Something triggered a thought process for me last night ….  Not sure why or how, but in amongst all the laughter, fun and love I was amid, I thought of those who don’t have the same privilege, opportunity, good fortune or extended family. I know that there are many who are visited by the “black dog”, those who have had health and well-being issues or simply those who have had life deal a hand unexpected.

I do so believe in #allyouneedislove on so many levels, however it is also true that sometimes it takes more than just love.  Especially at this time of the year.  The festive season can be a dark time for some folk.

When you are chatting to someone, look them in the eye and take a few minutes to REALLY listen to their response when you say “how are you?”.  Just as we need to drink water for the cellular level of our physical well-being, so do we need hydration for our soul and spirit. 

Remember to check up on someone who may be having a personal struggle. An act of kindness only takes a few seconds, costs nothing, yet may have benefits that are immeasurable.

Hello … How are YOU??
​
#allyouneedislove
 
DC 

It has been a tough decision, however, Plough Creek Cooking School is going into hibernation for a while.  The love and interest in food, cooking and lifestyle will continue via the blog and Facebook, but classes will not be available until further notice.  Of course, the wining, dining and sharing food experiences with other like-minded foodies simply cannot stop. We enjoy the art of conviviality way too much.

What a year …. I don’t know about you, but does it just seem like a few weeks ago that we were wishing each other happy festive season for 2014?  Numerous life events have changed plans for us at various times. I am OK with that – life happens on you way to a good time (think John Lennon once said something along those lines). However, some of the things I do enjoy doing in the lead up to the festive season have been side lined or altered this year.

Firstly, I need to mention that this time last year I was waiting for some results, after hearing for the second time in my life, “you have cancer”. Obviously the results came back with positive outcomes and I have had a year reflecting on the benefits of good health. Not to make too fine a point – but we really should stop occasionally and recall how precious our lives and health are. It is not just the physical I am talking about, but also the mental and spiritual.  Do you stop and do a stock take of yourself?  Are you doing OK?

Secondly, I changed jobs and the consequences of that decision need to be worked through over the next 6 months….watch this space on that call!

Lead up to the 2015 festive season has been without the usual flurry of cooking in the PCH kitchen.  Namely, as I have not spent a lot of time there the last few months. Right now, I am sitting in an incredible English kitchen writing this post.  We are on a long planned trip to have Christmas in England, with our dearest friends the Wilberforces.  I had hoped for a white Christmas but the weather goddesses have decided maybe not.  Nevertheless it is chilly and does put a very different feel to the normal hot dry Aussie festive season.

During this trip we have a few eating events planned, so it will be a pleasure to share those reflections with you over coming weeks.

In the meantime have a wonderful festive season filled with happy tastings. Be safe happy and healthy and remember, a random act of kindness can change some ones day beyond measure!

#allyouneedislove

DC 

Since crossing off one of my “bucket list” things ... That is, to become a Celebrant, I have become increasingly interested in how people choose to mark and plan celebrations. Human nature always fascinates me in so many ways and this is another source of observations I am making about humanity.
 
How do people decide on what they want to do to mark significant occasions? The process can be so straight forward for some - those who are decisive are fortunate in many ways. For others, it can be kinda overwhelming. Sometimes, I think being a decisive person is a curse, but mostly, I am glad I don't have a problem making a decision. 
 
Talking to people, asking them questions, observing their thought processes and then respecting their wishes, is a very privileged and unique opportunity. So many extraordinary conversations are shared with me.
 
Of course, life celebrations are not just about weddings, babies, major anniversaries or birthdays. There is also the celebration marking the end of a life. This particular conversation is often difficult and challenging for many people.
 
Over the last 12 months in particular, the conversation about death and dying and resting places appears to have been heard often in our home.  It is not uncomfortable or scary.  It is just matter of fact.  It has caused me to reflect on something that happened for me many years ago and I still get goose bumps when I think about it.
 
Corny as it sounds, it was a scene in a TV show called Northern Exposure.  If you were a fan of this series you will get what I mean when I say how much I loved it quirkiness.
 
One of the most impressive pieces of script and filming for me was when Ed gave Ruth-Anne her grave site and they danced on it.

(Ruth-Anne opens Ed's birthday gift to her: a jar of dirt)
Ed: Uhm...it's for your grave.
Ruth-Anne: My grave?! You bought me a grave for my birthday?
Ed: Do you like it?
Ruth-Anne: Yes...yes, I do, Ed. It's a great spot to spend eternity. 

Did you watch Northern Exposure? Do you recall the scene?
 
DC