My best friend Bella passed away yesterday.  It was a difficult decision but, was made easier as the vet came directly to my home to look after Bella.

Bella was a wonderful companion who loved long walks by the lake and greeting all the neighbours.  Everyone in the neighbourhood knew Bella.  Bella even loved watching me cook every night in the kitchen.  She did not want to miss a single thing.

Now, she is in peace.  I am so grateful to have her in my life for 17 years!

Finally some warm weather has arrived.  It is a time to enjoy those quiet moments in nature and appreciate the beauty around you.  It is also a time to make time to meditate and to focus on being present in the present moment.

As we enter the summertime we can make time to be grateful for the small things as we encounter new challenges in our journeys.  Find some time to enjoy those simple things like gelato and sitting in the warm sunshine and just doing nothing for a change.  Sometimes when we unplug we finally get a chance to just breathe instead of anticipating the next thing we have to do.

Finally we are in March a time of renewal and change. It is an exciting time as the garden slowly starts to come to life.  As the temperature starts to warm up it is a great time for walking mindfully and just noticing the trees, sky and water.  Nothing is more relaxing then ,hearing the waves crashing!

It is important to take time to recharge during this time of change.  Set some new intentions and goals and move forward leaving debris from the past behind!  Look for inspiration for your new path...and most of all be present in the present moment especially when some days are difficult.  Return to your breath and just breath for a few minutes.  

February is usually a difficult winter month however, this year the warm spring-like temperatures and occasional sparks of sunshine have been inspirational of better times.  

The garden is a mud haven for the dog!  And it does look hideous now!  However, this is the perfect time to plan for veggies in the spring.  Starting any seeds indoors always gives you a head start to the new season.  It also makes you think of renewal and change.  Time to take stock of where you are and where you want to go.

As I move through my grief journey I am grateful for my bereavement group as we support each other through these difficult times.  

My favourite meditations from Joesph Goldstein often help when times are stressful.  Trying to reduce your suffering by not grasping so much...sometimes accepting things are difficult and not trying to push the situation away.  Accept it for what it is and breathe...  

I am grateful to a yoga teacher who advised me about focussing on the breath and different techniques, and supported me during challenging times.  Sometimes you find support where you least expect it!

Happy Christmas!

It is a time of celebration as we gather with friends and family during this magical time.   Although, this year feels a little less magical, a little more difficult as I am missing someone very special.  When grieving during the holidays one way to cope with your loss is to allow yourself to have those waves of sadness.   Let the feelings arise and just try to watch them with curiosity.  Don't try to stop them just let them happen.  Notice what is coming up.  Breathe.   Breathe again.  Let the feelings drift like clouds.  

One good way to celebrate your loss on the holidays is to talk about the person who has passed to other family or friends  about the past holidays spent with them.  A favourite memory is always welcome.

Don't let anyone tell you to 'get over your grief'.   This is your grief and your time and it will take as long as it takes.  It is okay not to be okay for as long as you need.  Be kinder to yourself during days when it is especially difficult.