Author Archives: The Lady in the Back Row.

Since I was 16, I have always had a partner. This Easter, I’ve been single for four years…… In this chapter of my life, I have found my way back to myself. They say being alone is dangerous, it shows you how content you can be. I used to look to partners for support, butContinue reading “Saturday Morning: Down the Rabbit Hole of Peace and Tranquility”

Friday is my favourite workday of the week. I move through the quiet rituals of my morning, tending to the fish, the dog and cat, pausing with the plants, breathing in the sweet scent of the garden. Enjoying my morning coffee, I read the news. The towering eucalyptus, magnificent, radiant…. its bark peeling to revealContinue reading “Friday Morning Rituals ✨”

Pilates at 6 am. I am new, not strong, and surrounded by women who appear to have been born doing Pilates. Still, I survived and that feels like a win. Also attempting to give up smoking for what must be the thousandth time. I am experienced at quitting by now. Let’s see how this roundContinue reading “6 am Barre and Other Questionable Life Choices”

Mental health struggles affect not just the person living with them, but everyone who loves them. Misunderstanding or judgment adds weight to an already heavy load. Mental illness can change how a brain works, so what looks like defiance is often just symptoms. Patience and empathy don’t fix it, but they make the journey easier.

Yesterday was my granddaughter’s sweet 16. She is so beautiful. The day carried an extra layer of excitement, she had recently passed her online learner exam, and yesterday she drove for the very first time. It was such a special milestone. Sixteen is a turning point, a quiet step toward independence. I found myself thinkingContinue reading “Sweet 16: Milestones and Memories”

Getting back into routine feels steadying, like slipping back into a rhythm that was always there, just paused for a while. This break felt different. For the first time in a long time, it actually felt like rest. No constant pressure to be productive, no background noise of unfinished tasks. Just space. Rest changes theContinue reading “Back to Work”

Tomorrow the work year starts. Not with big promises, just readiness. A clear desk. Light through the window. Everything set up to begin without friction. Positivity doesn’t need noise. Sometimes it’s simply being prepared and moving forward.

Two days left and work begins for the year. Yesterday the beach showed us two very different experiences. One calm day, easy, open, inviting. And then a wild one: wind up, waves crashing, endless blue, a strong current, and purple jellyfish drifting through the water. My granddaughter was disappointed. She wanted to swim without theContinue reading “Two Days left”

Sometimes the most self-respecting choice is listening to evidence instead of the internet noise.

The world carries a heavy weight. I feel grateful for the life we have here in Australia, even as ordinary routines continue — school, work, preparation — alongside the reality of a very sick daughter. Today is about holding gratitude gently, without pretending things are easy.

A few quiet moments to rest, breathe, and simply be.. Greatful for the calm, ready to move into the year with intention.

I see all my grandchildren, but never together. My heart holds them all, and that’s the way it is. Some things are beyond control, but these moments are mine. 🥰

Fireworks. Dog damage. Reset. Old cleared. New begins. Onwards.

✨❤️✨❤️✨❤️✨❤️✨❤️✨❤️✨❤️

Last day of ’25 tomorrow. Closing the year with Gratitude and Hope. x x

Swim again. Slow down. Think about intentions for the year ahead.

First summer swim in the ocean, wonderfully wonderful. 🌊✨🏊‍♀️

Looked at the fence. Googled too much. Decided this one needs a professional.

Can I do it alone? I think so……… let’s have a go. 🤔🫣💪🪏🪚

Today is for light, joy, and simply being with those we love. Because the most precious gift isn’t what we unwrap,it’s the presence we share. Presence, not presents. ✨

and to all religions and cultures around the world, may there be peace, love, kindness, and happiness. May the lights be extra sparkly this year, the kids extra giggly, and the Santa photos perfectly imperfect.

Time to Breathe, relax, and marvel at the little joys.

The work is loud. The year is long. Ready for a break. Ready for Christmas.

No time for love, yet Browning’s Portuguese still whispers in my mind. ✨

Grandchildren! ❤️ The world’s greatest joy ! 🤩🎄👣🐱🐶🐟🐹☘️🍃

A cat, a dog, fish, plants, and me—somewhere in between, I’ve never been happier.