Inspiration

The Truth About Our Pursuit of Happiness

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Every now and then, it is a good idea to pause in our pursuit of happiness and just be happy.  To often, we are looking ahead pursuing the next big thing in life, something to make it better, for you to do better, seeking that missing thing to make your life better.

We think we will be happy if we can just get that promotion, find a partner, have a baby to love, earn some more money, win lotto, buy that new car, buy a nicer house… an endless yearning for something more.  We are mistaken.  We need to learn how to just be happy in the moment.  Appreciate the little things we have in our life right now.

Let’s not look for reasons to be unhappy…let’s focus on what we do have in our life, and see the reasons why we should be happy.   While we pursue happiness… contentment will never be found.  Contentment is a realisation of what you already have.

Happiness will come to those who have an appreciation for the moment.  Sometimes the greenest grass is right beneath our feet.  Real happiness comes from within.  Doing good unto others, being helpful, kind and loving, and being true to yourself… this is what will bring you real happiness.

Take care, Karen.

“Happiness is letting go of what you think your life is supposed to look like,

and enjoying it for everything that it is.”

~ Mandy Hale

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How to Find Your True Beauty Without Feeling Fake

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We spend most of our lives trying to fit in, be the person we think we should be and losing that true beauty within.  Why does it take us so long to feel comfortable in our own skin?  Why do we feel the need to be like others and not value the differences that make us so unique?

The beauty in life works magically, when everyone is being there true self and owning who they really are.  It really is magic, when you finally realise… being yourself is what makes you beautiful.

To be able to be yourself, in a complicated world, that is constantly trying to make you something else, will be the greatest accomplishment in life.  Be who you really are and say what you really feel.  Practice being grateful, be kind and understanding towards others, forgive yourself and accept yourself for the real person you are.  You don’t need to be like others, be yourself and life will fall into place naturally.

Challenge your own thinking with reason and logic.  Pay attention to your thoughts and learn to recognise when your ego is corrupting the process.  Take charge, be unique, find your worth, become the person that you love and respect.

Nothing makes a woman more beautiful, than the personal belief that she is beautiful.  Believe in yourself.  Have the courage, to allow yourself… to be yourself.  And watch the magic begin.

Take care, Karen.

“Beauty Begins the Moment you Decide to be Yourself” ~ Coco Chanel

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Our Men Matter so give them a Special Day

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Well, all day I thought it was International Men’s Day, the day to celebrate the positive value that men bring into our lives.  Yes… there is such a day allocated for our ‘men’… don’t be so surprised!  But it was on Monday, not today.

Nevertheless, I have been thinking all day about the men that have influenced me and shaped me into the woman I have become, so I still want to take this opportunity to share with you, the 5 wonderful men in my life.  What makes them so special you ask… they have always believed in me… something I do cherish greatly.  They have faith in me, they trust me, they want me to be happy and I believe they are all proud of me.

My husband is at the top of the list, without a doubt.  We have been married for 24 years and I still truly love being his wife.  I still enjoy his company every day.  He makes me strive to be better, do better and love the moment.  He is my rock, he keeps me grounded, focused and passionate in what I do.

Don’t get me wrong, it is not all a ‘bed of roses’.  In life we have our ups and downs like any relationship and sometimes he drives me crazy.  But it is how you get through, how you protect each others self-esteem, how we keep each other as number one and display devotion.

Now he is not romantic, but a typical old-fashioned farmer.  So no, he did not romance me at all, but he keeps me interested with his warped sense of humour, love for life and everyday loving appreciation and support.  He is practical, dependable and honest.  His strong belief in me with all that I do and the personal encouragement, keeps me strong and passionate to be the best I can be.  I am entirely grateful that our paths crossed in life and I value him greatly.

My journey in life began with a supportive father… a man that made me believe I could do anything in life.  A hard-working father, that watched from the sidelines, yet was there when needed.  He had the knack of taking a problem and allowing you to look at it objectively, gave advice when needed, then let you make your own mistake to learn the lesson.  I was always able to be open in discussion with my Dad and valued him for listening and guiding me throughout my childhood.  He was always proud of me and openly displayed it.  He could always pick up when something wasn’t quite right, giving me the confidence to be honest.  Sadly we lost my Dad 3 years ago, but he is remembered fondly for the impact he had in shaping me in those early years.

Strangely, another man of value in my life, was my father-in-law.  I say was, because we lost him 8 years ago in a tragic accident.  He was a man, almost like a second father, always there in my married life, sharing dinner several times a week.  Quite often I would see him, more than my husband, because he was renowned for liking his cuppa’s.  He would always arrive unannounced, ready for morning tea, lunch, afternoon tea or dinner (or several a day).  It used to drive me crazy sometimes, but I learned a very big lesson after he passed.  His purpose in life was to slow us down and allow us to appreciate the small things in life.  He was the most kindest, selfless, generous, helpful man that anyone could come across.  He was always there to help if needed.  He had a big influence upon me, because he believed in me, sometimes more than me.  He used to think I could do anything and I valued his respect.  He is sadly missed.

My life is surrounded by men.  Not only did I have these supportive males in my life, I then bring 2 boys into this world.  Raising two wonderful boys, only 18 months apart, the best part of my life.  The joy and entertainment they brought us, the laughter, the tears, the wonderful moments.  Now they have grown up in their early 20’s.  As a mum, I sit back proudly as they carve their own lives.

My eldest son is fun-loving, adventurous, independent and determined to live life to the fullest.  He inherited his father’s warped sense of humour, so always makes me smile.  He is private and emotions are hidden, a little reserved.  He has a beautiful mind, clever and dedicated.  I love his optimism and enthusiasm in life.  His love for life reminds me to see the good things every day.  His practical attitude keeps me grounded too.

My youngest son is kind, warm-hearted, dependable, generous, independent, with a quiet and gentle nature.  He is down-to-earth, friendly and radiates calmness.  He is a hard-worker and is clever and creative in all that he does.  He likes to be seen as a big tough guy but really underneath he is a quiet pussy cat.  I love his cuddles and he brings me so much joy without even realising it.  He has a special connection to the land which is very inspiring.

I feel so lucky to have 2 remarkable and caring sons.  Raising them was an absolute joy, a job that inspired me everyday.  But to see the wonderful men they have become and now independently creating their own lives… is an inspiration in itself.

I am blessed to have these 5 remarkable men as a part of my life.  They deserve my  celebration today for having a positive impact to the way I live my life today.  So Happy International Men’s Day (although a little late)… a day that does deserve recognition, for the unique traits that men bring into our lives each and every day.

Take care, Karen.

“Surround yourself with people who see your value and remind you of it.”

~ Author Unknown

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Memories in Grief bear the Miracle of Life

/ Country Heart Spark / 1 Comment

That feeling when your heart is ripped out, the numbness, the intense sorrow, privately grieving the loss of a loved one.  Too many beautiful people have been taken from this earth, taken from their loving families.  The pain is so real and never leaves, over time you just learn how to tuck it safely away.

Today, for 2 reasons, I am inspired to write about grief and loss but also about the miracle of birth.  A blessing that manifolds during times when one feels so broken-hearted.

I was so drawn into the pain and despair experienced by a fellow blogger Blessed Moments -n- Memories.  I can’t even imagine the pain and sorrow she would be experiencing with the loss of her son.  As a mother, I know that would be the absolute worst pain ever to have to bear.  My heart broke for this stranger, my empathy was overflowing.  What a brave and honest women, to be able to share her pain in this modern way, to help someone else or to help heal herself or to honour his memory.  This beautiful soul also announced of the miracle… she will soon celebrate the birth of her first grandchild.  Her words “As I continue to grieve for the loss of my son, I will witness a miracle” is simply stated and enormously heartfelt.

After reading and commenting on this ladies blog, I realised this was my topic for today, in memory of a dear family friend lost in a farming accident several years ago.  Today would have been his birthday.  A man who was so kind-hearted, helpful and the hardest worker I have ever known.  A man that was always there and a big part of my childhood, a dear friend of my parents.  I still remember those birthday cakes we used to make you and how you used to let us put little bows/ribbons in your hair when you needed a haircut (You were such a good sport!).  A man that never had a nasty word to say about anyone and was so selfless and thoughtful.  He is fondly remembered today and sadly missed by all his friends.

But his family, crushed by the sudden loss, a wife and 2 adult children pregnant with his grand-children.  Hearts broken as tragedy was thrown upon them, yet the strength that this family had, was incredible.  A husband, a father, and almost a grandfather… sadly gone.  The agony remains… but so do the memories.  Memories of good times, memories of a good man.  He is gone, but never forgotten.

His legacy now lives in his 2 beautiful daughters and his 4 grandchildren.  Never met but constantly and contently watching over them all from above.  These 4 little miracles brought into this world to give them all strength and courage to continue in life.  One by one, they arrive… a reminder that life goes on.  Two young ladies developing their new maternal roles, challenged, yet passionate mothers they are.  And a dedicated grandmother enjoying those children with laughter and delight, even in her husband’s absence.  I know he would be so proud of the loving family he now watches over… each and every one of them.

Surrounded by memories and a life to continue… acknowledged by this resilient family and my fellow blogger.  Strength is what you find when you have no other choice.  As mind, body and spirit are depleted… it is more important than ever to find the strength, courage and support to survive the turmoil.  Nobody can take those beautiful memories from you, so let them be the reason you will endure the pain.  And focus on the miracle of life and enjoy those little things with your loved ones.

Rest in Peace my friend.

Take care, Karen.

“You are BRAVER than you believe,

STRONGER than you seem,

SMARTER than you think,

and LOVED more than you’ll ever know”

~ A.A. Milne

(From the book Winnie the Pooh)

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15 Ways to Become a Better Version of Yourself

/ Country Heart Spark / 4 Comments

Everybody wants to be a better person, to be more successful, to make our loved ones happy, to be able to motivate ourselves to do a better job, the list is endless.  We need to take our past experiences in life and learn the lesson to be able to move forward.

We are all human… we have weaknesses and we make mistakes.  The trick is learning from this to find the better version of yourself within.

Life is the journey and becoming better every day is the goal.

  • Be Yourself – It is important that we don’t lose touch with our values, morals and beliefs.  Own your identity and feel comfortable within your own skin.  Focus on your direction and purpose in life.
  • Appreciate the Present – Learn from the past and let it go.  Appreciate and live in the present because the future is not here yet.  The present moment IS life and it is NOT an obstacle in our path.
  • Communicate – A wise person is full of questions and a dull person thinks they know all the answers.  Also be a good listener to connect with others.  Everyone needs to have a voice and it is second nature to want to be understood.
  • Be Polite – Use “please” and “thank you” it takes no extra effort.  An act of kindness can make someone else’s day.  Other people’s behaviour does not have to determine yours.
  • Smile – It is contagious and can lift not only your own spirits but will be passed on to the next person, and so on.  Smiling will improve our mood, give us health benefits and make us feel good.
  • Compliment Yourself – Every day give yourself a compliment which will give you an emotional boost and make you feel happy.  Compliment yourself about your hair, about a task that you just completed, about a new skill that you tried, anything at all.
  • Let Go of Anger – Anger is a normal emotion but don’t let it build up and effect your health.  We can learn how to manage anger through our own thoughts, a journal or relaxation.  Anger will make us make bad decisions.
  • Show Forgiveness – Not only to yourself but to others.  Let go of resentment, it serves no purpose in life.  The act of forgiving others is not to “let them off the hook”, it is to give release yourself, let it go and not control you anymore.
  • Stop Making Excuses – Don’t blame others or make excuses if you do not feel happy within.  We own up and learn from our mistakes to move forward.
  • Be Honest – Speak honestly and in an open manner to secure trust.  Honesty secures the haven for trust.
  • Have a Go – It is better to create something that someone criticises, than to create nothing at all and criticise others.
  • Be Helpful – This is one of the easiest ways to effectively be a better person.  Help our partner, help a stranger, assist a charity.  It is a win-win situation and everyone feels better.
  • Be Flexible – Be open to change, try new activities, step outside our comfort zone and challenge our self-confidence.  We must be able to change our mind if the information presented contradicts our beliefs.  Don’t be stubborn.
  • Be Optimistic – Think positive thoughts and approach life with the “glass half-full” attitude.  To shift our perspective… will allow better experiences and better outcomes in our lives.
  • Find Inner Peace – The moment we stop allowing others to control our emotions, will be the moment we find inner peace.  To create peace in the world, we must first create peace within ourselves.

We all have the capacity to be a better person and make a difference in our own life, our families experiences and the wider community.  And the only person that you want to try to be better than… is the person you were yesterday.

Take care, Karen.

“What we think, we become.”

~ Buddha

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Drought Support for Farmers is Valued

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At the end of the day… people won’t remember what you said or what you did… but people will remember how you made them feel.  They remember that you made them feel loved, safe, reassured, calm or hopeful.

The ongoing drought support from Australians have made farmers feel cared for, understood and valued.  It has given us the strength to battle on and reminded us of the importance of sustaining the agricultural industry.

Empathy is a fundamental aspect of humanity and the need for individuals to share their compassion has been seen on such a large scale this year.  The power of empathy is an action and ability to be compassionate and commit to relieving another’s suffering, also giving satisfaction to the provider to be able to make a difference.

Drought support has been vital and valued, whether it be monetary donations to charities, grocery items, emotional connections on Facebook or mental health support from charities and other organisations.  Farmers can’t thank the Australian community enough and portray the extent to which this is valued.  For every donated $1 value, the significance is multiplied to benefit the farmers by way of emotional support and affirmation to the industry.

Social media has provided a new platform for the emotional connection with complete strangers.  A platform that harnesses new friendships and still allows an understanding and connection never seen before.  The support provided to farmers is irreplaceable.  New friendships have been formed as farmers are emotionally connecting with empathetic strangers.

The power of this charitable support, through everyday Australians, has been enlightening for the agricultural industry and farmers in general.  To see the volume of people and businesses caring so much, proves the manifesto of the importance of empathy in action.  The capacity to show empathy is second nature and truly a wonderful gift in these tough times.

On behalf of all farmers, farming families and the agricultural industry, I want to thank each and every Australian person for their compassion and trust in us.

Take care, Karen.

“An industry that feeds you is an industry worth fighting for.”

~ Tierra Kessler

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Wanted: My Inner Mojo

/ Country Heart Spark / 2 Comments

Lost my mojo many years back.  After a soul-wrenching search, I have found it, hiding within.  Our life journey amongst the changes, work, partners, children… sometimes we just lose it for a while.  We just need to believe we can resurrect it and the happiness within is life transforming.

I have dedicated this year to get my health back on track.  I took control of my journey with the guidance of a few health professionals.  Dealing with a sleep disorder, a prolonged operation, chronic pain, the stress of farming during drought times and the related complications of it all… no wonder I ended up with depression and anxiety.  But through careful treatment and my inner pledge to myself, life is getting back on track.  More so, my ability to deal with life’s bumpy journey has been restored.

Inspired and optimistic today in my follow-up with the Mindset Strategist.  In just 2 appointments, her practice has helped transform my life completely.  Amazed by the results of her techniques and how quick it worked.  I recommend Katie Godden with her enthusiasm, positivity and guidance.   This modern intuitive technique of aligning our sub-conscious thoughts with real life, letting go of our emotional baggage and giving us the confidence to move forward… is so unbelievably powerful and enriching.

Like many women, I struggled with confidence and low self-esteem over the years.  My thoughts have now shifted, and I have found my inner mojo again.  That influence and personal charisma that we all have inside of us and the confidence to let it shine.  Quietly but proudly, I like the “new” ME that I have found and so excited to take on life by the horns.

Remember, believe in yourself because that’s where the magic begins.

You are worth it!

Take care, Karen.

P.S. Please watch this video, it is just beautiful and sums up all our lives.

Video Credit: CIMORELLI ~ YouTube

Who am I?

/ Country Heart Spark / 1 Comment

Hi, my name is Karen and I am a little shy but friendly.  I am a first-time blogger and have been setting up my new blog on farming challenges and the inspiration within my journey in life.  Undecided and hesitant if I wanted to remain anonymous or be up front and reveal myself.  I stand by what I write and am sincere and honest… so here I am.

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I bit about me… I have strong family values and a strong work ethic. Reliability, honesty and self-motivation drives me. My life is devoted to my husband and our 2 adult sons. Their wellbeing is my number one priority. I value the importance of inner harmony and have a passion for personal growth and development.

I grew up on a small farm on the Mid North Coast and have owned properties in the New England and Central West regions before settling on a farm west of Tamworth. Involved with farming all my life, now in my 40’s and children all grown up, it is time for my own passion to be shared. The quiet peaceful lifestyle of farming is satisfying and the value of the hard work on-farm is significant.

Passion for the future of the agricultural industry is at the forefront of my mind and it is my intention to promote this and the connection to all communities nation-wide. I feel strongly that Australian’s care about our domestic food chain and sustaining the farming industry.

I am a member of the Country Women’s Association of NSW, the largest women’s organisation in Australia, and I support their aims to improve the lives of women and their families. Their vision resonates with me, in providing a forum for the voice of all women, encouraging the viability of rural communities and lobbying for change. Values of goodwill, friendship, support and understanding is important to me.

My real passion is personal growth and development, and an inner enthusiasm to inspire others through listening and sharing. By using my writing and this Blog, I intend to encourage others along their life journey as well.

For more information and to visit my website Country Heart Spark, please click here

If you would like to receive my blogs by email or contact me, please click here

To follow me on Facebook, please click here

I hope you enjoy the ride with me.

Take care, Karen

Personal Growth & Imperfections

/ Country Heart Spark / 1 Comment

That little phrase “personal growth” can be empowering but it can also make one feel a little anxious or uneasy.  To not explore what personal growth actually is, creates this endless search for happiness, clarity of mind, creative expression and a sense of inner calmness.

Personal growth or self-improvement is inspiring and will emerge if we just stop.  Stop searching and stop trying to be a better, calmer or nicer person and just allow our own mind to express itself.  To find that contentment within will enable us to be happier, more productive and efficient.

Perfection is a myth and an unrealistic goal.  I have always been a perfectionist in my life, which leads to disappointment, as perfection is an assumption of no faults and flawless results.  Perfection is not human and not what we should aspire to.  Sometimes we strive so hard for perfection that we forget that imperfection is happiness.  There would be no need for love in our lives if perfection was at all possible.

Our potential for growth, change and understanding is endless, by allowing our mind to reveal its true self.  By letting go of the past and the burden it holds upon us, as well as to set free the expectations of the future, the mind will open to the possibilities within.  Trust yourself… the answer lies within you… it is time to reveal the greatest version of yourself.  You are worth it!

Take care, Karen

“Strive for continuous improvement, instead of perfection.”

~ Kim Collins

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The Cute Factor

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It has been a long day.  Plenty of on-farm jobs today and stock work.  Sometimes we just need baby animals to remind us that not everything in this world is terrible, that things will get better for us, eventually.

On a downer… a lovely bull we had purchased has an injury and looks like he probably won’t get over it, probably nerve damage.  So if it is not the drought, it is something else to bring you down.  Just another kick in the guts.  And more money down the drain.

But on the flip side, I am able to find something to distract me and lift my spirits…I love newborn calves.  Our latest addition and the last calf to be born for this year.  The joy and hope, this little bull calf brings us today.  Why is it that the presence of baby animals have the ability to cheer us up?  Maybe it is the pure innocence, the curiosity or the cute factor.  Just look into their cute faces and feel the love.

Take care, Karen.

“EVERY DAY MAY NOT BE GOOD… BUT THERE IS SOMETHING GOOD IN EVERY DAY”

~ Alice Morse Earle

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