A Weekend Off

Hello there ~ How are you? 

I write to you today with the winds of change blowing strongly outside my window.  

A WEEKEND OFF

Last weekend was a first for Ben and me: two whole nights off from the kids. (~Thanks G'ma and Matt!)

For a long time this was unimaginable. There was neither the ability to leave the babies (and keep my heart intact), the money, the time, nor the local family support or childcare to even consider such a break.

It felt luxurious and very new to put down the renovations, the laundry mountain, the work—the full and constant stuff of life—and simply hang out with my husband. Just us. To look up and realise:“Oh—you’re still there. Nice to meet you again. Who are you  beneath all that?”

Ben and I have been together 18 years now. We’ve lived through sickness, births, deaths, boats, Greek islands — many celebrations, many heartaches, and more building projects than I can easily count. 

-I suppose I've grown up with him really. I was only 21 when we met (him paddling past me on the river while I struggled to fix my ancient engine).

Today I rest in gratitude for all of it—the immense growth, the companionship, and the fun that’s possible when life is shared, over many years, warts and all.

FRIENDSHIP

And while I consider how lucky I am to have a partner—especially someone like Ben—I realise it’s far from a given to find someone willing to do the work of living alongside another for many years (without at least one of you briefly thinking murder might be easier!). I also recognise that the depth of relationship with my friends is, at times, equally valuable.

Life is always bringing change. New gifts, new challenges. So through it all the soul sisters (and brothers) I have to turn to—late-night voice notes, kitchen table tears, hugs just when I need them, and sitting in circle speaking, listening and being truly heard—have been an incredible support to me over the years.

 ALONE TIME

At my core I’m actually quite a nerd. I really love staying in and being alone- a great night for me involves reading, studying, perhaps writing or playing music... or watching Bridgerton or some other suitable nonsense.

But I think my love of alone time is only possible due to the windows of real connection, and emotional support that I’ve both given and received. Those moments have been life rafts.

I’m grateful for this—and for any of you reading who have been part of that for me over the years. Even reading these words is part of that connection, and in this moment I'm honestly grateful for all of it.

REFLECTIVE PAUSE

Invitation: set a timer for a 3 mins (or more) and write or ponder:

1. Who are the people who have walked beside you through the years—and what about them has supported you most?

2. Where in your life right now might you be longing for more:

a)space b) connection c) support?

3. What might a small moment of enjoyable quiet or alone time look like for you this week?