Midlife Passions

Signing Off.....to Collage of Life

2011-11-02T13:42:00.001Z

Dear Friends....

After much contemplation, I have decided to make life simpler for me and merge a few of my blogs into one. This will be one of them. As much as I enjoyed my idea of 'mood blogging' through five blogs the reality of trying to make it all happen got the better of me. Some of you already follow me at Collage of Life, if not, I hope you will join me as I continue to write about life.

The Brown Paper Book Club idea is starting to get some traction..slowly. Just the way I like it. You can read all about it over here.

Thank you so much for following...it has been truly appreciated!

Jeanne xx
@ Collage of Life

A New Idea...A Book Exchange

2011-10-07T14:00:00.000+01:00

It has been a while since my last post here.

Well, I have been thinking....
a dangerous thing to do.

I have actually been off thinking about my Brown Paper Book Club idea
and how to make it work. I was delighted to see that others were intrigued.
After much deliberation on the simplest way to move forward, I thought
a book exchange might be easier.

Here's how it could work.

I will post the books I would like to exchange
and ask you to provide the book(s)

you would like to add to the list.

If you have books you would like to add, leave a comment or email
me at the address belowwith the title(s), a few words about the book
and I will add them to the post.

I will publish an update periodically,

depending on how much interest we receive.

If you are interested in a book, you can go along to the person

who left the comment and contact them directly.

All I need to know is which books to remove and add to the list.

Based on the comments from the previous post, we are scattered across the globe.

That is a good thing, although we will need to be mindful of postage.

My hopes is that it will even out.
I am hoping the postage will not become a burden.

If you think it will be, it may be best not to participate just yet.

Like any new concept, there will be a few kinks to work out.

My object is to keep it simple.

I may be overly optimistic but I am hoping it will become

a place where we can share in the books we love,

make new friends, and enjoy a bit of old fashioned snail mail.

The number of people involved is no matter.

Small is nice too.

Brown Paper packaging not essential but

it would be fun. :)

The Brown Paper Book Exchange

I will start...

Jeanne's book to share:

This Linda Olsson's first novel and I loved it! Linda was born in Stockholm, Sweden and now resides in Auckland, New Zealand where I came across this book. I hesitate moving it off my book shelf but would gladly send it thru the hands of willing readers of the Brown Paper Book Exchange. :)

"In a wintry landscape in the Swedish countryside, the paths of two women cross. One bleak March evening Veronika, a young writer, arrives in a small village in pursuit of stillness and solitude to enable her to come to terms with grief and loss, and to complete a novel. Her arrival is silently observed by Astric, her elderly, reclusive neighbour, who in the safety of her home guards dark family secrets and personal tragedy. As the icy winter gives way to spring, the two women are drawn together. Against a backdrop of changing seasons, they embark on a tender and unusual friendship. What happens will change the lives of both women forever. "

It is a start. If you are interested in this book, you can email me
@ jeannecollageoflife@gmail.com.
More than one person can request the book.
I will enclose a list of who is interested with the request that we pass it along.

Am I open for comments on this idea. If you have another suggestion,
please send it along.
My only other thought was to create a linky group,
something I have not done in the past
with much success but am willing to try again.

:)

Images scanned from cards and books
First card via Saturn Press, Swan's Island Maine (sounds wonderful!)
Second card 'Clotilde' by Louis Paul Dessar
Book Cover...from my book shelf

The Brown Paper Book Club

2011-09-13T09:37:00.000+01:00

I have an idea....

The Brown Paper Book Club.

It started with a secret passion of mine.

When we lived in New Zealand, I joined

Trade Me, the NZ equivalent of E-Bay.

I spend many hours perusing the used book section,

looking for a little gem. Once I found the book for me,

I placed my order. A few days later, a brown paper parcel was

sitting in my post box. I loved the moment I opened the lid

on our post box and saw that little brown package waiting for me.

I treasure those books...

I always wonder whose hands the book passed in before me.

One of life's little mysteries.

So....now I am wondering, if maybe this

is something I could do with a few

kindred spirits in the blogging world.

A favourite book, something you spotted in a used book shop

that you think another might like, or perhaps a more organised approach.

I happen to be looking for a book...a well read book,

The Duchess of Bloomsbury Street by Helene Hanff.

I can not find it anywhere.

via The Book Depository

I am also after all books written by Virgina Woolf, of the Penguin variety.

I would be happy to return the favour with purchasing a book for another.

I haven't quite figured the rest out...but I love the idea

of brown paper packages tied up with string

making their way around the globe.

I welcome all suggestions and thoughts.

It only takes one or two...

images~me

In Another Life

2011-09-08T15:21:00.000+01:00

Guess Who?

I take so many photographs for our family that we rarely find any of me.

Mrs. H Sr. was on our recent trip to France and seemed to be shouting

out for me to stand still for a photo every other moment. I normally do

not take kindly to this but...as they say, what the hay. I look like

a camera geek with two cameras slung around my neck and a huge market

basket with an assortment of essentials for travel. Every Virgo must be prepared.

Someday I plan to travel without a camera and just look.

( she hesitates)

Maybe in another life.

Needlepoint Nutcrackers

2011-08-25T00:21:00.001+01:00

How long has it taken? Let me count the years....

I have been working on this needlepoint Christmas stocking for

my son for 11 years...I am making major headway this holiday.

This just might be the year!

Fingers crossed.

French Linens

2011-08-20T12:59:00.000+01:00

I will never understand the fascination with hanging linen on the line.

It just happens. What do you think it is? The texture, the scent,

a fresh breeze? Mr. H and I have been beating a path to the clothes

line to see who gets there first. Maybe it is a French thing...

We quibble over who is better at it...I guess you could truly say

we are on holiday. By the time we get home and back into school

and work mode...it will be in the dryer for me!

image~me

Sewing Basket Love

2011-08-18T07:55:00.001+01:00

I am forever dragging my needlepoint in various bags wherever I go.

I was smitten with this sewing basket the moment I laid eyes on it.

The sash placed over the chair is weighted down with a tile sewn

into the end of it. I would take this basket anywhere, sash or not.

image~me

A Portrait

2011-08-16T22:03:00.002+01:00

A random thought today. I am not the portrait type,

but if I were, I wonder what I would put in it.

I kept walking back to this one today.

We were at the Chateau de Cheverny in France.

The portrait is of the Marquis de Vibraye

who lived from 1809-1878.

I do not know much more about him

other than his portait hangs in one of the corridorsof the Chateau.

The hat, the dog, the hunting gun, the chateau in the background,

all the things he must have held dear.

It does make you wonder...

What would you include in a portrait of yourself?

More on my visit to Chateau de Cheverny here.

photo~me

My French World

2011-08-15T21:23:00.002+01:00

My 20 year old daughter said to me… "If I had known then what I know now". She finished her sentence with "I would have studied harder in French class". I could have said many things. I contemplated, 'I told you so", but thought otherwise and reminded her that we have all our lives to learn.

If only I could heed my own advice. Here I sit, in France, with this beautiful language all around me, yet I am completely baffled. I tried to learn the language before we arrived. I picked up a French book several times, I looked for language CD's on the internet and checked out a few French podcasts online. It went in one and out the other. I told myself I was too busy. I thought of many other excuses. I like to blame it on my American accent. I decided years ago that I have one of those accents that is incapable of another language. It has me tongue tied and as a result I often declare that I am language deficient.

My 11 year old son can roll his r'ssss with easy aplomb. When he recites his French homework, it is music to me ears. I have no idea what he is saying but it sounds lovely. I think he is one of the lucky ones with an ear for languages.

Monsieur H. speaks fluent French, he is my ears and voice in our French world. We have a French cook on our holiday who does not speak English. She is a wonderful cook and is happy to teach me but when she starts speaking my eyes glaze over and my arms go up and down…"wait, wait…I need my husband to translate". I sound and look like a crazy middle aged American woman....which, I am.

I think of my blogging friends, Sharon @ My French Country Home, Vicki @ French Essence and Ange @ Signed by Ange. They all inspire me. I admire them for their ability to live in two worlds, their English world and their French world. Being able to live within the language of another culture opens a door that you would never see as a tourist. My hat goes off to them.
I am 53 years old and feel it is time to break the french language barrier and get down to business. Actually, I have no choice but to learn the language as it looks like we will be moving to a french speaking country next year….but that is another story. I will stick to the here and now. :)

So dear friends, and advice for this reluctant language learner?
Merci Beaucoup!

PS.. I apologise in advance for any spelling errors. I have discovered that since I am writing in France, my spelling corrections must be done in French. My internet world is in French...mon dieu!

image~me

Dreamgirl

2011-08-05T12:16:00.000+01:00

I was lost in thought today. The years tumbled back..10, 20, 30 years ago to those days when life was carefree and all those years stretched before me. I equate it to that feeling when standing at the bow of a boat, the wind whipping thru your hair, a smile as wide as the sea, your thoughts are just with the moment and you have that deep warm feeling that this is the way life should be. Here I am, in the fifth decade of my life, thinking about life. I look at people who are have 10-20 years ahead of me and admire their gusto for life. I think of all the possibilities before me...just like all those years ago. :)

Photo taken along the sea, Gloucester, Massachusetts
Listening to Dream Girl by the Dave Matthews Band

Midlife Pep Talk

2011-07-14T15:44:00.000+01:00

It is time for a self pep talk. I feel like I am turning chapters in a book and with each page I am getting more and more befuddled.

Maybe it's stress, maybe it's midlife, maybe, maybe, maybe....I could think of endless excuses. I am having this defining moment because I had to 'check in' for a weight management programme I signed up for earlier in the year and I was not a happy camper. Creative time management allowed me to side step it for a few weeks but the inevitable had to happen. The rosy faced young athletic woman who has been monitoring my progress was going to give me that look again and she did. I thought if I were really lucky, the 10K running/walking event I did the day before would have miracle powers and take a few kilos with it. Nice try on my part, but wishful thinking.

I talk to friends and start to hear a familiar ring to what is being said... 'it is not as easy as it used to be'. We all agree that we will not claim a defeatist attitude, that would be boring. We just have to try harder as our bodies adjust to this midlife stage of life. It is not so much about wearing the same size clothes as we did 20 years ago ( although that would be nice), it is about being healthy for the rest of our lives.

There are no certainties, that has becomes more and more apparent as the years go by. The difference now is that we have a choice and if we are relatively healthy that is a pretty good choice to have.

I am all for new starts, it is what keeps me going. I have decided to turn the page and look at life a bit differently tomorrow. I am blessed, I have the ability to enjoy life with my family and friends and I want it to last as long as it can.

Nothing like a little self pep talk to finish the day!

How about you...do you ever need to give yourself a pep talk too?

image via postcard

source unknown

Lost in Thought

2011-07-03T23:42:00.001+01:00

I seem to be running on a theme these days with photographs and paintings.

Flowers, Summer, Lounging, Weaving, Thinking....

How about you?

I managed to sneak in a little red, white and blue here for

my American family and friends.

Happy 4th of July!

Jeanne xxx

Painting by Harold Harvey

English Painter, 1874-1941

'The Girl in the Red Beret'

Richard Green Gallery

Feeling Comfortable

2011-06-23T18:25:00.001+01:00

I wrote a note to myself in one of my journals a while back. I may have posted on it already but when I read it again today, I knew I had to say it one more time. I think this is a feeling that is universal with many. Life is to precious to get bogged down in the little things...no matter the age.

"Letting go of hang ups at 50...
As I get older, I don't feel that different. I feel better. At some point you let go of hang ups. The positioning and posturing, angst and worry. I now look back and wonder if it was all necessary. You find your way regardless. At some point, you just feel comfortable with who you are and get on with it."

Feeling comfortable with who you are...it's a great feeling, don't you agree?

Best wishes for a wonderful weekend. :)

Jeanne xxx

-Image taken by me at the 2011 Chelsea Flower Show, London. I like to imagine having a garden ornament like that someday. I would call it 'Celebration'.
-Posted via my IPad..in learning mode. :)

Julie's Scottish Chickens.....

2011-06-17T20:55:00.000+01:00

'Butterflies' by Anna Pugh

I have been wanting to write about this card for weeks. It put a big smile on my face when I saw it a

bookshop. I just had to buy it. I came home to find this email from a very thoughtful reader in Scotland, Julie. She kindly said yes when I asked if I could relay her message in a post.

Hi Jeanne

I like your new name! I have sent your blog to a friend as she is already a fan.

I was 51 last week and my husband bought me four chickens. Pictures were taken

of the grand unveiling and I couldn't fine one I liked of me. Just wishing the lens had

focused on the chickens!

On a positive note though I have let go of so much since I turned 50. I am also aware that if I

don't pursue the projects I have put on hold, I never will. So I am looking into starting my own business

and pulling back from my stressful job! I will keep you posted on my progress. In the meantime keep sending out your wisdom to us all in blogdom, we love it!

Julie xx

I love that Julie's husband bought her chickens! That is a first for me. I imagine Julie in the picture above, feeding her chickens and thinking on life. I think she is the one who has passed on wisdom here. :)

Thank you Julie!

Best wishes to one and all for a lovely weekend!

Jeanne xxx

Card by Anna Pugh for Canns Down Crimson

Midlife Passions

2011-06-09T18:07:00.000+01:00

I took a long walk today to clear the head and gather my thoughts. My only difficulty was the constant stopping to peer over people's garden fences. I have tried to master a nonchalant way of doing this but decided it doesn't exist. It is more like point, shoot and look lost whilst muttering to our dog, Tika, that she should stop leading me astray.

Along the way, I wondered about the new name of this blog. I consider this a midlife conundrum...always changing my mind. When someone mentioned that they looked forward to my words of wisdom I admit I stopped dead in my tracks....wisdom? me?

Midlife Passions seems so much simpler...don't you think?

At the moment, gardens are my passion.

Tomorrow...who knows. That is the wonderful thing about midlife...far fewer worries, fretting and getting hung up on every little detail. Does it really matter what I call this blog? Does it really matter that I have lost countless photos to this blog and some of my others...(choke)? The answer is no (gulp).

Really and truly. If I can find gardens like the one above, take a photo and am able to share it with like minded individuals...than I am one happy midlife lady...pursuing midlife passions....

and hoping I remember them tomorrow :)

image~me

A Summer Parasol

2011-06-06T19:27:00.000+01:00

'Woman with Parasol' by Richard E. Miller ~1875-1943
image

Such a beautiful and thoughtful painting.

Just had to share!

Best wishes for a wonderful week.

Jeanne xxx

Saying it with Foxgloves...

2011-06-03T08:06:00.002+01:00

I won't lament as I have done enough of that over here.

Apologies are in order for you faithful few

who come along and read what I have to say.

If ever their was a blog that was in utter confusion,

this is the one. I really should say, if ever there is

one that shows the true state of my mind, this is the one :)

I lost the majority of my photos here,

it will take a long while to sort it out.

The words are still in place..I am thankful for that.

Being one to take setbacks as opportunities,

I will Keep Calm and Carry On.

or as Hostess of the Humble Bungalow said..

Keep Calm and Blog On.

It's nothing a few foxgloves can't cure...

How many is the more pressing question :)

Best wishes for a wonderful day!!

Jeanne xx

A Change...Midlife Wisdom

2011-05-28T17:38:00.001+01:00

I have made a change...

at least for today or the next few days.

B-Well Report

is now

Midlife Wisdom.

I went back and forth and have considered quite a few.

I wrote the post below a few months ago.

My thoughts have not wavered.

It's done and dusted, at least for today :)

~Midlife~

This is a word that I have been

less than enthusiastic about for some time.

It is right up there in the dreaded 'M' words.

Look up midlife in the dictionary and you will

quickly find that it is linked with another,

midlife crisis.

Why is that ?

I ask myself that question everyday.

Everything I read tells me

to get ready. For what?

To this I say.

Can't we be our best at any age?

I think it is a state of mind.

Midlife, aging gracefully,

whatever you want to call it,

I think you have to make the most of it.

If you have been visiting from the start of this blog

I hope you will stay a little longer.

B-Well ( now Midlife Wisdom)
is experiencing a few growing pains.

The good kind :))

I believe we need to B-Well in mind, body and spirit

to make this midlife wheel go round. I come here
for inspiration.

If you are in the same state of mind,

stay awhile, we can grow together :))

PS...

In case you are wondering,

I am 53. They say it can start

in your 30's...I must be a late

bloomer :))

A study in Perfection...

2011-05-26T00:25:00.001+01:00

I am nearly speechless...

sigh...

akebia vine, hellebores, pulsatilla

from the talented

Sarah at Saipua

image here

Pick a Posy

2011-05-23T21:50:00.002+01:00

I think one of the nicest gifts is something freshly picked from your garden.

I would take a simple posy, just like this, any day of the week.

Such a simple gesture, yet so very personal.

You may not be able to read the writing in the photo above.

It says...

In his book Eight Weeks to Optimal Health, Dr. Andrew Weil

suggests you buy yourself a fresh bunch of flowers each week

to maintain a positive outlook in life. I say grow your own- better still,

grow your own flowering herbs.

In my cut flower garden I grow echinacea, catmint, bog sage,

St. John's wort and bergamot for picking.

The most beautiful bouquet I ever received was also the tiniest-a tussie-mussie.

Pick a posy to give to a friend.

"A jar full of different herbs is both pretty and useful on the kitchen bench"

says Christine Wren of Wellington, NZ. "And a bunch of fresh herbs wrapped in

brown paper and tied with string makes a good present for a dinner hostess."

I could not agree more !

Image from New Zealand Gardener magazine.

Copy written by Jane Wrigglesworth of Flaming Petal.

Is there a special porch in your life?

2011-05-18T22:10:00.001+01:00

via my home ideas

I found this picture a few days ago and keep going back to look at it.

I have such fond memories of sitting on porches throughout my life.

All shapes, sizes, locations and none of these really matter

as long as it is filled with the things and people you love.

The porch above slips into

hometown memories by the sea.

Creaking wooden floors,

fly screen with a hole here and there, comfy chairs,

nautical memorabilia of days gone by,

buckets of flowers,

wind chimes to tell the direction

of the next storm and the only thing missing here

would be my father, humming a tune up the stairs

after inspecting his tomato garden

with me right behind him.

How about you,

is there a special porch in your life?

Googling for Health

2011-05-14T14:03:00.001+01:00

A strong constitution....
Some of you may know that my health has been precarious these past few months. Nothing life threatening...just mildly to moderately annoying. I should start by saying that over the years I have had a few minor blips on the health front. My family has marveled at my ability to stay free of germs whilst they take on the seasonal coughs and colds at every turn. I put it down to a strong constitution and have been mighty proud of it. I should have knocked on wood the last time I said that.

Fe Fi Fo Fum...
It has been quite a journey, trying to make sense of Britain's health system, a long journey. I have seen many doctors, several specialists and have been poked and prodded more than I care for. I have come to the conclusion that I can take all of that in stride as long as they give me a word...just one word, that I can go home with, and enter into the vast land of Googledom. I know, I shouldn't do it...but I can't help myself. "It might be, it could be, you may want to consider"...yes, yes, do go on...just one word, give me one word and I will be happy. I could easily break out into song with each visit "Fe, Fi, Fo, Fum...give me a word for Googledom". I then must remember to contain myself and listen with great intent for a glimmer of reason.

A learned matter...
Have I found the answer? No, but I have learned much about the human body and have died at least 15 times over from a host of possibilities which have nothing to do with my symptoms. I have seen Doctor's A, J and E who could not agree. I have seen Mr. T who then sent me to Dr. B who is sending me to Dr. R. I recently took matters into my own hands and visited Mr. O to investigate my own suspicions but alas he could only confirm what I did not want to hear, that I am well and truly into"M". .. Confused? Yes, me too. I should mention that 'doctors' come in two forms here. Those who can perform surgical operations (put very simply) are referred to as 'Mr/Mrs' and all others as 'Dr'.

Words of wisdom...
So here I sit in my little sunroom...contemplating life and feeling perplexed over one last matter. Yesterday, I took my youngest (11 yrs old) to see a doctor for an ailment of his own. We sat, we listened, we asked questions, we succeeded in obtaining an explanation and a flitter of prescriptions. As we left the office, my youngest turned to me and said "Mom, the doctor seemed confused, we need to know more, let's go home and look up that word on the internet". I looked at him, hesitated for a moment and with glee said "Fe, Fi, Fo, Fum...another word for Googledom!".

Signing off from Googledom.....and feeling better :)

From my travels to the Chelsea Physic Garden this week.

The plant Valeriana Officinalis, used as a herbal

sedative for nervous strain. Formerly used to treat psychoneuroses.

I wonder, to treat 'M'?

Perhaps I should plant some!

images~me :)

Tika and me...

2011-05-05T23:22:00.000+01:00

This little puppy, Tika, is now seven years old, 67 in dog years. I took her in to

the vet this morning to have her teeth cleaned. Who knew it would be such

an ordeal! As we sat side by side, Tika and I, we both had to hear something

that has been familiar to both of us recently. "At your age...."

Poor thing, she has to have two teeth pulled and she is in desperate

need of a beauty treatment...not unlike me.

I am happy to say...that although I sport similar fashion glasses,

I do not walk around with a tennis ball in my mouth....not yet.

Mrs. Dalloway's Flowers

2011-05-01T16:11:00.001+01:00

I picked up the audio CD of Mrs. Dalloway by Virgina Woolf from our local library. I am enjoying is so much that I am now on the hunt for the book. I admit to having special requirements, it must be used, it must be light for travel and have just the right cover. A cover is all important in a used book, at least for me. A tall order I know. It will be a precious gift when I find it and I will!

In the meantime...a passage that I enjoyed with hopes that you might too.

There were flowers: delphiniums, sweet peas, bunches of lilac; and carnations, masses of carnations. There were roses; there were irises. Ah yes- so she breathed in the earthy garden sweet smell as she stood talking to Miss Pym who owed her help, and thought her kind, for kind she had been years ago; very kind, but she looked older, this year, turning her head from side to side among the irises and roses and nodding tufts of lilac with her eyes half closed, snuffing in, after the street uproar, the delicious scent, the exquisite coolness. And then, opening her eyes, how fresh like frilled linen clean from a laundry laid in wicker trays the roses looked; and dark and prim the red carnations, holding their heads up; and all the sweet peas spreading in their bowls, tinged violet, snow white, pale- as if it were the evening and girls in muslin frocks came out to pick sweep peas and roses after the superb summer's day, with its almost blue-black sky, its delphiniums, its carnations, its arum lilies was over, and it was the moment between six and seven when every flower- roses, carnations, irises, lilac- glows; white, violet, red, deep orange; every flower seems to burn by itself, softly, purely in the misty beds; and how she loved the grey-white moths spinning in and out, over the cherry pie, over the evening primroses!

and flowers from my walk along St. James's Park in London, in anticipation of the Royal Wedding...

Are you a fan of Virgina Woolf?

I have tucked in my bag, for train rides in and our of London,

Penguin Books...another perfect companion :)

I have made it my goal to purchase all of Virgina Woolf's books...gently used.

What say you on VW?

Text from Mrs. Dalloway, here

Image to A Room of One's Own, here.

Flower images~me :)

The Poem

2011-04-27T18:18:00.000+01:00

I have been transcribing letters written to me by my grandmother in the 1970's (here). My aunt and I are putting together the pieces of her story. My goal is to create a book to share with family members. When my aunt mentioned that my grandmother loved the poetry of Edgar A. Guest, I thought of of one I posted last year. I looked it up and sent it to her. She was very moved and wrote to say that it was one of my grandmother's favourites. She would often recite it to her children before they went to bed at night. She knew every word by heart. There was no questions what my next post would be...HOME. The image below was painted by my mother. It is the first home that Mr. H and I lived in, tucked away in the Kuringai National Park in Sydney, Australia.

HOME

by Edgar A. Guest

Home, you say, when day is done,

Home to comfort and peace and rest;

Home, where the children romp and run-

There is the place that you love the best!

Yet what would the home be like if you

Had all of its endless tasks to do?

Would it be home if she were not there,

Brave and gentle and fond and true?

Could you so fragrant a meal prepare?

Could you numberless duties do?

What were the home that you love so much,

Lacking her presence and gracious touch?

She is the spirit of all that's fair;

She is the home that you think you build;

She is the beauty that you dream of there;

She is the laughter with which it's filled-

She, with her love and her gentle smile,

Is all that maketh the home worth while.

Text via Edgar A. Guest, The Passing Throng,

The Reilly and Lee Company, Chicago, 1923

In my garden today.....colour

2011-04-24T20:30:00.000+01:00

Today was all about the colours lavender, orange and yellow with a touch of warm red and white. Bacopa Snowflake, Lavanda Nuance, Royal Blue, Angelart Pear, Strawberry and Orange Nemesia, Roccoco Red and Violet Blue Verbena and Golden Yellow Gold Star along with white impatiens for a little bit of evening moonglow,

Mr. H and I went along to the gardening center and stocked up. Flowers, flowers everywhere...and trowels and empty containers, and miles and miles of garden hose and bags of potting mix. I am 'plum tuckered out' and it is such a sweet, delicious feeling. I will sleep well tonight :)

What are your plans for your garden this year,

have you picked a colour scheme?

Do you keep the same one each year

or do you like a change?

In my garden today...lilac, tulips and daffodils.

images~me

Best wishes for a Happy Easter!

Artistic Exploration

2011-04-19T22:47:00.001+01:00

My clean sweep is still in progress (here). I had hoped to report in with a cleaner desk by now but somehow I managed to find my way into our garage and into another world. Years ago I decided to explore my artistic side. There were parts of it I loved ( collage below) and there were parts that were challenging to say the least (sketches below). I enjoyed free flow sketching...the light touch of the pencil without expectation. When we moved on to technical drawings I nearly lost the plot. Those lines!

Either way, it was fun to rediscover this particular art folder. I went thru several years of discovery and then stopped. It has been a few years since but I know someday, when the time is right, when the spirit moves...I will go back. In the meantime, I am enjoying my 'clean sweep' and look forward to what follows next. I might just pull out all those paintings I managed to tuck away in the far corner of the garage:)

A collage created from magazines and newspapers at the time.

This is one I will try again...a good one for the memory bank.

On my bookshelf..a little artistic play.

ggrrr....this is when I gave up all notions of interior design!

Those lines!!

I wonder, dear reader, if you have an artistic side that

is waiting to be explored :) Do you have any creations

hidden away? Have you looked at them lately?

More to come...all in the pursuit

of being well.... in mind, body and spirit!

images~me

A Clean Sweep

2011-04-15T09:24:00.002+01:00

Problem....

There are days when you have to say enough is enough and make a clean sweep of it all. You know it is time when you can't find that one piece of paper, when you were certain you saw it there yesterday but 'poof' it is gone. You know it is time when your children start texting you with 'don't forget.....' and when you can no longer make sense of your own filing system.

Solution.....

I take one basket...walk around the house to my various nesting spots and throw it all in. I then sit with a cup of tea close by and a large space in front of me and start sorting. Let me tell you....when it is done, it is like a weight has lifted. I really should do it more often.

One last problem.....

Now...that desk of mine....I really must do something about that.

My plan is to come back and post an organised version of this :)

Note:

Thank you all for your comments on Making a Life Wish List. It is not dissimilar to what I am doing here. Making a clean sweep and taking stock. :) We can all do with a 'clean sweep' every now and again, don't you think?

Jeanne xxx

Making a Life Wish List

2011-04-09T19:12:00.000+01:00

Have you ever tried speed writing a life wish list? Just start with 'I wish...'.and then quickly write the first things that come to mind.

This is an exercise from the book, The Artist's Way by Julia Cameron. I purchased the book in 1997, the year I turned 40 and proceeded to write a wish list of 50 things I wanted to accomplish in my lifetime. Once done, I put the list away and simply forgot about it. I seem to recall that this was the idea behind the exercise.

Many years later, in a different country and in very different circumstances, I came upon the list. What I discovered was insightful and intriguing. Without realising it, I was slowly getting thru my life list. Every once and a while I have an urge to look at the list again. It usually around the time when something significant in my life has happened or is about to happen. I always wonder if I foresaw it in my list.

I should preface this with describing my lifestyle in 1997. It is very different to my life today. We were living in Connecticut. My life revolved around my family, my children's schools, our country club and my gardening club. My children were 8, 6 and 4 years of age and I had recently stopped working to spend more time with them. We lived in a house we loved (here) and I thought we would spend the rest of days in it. With that in mind, I created my life list. Here are the first ten items on my list, just as they appeared on the original list...

1. Learn to cook great meals with little headache

2. Make exercise and healthy eating a lifestyle.

3. Eventually learn to speak Spanish.

4. Find a talent that I am very good at, not average!

5. Plant a spectacular garden around our property.

6. Travel back to Australia

7. Travel to London, visit countryside, explore and study English gardens.

8. Go to Africa!

9. See our house completely furnished in a style that we both agree on.

10. Throw a big memorable party.

I often wonder if I am looking into a crystal ball. Since writing this list, we managed to move back to Australia, we currently live in London, we did go to Africa, we eventually furnished a house that we both agreed on and Mr. H. thru me a big memorable surprise birthday party on my 40th but....

I still get a headache when I try to cook great meals and I am still trying to make exercise and healthy eating a lifestyle. I have a feeling Spanish will be in the horizon sooner than I think and as for the gardens, not yet but someday!

Is there any wonder I have a blog entitled B-Well...in mind, body and spirit? Is it any wonder that of all my blogs I find this one the most frustrating? Is it any wonder that at the moment this blog is having a major identity crisis and has changed identity several times in the past week? All this because of those top two items which I wrote all those years ago!

A little more crystal ball gazing and here are a few others on my list that I have managed to tick off.

14. Make a significant contribution (volunteer) to the children's school.

17. Expose kids to as much as possible to broaden their horizons and give them the desire to want to learn more.

20. Spend a day at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in NYC by myself.

21. Take an interior design course.

22. Be good enough within my garden club to win a prize for a flower arrangement or landscape design.

23. Go to China.

33. Renovate our house to fit our expectations of what it could be.

There are a number of things on the list that I no longer have an interest in doing...learning to play golf, take up long distance running and becoming a great tennis player. I think that was the country club talking :)

I have added to the list over the years. Each time, I have used the speed writing technique, dated the list and tucked it away. Honestly, it has been one of the most productive exercises that I have ever done. I encourage my children to do the same and to make it a life long exercise.

I recently had the urge to look at it again and was dismayed when I could not find it. Today, under the guest room bed, in the far corner, at the bottom of the box, I found it again :) I still have lots to do, places to go, people to see....and sooner or later I hope to complete #1 and # 2!

How about you, do you have a life wish list?

Nightly Rituals

2011-03-29T23:15:00.004+01:00

I am loving this sitting area created by Interior Designer, Bunny Williams. It seems the perfect setting for the email that I opened today. It refers to night time rituals. I could easily contemplate life at the end of the day in this corner before slipping off to bed. I receive a daily inspiration from Daily OM each day. Today I received this one....

Access Decorati

A Special Goodnight

Creating a Nightly Ritual
Behind us lies the previous day and all that has come before;
ahead of us, dawn heralds all that is yet to be.

At the end of the day, as the sweet, dark stillness of night beckons us to lay down our bones and rest, we find ourselves at a clear transition point: Behind us lies the previous day and all that has come before; ahead of us, dawn heralds the unfolding of all that is yet to be. While many of us have morning rituals that connect us with our center and help us to set intentions, we may want to explore the magic and power of nighttime ritual as well. It holds for us a beautiful chance for self-appreciation and blessing. Before you go to bed each night, you can send gratitude, compassion, and healing to the being you have been up until this moment. And you can send lightness and love into the future for the one you are in the process of becoming.
Though simple, this action honors the journey you have taken thus far, while opening you to the wonderful possibilities still ahead. When you consciously engage with your own evolution this way, you may find that your sleep gets sweeter, filling your night with a deeper sense of trust and relaxation. As you rest, you can surrender to these peaceful hours, knowing that the road behind you has been seen and acknowledged with respect and kindness, while the path ahead now holds your own benevolence and well wishes.
This bedtime ritual empowers you as the only one who can determine the meaning of your own past and the hopefulness of your future. By setting this special time aside each night, you can begin to orient yourself on your path of growing. It allows you to let the past have its place, to trust that the future is taken care of, and to simply rest yourself in the graceful arms of the present moment.

From Daily OM here

Do you have nightly rituals?

Thinking on this blog...to be or not to be?

2011-03-28T13:16:00.004+01:00

Some days are better spent just thinking. The best laid plans come

from moments like this...I am thinking the kimono would be a

nice addition to the thought process too:)

Japonaise Woman in Kimono

By Mary Brewster Hazelton

(1868-1953)

image

Chilli, mint, coriander, lime, ginger.......

2011-03-21T23:39:00.000Z

If ever I am looking for inspiration, the first person I think of is

Donna Hay. Donna is an Australian chef with a plethora of cookbooks to her

name. I can always count on her to have the perfect recipe. I have never been let down.

This one looks like it will pack a bit of punch with all of my favourite ingredients.

My Little Messengers

2011-03-14T15:41:00.002Z

image

I read today that hormones are our body's chemical messengers.

I wish I could shoot the messenger.

Can't they see that I am busy, that I have things to get on with?

Could they please give me back the energy that I need

to get on with these precious things?

Can't they tell that I really do not want to eat chocolate?

Craving celery might be nice, can they help me with that?

What is with the sleep thing?

I seem to be missing a few hours each night, have they stolen them too?

Why don't they put themselves to good use and get me up in the morning

and out the door for a 5 km run? That would be a nice gesture.

Why don't they pick up the pace on my mental alertness and let

me actually complete a project before starting the next one?

Am I asking that much?

and....

rather than letting me lean over a railing this morning to take this picture,

why didn't those little messengers inspire me to join a spin class?

and...

What is with all these questions?

I need answers....Hormones go home.

Your exhausting me!

Sorry folks...not the most inspiring post.

Blame it on the messengers!

I do feel surprisingly better though.

Care to join me?

Maybe I should call this blog
'My Hormonal Life'..
nah...just kidding :)

Make Someone Happy

2011-03-09T20:22:00.000Z

Thought for the day...

Call me sentimental but I can't help myself.

I hear this song and all my cares just seem to melt away.

Try it out at the end of a long day....it works magic.

No one sings it like Jimmy Durante :)

B-Well ~ B-Happy!

You Tube
Artist: Jimmy Durante singing Make Someone Happy

A Little Tuscan Love

2011-02-27T22:39:00.000Z

I have been in a cooking frenzy and thinking of Tuscany.

More specifically, I have been reminiscing over some

of my favourite recipes from this cookbook.

Stephanie Alexander and Maggie Beer are two Australian icons.

If you visit any Australian home of someone with a passion for food

you are bound to find at least one or two cookbooks from either or both chefs.

I have five :)

Maggie Beer (L) and Stephanie Alexander (R)

Turn a few pages of this cookbook and you are there

...in the heart of Tuscany.

The recipes jump off the page at you...

there are so many it is hard to know

where to get started.

Lemon Biscuits

Stewed Fresh Cannellini Beans

Fish Stew with Shellfish and Gremolata

Chilled Lemon Cream

Stephanie Alexander and Maggie Beer held a cooking

school for Australians in Siena a few years back. The book

is a collection of recipes from the event.

Below is the kitchen where it all happened...

The Introduction to the book is a holiday in itself....

"A villa tucked away among the vineyards and fields to the south of Siena..."

"Structured gardens of bay hedges and red geraniums

tumbling from terracotta pots..."

"Shuttered windows opened out onto gardens and courtyards..

Siena and olive groves in the distance."

"The teaching took place in the kitchen and a sunny courtyard.

By 12:30 the students were encouraged to have a glass of spumante or

Moscato d'Asti while we made a few finishing flourishes."

"Weekly trips to the San Lorenzo fresh produce market in Florence."

"Students shopped and cooked and ate as they talked.

They talked about food and about 'going with the flow'

and never compromising with quality."

Yes, I know, it sounds wonderful and delicious!

Are you thinking what I am thinking ???

I am dedicating this post to Jane over @ My Pear Tree House

Jane is starting chemotherapy and has had cravings for all things lemon and lime.

When I saw these lemon recipes I thought of her.

Jane...I hope you like them xx

Chilled Lemon Cream

4 sponge finger biscuits, broken into pieces

1/3 cup sweet wine or marsala

4 eggs, separated

100 g. castor sugar

grated zest of 3 lemons

500 ml thick (45%) cream

Candied lemon peel

icing sugar

Sprinkle the broken sponge fingers with the wine. Whisk the egg yolks with the castor sugar until pale and thick, then mix in the lemon zest. In another bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form, then mix very carefully into yolk mixture. Whip the cream and fold it into the egg mixture with the soaked sponge. Spoon the mixture into 10 x 100 ml moulds and freeze for not longer than 1 hour (the mixture is not meant to become solid). Decorate with copped candied lemon peel and dust with icing sugar . Serve with berries or Lemon Biscuits...recipe to follow.

Lemon Biscuits

50 g. blanched almonds

50 g Candid Lemon Peel, chopped

finely grated zest of 1/2 lemon

40 g plain flour

50 g unsalted butter

50 g castor sugar

1 tablespoon milk

ICING

50 g icing sugar

orange or lemon juice

Finely chop the almonds and candied peel in a food processor. Add the remaining ingredients to make a smooth dough. Roll the mixture into logs 3 cm in diameter and wrap in plastic film. Chill for 1 hour.

Preheat the oven to 160C. Slice the chilled dough very thinly and arrange the slices well apart on baking tray lined with baking paper. Bake for 10-15 minutes until lightly browned. Cool on a wire rack.

To make the icing, mix the icing sugar with enough orange or lemon juice to achieve a spreading consistency.. Ice the biscuits when they are cool and allow them to dry.

Candied Lemon Peel

lemon shells ( thick skin) , halved

sugar

castor sugar

Cut each half shell into 4-6 pieces, leaving all white pith intact. Put the pieces into a heavy based saucepan and cover generously with cold water. Bring to a boil, then pour off the water. Repeat this process twice to remove any bitterness from the peel, then drain well. Weigh the peel and return it to the pan with the same weight of sugar. Cook gently until the sugar has dissolved completely, then cook steadily for about 1 hour until the peel is translucent. Drain the peel and dry it on a wire cake rack resting over a tray somewhere out of the way of ants. The draining can take a couple for days. Turn after 12 hours. When dry, roll the peel in castor sugar and store in airtight jars.

Cottura Felice!

(Happy Baking!)

Recipes and images from Tuscan Cookbook

by Stephanie Alexander and Maggie Beer

Talking Food Plans and Serving Sizes

2011-02-15T17:59:00.004Z

For larger view click here

I thought I was so clever! As some of you know, I recently started a Weight Management Programme to shed a few kilos and move onto a healthier lifestyle. This is the first time I have ever done something like this and am finding answering to others a bit tricky. This is a combined diet and exercise programme with everything especially fine tuned to me. I really should not complain.
I went in yesterday to see the results of my food diary. Perhaps it was not wise to start it on the weekend of my sons birthday party. Cake, ice cream, candy, chips....well it was a party. I mentioned to my Physiologist that this was not a normal representation of my eating habits or drinking habits. My chart had high and low peaks with the highest being my wine intake. I told her I must have misunderstood as I measured my glass of wine by the grams instead of ml's. She said that should make no difference...ooops.

Any of this sounding familiar? We then discussed my progress against tracking my daily steps. Was I reaching 10,000 a day? I very proudly said that I had been wearing my pedometer to the gym and hopping on the treadmill and cross trainer to achieve my goals. To this she shook her head and said no, no, no. The 10,000 steps a day must be in addition to what I do in the gym. I am not supposed to count steps during my workouts. Say what? So much for being clever. We then went thru my diet plans for the upcoming weeks. I was happy with this. We have a plan and now I can wrap my mind around it and get to work. Did I mention that this a nine month plan?

I have to say I am enjoying the journey and I do believe it will be beneficial to me in the long term. I have never really understood the fine art of reading food labels and appreciating exactly what I have been eating. I have been given a few guidelines around a blood sugar balancing meal plan and am finding it useful.
Today I skipped the chocolate ( except for 1-2 little truffle hearts...left over from my valentine (me) :). That aside, I have managed 8,000 steps and have a few hours to go to clock in a few more. I went into London today which helped with the extra steps. I can see I am going to have to make more frequent visits to keep up the pace. :)
Ok, so week one was not that great. There is always week two :)
I hope to chart my progress here at B-Well and also provide information that we can all use for a healthier lifestyle. Some readers have mentioned they are in a similar situation to me...let's talk! We can encourage each other :)

via Lady of America

Did you know?

Recommended Daily Servings

The recommended servings from each of the main

food groups by the USDA is as follows:

Grains (6-11 servings)

Fruits and Vegetables (5-7 servings)

Dairy (2-3 servings for men and 3-4 servings for women)

Meats (2-3 servings)

Fats, Oils and Sweets (use sparingly)

Here are a few examples of serving sizes:

Grains:

1/2 cup cooked cereal, rice or pasta

6-8 crackers

1/2 starchy vegetable, such as potato

1/2 cup tofu

Fruits and Vegetables:

1 medium-size piece of fresh fruit

1/2 cup dried fruit

1/2 cup cooked vegetables

1 cup leafy or raw vegetable

3/4 cup fruit or vegetable juice

Meat, Poultry, Fish and Meat Alternatives:

3 oz. (85g) of meat, poultry or fish

( about the size of a pack or cards)

1 egg

1/2 cup cooked dry beans

Dairy:

1 cup milk

1 cup yogurt

1 oz. (28g) or 1/2 cup cheese

1/2 cup cottage cheese

Fats, Oils and Sweets:

1 tbsp margarine

1 tbsp vegetable or canola oil

1 tbsp butter

B-well my friends!

Reference via Health Facts

Recipe: Turkish bulgar and red lentil soup

2011-02-09T19:23:00.002Z

Just had the yummiest soup...big family raves!

Turkish bulgar and red lentil soup

It is so good, I am starting to make a second batch.

It is so easy!

I discovered it this morning in Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall's column

@ the Guardian. He is a food and cookery write and creator of

River Cottage books and the River Cottage TV show on Channel 4 (UK).

The website is packed with all sorts of great information and worth checking out.

Now..on too the recipe:

Turkish bulgur and red lentil soup

A substantial soup, great as a meal in itself with a hunk of bread and perhaps a salad of dressed greens. Serves three to four.

For the soup
100g red lentils
2 tbsp olive oil
1 large onion, peeled and finely chopped
1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
3 garlic cloves, peeled and minced
1 tbsp tomato purée
1 litre vegetable stock
50g bulgur wheat
1½ tsp sweet smoked paprika
1-2 tbsp thick yoghurt
For the flavoured oil
3 tbsp olive oil
20g butter
1 tsp dried mint
½ tsp sweet smoked paprika

Pick over the lentils, tip into a sieve and rinse well. Warm the olive oil in a large saucepan over a medium-low heat and sauté the onion with the thyme and a good pinch of salt until softened and just beginning to turn golden. Add the garlic and sauté for another minute. Add the tomato purée, stir, then tip in the stock, bulgur, lentils and paprika. Stir and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer, cover and cook for 15-20 minutes, until the lentils and bulgur are very soft. Purée in a food processor or with a stick blender if you prefer a smooth and creamy soup, or leave it as it is, adding a little more stock or water if it's too thick. Season to taste.

While the soup is cooking make the flavoured oil. Warm the olive oil in a pan with the butter until the butter has melted and the foaming subsides. Remove from heat and stir in the dried mint and paprika.

Serve the soup in warmed bowls with yoghurt and the flavoured oil trickled over the top, and sprinkled with a pinch or two of dried mint.

Recipe from the Guardian.. http://www.guardian.co.uk/lifeandstyle/2011/feb/05/couscous-bulgur-quinoa-recipes

All part of my healthy eating campaign...stay tuned, more coming this way :)

Image via Guardian

Deep Sleep and Losing Weight

2011-02-08T17:53:00.000Z

I promised myself today that I would make it an early night.

I had my first appointment today with my physiologist as part of my

weight management programme. In addition to my food journal,

I had to fill out a questionnaire....with complete honesty.

When they asked how many hours I normally sleep a night I admit

the pen hovered over the paper. Dare I say seven hours on a good night,

six on average and lately it has known to be less?

I promised myself I would be honest. I was.

I then got a good talking too.

Did you know that we actually burn fat when we enter

our deepest sleep level, the one when we dream?

This piece of news made me want to run home and lock my Nespresso

machine up for good. I decided not to be too rash and felt honest attempts

to will myself to sleep would be better. It is 11:33pm....it is not working.

I saw this photo and it said sleep. So I will...now, well,

maybe after I read the news on my iphone, in the dark,

under the sheets so as not to wake Mr. H.

Shhhhhhhhh.....

I wonder if that could be the reason why I am not sleeping?

image via Think Baby

Me and my Salter Kitchen Scale

2011-02-05T16:15:00.005Z

If you read my last post you will know that I am in the midst of writing a food journal for a weight management program that I am about to embark upon. My first appointment is on Monday. I have to go to the appt. with a four day entry, two weekdays and a weekend. Everythin I eat has to be weighed. I am thrilled that I made this purchase a few years back, a Salter Aquatronic Kitchen Scale. Let me tell you why I love this little gadget....

It is easy to use and easy to clean.

It measures in ml or fl. oz.

You can switch between metric and imperial measurements

It is easy to read.

It takes up to 5kg/11lb of weight

It uses a lithium battery which is included and runs forever.

It is light and easy to store.

It has a 15 year Guarantee.

I am slowly getting the hang of weighing my food

and am actually remembering to do it which is no small feat.

My only problem at the moment......

Mr. H brought home a 1kg. bag of Daim chocolate for my son's Birthday

goodie bags. This was to be split between six children. The bag contained 222 little chocolates. One sure way to draw incredulous stares from Mothers is to send their child home with 37 pieces of chewy caramel chocolate.

Needless to say their are quite a few pieces of Daim sitting in our cupboard.

Yes, I have sampled and mistakenly guessed that they were 1g. each.

I guess I was just being hopeful. I discovered today that they are 5g. each.

I have been jotting them down in my food journal in increments of 10.

I have made three notations.

I have decided fresh starts will commence with my appointment on Monday.

So glad to read that some of us are doing this together!

I need all the support I can get :)

In the meantime...if you are in need of a good kitchen scale,

I can highly recommend this one. It is fabuloso!

images via Salter and Daim

Weight Management for Health

2011-02-04T07:00:00.001Z

Dear B-Wellers

It all started with this window. It is a display for Whole Foods in Kensington, London. I stopped, looked and felt healthy. I had an extra skip in my walk that day as I was feeling good and it has been awhile since I felt like that.

Maybe I should not have taken the picture as I think my enthusiasm got the better of me. Yesterday, I signed a nine month commitment to a weight management programme at our local health club. When they passed over the food diary I knew I was doomed. I have to weigh my food !

I have never tried a weight programme as I know that healthy eating and exercise usually does the trick. Times are changing as they say...the big M is lurking and I can feel it. I very rarely get sick. Mr. H says I have the strongest constitution of anyone he knows. When I was down and out with the flu last month he was nervous...I was nervous. All is fine but it made me realise that I can not take my health for granted. My family has a history of heart disease and my cholesterol runs amuck when my weight creeps up. I need to keep an eye on things.

So here I sit having had a 75g bowl of muesli with 50g of blueberries and 125g cup of coffee. Just having to write in that book is sure to knock off a few kilos. Jeez Louise...I dread having to weigh that glass of wine this evening.

Thinking good health in this corner of the world :)

Any tips for me?? ( besides not having that glass of wine!)

Jeanne xxx

images: me and Nuffield Health

Bach, Yo-Yo Ma and Solo Cello No. 1

2011-01-29T19:19:00.002Z

I stopped in to say hi to Webb @ From the Garden Bench today.

She has written a post entitled, The Music of our Lives.

She talks about the power of music and where it take us.

I read this post before going to church this evening.

I then sat for an hour half listening to the sermon and half thinking about her post.

From there I focused on this particular song...which I love, by Bach and performed by Yo-Yo Ma,

Suite for Solo Cello No. 1 in G Major, BWV 1007: 1. Prelude.

It is performed in the video clip below.

I have been writing about music this week as well....and how good it can make you feel.

We are two bloggers thinking along the same lines. How about you?

Anything special you have been listening to this lately?

PS...

Many thanks for the suggestions to my post on The Secret.

I am so excited!

image: Yo-Yo Ma

Have you read The Secret?

2011-01-25T11:58:00.000Z

Call me a slow seller, but I admit,

I may be the only one

who has not read The Secret.....or am I?

I am looking for an Audiobook for my ipod

and I would like it to be inspiring.

The Secret by Rhonda Byrne

always seems to be there...waiting.

What do you think?

Have you read it?

Would you recommend it?

If you have another suggestion, I am all ears :)

via The Secret

Warmth of our own Light

2011-01-18T21:54:00.000Z

A few words today from Daily OM....

Removing Obstructions
Allowing Our Light To Shine
When we don’t feel ourselves shining,

we can tune inward to find the block that prevents us from shining our light.
There are times when we may not feel at our best and brightest. At those times we can take a look at what we might do to let our inner light shine to the fullest. Because we are physical, mental and spiritual beings, we need to determine where our spiritual light is being filtered or blocked. We can work from the outside inward, knowing that we are the only ones with the power to dim our lights, and as we clear away the layers we can get out of our own way to feel the warmth of our own light shining again.

As vehicles for our mind and spirit, our bodies require proper maintenance. Caring for ourselves is like polishing--helping to clear away the accumulation of physical debris that keeps us from operating at our fullest capacity. A simple shift in our thoughts can positively affect our mental state, moving from complaints to gratitude and applying the powerful light of love to any shadowy thoughts. A change of scenery can allow us to see the world in new ways too.

Once we are free of our restrictions, we can become still and connect to the power at the center of our being. It is always there for us, but when we forget to connect, or siphon our power in too many directions, we cannot make the most of our energy. Starting from the inside out may direct us to take the right steps for our journeys back to the light, but sometimes it can be difficult to find the stillness if our bodies and minds are in the way. As we practice steps to keep our energy flowing freely and without obstruction, we shine our light brightly, illuminating our own paths and making the world around us glow as well.

image~ me

Cooking for Health

2011-01-12T15:28:00.003Z

I have been very lucky these past few weeks.

My daughter, Christine, has been cooking from the heart.

She has been cooking, chopping and creating

me into good health.

It has been easy for her.

She has taken one of my favourite

Australian chefs, Belinda Jeffery's

and adapted one of her tried- and-true recipes.

to make a

'very addictive chilli bean and chickpea soup'

and for good measure... a cup of green tea

with gingseng enhanced with raspberry.

THE RECIPE:

Very Addictive Chilli Bean and Chickpea Soup

The Ingredients:

1/4 cup of olive oil

3 large onions, finely diced

3 garlic cloves, finely chopped

2 tbsp. tomato paste

1 tbsp. ground cumin

1 tbsp. chilli powder (according to taste)

1 tbsp. dijon mustard

1 large stalk celery, finely diced

2 carrots, finely diced

1 large red pepper, diced

3 large rip tomatoes, seeded and chopped

1 tsp. chopped thyme

about 1.5 litres tomato juice

120 g (2/4 cup) fine burghul

1 x 420 g can chickpeas, drained

1 x 420 g can red kidney beans (not drained)

juice of 1 large lemon, or more to taste

1/2 tsp. Tabasco

1 tbsp. Worcestershire sauce

sea salt, to taste

freshly ground black pepper, to taste

The garnish

plain yogurt or sour cream

paprika

pepper strips

herb sprigs

lime wedges

Serves 6

How to:

Measure, chop and prepare ingredients before you start..then..

warm the oil in a very large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic and cook them, stirring occasionally, for 8 minutes, or until they are golden.

Next, scoop in the tomato paste and cook it, stirring constantly, for 1 minute. Add the cumin, chilli and mustard and cook them stirring again, for another 2-3 minutes, or until they are really fragrant. Stir in the celery, carrots, peppers, tomatoes and thyme so they are well coated in the spice mixture. Mix in all the remaining ingredients.

Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring it occasionally so the burghul doesn't catch on the base of the pan. The reduce the heat and simmer it, stirring now and then, for 30 minutes.

That's it...it's ready.

Ladle into bowls and finish it off with garnish.

It tastes great the next day too. I like it thick with a few nacho chips on the side.

If want a thinner consistency, add a pinch tomato juice or water.

It was delicious...I am feeling better already :)

You can find more Belinda Jeffery recipes here

How about you,

do you have a sure cure for the flu?

images 1-2 Belinda Jeffery

the rest ~ me

Vitamin C Boost

2011-01-04T11:21:00.000Z

Feeling the need to boost your vitamin C intake?

The recommended daily allowance (RDA)

for adult men is 90mg and for adult women it is 75mg

according to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans.

Our house is on flu alert at the moment and

we have been stocking up on some of these

for a healthy start to 2011.

One medium orange

contains 70mg of vitamin C.

One half-cup of guava fruit

contains 188 mg of vitamin C.

One medium kiwi

contains 70 mg vitamin C.

A 3/4 cup of grapefruit juice

has 50-70 mg of vitamin C.

One half-cup of strawberries

has 49 mg of vitamin C.

another on our shopping list...

One half cup of sweet raw red pepper

contains 142 mg of vitamin C

I am feeling healthier already :)

images and facts via Delish

Creating a Dream

2011-01-02T23:38:00.000Z

I am just thinking...about what's what, who's who and New Year's

resolutions. I haven't quite made up my mind. I don't want to

think to big, I just want to make it real. I read a post today of

by Carole in Vancouver.

She is an artist and is working towards a solo show.

Her dream is to paint a canvas for each year of her life.

Carole will be 55 this year.

She will settle for less but it is a great notion none the less.

I love that she has set a goal like that.

It's original, it's real and a great dream :)

How about you...any ideas swirling around in your mind?

image via Traditional Home

Writing it out...

2010-12-22T08:10:00.000Z

I sent this book a friend who is having a hard time at the moment.

We live far away from each other and I want to help but I also understand

that what she is going thru is a process and it takes time. We have talked,

I have listened but I want to do more to help her. I sent her this book.

I have found writing to be helpful to me and am hoping it will do the same for her,

even if it is just a start. Thinking that it may be of interest to others,

I am passing it along :)

Janet Conner is the author of

Writing Down Your Soul: How to Activate and Listen to the Extraordinary Voice Within.

You can read comments about her book at Amazon.

I discovered much more at her website. She has a passion....

This is not for everyone but for those of you are interested, Happy Writing xx

via Writing Down Your Soul

Girl Talk and Window Thoughts

2010-12-17T00:36:00.003Z

Lots of girl talk last weekend.

A friend mentioned that as she grew older she felt like she was invisible.

Another felt that she was treated differently because of her age...we are talking 50.

It is not the first time I have heard that. I never think that much about it and I wonder why.

Of course, now that they mentioned it, I can't seem to get it off my mind.

I think this is one of those midlife questions we just have to wrestle with.

I like to think it is a state of mind. It is how we see ourselves rather than how others see us.

Maybe I am delusional.

Grrr...

This is what happens on long plane flights.... the mind wanders.

I am still waiting for mine to land.

Just wondered if anyone else has had the same thoughts..no matter what age you are.

Thinking healthy thoughts on this winter night :)

image~ window thoughts, view from a plane, over Australia

Feeling Good~ Feeling Fine

2010-12-03T16:58:00.000Z

My inner grizzly bear has headed for the hills.

This week I managed a manicure, pedicure,

facial and a haircut. It was time and I am

feeling much better. If you are reading this post

and thinking...ohhhh..

I say do it!

I have a long haul to Australia

and back next week for the very best reasons.

My son is graduating from University.

He will be in his military finest and I am

sure I will be grinning from ear to ear.

Tissues are packed.

I am ready.

Feeling good..feeling fine.

I hope you are too!!

image

My Grizzly Bear

2010-11-29T23:28:00.003Z

I have a Grizzly Bear living inside of me.

My GB can lay in slumber for the longest time.

My family smiles broad smiles and then when they least expect it,

Mama Grizzly wakes up and decides it is time to come out and play.

This is not friendly play...this is when perfection reigns.

All of a sudden the house must be cleaned from top to bottom.

Who cares if it is sub zero temperatures outside, if I decide

I want to wash the windows on a Sunday morning in my

slippers than I will...end of story.

If I decide I want to move the Christmas tree

from room to room dropping needles as I go, then so be it.

If I decide that all the cotton sheets need to be ironed

along with the tea towels and aprons

and I am willing to do it...then so be it.

If I decide that I now need 20 pillows on the bed

instead of the usual 15 then so be it.

I love my family...they let GB get her way

because they know that she will eventually

get plum tuckered out carrying on this way.

Then she will rest and all will be right with the world again.

The last image is me, after the gym today.

Just plum tuckered out.

The good news is I am feeling better...I think

Mama Grizzly cured my cough.

How about you...do you ever have to

wrestle with a grizzly bear inside of you?

Images: 1, 2, 3

Sauna Time

2010-11-26T14:30:00.000Z

I have been feeling a bit under the weather lately.

One of those coughs that just wants to hang around.

I made my way to the gym yesterday for a light workout

and then headed for the sauna. Man, was it hot, but if felt good!

A little trick I learned too...being the fair maiden that I am.

Three minutes in the sauna and I was bright red.

When I caught up with my daughter, Miss Christine

at the end of her session, she commented on what a great

workout I must have had.

Shhhh!

Best wishes for a wonderful weekend!

Jeanne xx

image

A Stairmaster and a Gelato

2010-11-22T00:32:00.002Z

You may be asking yourself how I could possibly put a StairMaster and gelato together. This is the sort of thing I was thinking about when I was turning up the heat at the gym on Friday. My itunes playlist was not giving me what I needed. Robbie Williams did the trick for a while but then I needed something else and thought I would try a little Latin beat. I will warn you now that playing Mambo Gelato while on any moving exercise device could prove to be dangerous to your health.

Once the beat starts...you may suddenly have the urge to do the Rumba or the Tango. This can be tricky when you are holding on to the handles for dear life trying to sort out how to slow the whole thing down. Either way...it will give those around and behind you a source of entertainment for at least a few minutes. Without knowing it you will suddenly find yourself doing a little sway to the left and the right whilst trying to bob your head in coordination.

Listen to this and you will see what I mean... click on Mambo Gelato by Ray Gelato when you open the page.

http://www.legalsounds.com/download-mp3/ray-gelato/no-reservations/mambo-gelato/song_855586

Thinking that I needed something to pull myself together and a little more light hearted, I moved on to Sway by Michael Buble (see song on above link). In retrospect, I should have stopped then but it was Michael Buble and he does remind me of Frank Sinatra and how could I possibly not live in the moment? Two songs down and having worked up a sweat I turned to O Mio Babbino Caro

by Renata Tebaldi. It did the trick. This is one of my favourites, perfect for a rainy afternoon and a cup of tea.

Now all I have to do is show my face at the gym again and leave the Latin beat at home :)

PS...looking for music....any suggestions??

image

Goldilocks Works Out

2010-11-19T09:05:00.002Z

Gym Bunny personified...
Please excuse my strange sense of humour but gym bunny is the first thing that came to mind when I finished my Health Assessment at the gym today. UGH! What has happened to me? BMI, BMR,VO2max, LOL,...how many of these things can they think of? Hip to waist ratio??? Was that really necessary? I was just getting my mind wrapped around a recent article on head to hat ratio. Do you know if you are wearing to much hat to the size of your head? There actually is such a thing. Who knew? OMG...I have to do more than think healthy, that was the message that came thru loud and clear today.

Playing Goldilocks...
Miss Christine (daughter #2) and I are doing this together. She is here till the end of January. I am hoping by the time she leaves I will have a good rhythm going. Saying that, we went to they gym yesterday and this is where the expression gym bunny came up. She hopped on the treadmill and pounded away for a good hour...sweating up a storm. Whilst I played Goldilocks trying as many different apparatuses as I possibly could within 60 minutes.

I tried them all in 15 minute intervals. During that time I watched one of Jamie Oliver's cooking shows and caught an English TV talk show called Loose Women. My first daytime TV show in 30 years. They had a good old chin wag about the impending marriage of Catherine not Kate (according to UK papers this morning) and Prince William. By this point I was feeling the guilt and then switched over to my ipod and picked up the pace.

Matt said...
My Health Assessor was a very nice young guy by the name of Matt. After my appointment it was clear that I am going to have to cut back on the TV shows. He suggested I take it easy at first to build up to my previous levels. I felt old when he said that. I am not liking that one bit. So..the challenge is on. I love a challenge!

While we are at it, did you know...

HRrest is your resting heart rate. It calculates the number of heart beats in one minute (bpm) when a person is at complete rest. Your HRrest decreases as you become more fit. (How to be fit)
Fartlek training (speed play) is training at a varied pace, from a fast print to a slow jog. (How to be fit)
I kid you not!
The seven most effective exercises according to Women WebMD
No. 1: Walking
No. 2: Interval Training
No. 3: Squats
No. 4: Lunges
No. 5: Push-ups (Yuch!)
No. 6: Abdominal Crunches
No. 7: Bent-Over Row (with weights)

There you go...week one of my gym experience.

PS..I relayed all of this to Mr. H tonight to which he replied, " Is that why you bought two packets of biscuits?" Just thinking of the family, as I always do:)

Woman to Woman

2010-11-16T17:34:00.001Z

Why B-Well?

I was trying to explain to someone the other day what this blog is all about. I said it was a place where I go to stay on track and think healthy thoughts. I also said there was one topic I would love to mention but have not dared to as it is not a topic that we relish.

Looking for help
Saying that, menopause is inevitable and for many, when it happens, it is the end of their world as they know it. I received an email from a friend today asking for help. She is in the midst of the storm and recalls my previous research and would like to know what I discovered. Another friend highly recommended this book, 'The Wisdom of Menopause' by Dr. Christiane Northrup. She said it saved her sanity by explaining everything she needed to know. She discovered she was not going crazy and what was happening to her was normal. She also found great suggestions to help her manage it.

The Wisdom of Menopause
In the book, Dr. Northrup discusses how menopause can put your life under a microscope. Emotions, hormones, midlife brains...I think you know where she is going with that. The story is not all dire as she discusses how to take charge and cultivate midlife beauty, suggests food and supplements to support you and how to live with passion and joy as you look after your midlife body.

At 40
Menopause is a tough subject. I recall attending a lecture with friends when I was newly 40 and being shocked by what I was hearing. To much information was my first thought and I was thankful that I did not have to think about that topic for a while. I had plenty of time...well, time flies, doesn't it? In my case, I seem to be on the 20 year plan for peri-menopause. I am not complaining as I think I have it pretty good for the moment and I truly believe it when I say the moment.

Thinking health and wellness
Ok, enough said but still I am sure we all know of someone who has gone thru menopause, is going thru it or you may be there yourself. You may be reading this saying 'been there, done that'. All I know is this is the time in our lives when we really have to think about health and wellness. Every little bit helps.

I am still thinking of my friend and how I will respond to her. I will start with this book and lots of encouragement. If you have any advice I could pass on to her, please let me know. From one woman to another, it would be sincerely appreciated :)

Excerpt from The Wisdom of Menopause by Dr. Christiane Northrup

Image

Thinking Madonna

2010-11-12T22:22:00.000Z

I am thinking Madonna....

I have walked the walk and talked the talk and still it seems like the mountain gets higher and higher. I have considered my options and decided it is time to up the anty. I have joined a Health Club. There comes a time when the usual routine seems to get stuck in neutral and needs a swift kick. It could be the cookie jar that I have been staring at for the last two days. It could be the chocolate cake which I seem to be circling at regular intervals. My daughter is so happy to be home that she is baking and cooking like there is no tomorrow. She does all this and then says no thank you. She just likes to bake it. Wish I could be a teenager again :) Either way, it is time and I am thinking like Madonna. I don't think I will be popping my foot behind my head anytime soon but I certainly would not mind having those arms!

Hoping that your resolve is a lot better than mine!

Best wishes for a wonderful weekend :)

Jeanne xx

Resisting Temptation

2010-11-10T20:50:00.000Z

Although I have enjoyed the last few days of rain I have to say

it is such a lift when the sun comes over the horizon in all it's glory.

Two busy days to start off the week and a little down time today.

My daughter and I are in search of a health club.

She is here for two months before starting University again

and we want to get into shape together. I am thinking yoga

and she is thinking boot camp. This should be interesting.

I should mention she is a wonderful cook and as a result

we now have a big tin of homemade Butterscotch Oatmeal Scotchies

sitting on the highest shelf in the kitchen.

I put them there to resist temptation.

Boot camp might be what I need by the time she leaves :)

How about you?

How do you fight temptation?

images~me

Talking about Facials

2010-11-04T16:45:00.001Z

This is a topic that pops up often amongst my friends. How often should you have a facial and is it ever to late to start looking after your skin. Someone asked me if it is to late to start having facials in midlife. To this I say, heck no!

I have always been partial to facials. I tell my daughters over and over again that they have to look after their skin. This means sunscreen and staying out of the sun. They take after me...fair skin, blue eyes...just the sort that attract every gamma ray this side of the planet. If they only knew what I got up to at the same age...they would be shocked. Olive oil, tinfoil shields, sun lamps, whatever it took, I was there.

Now I am vigilant. I am a big fan of Environ face products and have used them for the past four years. Facials became a way of life for me years ago and I have never regretted the luxury of having them, whether it be in a salon or at home. I have tested this theory recently. Since living in England I have had a difficult time finding a good facialist. Exasperated I gave up and I am starting to notice the difference.

Environ

So...is it to late to start having facials? In my book, never. Does it make a difference? If you get it right,
absolutely. You have to be consistent and find the right product and treatment for your skin and when you do...watch out...you will be looking good and feeling good! All this talk about facials has me thinking, it is time to try another tact. I am off to book an appointment now.

How about you...what is your facial status?

Simmering Spice and Everything Nice

2010-11-02T22:42:00.000Z

Whenever it rains my mother bakes brownies.

I grew up in a family where Rain = Brownies.

It was as simple as that.

image~me (A rainy day in Paris)

She says the smell of fresh baked brownies

makes everyone feel better.

No argument from me.

Gourmet Brownie Recipe

I still bake brownies and I also

treasure the smell of simmering spices on the stove.

A nip in the air, a grey cloud, a sniffle and out it comes...

my secret brew.

Potpourri image by Towards Ithaca from Fotolia.com

I want to pass along this little cherished habit of mine.

I am hoping that someone will throw it together, inhale and sigh with a smile.

All you need is a good sized pan, fill it 3/4 of the way with water and think Apple Pie.

Cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, grated nutmeg, vanilla pods, sliced orange or peel,

star anise, sliced lemon or peel, bay leaves..you may think of something else, experiment!

I simmer it on low, add water as needed and wait for the rush of calm

that will soon work its way thru every corner of the house.

My kids enjoy it. It means Mom is content. She is feeling relaxed and happy.

They know that music will be playing somewhere in the distance

http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/bach-cello-suites-nos-1-5-6/id153435302

and their favourite Orange Pumpkin Date Loaf will follow.

Orange Pumpkin Bread Recipe

Today...it's raining.

It's the perfect day to put the feet up, simmer a little spice,

make chicken noodle soup and write to you.

Martha Stewart Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

What I want to know...

do you have a little trick that works for you?

Midlife Wisdom

2010-10-28T12:00:00.003+01:00

~Midlife~

This is a word that I have been

less than enthusiastic about for some time.

It is right up there in the dreaded 'M' words.

Look up midlife in the dictionary and you will

quickly find that it is linked with another,

midlife crisis.

Why is that ?

I ask myself that question everyday.

Everything I read tells me

to get ready. For what?

To this I say.

Can't we be our best at any age?

I think it is a state of mind.

Midlife, aging gracefully,

whatever you want to call it,

I think you have to make the most of it.

If you have been visiting from the start of this blog

I hope you will stay a little longer.

B-Well ( now Midlife Wisdom)
is experiencing a few growing pains.

The good kind :))

I believe we need to B-Well in mind, body and spirit

to make this midlife wheel go round. I come here
for inspiration.

If you are in the same state of mind,

stay awhile, we can grow together :))

PS...

In case you are wondering,

I am 53. They say it can start

in your 30's...I must be a late

bloomer :))

image

Spice Up Your Life

2010-10-19T22:35:00.000+01:00

I recently read that it is good to get some spice in your life.

A healthy switch from overdosing on sugar and salt is to add spices

in their place as they take longer to eat and you will be less likely to over indulge.

I found these handy tips at McCormick

Ginger

Add a dash of ginger to your winter vegetables for a

warm sweet flavour. Sprinkle Ground Ginger onto cooked carrots,

acorn or butternut squash, or sweet potatoes.

Feeling a bit of a cold coming on? Try 1 cup hot water,

2 wedges squeezed lemon, 1 teaspoon honey

and 1/4 teaspoon Ground Ginger.

Red Pepper

Keep a jar of Crushed Red Pepper at the table and

use to add a touch of heat to your pizza, salad,

meat and whatever else you fancy.

Rosemary

Next time you whip up a hearty winter veggie omelet,

sprinkle crushed Rosemary Leaves onto the vegetables prior to

adding them to the omelet.

Curry

This is one of my favourites. You can add 1/2 teaspoon of

Curry Powder to 2 cups of tomato soup for an extra boost

or add a dash to your next chicken salad along

with nuts, fruit or chopped apples.

How about you, how do you take your spices?

image

Frig Inspiration

2010-10-14T21:30:00.000+01:00

I can tell you right now that my refrigerator does not look like this.

I wish it did and in fact I am going to print this photo out and put it on my frig.

My little frig inspiration.

I feel healthier already!

image:

who else but Martha!

Shake, Rattle and Roll

2010-10-13T00:51:00.001+01:00

I am thinking the First Lady has the right idea here.

How about you? Can you Hula Hoop with the best of them?

image and how to hula here

A Walk on the Beach

2010-10-10T01:46:00.003+01:00

Nothing like a walk on the beach to clear your head.

This image was sent to me by a friend.

Taken from Long Beach in Gloucester, Massachusetts

looking out to Thatcher Island, Twin Lighthouses.

I spent many a day walking this beautiful beach.

It is a lovely shot.

More here

Where do you like to walk?

B-Well,

Jeanne

Finding Peace

2010-09-24T10:25:00.001+01:00

I took this photo recently on an outing around London.

This woman was perfectly content. She found a beautiful spot

and was simply enjoying the atmosphere while reading a book.

Do you ever take yourself to a quiet spot, away from home?

A park, a cafe, a beach, the woods?

Where do you like to go to find peace?

My quiet time on this day was found here...

http://jeanne-findingmyway.blogspot.com/2010/09/fondness-for-pimlico.html

images~me

'Tweaking' the Food Plan

2010-09-21T17:04:00.000+01:00

Doing a bit of 'tweaking' to my food plan today.

I have made a concerted effort to make some changes now

that my routine has gone into 'back to school' mode.

The pace is picking up, the schedule is getting busier and busier

and it is so easy to make the wrong choices.

Today and everyday I must remember to...

Drink a LOT of water by keeping a bottle with me thru the day.

I like to keep one in the car, one at my desk and one in my purse.

Eat more fruits, vegetables and whole grains.

This morning I started with banana, kiwi's and blueberries.

This afternoon...carrots and hummus.

Having a plan helps.

Have a snack every 4 hours. Small quantities, healthy choices.

Apples, museli bar, blueberries, almonds, carrot

and when the spirit moves me....dark chocolate with my afternoon coffee.

Followed by a bottle of water. I have to be realistic too!

Keeping the balance between exercise and diet.

Easier said than done. Thank goodness for that pedometer!

Take time to relax.

Walking, music, writing, cooking, reading or just

sitting and listening to the sounds around me.

If only for a few minutes...

Doing so allows me to tackle all of the above

with an open mind.

Best wishes for a wonderful day!

images~me

Thoughtful Food and a Cat

2010-09-19T22:31:00.000+01:00

The simplest messages are the best!

Happy Weekend :)

image

PS...added the original image for Jacqueline...

Loving L'Occitane Almond Shower Oil

2010-09-14T22:24:00.003+01:00

A friend gave me this wonderfully fragrant shower oil

as a housewarming gift and I love it. It is one of those

products you just want to tell everyone about. It is a great way to

start the day.Your skin will thank you and your friends will find you

all the more sweeter for it.

I popped into the store today to buy some more and thought I would treat

myself to the Amande skin oil as well. It feels incredibly luxurious.

If you are feeling that you need a little extra boost in the mornings...

stop in at L'Occitane!

images: L'Occitane

Middle Aged?

2010-09-13T23:33:00.001+01:00

This is what you should not do prior to your birthday...

purchase a book about middle age.

Especially when you realise that you own a pair of glasses

just like the ones on the cover of the book.

Because once you do, you really know that

you've lost the plot.

You start to think of all those little tell tale signs

that according to this book start when you are 30.

Yes, my friends, if you are in that decade...

you are in 'Middle Youth'.

After reading this book, I suggest,

that if you own any of the following or have

seriously thought about them that you not tell anyone.

Tupperware

Winter covers for outdoor appliances

All conversation and activities around a shed...

owning one, decorating one and having friends around

to admire said shed.

Saving old shoes for use in the garden.

Sunday catalogs..you know the ones that

you have a look at and think..maybe

I could use...

Toss them and whatever you do

don't consider an electronic mole repellent for the garden.

Beware this book...

you may find yourself doing what I did.

Nodding along and laughing..loudly,

as you sit in your car in the after-school pick up line.

This is not a good sign when you are one of the

oldest mother in the pick-up line.

Here is what I was giggling about...

the Titles within the book.

ALL YOU WANT IS A QUIET NIGHT IN

HOME CINEMA

WHY LEAVE HOME?

MUTTON DRESSED AS LAMB

YOUTH IS WASTED ON THE YOUNG

GUESS MY AGE

AGEING GRATEFULLY

THERAPEUTIC GARDENING

STAMP COLLECTING

I'D RATHER HAVE A CUP OF TEA

NOCTURNAL CREATURES

THE MEN-O-PORSCHE

MIDDLE AGED BRAGGING

A MIDDLE AGED FACEBOOKER

YOU TURN INTO A KLUTZ

Looney lady in pick up line not sure whether to laugh or cry

when she read a few of these.

You know you have really hit middle age when...

You wake up in a cold sweat in the night worrying that you haven't put the garbage out for collection.

You have to think for a second before addressing your kids, so as to say the right name.

You rather like the idea of curling up with a good book on a Saturday night.

Clever authors signed off with this...

"And in the end, it's not the years in your life that count.

It's the life in your years"

Abraham Lincoln

Oh dear, I added this quote to my sidebar over at Collage of Life

about a month ago. What does that mean???

MIDDLE AGED....Never!

You are as young as you feel.

And don't you forget it!

Now, I was going to do something before

I sat down in front of the computer....what was that??

think...think...think...

Ah yes,

Best wishes for a wonderful week!

Book:

You Know You Are Middle Aged

When....

By Alison Rattle and Allison Vale

PS..apologies for Kaflooey..not sure it is a word, must be a middle age thing:)