, may you each relish in a wonderful, safe and enjoyable festive season to kiss 2020 goodbye. I'm giving it a big smooch to thank it for it's wisdom, then slamming the door behind it! Let's hope the new year will indeed be 'a happy new year'. We've all done admirably well these past, long-winded, ten months. Let's not forget to pause and acknowledge that.

Wishing you are sincere, heartfelt Merry Christmas and a Happy, Healthy and Prosperous New Year (in a corona- safe way).