How To Have Courage In Public Speaking and Succeed

November 26, 2018 / Country Heart Spark / Leave a comment

Courage is the commitment to begin something without any guarantee of a successful result. But courage also allows you to fail and learn a powerful lesson… therefore you don’t really fail at all. If you never courageously take a risk you will never accomplish anything in life. It is my time to challenge myself and to confidently learn public speaking skills with my local Toastmasters International club.

I took a risk tonight and stepped way out of my comfort zone, delivering my first structured speech at Toastmasters. I was nervous but excited… ready for the challenge and looked forward to suggestions and improvements from my fellow Toastmasters.

I joined up only last meeting and was keen to step up and give it a go tonight. Courageously I stepped up to the lectern, delivered a 5 minute “Ice Breaker” introductory speech about myself and what I am passionate about. I felt relieved when finished, but I also felt a sense of satisfaction, that I was courageous enough to speak in front of a small audience. This was an achievement in itself.

Proudly I accepted an Award for being voted the Best Speaker on the night. Secretly I thought I may have got a few sympathy or encouragement votes for being a “virgin” speaker. But I did feel my passion and words were from the heart, and was very content with my first speech.

The beauty is other members give you feedback with an evaluation of your speech. This includes detailed commendations and a recommendation for improvement. I still have so much to learn, skills to develop and confidence to be formed. But I am on the right track and have found the right place.

My favourite part is the support and guidance that fellow Toastmasters give you. It is with their positive reinforcement that I have been able to have faith in myself and believe that I can do it. There is no such thing as failure, it is all a learning curve.

Success is having the courage, determination and perseverance to see something through. If you have the courage to begin, you will certainly have the courage to succeed. Believe in yourself!

Take care, Karen.

“Courage is the art of being the only one who knows you’re scared to death.”

~ Earl Wilson

The Eternal Love We Have For Our Children

November 25, 2018November 26, 2018 / Country Heart Spark / Leave a comment

How much do our children mean to us? As a mother, I think our children are at the top of our priority list. They cannot be replaced, they make us proud, you love them unconditionally, you simply want them to be happy. Nobody else will ever know the strength of love that we have for our children. They are the only ones to know what our heart sounds like from the inside, imprinting on us immensely right from the start.

I have 2 wonderful sons, now in their early twenties, living their own unique lives independently. They will probably not understand, until they have children of their own, how loved and meaningful they truly are to me.

In those early years, I think a lot of us do not comprehend the significance that we make in our parents lives. It wasn’t until I become a mother, that I truly did appreciate and re-evaluate the extent of the relationship with my parents. I think it is then, that I finely appreciated and formed a lasting friendship with my own mother. To watch a grandmother display her love and affection to her new grandchildren, is the most beautiful and selfless act one could see.

My sons were fortunate to have been raised on a farm too, giving them the freedom and space to evolve. Boys and mud, went hand in hand, nearly every day. I remember when they were newborns, all I wanted to do was stare at their beautiful faces and tiny helpless hands. The love was overflowing, but also burdened with new responsibilities.

When my boys were toddlers and dragged along to cattle sales or farm outings, they would take their bag of matchbox cars and plastic farm animals. I was always amazed how they created their own fun and their personalities were coming through. They would make car tracks in the dirt and have pretend cattle sales in the background.

As they got older, there was always the inconvenience that they lived too far from town and never got to do the things that their peers were doing. But weekly sport involvement, weekend entertainment and other extra-curricular activities, ensured they were able to keep up with things the best way possible.

Then they mature and find their own paths in life. It gives me a sense of contentment and pride. My work is done. But they still need reminding in life, how much they are loved by us and that we will support them always. No matter how big they get, they will always be our babies in our hearts and our love will be eternal.

Our children need to understand that when we say “I love you”… this is not by habit… it is to remind them that they are the best thing that ever happened to us and they bring us so much joy. Mothers think about their children every single day at all hours, even if they are not with her.

There is no right or wrong way to raise children whilst ever we love them and want them to grow into loving respectful people. Doesn’t matter if we breast-feed or bottle-feed… a single parent or a couple… work full-time with childcare or a stay-at-home Mum… or even live in the city or country. One way is not better than the other. There is no competition needed.

Each family is unique and each child is unique and that is what makes our lives so interesting. No family is perfect… we all have our own problems and find our own way to work through them. As a parent, just do the best job you can with the knowledge and expertise that you have. And enjoy the process of raising your beautiful children to adulthood.

Take care, Karen.

“A mother holds her children’s hands for a while,

but their hearts forever.”

~ Author Unknown

Our Men Matter so give them a Special Day

November 22, 2018November 22, 2018 / Country Heart Spark / Leave a comment

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

Memories in Grief bear the Miracle of Life

November 20, 2018November 20, 2018 / 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)

The Truth About Surviving a Farming Accident

November 18, 2018November 18, 2018 / Country Heart Spark / 1 Comment

MY TRUE STORY! It was almost 4 years ago that our world came crashing down one sunny day. Thankfully my husband did survive an on-farm ATV quad bike accident. But a broken back resulted in him being laid up, leaving a 2000 acre property with livestock to manage. It was with the support of our 2 sons that we managed through this ordeal. We battled on, worked together, took on challenges and supported each other at a crucial time in all our lives. It was at this time that I realised how lucky I was and how grateful I was to have a wonderful family.

Accidents happen ever so easily but unexpected. As my husband travelled up a usual steep track to muster sheep, with a bit of extra weight of a new dog on the back and ever so quickly, the quad bike tipped. A split decision to stay with the bike rather than bail out, was to save his new dog that was tied on the back. Possibly in hindsight, not the best decision. At some point he was thrown to the ground and watched in shock, dreading the outcome of his dog’s survival as the quad bike toppled over and over to the bottom of the gully. He tried to walk, collapsing several times, but then he could see his dog sitting back on the seat of his bike waiting for his owner to join him again. He felt relief for his companion, and crumpled to the ground once again.

Meanwhile, we are still mustering sheep for drenching and oblivious of the misfortune awaiting us all. Somehow, without justification, he managed to mount his quad bike and slowly ride to the stockyards, then succumbed to the pain a final time. I remember him being angry and frustrated that his “slight” injury was an inconvenience to the workload waiting for him at the stockyards. He was outraged that I wanted to go to the house to call an ambulance. His ill-temper instructed that he just needed to rest a bit then he will be fine. I should have seen the sign… I only ever recall him becoming angry like this when he got kicked in the side of the head by a cow many years before and ended up with a concussion. He has this notion to not waste the time of emergency services for a “little” injury. Why is it that male farmers make the worst patients?

Everything then became a pandemonium, as 2 ambulances and 3 ambulance officers attended the scene and the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service had been organised to transport him to Tamworth Hospital. It felt like I was in a whirlwind of emotions… unable to comfort him, upset with myself for not being confident to take charge sooner, scared and worried about his future. He was still talking about those “bloody” sheep that still needed drenching.

When confronted with the news that he had broken his back and the realisation that this is a very serious injury, his luck was substantiated with his survival. Resulting in a back brace fitted, he was able to move about somewhat, but bed-ridden for 4 months allowing his spine to heal. Only several days later he returned home, with strict instructions and an extensive care plan. With me taking on the role as his live-in home-care nurse (without the sexy nurse costume!) and armed with his special hospital furniture aids, we tried to continue life as normal as possible. Daily sponge baths became the norm and my life revolved around that “bloody” little bell ringing from the bedroom, alerting me it was time to “suit him up” with his back brace and get him up. I take my hat off to all nurses, a job I would not have the patience for. Four long months of dependency, monotony listening and trying to understand his frustrations, nearly drove me insane.

There were 2 great things that eventuated from my husband’s accident. I was able to see the responsibility and support shown by our 2 sons. Without their constant support, I don’t think we would have survived it all.

My eldest son, was surprisingly a pillar of emotional support. He had been currently studying and working at the Defence Force, but was home on holidays at the time. At 19 years of age, he just took charge and drove me to the hospital 3 ½ hours away and kept me grounded and focused. We had no idea what was to come and how long we would need to be down there and my head was a complete mess. To have his support those few days when I was at my weakest point with worry, was a god-send, giving me the strength to do what had to be done.

Simultaneously, back at the farm, my youngest son at only 17 years of age, took charge and drenched all of the sheep and carried on with the day’s tasks, worrying quietly about what might eventuate with his Dad. Upon us all returning home, he stepped up and took on a managerial role with operating our farming business over the next 4 months. He was still in his final year at high school and completing his HSC so it was a very crucial time for him. Nevertheless he managed it all… a large property, livestock, machinery and still did very well in his HSC with great results and state-level agricultural and industrial technology commendations. How on earth would I have managed it all without him? He never ceases to amaze me, just how versatile and resilient he really is.

Ultimately we all survived this very stressful, frightening and tiresome time by relying on our strong family support. I am ever so grateful to the angels watching over my husband that day ensuring his survival. I knew it was far too early to take this great man from us. He incredibly recovered, now walking with no limitations and his back is strong once again. We also invested in a side-by-side farm vehicle for safety purposes which has also proved to be a more versatile on-farm vehicle.

The strength that our 2 sons gave us during this time, I am so thankful for. We are so proud of the young men they have grown into and I am blessed to be able to share this “happy” outcome with you today.

Take care, Karen.