Life Goes on

In just two sleeps it will be Christmas but we are all feeling somewhat flat and despondent with all the devastation and loss around us. The bushfires have been relentless and in New South Wales alone they have burnt an area larger than the area of Wales in the UK. Here at home we've had the hottest days on record and as I write this post there is a smoky haze in the atmosphere as winds spread the smell of smoke far and wide. So far in the Adelaide hills 86 homes have burnt down with 500 sheds and outbuildings and countless livestock, wildlife and businesses including at least eight wineries completely destroyed. The tragic loss of life, is hard to read but includes eight in NSW and one here in South Australia. We've already donated cash to one special family here that we know of that lost everything so it is heartening to read of countless acts of generosity and kindness from businesses and total strangers. But life goes on and somehow we have to accept it all. The true heroes through all of this are the fire fighters including so many on a voluntary basis.......

Photo source

So when one reads of the loss of life fighting the fires the emotions are overwhelming especially this image of these two young fathers who lost their lives and were also volunteers.......

Photo credit and Story

So while feeling sombre I did record the heat in the garden which is nothing compared to losing one's entire property. The hydrangeas while in semi-shade still didn't cope so now my broken William Morris umbrella protects it.........

 Other plants survived but tree leaves sizzled, petunias wilted and even a baby bird and grasshopper weren't so lucky........

 There is evidence that the monarch butterfly caterpillars are back but we haven't been able to find their cocoons so we hope to see more in the coming weeks.......

We are reminded that we must protect the little ones from the sadness around us so we've enjoyed some special moments together during the week.....

 I had a birthday a few days ago...always a busy time in the week leading up to Christmas but we enjoyed a dinner one night with friends.........

And I received this extra special gift in the post - a William Morris book published in 1934.....thankyou to that very special friend......

 and Larry spoilt me with this wonderful outdoor mirror and I love the reflections and how it has added depth to our small back area.......

 Topsy is oblivious to all the bushfire devastation so we continue to enjoy his company with the hope that when Christmas comes to you and your loved ones it is filled with joy and happiness x