Day 365: Happy sweet 16!

"The more you praise and celebrate your life, the more there is in life to celebrate." - Oprah Winfrey

Project 365: #365

With unplanned omissions through this project, it has lasted a couple of months longer than initially planned, but the timing was still perfect. This being day 365 of 365, and Nicole's 16th birthday! Certainly an exciting day to celebrate, we are proud of the beautiful, kind, and caring young lady she has become! The joy of making a wish and blowing out candles. Although we celebrate birthdays especially, it is important to celebrate each and every day, for in the gratitude of celebration we come to realize how much in life there is to celebrate, from seemingly mundane every day events to momentous occasions like graduation and 16th birthdays. We can find something special each day to celebrate, and share the joy with those around us. In this, we stop looking down, and look around, appreciating life around us. After this whirlwind year, I am looking forward to living life again, enjoying the simple things, and embracing each day!

Day 364: High school graduation!

"The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically. Intelligence plus character - that is the goal of true education." - Martin Luther King, Jr.

Project 365: #364

What an exciting day, and what an awesome end to a school career. It was such a proud moment for us when Caitlin walked across the stage, receiving her high school diploma. It seems just yesterday that she started Grade 1. What a journey, three continents, and three high schools! Despite all the challenges and changes, she has grown and developed beyond anything we could have imagined, and we are so proud of all her accomplishments, her drive for success, and the confident, caring and beautiful young adult she has become. She has used the setbacks to her advantage, and with her strong foundation has learned to think both intensively and critically. The goals of both intelligence and character have been achieved. This marks the end of a chapter for her, and the beginning of an exciting new one. There are so many things and people to be grateful for, including all her dedicated teachers each step of the way, in the classroom, sports fields, and extracurricular activities.  Each one has provided valuable input into who she has become, and molded the direction of her path. May she use the valuable lessons learned over the past 12 years in the next step of her education, and always remember the importance of education, intelligence, and critical thinking.

Day 363: Sit and rest a while

"As long as poverty, injustice and gross inequality persist in our world, none of us can truly rest." - Nelson Mandela

Project 365: #363

This has been such a busy year, especially this last term, that when I went for a run this morning, this little makeshift bench caught my eye - just calling me to sit and enjoy the peace in the forest for a little while. Just a while, enough time to catch my breath. We cannot ever really just rest, since we must always do what we can for the world, to eliminate poverty, injustice, and inequality. We can all live in our bubbles, apparently unaffected by these things, but in our hearts we know this is not reality, and it is up to each and every one of us to use our talents to make this world a better place for those around us.

Day 362: Spruce Run

“The nation behaves well if it treats its natural resources as assets which it must turn over to the next generation increased, and not impaired, in value.” - Theodore Roosevelt

Project 365: #362

We went on a little scout yesterday afternoon, looking for a nice waterway to paddle on, and found Spruce Run  Recreational Area. This was just a little peep through the trees at things to come.  This is the largest water body that this relatively close to us. The park was closed as it was after 4 pm, so we couldn't get too close, but sneaked a peep from the side of the road. It is very expansive at 2030 acres, and this was just one teeny arm. It is so exciting that there are protected natural resources close by. This park has a strictly bring in take out policy, so you cannot dump any trash! Every little step in conserving our beautiful resources means that future generations can also enjoy this great gift!

Day 361: Father's Day brunch

"A good father is one of the most unsung, unpraised, unnoticed, and yet one of the most valuable assets is our society" - Billy Graham

Project 365: #361

In celebration of Father's Day we treated Mike to early morning brunch. We are grateful for the role of our special father's in our lives, and for all they have done for us! Although we can't always be together, we still cherish them, and miss them! We are grateful for their gentle guidance,  belief in us, and continual support, no matter what!

Day 360: Church flowers

Arranging a bowl of flowers in the morning can give a sense of quiet in a crowded day - like writing a poem or saying a prayer. Anne Morrow Lindbergh
Read more at: http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/quotes/a/annemorrow133382.html?src=t_flowers

"Arranging a bowl of flowers in the morning can give a sense of quiet in a crowded day - like writing a poem or saying a prayer." - Anne Morrow Lindbergh

Project 365: #360

I had forgotten just how much I love arranging flowers. I had put my name on the flower roster for church for the first time, as I wanted to observe the system for a little while to see how things are done here. I was reluctant, as flowers just seem so expensive, but really wanted to do the flowers in celebration and thanksgiving of Caitlin's graduation this week. I tootled off to the store to see what I could find in a rather limited budget, and then merrily went around the garden finding all sorts of exciting foliage! While arranging the flowers, I did reflect on our many blessings. What a year this has been, and the culmination of Caitlin's school career...there is much to celebrate, as she has thoroughly enjoyed most of her school years, making the most of every opportunity presented to her. It was actually perfect timing, as we were also able to celebrate Father's Day, giving thanks to all our special father's and all they have done for us, as well as Mike and Nicole's birthdays! Grateful hearts all round!

Day 359: Relay for life

"Each lap gets us closer to a world with more birthdays"- Relay for life

Project 365: #359

I was asked at the last minute if I could help to chaperone a team at the West Morris Mendam schools Relay for Life, which takes place from 5 pm to 5 am the following day! I had no idea what it entailed or what to expect, and went a long rather reluctantly with Nicole, who was in a team. Well, I am so pleased that I went, it was such an uplifting and inspirational fundraiser by these kids, and a very well-run and organized program! With over 600 kids from both schools participating, the track was always  buzzing with activity as they completed their laps, and the surrounding areas were dotted with tents, sleeping bags, camping chairs, and kids playing a variety of ball games. There was live music played by the kids in bands, and acapella show downs, all led by seniors, committed to this cause for cancer.  Throughout the year these teams have raised well over $60 000 in the fight against cancer. What was amazing was the amount of people directly affected by cancer, and the commitment of these young adults to do what they can to make a difference in other people's lives.

Day 358: Dinner and desert

 “With mirth and laughter let old wrinkles come.” 

- William Shakespeare, The Merchant of Venice

Project 365: #358

Let our wrinkles show that we have lived a good life with love and laughter. We celebrated Mike's birthday today with dinner and desert! Yum! Awesome to have creative girls who help in the kitchen!

Day 357: Gainful employment

"The price of success is hard work, dedication to the job at hand, and the determination that whether we win or lose, we have applied the best of ourselves to the task at hand" - Vince Lombardi

Project 365: #357


Yay! One is on the way to being gainfully employed, with the other following suit shortly!! The first day of training for her new job at the local store after reams of paperwork to prove her eligibility and a medical! Yippee! Pocket money and summer sorted! Now for the other one! I am hoping that she will learn the lessons of success through hard work, perseverance, and dedication to her job, no matter what it is, and always do the very best that she can do. Hopefully, there will be a lesson in this regarding the value of money, as she starts out below minimum wage until she turns 16...which is thankfully next week! However, if we equate this to ZAR terms, she will be a millionaire in no time! Woohoo!

Day 356: Sheep may safely graze

“You'll have a good, secure life when being alive means more to you than security, love more than money, your freedom more than public or partisan opinion, when the mood of Beethoven's or Bach's music becomes the mood of your whole life … when your thinking is in harmony, and no longer in conflict, with your feelings … when you let yourself be guided by the thoughts of great sages and no longer by the crimes of great warriors … when you pay the men and women who teach your children better than the politicians; when truths inspire you and empty formulas repel you; when you communicate with your fellow workers in foreign countries directly, and no longer through diplomats...” - Wilhelm Reich, Listen, Little Man!

Project 365: #356

I know that this field has featured before, but I am still amazed that we live just 50 miles from NYC, and right next to the high school is this working farm in Main Street, with sheep grazing in the field. It was, of course, a perfect day to take a photograph...not a breath of wind and perfectly blue sky, green fields, sheep peacefully mowing the lawn....paradise actually. It made me think, what is the purpose of our rushed, complicated lives? It did bring to mind Bach's 'Sheep may safely graze', which was always played in our house, first by my brother on clarinet and then most beautifully by my Dad on the piano. It brought back memories of the uncomplicated, simple lifestyle of my childhood. The most important things were living life, loving, education, learning, communicating, truth, integrity. Being guided by the messages of the great sages and learning from the mistakes of heroic warriors; living with the passion of the great artists and composers. Perhaps one day we will get back there.

Day 355: Pain and loss

'Hate will never win...love is love is love is love is love is love. Love cannot be killed or swept aside' - Lin-Manuel Miranda

Project 365: #355

The school flag is flying at half-mast today in honor of all those who lost their lives in the senseless Orlando night-club shooting.  Wise words from the composer of 'Hamilton' in his Tony acceptance sonnet, that no matter what, love will prevail, and this senseless act of hate will result in an outpouring of overwhelming love that will eventually overpower all evil. These terrible acts of random terrorism against the innocent will not create fear, but unity through the pain and loss and love to fight for freedom, will remind us that each day, hour, minute, second is precious, and to live life as such. Loving our neighbor and working together for the betterment of all; putting aside our petty hatred and judgement.

Day 354: Track and field banquet

"Awards can give you a tremendous amount of encouragement to keep getting better, no matter how young or old you are." - Alan Alda

Project 365: #354

What an inspirational coach the Track girls have had, and what a positive impact on their lives. Each one of the captains gave testimony to the positive influence of being part of his team, and being coached by him, of valuable life lessons taught, and the encouragement of their passion and what they love to do. Through his straight forward demands of them, they respect and admire him, and want to go the extra mile for their team. We are so proud of Caitlin for being awarded the Coach's Award for truly reflecting all the values considered important as a team member in track after just one season on the team, and for her achievements throughout the season. She managed this while juggling everything else going on, including IB exams in the middle of it all, missing just one practice the entire season to take her pre-scheduled driver's license test!

Day 353: Inspirational horse show

"With horses, familiarity breeds comfort. If you haven't been around horses for a while (or ever), the best thing to do is to go to the racetrack, a horse show, a rodeo, or some other horsey activity, and watch the horses. Familiarize yourself with the way they move and behave themselves." - Jane Smiley

Project 365: #353

This was such a fun way to spend a Saturday afternoon, and I had forgotten how much I love horses and all that comes with them.  After some secret planning so Jeanne didn't know we would be there (so as to not make her extra nervous with additional spectators!), we went on an adventure to the Sussex showgrounds. A perfect day to watch her compete in a dressage competition. The most amazing part of all this was that she hadn't competed for thirty years! What an inspiration to do what you love, conquer your fears, and follow your passion! And with such finesse!

Day 352: Last Friday of school FOREVER!

"I wish my school days could have dragged on a little longer, or that I could go back and do it later in life." - Cara Delevigne

Project 365: #352

Woohoo! Last Friday off to school forever for Caitlin...a happy day for her...one of mixed emotions for me. She is all grown up - even driving her sister to school and back! While all the excitement of finishing school is here, I have warned her that she will miss life of no real responsibilities, and will probably wish she could do it all again one day, knowing what she knows with the experience of life! I never imagined that it would be like this without uniforms, and driving herself...you never know where you will end up in life, so embrace each moment!

Day 351: Rain garden

"Unless we practice conservation, those who come after us will have to pay the price of misery, degradation, and failure for the progress and prosperity of our day." - Gifford Pinchot

Project 365: #351

I am excited to see the conservation efforts here, as it seems as though most of this society is based on consumerism, with little regard for conservation and sustainability. This rain garden outside the middle school in town,  is 'designed to intercept, treat, and infiltrate stormwater at the source, before it becomes runoff. The plants are native to the region and help retain contaminants that could otherwise harm nearby waterways. Rain gardens are beautiful, low-maintenance, and inexpensive gardens that you can install at home'. This is a Rutger's University project, but has inspired me to plant these plants in the bottom of our garden, and encourage my neighbours to do the same. After all, we are the custodians of this beautiful earth, which we need to preserve for our future generations.

Day 350: Final band concert of the year

"Working together in concert more smoothly not only helps us move more quickly; it changes the nature of what we can undertake. When we have the confidence that we can orchestrate the group effort required to realize them, we dare bigger dreams." - Justin Rosenstein

Project 365: #350

When we arrived this year, after our little hiatus in Germany, I did not think that we would experience the amazing school music that we had the privilege of being part of in South Africa. Little did we know! What amazing performances of very talented musicians at their final concert of the year! With the combined bands I think there were seven tubas! Being part of an orchestra or band exemplifies teamwork, creating results and achieving goals that you are unable to accomplish individually. The confidence of group orchestration is carried through to daily lives, daring us to dream as big as our imagination allows, and better yet, to follow those dreams, believing in ourselves and those supporting us all the way!

Day 349: Graduate signs

"In school, you're taught a lesson and then given a test. In life, you're given a test that teaches you a lesson." - Tom Bodett

Project 365: #349

The end of Caitlin's school career is fast becoming a reality. There was great excitement this evening when I saw someone on the verge planting this sign. I had forgotten that I had ordered this as a fundraiser....we are officially a 'proud home of a 2016 Menham HS graduate'! Woohoo! It is such fun to drive around town and see these sprinkled on the lawns, and realize that we are not the only family that has endured the senior year, and all that it entails.  This last haul seems to be dragging on forever, and the seniors are now completely ready to spread their wings and embark on their new journeys. This is a sign that they are ready!! They always say to enjoy each moment of them being little, as they are grown up in a flash, and this is so true! Here we are, the end of school for Cait! I do hope that through all her school experience she passes all the tests that life will throw her going forward, and that valuable lessons will be learned.

Day 348: Tax use

"Reforming public education, cutting property taxes, fixing adult and child protective services and funding our budget can all occur when Democrats and Republicans engage in consensus and cooperation - not cynicism and combat." - Rick Perry

Project 346: #348

While out on our run, Riley and I came upon some large trucks and heavy machinery at the 'mudpond'. I was all excited as I thought the dredging of the pond had begun, as we had to acknowledge that this was going to be carried out a little while ago, and I thought they were beginning the process. Anyhow, on closer inspection, it was the municipality  that was clearing some brush in the car park to fix a neighboring fence. But, there were several large vehicles, not outsourced, but belonging to the Borough municipality! All funded from our taxes. At least we know where our taxes are going here. I do know that most locals complain considerably about service delivery, cost, etc, but they have never lived any where else in the world, and have no real idea about the cost of maintaining systems, and what happens when more people pay less or no tax, and how the infrastructure starts to crumble and degenerate. I am very grateful that I can see where our taxes go on a daily basis, from the outstanding education, including athletics and music, to clean running water, maintained roads, winter services, brush collection, etc, etc...the list goes on! One thing is true is that everyone needs to stop complaining and fighting with each other, no matter which party has their allegiance, and begin working together to maintain and appreciate this land of freedom, diversity, and opportunity.

Day 347: Irish recitals

"You have to stay true to your heritage; that's what your brand is about." - Alice Temperley

Project 365: #347

When the girls were little, they fell into Irish dancing quite by accident. All (or most) little girls want to do ballet, so at ages 5 and 3 we set off to find a ballet teacher. And on recommendation from friends found the most awesome, gentle, fun-loving teacher, who was just a little taller than them, and also happened to teach Irish and Highland dancing. This set us on the path of dancing that became ingrained in our lives. After eventually giving up ballet, as they were a little too impatient, they continued with both Irish and Highland dancing, which they were both good at. Caitlin's Grade One teacher said it was your cultural heritage, which is inherent, and you can't deny, which I have not ever forgotten.  Caitlin eventually going on to compete at Irish Dancing World Championships. With all the moving it has been a little difficult, but Nicole has started dancing again, and danced in her first recital after about three years...warming up for Feises! Although she keeps saying she wants to give up...she too can't deny her heritage, and something keeps her going back!

Day 346: First blooms of Bantry Bay!

"As long as we are persistence in our pursuit of our deepest destiny, we will continue to grow. We cannot choose the day or time when we will fully bloom. It happens in its own time." - Denis Waitley

Project 365: #346

It is important never to give up, and always believe in our dreams...the key is patience, just as we have to be patient for the first flowers to fully bloom in the spring and summer. Although our garden was once beautifully landscaped, with time and neglect it is looking a little sad, and I have been disappointed at the lack of anything flowering. So, I bought myself two 'Bantry Bay' climbing roses (partly because they remind me of Bantry Bay at home, although their origins are in Ireland...which also tie back to our roots, and partly because they are just beautiful scented roses) which I am training up the trellis over the garden gate. The most amazing thing is that I ordered them online, and they were delivered in a box within a couple of days, and within four weeks of being planted are already bearing flowers. This is our first flower, which I just had to pick!

Day 345: Unconditional love....of a dog!

"Dogs are not our whole life, but they make our lives whole." - Roger Caras

Project 365: #345

This is absolutely true for Riley. He has filled the gap that was missing in our lives at home, and has been such a source of joy and fun! He has taught us unconditional love, patience, persistence, joy, enthusiasm, over-enthusiasm, and just how to squish your way in to the center of attention! Our lives have been made whole! I can understand how animals are used in therapy - their trust and love is infectious!

Day 344: Reclaimed by nature

"Biodiversity can't be maintained by protecting a few species in a zoo, or by preserving greenbelts or national parks. To function properly, nature needs more room than that. It can maintain itself, however, without human expense, without zookeepers, park rangers, foresters or gene banks. All it needs is to be left alone." - Donella Meadows

Project 365: #344

When out exploring, the most exciting thing that I come across is abandoned structures that are being reclaimed by nature. I often worry myself thinking about the loss of biodiversity, and how consumerism is negatively affecting our planet, and what the consequences will be for our children, and our children's children, and our children's children's children, etc. But then, when I walk in areas which have been left alone, and I see how nature miraculously reclaims and maintains what was hers to begin with,  then I have a deep feeling of peace that all will be okay in the end. These stone structures are all that remain of a bridge built in the early 1800s, which was last used in 1910. Nature is doing a good job at making them hers again!

Day 343: Wild roses

"I have lived pain, and my life can tell: I only deepen the wound of the world when I neglect to give thanks the heavy perfume of wild roses in early July and the song of crickets on summer humid nights and the rivers that run and the stars that rise and the rain that falls and all the good things that a good God gives." - Ann Voskamp

Project 365: #343

The main reason I began this blog was to remember to always be grateful for little things on a daily basis, especially when grieving the loss of special people, the loss of a country, the loss of family, the loss of all that we had and knew. There is so much to be grateful for...the scenty wild roses along the path, and the sounds of the birds chirping in the early morning. The crickets at night. The rain that fills the rivers, their continual flow reminding me of the continuity of life. We have so very much to be thankful for and to look forward to!

Day 342: Soaking up the sun

"The joy of life comes from our encounters with new experiences, and hence there is no greater joy than to have an endlessly changing horizon, for each day to have a new and different sun." - Christopher McCandless

Project 365: #342

With the improved weather, the animals are all enjoying the outdoors...and the cats have got over the fact that Riley is here to stay, and he is just an over-enthusiastic ball of infectious energy. They find joy in soaking up the sun from different spots, and finding new havens and sanctuaries in the garden. The sun and warmth is uplifting, making each new day something to look forward to.

Day 341: Memorial Day

"Memorial Day remains one of America's most cherished patriotic observances. The spirit of this day has not changed - it remains a day to honor those who died defending our freedom and democracy." - Doc Hastings

Project 365: #341

While at the track meet last week, we happened to be sitting directly beneath the flag, providing a perfect opportunity of a photo. We are very grateful to be living in a country that is so fiercely patriotic, and are grateful to those who died while defending both freedom and democracy. It is a privilege to be here.

Day 340: Sunday car wash

"My parents pushed us very hard to work, both in the home, doing chores and cooking, and at school." - Wendi Deng Murdoch

Project 365: #340

Yup...only way to do it...the kids must learn the value  of chores...working hard at school, keeping things neat and tidy, cleaning the house, cooking, laundry...and washing the car! I have an enthusiastic car-washer, earning some much-needed pocket money with summer coming! There is much to be learned from chores, including responsibility and pride in your accomplishments. I just wish we had been stricter as parents enforcing chores all along!!! I also hope that the other one who is actually driving the car now takes turns in washing it!!

Day 339: Exploring Buttermilk Falls

"I love the sounds and the power of pounding water, whether it is the waves or a waterfall." - Mike May

Project 365: #339

The weather has been so nice that Nic and I decided to get up early on Saturday, and walk to Buttermilk Falls before it became too hot. It was the most awesome walk, we have had a little rain, so the rivers are flowing nicely, providing beautiful scenery, and sounds! The gurgling of the water over the rocks takes me back to carefree childhood days holidaying at Nyanga, Zimbabwe, and playing for hours in the rock pools below water falls. Nic and I even enjoyed an early morning swim in the falls and pool, which we also shared with some doggies being taken for a walk! Refreshing start to the day! We are blessed to live in such a beautiful area.

Day 338: Birthday surprise!

"A birthday is just another day where you go to work and people give you love. Age is just a state of mind, and you are as old as you think you are. You have to count your blessings and be happy." - Abhishek Bachchan

Project 365: #338

I had forgotten that the school had some extra days off over the Memorial Day weekend due to no snow days this year...not a single one!! So, the girls have Friday, and Tuesday off, making it a really nice long weekend! So, how nice to have them home on my birthday! They surprised me with the most delicious brunch - my favorite meal of the day!  Although I didn't go to work, I was showered with love from all around the world, filling up the emotional tanks! I am so grateful for Skype to keep in contact with home! To make it all the more better, it was my first really and truly summer birthday with the temperature over 30 degrees C! So, the rest of the day was spent lounging in or around the pool! Bliss!

Day 337: Regional track meet

"Track and field was very big when I was growing up." - Usain Bolt

Project 365: #337

Track and field is still very big...this is a regional meet, and there were rows and rows and rows of school buses from the region, bringing athletes from northern NJ and surrounds to compete. I am amazed at the organization behind these events, and how they seem to be run effortlessly, even though there must be a tremendous amount of work that goes into each one. This is the culmination of the Spring Track season with only the top three athletes of most events competing further. For some, it is the final meet of their high school career. We are grateful to have been part of this process, and sad that it is over, and also that we have not had the opportunity to take part for the last four years! We are also grateful for the dedication of the amazing coach. Well done to Cait on your hard work and dedication, starting the season in freezing weather, continuing through exams, competing in boiling weather, and without the same grounding as the local athletes. We are proud of you - may your running and high jump and all the lessons you have learned from the season take you far.