Clouds

Today as I write this, the clouds are gathering overhead.  After a period of gorgeous weather we have been warned of a tropical cyclone heading our way - due to hit us in the northern part of NZ sometime tonight.  It's hard to imagine really - because our weather has been so beautiful - that we are about to be hit with gale force winds and 'sideways' rain!  But the clouds are a sign that something rather sinister is on its way.

The clouds are hanging low and heavy this afternoon

Clouds can bring with them a variety of emotions or feelings.  The relief on a scorching hot summers day when a cloud passes in front of the sun and you feel that moment of relief and a touch of coolness. The rain clouds that look dark and ominous, but bring much needed rain to dry and parched lands, not to mention filling up thirsty water tanks!  Then there are the beautiful fluffy white clouds that just look stunning against a bright blue sky - the kind we drew in our pictures when we were kids!

The sort of clouds I like - white and fluffy decorating a blue sky

Interesting how clouds are featuring in my thoughts at the moment.......I even found myself writing about them in my journal this morning.  For me when I feel a 'cloud' is hovering over me (figuratively) or threatening to hover, it often means I am struggling with the 'aloneness' that comes with losing your spouse.  I know I have mentioned this before in my writings, but it is something that doesn't really go away, something that you have to deal with on an ongoing basis.

I find it helpful to recognize it for what it is, write about it, talk about it maybe.........face it head on......and then of course pray about it......that always must be my first 'go to' response!

That 'cloud' always seems closer, heavier and darker when something happens to upset the balance in your life.  Things like illness, stress, tiredness.......so it's real important to recognize this and to take steps to deal with it.  For me that often means - taking the pressure off - do something practical - in the natural.  Stay home, have a sleep, excuse yourself from some prearranged activity, walk on the beach, watch a DVD.....in other words....just do something for YOU and don't feel guilty about it!

So with these thoughts running around in my head, it is no coincidence that this past week or so my readings have included thoughts on burdens and clouds - and other heavy things...ha!

From Streams in the Desert today I read - do not be afraid to enter the cloud descending on your life, for God is in it! And the other side is radiant with His glory.  When you feel the most forsaken and lonely, God is near.  He is in the darkest cloud. Forge ahead into the darkness without flinching, know that under the shelter of the cloud, God is waiting for you.

Such a beautiful picture!  In the spiritual - so in the physical.  On the other side of this storm that is about to hit us - will be calm.  The sun will shine again, the sky will be blue again, the winds will drop to a gentle breeze and the clouds will change from black to white!

It is good for me to remember this as I must admit I do not enjoy being buffeted around in this house when the strong winds hit. My house sits up quite high - nice to get the views - but not so good in the storms.  I have had quite a few sleepless nights trying to control my fear while listening to the howling wind and torrential rain beating down.  So if that happens tonight......I will focus my thoughts on what is coming on the other side of the clouds and the fact that my Heavenly Father is still in control!

Mangawhai Harbour WILL look like this again after the storm!

Then there's the whole thing about burdens..........but that can wait!

Till next time................

Holidays, families and other things..........

Today I am pondering what has been a rather whirlwind of activity over the last month or so.  When I think back to all that has been going in my life since mid December it leaves me thinking I need a holiday!! Ha!

Preparing the house for visitors, planning menus, buying food, cooking food, buying gifts, wrapping gifts, Christmas, New Year, eating, family, friends, fun, boating, fishing, water skiing, swimming, beach games, hot nights, afternoon naps, movies, watching tennis, babysitting, laundry, bread making, laughter, tears, memories, story telling, fireworks, music, photos, noise, dirty dishes (thank the Lord for a dishwasher), BBQ's, lots of coffee, a little wine, many emotions.........phew!
What a blessed position to be in - to have so many lovely memories:)

It was a real priviledge to host all my family for Christmas this year and a few special friends as well - did my heart good - but I must admit I was very aware of who wasn't with us. My husband and best friend was missing and I was keenly aware of it.  He was always my right hand man when we had a house full of people - so ready to help me wherever - always quick to initiate - motivate - whatever was needed at the time.  It has been such an adjustment for me to 'pick up' things that I used to leave to him to do, but also to learn to ask others to help me.

When you have operated in a partnership for a long time - it is not easy to suddenly change the way you do things and ask others to help or do something that would normally be done by your partner.  Of course, people are always willing to help - the change has to come in me and the way I do life.  That's the challenge!

Families are great though aren't they? Gotta love them.....can't choose them...ha!  God certainly knew what He was doing when He came up with that idea:)  My mother used to say "home/family is where you are treated the best and behave the worst"!!  Yes, well, we have all had those days!

But isn't it great to be in a family where you are loved and accepted for who you are, to appreciate each one with all their diversities in character and nature........to be free to be yourself!
There are other precious members of our family that are not with us anymore when we gather - and we miss them all.........so it was lovely this year to have some new members - 2 little ones and a new daughter in law.

This past week I had the priviledge of looking after my 20 month old grandson Owen. He is one busy little guy.......who needs lots of activity and fresh air.......but oh so cute!  We had so much fun and its not difficult to get him laughing - which is a delightful sound. It's amazing how things change though. When my children were that age I was busy with not only being a mother, but keeping up with the demands of running a household, helping my husband when I could on the farm and being involved in church ministry. Now as a grandmother when I am babysitting - that's all I do!!! Woohoo.......everything else can wait......and you know what.......it doesn't matter!!

My own mother modelled that for me and I am so grateful for that.  Putting aside your own agenda when looking after a grandchild is so wonderful and so rewarding:)  And the cuddles and kisses I get from Owen make up for the weariness at the end of the day....ha!

So from now life will return to some sort of normality. Family members are back busy with their jobs and lives and my thoughts turn to the year ahead.

One of the struggles with grief is the 'aloneness' you feel.  It wouldn't be right to say I'm lonely, as I have family and friends around me.......but 'aloneness' is a different thing.  That is something no other person can actually help you with, it is something that is always there and something you have to learn to live with. My kids have their own lives to lead - and I wouldn't have it any other way. The same goes for friends - everyone's lives are full and busy - that's life!

So how to cope with the 'aloneness'?  For me it always comes back to my faith in God - He is a friend that sticks closer than a brother.  So I must continually go back to a place of quietness and rest - knowing that He is always with me - no matter how I am feeling.

A few days ago a friend called in and we had a good catch up for a couple of hours.  We talked about how it is just over 2 years since Tony died and what might be ahead for me.  She encouraged me that it is now a time for me to 'be strengthened' and quoted a line from a verse in Isaiah 30 "in quietness and trust is your strength".  I really like that!

I have found along with the spiritual encouragement, I also need things to look forward to in the natural.  So I am looking forward to a few days away with a couple of friends at the end of February - a kind of 'girls time out' - and I will continue to plan things along the way as the year stretches out before me.

I don't know about you but I'm not a great one for New Years resolutions.......however I like to think this year will be full of growth - of character, wisdom and spiritual strength - and of love and laughter!
Tony used to say 'the best is yet to come'........that's a great outlook right there!

Till next time.............

The Gift of Music

It's that time of year when music seems to be in the air more than usual.  Somehow it's more acceptable to hear music playing when you're out and about!  It all adds to the festive mood I guess.

I love music!  It's been a part of my life forever!  I love going to concerts and musical shows, watching musical movies, along with playing the piano or my ukelele......a recent acquisition:)  I can remember my first piano lesson when I was 8 years old.  Since then there has hardly been a time in my life when I wasn't playing or singing something, somewhere!

However, in the last few years it has been much harder to maintain that - or even have the desire to!
There are definitely times in your life when certain songs are 'just what you need' and you play them over and over - it's like a gift to you at the time.

When I was a teenager I absolutely loved the music of the likes of Amy Grant, Evie and Sandy Patti, and dreamt of one day being a famous singer like they were....ha!  As I've got older my tastes have broadened somewhat:)

Being involved with church music pretty much all of my life,  I have enjoyed and learnt probably thousands of songs that have been the 'new sound' at the time.  Scripture in Song, Hosanna Music, Integrity Music, Hillsong, Christian City Church, Planet Shakers.......to name a few.  I was even involved with writing and recording some 'home grown' songs in the early 90's called Songs to the Nations.

It's so interesting though, that the songs you learn as a child are the ones you never forget the words to! So for me - that was hymns - and I still love so many of those.  I always appreciate when you're in a church service and the song list is 'mixed up'. The freshness of a new song mixed with the timeless lyrics of an old hymn - love it!

During the last few years of my life as I have struggled through dealing with illness and then the grieving process I have often gone walking with my iphone and ear phones!  I have what you'd call an eclectic play list I guess.  There is everything from ABBA to Adele,  Bon Jovi to Brooke Fraser,  Billy Joel to Bruno Mars,  Citipointe Live to Celine Dion,  the Eagles to Eric Clapton,  Hillsong United to Harbourside Church,  Keith Urban to Mariah Carey,  Michael Buble to Michael Jackson and Stan Walker to Shania Twain........plus so many more!

But there are probably only 3 or 4 songs that I have played over and over as I have walked the beach and streets around where I live.  The top of the list would be 'The Climb' by Stan Walker, followed by his rendition of 'Amazing Grace'.  Another one would be 'Oceans' by Hillsong United.

It's so good how different songs touch your heart - and keep doing so - often filling you with just what you need at the time. The gift of music huh?

During the little bit of travelling I have done in the last couple of years I have observed how music is universal.  It crosses cultures and generations.  At one point I was with a group of people in a restaurant in Europe, we all were singing, the tune was familiar but we all sang in our different languages - it didn't matter - we all had a great time......the gift of music huh?

And now its nearly Christmas and if you're anything like me, you will have the Christmas CD's playing in your car and home.  So many beautiful carols and songs to enjoy.  The words of timeless carols are etched in my heart, learnt when I was just a child.  Probably my most favourite carol would be O Holy Night - and I especially love Mariah Carey's version - in my opinion, she can sing it like no other!

I also love the Christmas song - Home for Christmas - sometimes called Bells Will Be Ringing - especially The Eagles version.  I love the bluesy feel of the song and even though some of the lyrics are sad - I still love that song!

Music is one of God's gifts that I am most grateful for.  It was got me through tough times and great times, and no doubt will continue to do so.  Songs can trigger so many emotions - happy and sad - and that's OK.

Music is also a gift we can give our families - our children and grandchildren.  I am so grateful to my parents who paid for my years of piano lessons and encouraged me along the way.  I love seeing the enjoyment music brings to my kids and how they all use their musical abilities to serve the Lord.  And now I observe in my little grandson the delight he takes in music too - his little dance moves are something else....ha!

So whatever your plans are for Christmas and the holiday season - make some time to listen to some good music......sing some carols......get the guitar or ukelele out round the BBQ......buy someone a CD........make some new memories......just enjoy the wonderful gift that is music!

Have a blessed Christmas!

Till next time...............

Thanksgiving and other GOOD things!

This week we celebrated Thanksgiving - American style - in our home for the first time.  This was initiated by my daughter-in-law Courtney, who is from the States, and I'm very glad she did.  It was a really lovely time - made more lovely by the fact that she did all the cooking and the food was real GOOD!!
I took the time a few days ago to read up about how the Thanksgiving Celebration started hundreds of years ago which is most interesting.....and out of all the celebrations you can celebrate....it is one worth doing!  It is all about appreciating and being thankful for 'bountiful provision' and of course the GOODNESS of God.
So I think for this kiwi family it is one American tradition that is here to stay - and I'm pleased about that.  Taking time to be thankful and appreciate each other is always a GOOD thing to do, something we shouldn't wait for Thanksgiving Day to exercise!
And of course, left over turkey makes GOOD sandwiches and there's enough of that to keep me going for awhile!!

It's nice to have 'GOOD' things happen in our lives.  There's certainly enough 'bad' stuff happening around us all the time - which seems to be constantly in our faces thanks to the media - in fact I find myself recording the news on TV and 'fast forwarding' a lot of stuff that is just too upsetting or depressing to watch!
It's great to make a record of the GOOD things that happen - either by a journal/diary entry  - or by just tucking them away in the memory banks so you can 'rewind' and think about them from time to time.

So I thought it would be timely to record some of the GOOD things that have happened in my life of late - apart from Thanksgiving!  A few weeks ago I met up with a group of girls I went through primary and secondary school with.  This was an unexpected surprise....to meet up with people I hadn't seen for over 40 years was quite something!!  Forty years......that is scary!
We ended up having a loooong lunch - as you do:)  There was the usual "oh you don't look any different".......ha.....we all know the truth about that one!  But certainly on the inside we don't 'feel' any different!  Then of course there's the endless "what happened to......?" and "Really??" and "You're kidding me, are you serious??"  It really was a lot of fun!
But what followed on from that was even more fun! I discovered one of these girls had - for the last 13 years - been living in a house that my father had built and that my family had lived in during my high school years......and she invited me to come take a look! Now that really was fun! Talk about going down memory lane - that was literally what happened.  As I wandered around the house so many memories came flooding back.  For a house that was built in the 60's it looked really GOOD - testimony to the design and build of my father!  Apart from changes in colour schemes and a few minor things, it was just as I remembered.......and it was full of GOOD memories!

Then last week I met up with a friend who Tony and I worked alongside in Youth With a Mission in Australia in the the late 80's.  She now lives in South Africa and travels the world teaching in YWAM schools. We hadn't seen each other for over 20 years. Once again it was a long catch up and a precious time as the years rolled away and we remembered.......and shared about what life is like now for us both. Another GOOD time for the memory bank:)

An especially GOOD thing in our family right now is that my eldest daughter Vanessa, is returning to live in NZ after 3 years overseas.  For me to know that all my kids will be in the same country (at least for now) does my heart GOOD :)

This afternoon I headed out to the surf beach for a walk. It was another beautiful day and I was looking forward to getting my feet in the sand and having a paddle. As I stopped briefly at the top of the walkway before heading down the beach a young couple came up to me with a camera and asked me to take a few photos of them with the surf/beach in the background.  They had just got married!!  I was of course only too happy to help them out.......and as I went on my way it made me smile thinking about what a GOOD day they were having!

This coming Tuesday, 3rd December, will mark 2 years since Tony went to live in heaven.  While this is a very GOOD thing for him, it has not been such a great thing for me.  Learning to live without someone who has been in your life for over 40 years is not the easiest thing, but I think I can say the GOOD days are starting to outnumber the bad days.  I have much to be thankful for - too many to list here - but one major thing that is on my mind right now is the fact that I had a GOOD marriage for 36 years to a GOOD man - someone who loved me, believed in me, supported me, cheered me on, encouraged me......and that is something that I will always gratefully remember and cherish.

As I sit at my computer my eyes are drawn to a painting a friend of mine did about 3 years ago.  It is of Tony holding a big snapper he had just caught on his long line at the Mangawhai surf beach......and it has the caption 'God is Good'.  It makes me smile remembering that day.....and that is a GOOD thing!

Till next time..............

Highlights

For all of us 'highlights' are welcome.  Sometimes we say "that just made my day".....so that was probably a highlight......right?  Definitely better than a lowlight......is that even a word?

I have found going through the last few years of a difficult season and now working through grief, that highlights are very important.  In fact, if I don't have 'highlights' life can sometimes seem to stretch out in an endless sameness that can drain my energy and leave me feeling blah!!

Highlights come in all shapes and sizes, some are anticipated, some are unexpected, some leave you speechless, some are big, some are little things.....but the main thing is - they are all good!!  As I sat in my special spot this morning gazing out to sea I thought back over this week and realized there had been some lovely highlights.............

Firstly, I got to spend more time than usual with my grandson Owen.  He is 16 months old - a little bit angel and a little bit rascal - as most kids are at that age - and oh so cute!  I love him to bits.  We have lots of fun together and there's just nothing like hearing him giggle and laugh:)
We spent some time at a park in the sun running around and generally being goofy before he decided he needed to pick daisies for me......talk about melt my heart!

The second highlight was planting my little vegetable garden.  That might sound strange but it was actually quite therapeutic for me.  I am not a 'gardener' as such but it's not difficult to grow a few lettuces! There's something very satisfying about planning, purchasing and then planting your little vegie plants.  It also means (for me anyway as I don't bother with a vegie garden in the winter) that summer is close and I think about how lovely it will be to pick a few fresh lettuce or spinach leaves when I need them.  Now that daylight saving is here, the little ritual of going out in the evening to water the garden doesn't even seem a chore...it's a pleasure!

The third highlight this week was bumping into an old girl friend who I have only seen on rare occasions over the last few years.  We literally bumped into each other in the doorway of a clothing shop and did the usual "oh my goodness, fancy seeing you here etc etc....."  She was just on her way to try some things on in the fitting room, so the saleswoman kindly put the pieces in the fitting room for her. We stood in the doorway (more or less) and chatted for quite awhile when she had the bright idea to go for coffee!  Perfect......we both had the time.  She spoke to the saleswoman and said "we're just going for coffee, I'll come back later".  I did a little grin as I think the poor lady was looking forward to a good sale and maybe now she had missed out....haha!
This friend was a girl I had grown up with in my home town of Te Puke - she along with her sisters.  In fact, her parents and my parents were great mates so we knew each other pretty well back then.  We had attended the same church, Sunday school, youth group - done crazy things together there, had even sung together.......so you get the idea.....there's quite a bit of history.  I had spoken to her at Tony's funeral but of course that was pretty brief.
There was so much catching up that needed to be done. She is the mother of six and grandmother to one. So when we got through all of that, it was great to hear about her siblings and nieces and nephews too.
I was able to share a little about my journey of late and of course update her on my family and my precious grandson!

As we sat in the beautiful spring sun and sipped our coffee and nibbled on a date and orange scone,  I realized how relaxed I felt.  By the way......when you go into a cafe and SHARE something with someone because you don't feel like eating the whole thing yourself.....you know you're with a friend!! (hmmm... that might be a girl thing....haha!)
As I was saying, I felt relaxed.  There was no pretense.....just honest sharing.  As I've thought about that since I realize it's because she KNOWS WHO I AM.  She knows my background, my heritage, my journey, she shares my faith......there's something so very comfortable in all of that.

Maybe this third highlight could also be described as a 'God moment'.  The 'chance' of us bumping into each other in the door way of a shop in a town where neither of us live.....yeah I think so.  God so knows our needs and for me that day, the need to connect with someone who knew me and was interested in how I was doing, was the tonic I needed........and I am grateful!

So we parted.......I think she did go and try on those clothes.......and I continued on my drive home, smiling and thinking.....'well that was the highlight of my day'!!

Till next time..............

Storms

Over the past couple of weeks I feel as though I have been through some different sorts of 'storms'........physical and emotional!

A few nights back I was awoken by a clap of thunder that felt like it was right above my head.  I wasn't frightened as such - but I did get a fright - a big one!  I can't remember ever experiencing anything quite like it - it made the house shudder!  And then of course there was the lightning to go along with it. Even though I had my eyes tightly shut waiting for it - when it came it would flash through my closed eyelids as though they were wide open!  So much power......I would lie there thinking.....surely the electricity is going to go out any second.

What really was different with this storm though was they way it moved around.  After several thunder and lightning episodes directly overhead I was relieved to hear it starting to move away and become more distant.  Thank goodness I thought, while I wasn't terrified or anything I was relieved that it was over.......or so I thought!

I was just calming myself down and telling myself to go to sleep when all of a sudden.......there was another huge clap of thunder right over head again!!  I literally jumped in the bed!  That sneaky storm had come right back without any warning and was doing its thing right above my house for the second time!

This time the power did go out - although only briefly.  Funny thing about my house - when the power goes out like that and then comes back on - my front door bell rings! The first time this happened a couple of years back I dutifully got out of bed (about 3am) and went to see who on earth would be ringing my door bell at that time of night!!  Looking back now I have a giggle when I think about it - I mean - I must have looked real silly standing at the door peering out into the dark looking for whoever was out there...ha!

This time I was much smarter......I just rolled over and tried to go back to sleep again reassured that the power was once again restored.....my trusty little door bell had let me know that!

The emotional 'storm' I referred to has been watching Team NZ try and win the America's Cup against the Oracle Syndicate in San Francisco.  This cup in the field of yachting is evidently the oldest sporting prize in the world.  Maybe storm is not the right word - more like an emotional roller coaster going through a storm!!

From the 'highs' in the early days of racing to the heartbreaking 'lows' we have been experiencing this week - its sure been emotional.  And now this morning to see the boats race knowing that the winner would 'take all' was VERY emotional.  The result of Oracle winning was devastating to all those of us supporting Team NZ.  It was like the whole of NZ was holding its breath!

If I am feeling this way - how much more will the guys who are actually on the team - those who have been planning, working, training, sailing for years - be feeling?  I can't even begin to imagine! Can I just add that I think our team under the leadership of Dean Barker and Grant Dalton have been exceptional in the way they have competed, conducted themselves and gone about their business - they are incredible role models to our young people.....makes me proud to be a kiwi!

But back to the storms.......in the greater scheme of things - a thunder storm is just a thunder storm and a yacht race is just a sport - but oh how they affect our emotions!  Both can make you feel tired - one from lack of sleep and the other because of seesawing emotions.

So how do all these rambling thoughts relate to what is really important in life?

I know for a fact that my God, my Heavenly Father, is the God of the heavens and the thunder storms are in His backyard....and He is in control. Psalm 91 verse 5 says we are not to fear the 'terror by night'.....I think that can include fierce thunder storms!  That whole Psalm in a favourite of mine. Verses 1 and 2 are awesome........'He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.  I will say of the Lord, "He is my refuge and my fortress, my God in whom I trust"'.

So what about when you are emotionally exhausted and feeling devastated and disappointed?
I was so moved tonight as I watched the TV news and saw how the wives of our sailors are supporting and loving their husbands.  Particularly touching was Mandy, wife of Dean Barker.....how difficult for them as an intimate moment between them was broadcast around the world!  And yet, once again as they were interviewed they responded with integrity and honesty.

I am reminded of a song that was a favourite of Tony's....."Stand by your man"....ha!

But seriously, what an amazing example of standing by someone when they're down, of encouragement and support.  And in this crazy world - how much do we all need this?? Lots!
We all need to know there are those around us who will love, support, encourage and believe in us when the world deals us a tough hand........and it will, at some point!

A few days ago I put a quote on my facebook page that has challenged me......."People won't necessarily remember what you said or what you did - but they will remember how you made them feel".

Many years ago when I was a young student nurse, one of the girls I was flatting with had this saying on her bedroom wall.......'a smile costs nothing, but gives much'.
I'd like to amend this to.......'a smile and a hug costs nothing, but gives much'.
Maybe these little gestures will help someone else get through a storm :)

Till next time............

'Spring'

Hard to believe it is September already - but that does mean it's officially Spring in New Zealand. Such a lovely thought.....Spring!  The promise of summer just around the corner brings a smile.....but it's not here quite yet!

We have the spring weather to enjoy - or not! Sunny days, rainy days, windy days, cloudy days, still days, clear days, warm days, cool days......you name it....we get it in Spring!  It might be a beautiful sunny day so I think......must go for a walk on the beach........only to get there and the biting cold wind takes most of the enjoyment out of it and I rush home for a hot cup of something.

I've got that old song 'April Showers' going round in my head. Yes, I know it's not April but the sentiment of the song remains the same.  I wonder if I could change the words............
' Tho' September (April) showers may come your way.....they bring the flowers that bloom in October (May)...'  ha......maybe not!

But apart from the weather there are all the other signs of Spring that I enjoy.  The daffodils, the freesias, the lambs bouncing in the paddocks, the new growth on plants and trees, the days getting longer........all encourage me to get outside........to resist the temptation to just stay inside in the warm and lazily carry on in the winter mind set.

Maybe its a depletion of Vitamin D that makes me feel desperate for some sun on my back? Does a lack of Vitamin D cause cabin fever?? Or maybe its the simple fact that warm sunny days just make me feel happier?

This beautiful pot plant is bringing a touch of spring in my bedroom.........makes me smile when I look at it.....and also because it was given to me by a dear friend.  When she gave it to me last year it was blooming.....then it went through the long winter where it almost looked dead! Now look at it :-)

Seasons huh? The seasons of life - gotta love them - can't fight them - they come and go and there's absolutely nothing you or I can do about it! I remember my mother often saying "it's just a season" in response to my complaining about or struggling with some issue! I never really appreciated hearing that for some reason.....but of course I now know it is absolutely true :-)

Then there's the dreaded Spring Cleaning!!  I'm happy to say I have started on this.  Some years it was a bit of a non event, I must say, but this year it is MUCH needed so I have got myself organised and actually have a LIST on the fridge!  Yay.......a to do list!  I quite like lists, and I especially like crossing things OFF my list!  I have even been known to write things on my list that I have already done just so I can cross them off!!  How sad is that??

Last week I did quite a bit of waterblasting....felt so good! My decks are all sparkling and clean.....had to take a picture to show the difference.  Feel bad about how dirty they were though!

But Spring is also about promise.........and this is the bit I especially like!  The promise of summer and all that that represents.  I am indeed blessed to live by the beach - which I absolutely love - so naturally the summer weather is what suits best.  Love this view of Mangawhai Harbour - such a beautiful part of New Zealand.

Everything is different in summer.  What you wear, what you eat, what you do, where you go.......plus of course the celebration of Christmas and New Year........so much to look forward to.....so many plans to make, recipes to try, BBQ's to be had, cold glasses of white wine on a hot balmy evening, family and friends to catch up with, long walks on the beach, relaxed schedules, strawberries, cheeries...........

If you're anything like me, once you start thinking about how a season affects you in your physical life, your thoughts go to how it affects your soul and spirit as well.  Having been through a dark winter season in my life - in every area - I am relieved to feel that spring is touching my heart.  I know there are still ups and downs ahead - that is the nature of spring - but that's OK.....at least winter is fading....even if it seems painfully slow at times!

A couple of Scriptures that are good to meditate on when thinking about new seasons......
Isaiah 43:19 See I am doing a NEW thing! Now it SPRINGS up, do you not perceive it?
I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland.
Romans 15:13 May the God of HOPE fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with HOPE by the power of the Holy Spirit.

Oh.....and the rest of that old song goes........
'So if its raining, have no regrets, because it isn't raining rain you know....it's raining violets
And where you see clouds upon the hills, you soon will see crowds of daffodils
So keep on looking for a bluebird and list'ning for his song
Wherever April (September) showers come along.'

AND........I emptied, cleaned and refilled the spa today......I'm going to go and cross that off my list right now!!

Till next time.................