Rural Reflection #8

February 10, 2019February 24, 2019 / Country Heart Spark / 2 Comments

When all you seem to do is work, work, work… there comes a time when you just crave for a breather. A time to sit and reflect… to just appreciate your life and the wonderful people around you. With drought smothering us on the farm and that natural ability to thrive seems to diminish somewhat… alas… there is someone reaching out to you.

They are special compassionate people, friends or strangers, extending an arm to you, listening, thankfully distracting you from an overload of work tasks and allowing you into their own world of thoughts. It is then, that you truly appreciate the kindness and generosity in these extraordinary people.

That day was only yesterday for me. A friend that was once a stranger, and her family lifted our spirits… unbeknown to them… and what a powerful effect their presence had created. A family that moved to Tamworth from the Central Coast about 2 years ago, starting a new life in this beautiful northern region. I met this quiet woman a year ago through CWA meetings and our friendship developed. Interestingly, two women from two completely different backgrounds, from city and country, can form a connection and feel comfortable in discussions. Our husbands then met, both leading different work lives, yet conversation seemed so engaging and relaxed.

Yesterday, I was feeling a little overwhelmed, as tiredness took hold of me and I struggled to fully function in work mode. As farmers know, we do not have the luxury of work times… our work finishes when the job is done. We work 7 days a week and with drought now, those hours are extended with earlier starts and working until dark. We all pray for relief soon, rain to break this horrid drought.

So with work committments piling up and office jobs completed in priority order, I was feeling mentally exhausted. It was then that I receive a little message from my thoughtful friend, suggesting her family come for a visit. Honestly, my first reaction in my own mind was… I don’t really have time to socialise, I am so busy with things to get done, the house is a bit untidy, what food do I have in the fridge. Why do farmers automatically feel guilty when they stop to relax? I have no idea why, but I know now that it is more important than ever, that we do find a little time out and engage with other people.

Then, I took a breath from my anxiety… and yet it was then organised, on a spur of the moment whim. My friend, her husband and their 2 sons arrived early evening, with a few dinner supplies in hand. Her calm gentle nature somehow manages to relax me and I enjoy her normal and compelling conversation. The men all went to shift a mob of cows, giving us time to catch up and prepare dinner. The evening just worked out perfectly.

My beef roast had been cooking in the slow cooker, so we only needed to cook some vegetables to accompany the meal. I do find on the farm, my slow cooker is used a lot because I never know when I will get home, so at least we have some meat cooked for dinner to motivate me. And tonight it all worked out fine.

The men returned after moving the cows, with the hope of a storm in the hills behind them, but disappointingly it never made it’s way here. I felt relief for other farmers beyond those hills. Although we missed out, I was happy for the other farmers in the distance.

Today, I have been reflecting on the importance of friendships and allowing others to reach out to us and welcoming them into our unique world with open arms. So I am sharing this photo with you all, that was taken a year ago. It shows a track on the laneway of our property, that we use regularly when moving stock from the lower undulating hills to the valley out the back. I really like this photo for 2 reasons. The colours are enticing with cloudy blue sky above the dry landscape with a splashing of trees. And the windy track as it dips over the hill arouses the curiosity of the unknown destination within the image.

Rural Reflection #8…

08 A Windy Track Beneath a Cloudy Blue Sky

image subject to copyright

Yesterday, it was this winding track that brought the men back for dinner. It made me think about not only the appreciation that we had for this visiting family in helping us, but the appreciation of the country and lifestyle that we were able to share with them. A rural industry that they are very unaccustomed to, yet keen to experience. An industry that we are passionate about… giving us the opportunity to share it with them.

Whilst the men enjoyed what the outdoors can offer, my friend and I enjoyed some open heartfelt conversation. I find it so amazing that although we are new friends, we can connect, enjoy the company and find support in one another. And our husbands in their own way, can do the same. My farmer husband with his tough exterior, deep down enjoys sharing his passion with these new friends and relishes in seeking some downtime and laughter. This visit meant so much to us, in a way that may be difficult to explain, but sincere gratitude expressed, especially at a time when farmers are so very sensitive and stressed.

Kindness does not cost anything and makes a big difference in the lives of those you touch. No act of kindness, regardless of how small… is ever wasted. Be kind to everybody that you meet, because everybody is fighting their own battles. Regardless of our differences, our background, our experiences, our stories… we are all interesting people in city and country… kindness is the key to uniting us and strengthens our soul.

Take care, Karen.

“No act of kindness is too small.

The gift of kindness may start as a small ripple

that over time can turn into a tidal wave

affecting the lives of many.”

~ Kevin Heath

Own Who You Are, With Audacity

January 31, 2019 / Country Heart Spark / 4 Comments

Every single one of us is so unique and perfectly created to be somebody or do something important in life. Why do we cringe and sway away from the real person we truly are? Just to fit in within our lives… our work, our family, our social circle… and be the “picture” of the person we think we should be and for others to see.

Sometimes it takes us years to figure it out… to realise that this is crazy. We deserve to be true to ourselves. We deserve happiness…. the happiness that lies within us… when we allow the real person within us to be revealed. And when we discover that person, own it and be bold and fearless in your purpose.

Today I would like to give recognition to three other bloggers, that inspire me… with their wisdom, their compassion towards others and the respect for themselves. Three strangers whom I have never met… yet I feel like I do know them somewhat, through their personal stories and the way they express themselves in words.

RAMBLINGS OF A WALLFLOWER with Dewni, sharing her thoughts and looking for her place in the world. It was her blog Embrace Your Magic… that initially inspired me today. Dewni’s advice is simply stated and is perfectionism in itself “Listen to the depths of your heart and embrace your true self”.

We are told throughout our lives, directly and indirectly, until we tell ourselves subconsciously… we need to fit in and be more like everyone else. That is an unnecessary and enormous burden for us to carry. But when we realise that we can let go of that false notion of perfectionism within society… and be less like everyone else… life magically changes when we take that step to just be ourself.

On a personal level, I have married a farmer, an honest man that just thrives in the outdoors and has a love for animals and a passion for breeding livestock. My love for him in supporting his dreams and being a mother to our children has motivated me for 25 years. But sadly I try to “fit in” within the farming industry, and part of it fits but many parts do not. I do have a strong belief in the future and importance of the agricultural industry, but I do not have a love for the hands-on farm work. So in the process of owning who I am… I now know that I can be an advocate for the rural industry and enjoy my country lifestyle and surroundings. But I know that I do not need to pretend that I am something that I am not. We all need to work out exactly who we are, enjoy the process and embrace what we find.

Secondly, BITTERSWEET TURNS with Priya, using tales and fantasy in this medium to depict deep emotions and feelings. I was captivated by this young women’s blog today Will Power and how she describes that “will power is driven by the WHY of your life”. I think she is spot on with her analogy, as everything we do has a connection to the WHY. As she says “the key is to find the why” and we need to be very honest with ourselves to do this.

For me personally… “WHY do you want to farm livestock in a drought-ridden environment?”. Well, I love my husband and I support him entirely with our farming business. I love administration and the business models that I am able to utilise to sustain our business. The drought is somewhat a temporary setback, one that in Australia will be present at times and the weather will turn and be on our side again. I also believe whole-heartedly that the future of the Australian agricultural industry is important to sustain, so we can feed and clothe our nation and export to other countries for the benefit of our economy. It is this passion that motivates me to continue in the farming industry.

On another level… “WHY do you want to write a blog?”. Well, it really started as a way to release my own emotions while suffering from depression and anxiety during this current drought on the farm and coping with changes in my life. I felt compelled to not hide behind the medication, but to voice my experiences with the world, in a hope to help somebody else going through a tough time. I wanted to reach out… so others knew they were not alone.

I then was able to be myself… and developed a real passion to motivate others to believe in themselves and accept themselves for who they are. As I touch others lives and have the ability to support someone else, to encourage someone else… my compassion is able to be shared through these means. I have raised my 2 sons to adulthood and completed the mothering role for years, now I want to share my warm-hearted and loving nature with others. I may not be able to put it into words verbally and can be a bit of an introvert, so my blog allows me to reach into the depth of my subconscious and share my empathy and inspiration in a unique way. This is now my gift and my purpose in life… and I love that I can be who I really am. I am a writer and I have something to say.

My third and final inspiration for today is from Forty Something Life As We Know It where a fellow blogger shares her journey in life and in her words “searching for wisdom”. I think she under-estimates the wisdom she actually shares with readers. I really enjoy her regular blog and inspiring messages. Two simple messages that she shared today, really touched me and is relevant to the content that I write of today.

Her blog How it is supposed to be… has this simple message and is so true… “What screws us up most in life is the picture in our head of how it is supposed to be”. I think we all have this false perception and are sometimes provoked to be something else. It is our impression that this image is what we strive for. We need to take a step back, re-evaluate our passion and our interests… and then just be ourselves and daringly move forward. Life as we know it, may just change for the better, as we discover the “real” person within and contentment follows.

Another message on her blog It just blooms… “A flower does not think of competing with the flower next to it. It just blooms”. I find this to be an impressive analogy to our friends and associates in our lives. There is no need to compete with each other, to outdo one another or to be better than another. If we just be ourselves… we will magically blossom and shine.

Sadly it sometimes takes many years for us to find out who we really are… as we grow and mature over the years. But it is never too late… to really delve into your own personality, embrace it and courageously reveal the “real” you. It really is worth it, to accept who you are, imperfections and all… I assure you that you are “imperfectly perfect” and wonderfully unique. It is with audacity… that you can then OWN WHO YOU ARE and success can reign on you.

Take care, Karen.

“Be who you are

not who the world wants you to be”

~ Author Unknown

Tamworth Country Music Festival 2019 ~ Part 2

January 28, 2019 / Country Heart Spark / 1 Comment

Further to my story here at Tamworth NSW (Australia), for my final recap from the Toyota Tamworth Country Music Festival 2019. It is a wrap… done and dusted… and what an enjoyable, fun-filled, relaxing time that we have all had during the last 10 days of the festival. The country music talent never ceases and the entertainment factor has been incredible. Over 300,000 music lovers have enjoyed their time here at the festival… and what an incredible experience for everyone, especially during this horrid drought.

Farmers have had a little time out, rural families have found some enjoyment, city folk have supported the businesses that had been doing it tough over the last year. Everyone has come together through their passion for country music and this music has encompassed their lives and lifted spirits across the community. My personal experience has continued on the road of thrills and indulgence.

On Thursday afternoon, I received a phone call from Clipex Fencing & Stockyards, to ask if I would like 2 complimentary tickets for my husband and I, to attend the concerts of Adam Harvey and Beccy Cole. I was astonished and almost paralyzed… why me… why us… there are so many farmers, that would deserve this generous offer. But rather than worry or feel selfish for being presented with this wonderful opportunity to give us a night out… I just felt so very thankful. As a Clipex customer, we were so grateful to this local fencing business and their staff… and their kindness was appreciated so very much.

Whilst we had been attending some free shows at the local clubs during the music festival, we had only purchased tickets for shows, to support breast cancer through the McGrath Foundation and drought relief through the Burrumbuttock Hay Runners. So this was very special for us, as a farmer in drought with limited finances, this opportunity was of great value.

Adam Harvey – Friday 25th January

We were still amazed that we had received this generous opportunity to attend Adam Harvey‘s concert. As we sat waiting for the concert to start, my husband and I were so excited and thankful to Clipex Fencing. We were so lucky. I don’t think we have smiled this much for so long.

The show started with support act Judah Kelly, best known for winning The Voice Australia in 2017. This young man’s voice really is amazing with his unique range.

We then enjoyed the music from Adam Harvey himself, from his older tunes to his more recent ones. What I like about Adam, is that he is a genuinely nice fella and is good-hearted and supportive of other young artists. His guest artists for the show included Catherine Britt and Troy Cassar-Daley. He also introduced his lovely daughter Layla Harvey and then proudly sang a duet with her. I really love his laid-back music style and down-to-earth lyrics.

Beccy Cole – Friday 25th January

The good times continued in the next concert with Beccy Cole and the Sisters of Twang. The all-girl line-up was an absolute hit for festival-goers and a performance to remember. I still could not believe we were so lucky to receive these complimentary tickets to see this incredible show, thanks to Clipex Fencing.

The powerful voice of Beccy Cole was incredible and her passion through her songs was captivating. This may have been my favourite show at the Tamworth Country Music Festival. I really loved her humour, her story-telling and her heartfelt lyrics. Her guest artists included her son Ricky Albeck, Kelly Brouhaha, her mother Carole Sturtzel and her partner Libby O’Donovan. It was lovely watching the emotional performance with Beccy Cole and her son Ricky Albeck. The heartwarming connection was visible as mother and son shared their mutual passion for music, both with their own individual styles. As a mother myself, this was just beautiful to witness and enjoy.

What I really like about Beccy Cole… was the way she promoted feminism and women supporting each other in this day and age. By no means is she a man-hater, as she is a mother of a son, that means the world to her. She just wants women to be nice to each other and accept ourselves for who we are… which I think is great advice for us all. Her kind words and fun-loving performance… left us all feeling strong and capable to face the world.

It was nice to see a “Drought Relief” CD amongst others at her CD store, from various artists for the drought appeal. As a farmer in drought, this gesture is very much appreciated, when we see the support in front of us every day. The drought support has been nation-wide from not only music artists, but everyday Australians in city and country, young and old. This generosity and support make us feel like you have our back and care about the future of Australian food and fibre. So thank you so much.

Australia Day – Saturday 26th January

Australia Day is the national day set aside to celebrate being Australian, regardless of where our personal stories may have begun. It is a day for us to all reflect on being Australian, be proud of our culture, celebrate our nation and recognise our history.

What better way to celebrate Australia Day… than spending time with my lovely sister and her beautiful family, when they visit Tamworth this weekend. We enjoyed a buffet-style dinner together, in the J&L Family Restaurant at the Tamworth Services Club. There was plenty of choice with succulent seafood including prawns, oysters, smoked salmon… a variety of carvery roasts and vegetables, Chinese cuisine, fresh salads, fruit platters and delicious desserts. There was something for everyone to choose to their liking, both adults and children.

I remember sitting and reflecting on being Australian… enjoying the company of my family, enjoying tasty fresh food in the local community, and with a sense of proudness for the ex-servicemen and women that fought for our freedom many years ago… so we can continue to enjoy our beautiful country. I respect the multi-culturalism of Australia and recognise all of our origins… a history that ultimately unites us within our nation.

Following our dinner, we then enjoyed a stroll in the park and listened to some more country music from Tamworth’s best local artists. The finale was watching the spectacular fireworks with my nieces and nephew. What is it about fireworks that just seems to fascinate us all and brings us to a complete stand-still momentarily? From the young children through to the older generation… we all just watch calmly in awe.

Tex Dubbo – Sunday 27th January

My final show was the Tex Dubbo gig… the alter ego of Troy Cassar-Daley, singing old-style songs from renowned country music artists that inspired him. At this show, Troy does not sing his own songs… but pays homage to the music that has shaped his own career. We heard original songs from the music of Merle Haggard, George Jones and Willie Nelson… which were relaxing and unwinding for me. This show happens every second year, is very popular and held at the Longyard Hotel.

His wife Laurel Edwards, supported him in some of his show. I really like how Troy is so respectfully open and speaks so highly about his lovely wife and their life together. This gives you so much respect towards him, knowing that he is a very decent bloke and that he appreciates his wife. As a loving wife myself, I think this is just wonderful.

Despite the 39 degree heat in the open garden area, I enjoyed the show with my sister and her family. My sister and her husband love these old-style songs, and I loved to see the enjoyment on their faces as well, as they enjoyed some time-out. My husband and I also enjoyed a great lunch from the bistro as we enjoyed the music.

And the show must end! As my lovely sister and her family headed back home to Dubbo, my husband and I returned back to the farm. Shearing is happening the following day on our farm, so the evening is spent mustering sheep to the yard, ready for tomorrow’s early start.

What a huge jam-packed music festival over the last 10 days! The festival ended yesterday and is now over… until next year. So I encourage you all to add the Tamworth Country Music Festival to your “TO DO” list. This event is not to be missed. Bear in mind, you will probably enjoy yourself so much, that you may return year after year.

We all deserve a little break every now and then. It is what keeps us sane and recharged to work effectively in whatever industry we are involved with. Farmers tend to not take enough time-out… due to the ongoing daily workload and costs. But in this current drought, it is more important than ever, to look after yourself and your loved ones. My husband and I are more focused than ever, to tackle life and farming again… with thanks to those music artists and entertainers that support this major festival.

Take care, Karen.

“Never get so busy making a living

that you forget to make a life.”

~ Author Unknown

Rural Reflections #5

January 21, 2019February 24, 2019 / Country Heart Spark / 1 Comment

Loyalty, trust, love and hope… is at the heart of why farmers bear the burden of drought year after year. Loyalty to our passion in life, our love for the agricultural industry and our love for our family. This is what motivates us to keep on going, implement our drought management plans and ensure our nation’s future food security.

We trust our agricultural industry to survive so we can continue to feed our great nation and the rest of the world. We hold hope for a better season as we face hardship and worry every single day. Farmers love what they do… they care for their livestock, they take pride in managing the land beneath them and they trust in what they are doing to help feed and clothe our nation.

Today I am sharing this photo with you, taken in November 2018, only 2 short months ago. Our land has suffered the effects of drought, as we had a very dry start to 2018, with the driest first half of a year on record. Our average annual rainfall is 673mm (26 inches), but in 2018 we only received about half of that… 369mm (14 inches), only 17mm more than the lowest annual rainfall on record.

In the month of November alone, we received 106mm (4 inches)… which had given us hope. Hope for a break in the dry season and hope for some relief for the land, the livestock and for us. Sadly it didn’t last for long, but nevertheless, there is light at the end of this tunnel… finally.

Rural Reflection #5…

05 Eager Hereford Breeders Follow With Excitement

image subject to copyright

As in stock management, a new paddock awaits this mob of cows and this photo depicts their excitement as the movement takes place. A failed forage crop (on the left), planted in February last year, raises its head with the much-anticipated moisture. Following every big drought, now we have the threat of weeds, invading paddocks that were once pasture. But through on-farm management, weeds can be controlled, once some rainfall is received. And those clouds above us hold hope that rain may be coming.

As we drive in front of the cattle, calling them to a new paddock… the hot, dry and dusty conditions were not restraining them at all. I love this photo because it shows the natural quiet nature of Hereford cattle, the ease of stock movement and the trust that these beautiful breeders have in us. They trust us to provide them with feed to meet their nutritional requirements. They trust us to provide them with healthy clean water to drink. They trust us entirely, as they follow eagerly without apprehension, as they contemplate what paddock may await them next.

So even with the over-bearing drought effects and the long-term process to farm business recovery… our loyalty to these animals and our industry drives us every day. It is with the love of farming, that we do hold hope for a better season to fall upon us soon.

Take care, Karen.

“Loyalty is what makes us trust,

Trust is what makes us stay,

Staying is what makes us love,

and love is what gives us hope.”

~ Glenn van Dekken

Rural Reflections #4

January 13, 2019February 24, 2019 / Country Heart Spark / 4 Comments

Hope and memories exist somewhere within us all. This widespread drought has left farmers and rural communities battling every day… which is a reminder that we all need time to just stop and reflect.

Memories seem to find warmth from within us. Those memories of a time when a season was able to produce food and fibre, with only the usual effort on the farm. Farm production without the mental tribulations, physical exhaustion and financial debilitation. Time to enjoy life… time to spend with our families… time to feel content. A time we all yearn for once again.

This weekend I did stop, relax and reflect a little… a feeling and action that seemed so long lost. A reminder that time with our loved ones is essential for all… and time to take care of yourself. I needed to find this place… a moment where I could bring back hope. This hope… or feeling of desire… for our season to break, for the heavens to open and rain soak into our paddocks and fill our tanks and dams. For this rain to wash away our stress, our weariness and our pessimism. One day it will happen… we are one day closer to rain every day.

So today I would like to share this photo with you, to show that hope is only around the corner. This photo was taken in July 2017, at the end of a good Winter season, as sheep fatten for sale on the green grass. It also depicts a storm to the east over Tamworth NSW.

Rural Reflection #4…

04 A Distant Storm Overlooking the Sheep

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I showed this photo to my husband, and at first, he didn’t even recognise it to be our property. Sadly, the scenery now is paradoxical to back then. Now every day is a vision of thick dust and short dry vegetation sparsely consuming the paddocks… and more so have consumed our lives.

I really like this photo because of how it depicts the storm in the background yet the sun shining brightly on the sheep feeding on the green grass. It symbolises the intensity of how farming relies on storms and rain to continue our production effectively. It also illustrates diversity within rural areas, and only 20km away the weather can differ so dramatically.

We may not be able to control the weather and a farmer knows best as they gamble every day upon the odds. But we can have some form of control regarding how we respond to the drought, how we prepare for the drought and how we protect our families mental state in the meantime. In any industry and family situation it is important to retain our optimistic state of mind and take care of each other.

It is now more than ever, we need to focus on our memories of the good seasons on the farm. A time that will return to us once again. Hold on to hope, enjoy time with your family as you anticipate a better season soon and remember we will get through this… together.

Take care, Karen.

“The greater your storm,

the brighter your rainbow.”

~ Author Unknown

Rural Reflections #3

January 8, 2019February 24, 2019 / Country Heart Spark / 2 Comments

Where does your road lead you to? We all have a long and winding road within our lives. Our journey along this road… is what we make of it.

We need to appreciate the journey and not look for a final destination in our lives. Appreciate our loved ones that we share this road with. Appreciate the natural beauty all around us. And appreciate the heart and soul within us all.

After a busy weekend on the farm, family commitments and a bought of heat exhaustion… my reflection is a little late this time. The never-ending tasks on the farm and the workload 7 days a week, more so as a result of drought as time becomes a limiting factor… is tiring me. It has left me thinking about what is really important in our lives. Our family, our loved ones, those that our lives revolve around… these people are the ones we need to cherish and hold dearly.

I spent my Sunday mustering stock, early weaning calves, weighing stud cattle and organising some cows to sell to pay a few bills. The dry and dusty conditions and the heat makes it a very tiring day. The usual early start to beat the heat and finally a late dinner by 8:30pm. Then comes the paperwork and updating computer records to meet record-keeping requirements on-farm. I finished at 1:00am in the morning.

So then only 4 and a half hours sleep before Monday morning weighing lambs and sending the lambs off to market. The lack of sleep coupled with the heat, left me with heat exhaustion. By 4:30pm yesterday and the shock of vomiting, as weakness and vagueness set in, I gave in to the exhaustion and lay on down. I awoke in a daze over 2 hours later, confused somewhat but ready for dinner. No office work that evening at all. I made a dinner from leftovers in the fridge, showered and watched a nice movie on television. An enjoyable evening and one that has become a rarity. Relaxation has been lost this last year… and is greatly missed.

Today as my office work is piling up and I procrastinate as to where to start, I decide to write this blog first. My chance to unwind mentally and share a part of my life with you all. I reflected on the relevance of the photo I have chosen for today.

Rural Reflection #3…

image subject to copyright

This photo shows the driveway to my property and my home near Tamworth NSW. It was taken in April 2017 in the Autumn, when the green aspect was the norm. I really like the dark green tree on the right for its facade and shape but I have no idea what sort of tree it actually is. Does anybody recognise what tree this may be?

I like this photo as it depicts a road well-travelled and a road that leads on home. It also reflects a better season than what is upon us right now and reminds me that one day the drought will be over and we will see this green scenery once again.

Sometimes life just gets too busy that we do not stop to appreciate the simple things in our life. I can look at this photo and know that whatever challenges I have to face… I still have a road that leads to home and a haven where I can also find my own inner peace and where my happiness now resides.

As my sons have grown up now and living their own lives independently, I also hope they see a road that leads them back home to us to appreciate their history and the roots of our family. I also hope that they find their own future happiness and be able to continue to return along this road… to where a loving family awaits their cherished visits.

One thing we must all understand… it is not the home and materialistic objects in our lives, that are of value. It is the people, our loved ones in our lives… that make our home a home. The road that we follow in our life, is one that we carve out. A road that leads us to our own true happiness.

Take care, Karen.

“Chase your dreams

but always know the road

that’ll lead you home again.”

~ Tim McGraw

Happy New Year and Days Gone By

January 1, 2019 / Country Heart Spark / 1 Comment

Another year has gone by and here we are, smack bang at the beginning of 2019 already. We have all celebrated New Year’s Eve last night in some way… whether it be a quiet night at home with the family, dancing the night away or the fascinating “big bang” with live fireworks. Who knew all the words to “Auld Lang Syne”? Or did you just mumble along like the rest of us… joining in with the traditional folk song to signify the start of the New Year?

New Year’s Eve is the largest global celebration… with men, women and children celebrating through rituals galore. In Australia, celebrations are held across the nation… popular family events, dancing, entertainment, fireworks, concerts, the list seems endless.

How did you bring in the New Year? For me, it was a quiet night at home with family, enjoying a delicious meal together, a quiet drink, playing a board game Cattle Baron, good conversation and laughter, thinking about my other family members afar and watching the televised midnight fireworks in Sydney. I know…probably sounds boring to those of you party animals that celebrate into the wee hours of the morning. But for me… I really enjoyed my night at home in relaxation mode, surrounded by my loved ones. With the burden of drought consuming me at the moment, this was the perfect way to bring in the New Year.

New Year’s Day provides us with a chance to celebrate that we have made it through another 365 days, our unit of time where we keep chronological order of our lives. The day we profoundly shift from one year to the next. At the stroke of midnight, we wave goodbye to the year gone by… and reflect on the achievements in our heart… and share the love with our family and friends. We also signify a fresh beginning at this ritual in time. Many people dance, eat, drink and watch fireworks to mark the start of a New Year.

If you have a birthday around the end of September or the beginning of October… well alas… you were probably conceived on New Year’s Eve. A time when our love for one another is profoundly displayed. Lots of hugs and kisses and gratitude are thrown around… a sight we are all so familiar with.

I remember when I was young, I used to attend family dances in country towns, dance the night away and upon the countdown to midnight… sing “Auld Lang Syne”. Historians have called it “the song that nobody knows” yet we have all tried to sing it. And most of us, not that well… but that doesn’t stop us from joining in.

“Auld Lang Syne” is based on a 1788 Scottish poem by Robert Burns and is typically sung on New Year’s Eve around the world. The Scottish phrase “auld lang syne” translates to “old long since” and basically means “days gone by” which is an appropriate toast for the New Year. So when everyone sings the chorus “for auld lang syne”, this translates to “for the sake of old times”. The song also reflects love, friendship and nostalgic memories.

Thankfully in Australia, the lyrics we sing today are a more modern version of the Scots poem. I have included a video with lyrics of “Auld Lang Syne” for you to practice so you won’t need to mumble along in the verses next year. I for one tend to hum along nowadays for the failure of not knowing most of the words.

Video Credit ~ YouTube and “Christmas Songs and Carols – Love to Sing”

Now we will be armed and ready for next year… we can sing to our heart’s content. This folk song is also sung at funerals, graduations and is a farewell song at other occasions.

Sometimes our rituals do change as we get older, have children, move locations or just need a change. When I had children of my own, fireworks become our favourite New Year celebration.

We were living on the Mid North Coast when my children were young, so we would go into town, buy a seafood basket and sit on the riverbank at Taree, eat our platter together and then watch the fireworks. I remember the kids waiting for the fireworks… and they would create their own fun by rolling down the hill and playing on the riverbank. I loved these times and the feeling of contentment and relaxation with my family. We have also joined family and friends at Tuncurry/Forster to watch fireworks in later years.

New Year resolutions have also been contemplated, agreed to and some broken already. We all seem to view a New Year as a fresh new blank page in our book. A book where we can write our own story and start afresh in a New Year. We are excited and enthusiastic to make resolutions to stick with for 2019. What are your New Year resolutions?

A year of bitter-sweet memories has unfolded with the drought in our farming communities and we have seen the drought support sprawled across the nation by so many truly wonderful people. My wish for the New Year is that I hope we have a better, wetter and more prosperous 2019. As the New Year emerges, I hope we all find new joys to discover and lots of reasons to be grateful.

I would like to wish you all a very Happy New Year filled with beautiful moments and treasured memories within your own heart.

Take care, Karen.

“Begin and end each day with a grateful heart.”

~ Andrea Reiser

Rural Reflections #2

December 30, 2018February 24, 2019 / Country Heart Spark / Leave a comment

Babies in any form, always spark our interest. Who doesn’t love newborn baby calves? Today I will share another photo with you all, which reflects hope, something we all need right now.

With this horrid drought affecting farmers physically, emotionally and financially this year… we are always in need of finding joy in something every day. The calving season always delivers us hope and joy.

This photo was taken in July 2018, right in the middle of this dreadful drought. Not only farming to keep our stock alive but also at a production level, as we enter the calving season. Sadly calves are dropping into a hard dry desert-like environment, where optimism is thin and prospects contemplated. Nevertheless, these newborn calves always promise to bring us a smile.

Rural Reflection #2…

image subject to copyright

I really love this photo because of the innocence portrayed with these cute baby calves. Our Hereford calves are naturally quiet which I adore. But I love the calmness they simulate by lazing around in the hay, sleeping soundly and the nonchalant yet curious glances they give you.

They just lay upon the hay innocently… the hay that we just fed out in the wretched drought, during the current daily feeding ritual. As we watch their mothers eating to nourish and gain energy, these babies rest peacefully, as if we just put the hay there for the sole purpose of softening the ground beneath them. How can one not fall in love with these beautiful tranquil animals?

The adoration we have for baby animals is the one positive motivation to keep us working so damn hard on the farm. The birth of life in a cycle, re-cements our vision and passion as farmers and reminds us as to why we accept farming challenges.

So my photo for today is reflecting that change is a part of life… we must appreciate the beauty around us and find this beauty amongst the darkness surrounding us. Drought may have a gut-wrenching hold on us farmers at the moment, but we will get through it. We just need to look around and be grateful for what we do have right now in our lives.

Take care, Karen.

“Only in the darkness can you see the stars.”

~ Martin Luther King Jr

Exposing The Truth On Why I Chose To Write A Blog?

December 18, 2018December 18, 2018 / Country Heart Spark / Leave a comment

Why on earth do people want to blog? Why would you want to spend time doing such a thing? Well for me, it was an emotional outlet… a platform to share and connect with others. There is something magical about opening your heart to allow others to see the real you.

It is a way I can remotely share my real-life stories and inspire others along their journey in life. It is a tool for me to use in order to manage my stress related to the current drought on the farm. It gives me a voice and somewhere to write my thoughts and feelings.

Why not a journal or diary, some may ask? I have a passion to help others and I can see a need where others can relate through reading my words. It gives a sense of support and knowing that we are in this together. I am passionate about encouraging others to believe in themselves and I aim to inspire others through my own experiences.

Conventional writing has taken a back seat, as the tech-savvy readers emerge, reshaping the internet media landscape. Some people may think that bloggers like to be the centre of attention and regard themselves as their own prime focus. NO, this couldn’t be farther from the truth.

In fact, bloggers are more introverted, sometimes shy, yet have something important to share. Connections can still be relevant in our changing world through this means. Bloggers support some sort of cause or have a passion to inspire others or enrich their lives in some way.

For me, blogging started as a result of the drought, when my stress-levels had sky-rocketed. I had hit rock-bottom in my physical and mental health. But I was brave enough to seek some professional help and my life started to improve dramatically.

Then I started to see the community drought support right across our nation and this was completely overwhelming. I wanted to thank the community for all the drought assistance and emotional support they were providing to farmers through the charities. I wanted you all to know how valuable you all were and what a difference your support was making in all our lives. Blogging gave me this voice publicly.

Sharing through my daily blogs, helps me keep connected with my family and friends further afield. My Mum especially loves to read what I write. I know that she is content knowing that I am doing OK and now serving a greater purpose with my writing. My non-farming friends and associates have enjoyed reading my blogs and like learning about farming life. My blog keeps us all connected and informed.

Blogging also gives me the ability to be creative with my website design. As a perfectionist, I took great pride in designing my website from scratch. Every time I write a blog, it gives me an opportunity to express myself creatively. I want it to be a true representation of myself and my passion in life.

It took me a few weeks to feel comfortable enough to reveal who I really was. Trust does not come easily to me at all. But I realised that I must trust in the process and allow my purpose in life to be revealed. The main reason I decided to “expose” myself, was to give credibility and as honesty is my most honourable attribute… it was inevitable.

From there blogging became a commitment to touch others hearts by sharing my personal stories on and off the farm. I also noticed a need where many others doubted their own abilities and inspiration was needed to guide self-worth for all.

There is something to be gained by moving my personal stories from an invisible state into the light for others to see. When I receive feedback from individuals, thanking me for opening up my heart and sharing my stories… it gives me a sense of fulfillment which is gratifying. It pleases me that I can support or guide others to find their own answers.

I then realised that blogging had become my own form of stress-relief. As I typed away at the keyboard, all that mixed-up “stuff” in my head was released. I literally felt calmer within myself and more centred again. Life then became harmonious… almost tranquil.

So although farm life hadn’t changed at all and drought feeding demands were still a large burden… my ability to handle the situation had changed dramatically. Instead of feeling complete exhaustion, emotionally chaotic and unable to cope with these challenges… I became more focused and capable of the work involved.

Sometimes, I feel a little selfish when I write my blog… as I am addicted to that feeling of knowing that it gives me the inner strength I need daily. It helps me to find my inner thoughts and to move forward in my own life. It has become almost therapeutic and a daily ritual for me. Writing is what I love… the words just seem to flow from within.

But the greatest satisfaction is… knowing that my words have impacted on other people. Knowing that I have inspired somebody else. Knowing that my words give them the support they need and a connection between us all. Knowing that sharing my personal experiences will help someone else every single day. This is what truly gives me a sense of serene contentment.

Take care, Karen.

“BECAUSE WHEN I WRITE,

it’s more than just me at a keyboard.

It’s the universe converging within

the pandemonium of my mind,

and turning it into something

BEAUTIFUL.”

~ Lyndsay Everotm, A Writers Thoughts.

Hay Mate! Bittersweet Relief with Rural Aid in Tamworth

December 13, 2018 / Country Heart Spark / 3 Comments

What a beautiful sight… 2000 bales of hay delivered and stacked in Tamworth NSW this week. Although tinged with sadness and pain due to the burden of drought, 250 farmers found pleasure in that single moment.

The moment that the realisation overcame them… knowing that the Australian people cared about the future of our agricultural industry. Knowing that they cared about them. Knowing that their hungry livestock could be fed for another few days without more cost upon them. Knowing that those few bales gave some temporary relief. Knowing that they could fuel their tractor or ute to feed them. Just knowing that people care. Farmers literally felt that support here in Tamworth.

Buy A Bale is a program initiative of Rural Aid. It is a charitable campaign of providing drought assistance to farmers. There has been enormous support nation-wide for this valuable cause. The Hay Mate Concert held in October at Tamworth, raised $2.8 million in drought relief for farmers. With thanks to music artist John Farnham and guests for this generous support.

The trucks loaded with the donated hay, finally made it to Tamworth… bringing a load of hope to our local farmers. Buy A Bale organisers, Jobs Australia Enterprises and Doing It For Our Farmers… also distributed Caltex fuel cards, working dog food and calf/lamb milk powder to the very appreciative farmers.

I was one of those fortunate and grateful farmers this week. As my husband and I drove into the old saleyards, converted to the temporary “Rural Aid – Buy A Bale” hay drop zone, I was overwhelmed with the arousal of bittersweet relief.

We have had it very tough in this drought, mainly due to the widespread effect across the state. We are physically tired, mentally drained and almost financially exhausted. But we are holding hope now, we have had a couple showers of rain in the last few weeks.

Although we had almost recovered from the 2012 drought… sadly we were hit again too soon. Like most farmers we put our Drought Management Plan into action. We reduced livestock numbers quite significantly and retained about a third of our herd to feed this year. The burden of cost has been enormous but that is a decision we made to retain our core breeding herd, to save over 25 years of genetics in our cattle.

Currently we have only 260 cattle and 200 lambs on our 2800 acre grazing property. Trying to be positive, there are good things that result from a drought though. We only keep the best of our livestock, so going forward, the best quality remains in our stud herd.

But as we drove into the “Hay Zone” this week, I started to think about the Australian people reaching into their own pockets to give so generously to the farmers. We are a lucky country, to have so many people that are kind and caring and empathise with others. I watched as the volunteers loaded trucks with hay, spoke with farmers and distributed items. Such thoughtful and caring people.

Whilst my husband tied down the hay, I walked over to the tent to meet the 2 lady volunteers nearby. I learned this mother and daughter came from Cessnock and I valued their conversation and the fact they were volunteering their time and travelled to assist farmers. Thank you to Tania and Mackenzie Pringle for allowing me to take their photo, as a true representation of the kind-hearted Australian spirit surrounding us all in this drought. I imagined myself, one day being able to do this for another community and give back this kind support to help another.

Thank you to Rural Aid and all the men and women volunteering their time to assist in the hay delivery and to the businesses that donate their trucks, machinery and their time. And thank you to each and every person that has contributed in any way to the drought relief… through time, effort or donating their hard-earned money. Your support is truly appreciated and provides more than the value you think you have actually contributed.

It is this nation-wide support that gives me the inner strength mentally to face the daily battle on farm. Personally, I have never seen drought relief to farmers before this year and I have been farming all of my life. It has amazed me that so many people want to support our industry and secure the future of our domestic food chain. So thank you one and all.

Take care, Karen.

P.S. The biggest ever hay drop for drought affected farmers… see this video link on Prime 7 news.

“Could a greater miracle take place

than for us to look through each other’s eyes

for an instant?”

~ Henry David Thoreau