Leaves of my family tree

“…without you I would never be me, you are the leaves of my family tree…”

‘Sing Together’, Train

There are times when words never seem enough. Things happen that can totally flip your world upside down. Thankfully, love for one another can be expressed in so many more ways.

With a hug. A smile. A look.

This past week has been an emotional week around the Peace Tree. When a loved one passes away it can be easy to simply fall apart. With my family, we have pulled together. A cocoon of support. It will be tough for a while but it draws us together.

Whenever someone passes away, I find it brings so many memories of my loved ones who are no longer here. All the raw emotions from past funerals and goodbyes come swirling back and countless tears are shed and many hugs needed.

However, death is a part of life. I do know this. It does not make it easier though.

There has been so many times where I want to show my grandad something I’ve done or share with him how I am doing at university. To make up fairy tales and talk life philosophy with my dear Roly. To simply hug my great-grandad and hear his stories. To have met the wonderful women that were my Oma and Grandma.

I take comfort in knowing that they are all at peace now, an ultimate peace. I hear stories of what they were like when they were younger and I share my memories of them. People’s stories can continue to live on and without having these beautiful people in my life I wouldn’t be the person I am today. They are, and always will be, the leaves of my family tree.

Climate change, be the change

You don’t need to be a climate scientist to make a difference.

As Anna Rose says “...we don’t need anything other than what we already have to do this. Our minds. Our bodies. Our words. And most importantly our hearts.”

That is definitely what this amazing group of people do every day. The values of sustainability, peace and advocacy for the earth are incorporated throughout their lives.

When I am feeling down about the state of our world, I think of these guys. I know that with people like Zac, Sam, Madison, Edward and all of the AYCC Geelong gang our world is in safe hands.

Each one of them makes a difference in this world. Not one of them is a climate scientist, in fact most are still in high school, and yet their knowledge, enthusiasm and organisational skills just amaze me.

Last night, I went to dinner with these lovely people and had fantastic in depth conversations of climate action, organising federal budgets and many hypothetical questions around foreign aid.

Amidst these conversations, I learnt of their latest endeavour ‘Reel Change’, a film festival allowing young people to have a voice on climate change. The funds raised from the film festival will go directly to assisting local businesses in Geelong transition to a low carbon future.

With creativity and enthusiasm, these young people will continue to create real change in this world of ours.

For more information, you can register here or visit the ‘Reel Change’ Facebook page. The Reel Change Film Festival will be run Friday 31 August. Head here to book your ticket to see this youth led film festival. 

Fairytales, puppets and friends...

Entering into a magical world and instantly transforming into our childhood selves, we explored the land of Camelot and shires.

Venturing past the babbling brook, the quirky creatures of the Furry Menaces joined our entourage.

Imagination ran wild as we pictured pixies living under mushrooms and saw the smiles on children’s faces as they explored the castles.

On our journey to the summit, Zan looked on in wonder at the sleeping possum who had taken refuge in one of the cottages.

Together we climbed and like true princes and princesses, we surveyed our kingdom...what a beautiful world we live in.

The land was at peace until we heard the growling from further in the castle grounds.

Cautiously, we crept past the colourful mushrooms...

...and Lewey couldn’t resist making a wish as we made our way closer.

With the growl now becoming a roar, we could see a dragon had entered our kingdom. 

Armed with a sonic screwdriver and determination, Jamie fought on.

The battle was fierce. The sonic screwdriver almost eaten.

But as in all fairytales, the hero prevailed and we happily skipped away without a scratch.

There was peace once more in the kingdom.

Music and peace in my heart

The last week has been such a beautiful, soulful time spent with family.

Together we have created wonderful music in front of the wood fire in our mountain hideaway and made our debut on the music scene.

We have shared laughter over silly faces, quirky dance moves and perhaps a bit of friendly cheating on the local mini golf course.

Time was spent with my mum crocheting away by the fire while Chris busies himself with poetry or music.

The wonderful people of Halls Gap Zoo allowed us to meet the gorgeous meerkats, stunning snakes and delightful deer. It was such an amazing experience with smiles all around.

With the television off, we were able to truly get in touch with the world around us and take time to just soak in nature.

As we prepare to leave the cosy town of Halls Gap, I can truly feel the music and peace in my heart.

Till next year Halls Gap!

Nestled away

As I write, I am snuggled up and nestled away in Halls Gap. With the beautiful mountains either side, it feels as though Mother Nature has wrapped her arms around us. A hug from Mother Nature herself.

Each morning I have woken up to the stunning colours of the stone cliff face and sounds of native birds calling to each other.

Kangaroos bound across winding pathways and occasionally make an appearance on our veranda.

Walking through the bush taking in all the small things; there truly is beauty all around us.

Time spent tucked away here has been good for the soul.

Time to reflect, to breathe, to relax.