Life often looks wonderful on social media and I wonder that at times it doesn’t always show both sides. If I’m honest, December 2022 has been one of hardest months of my life with several unexpected losses and much challenge.
Then to top it off, after almost three years of careful avoidance, I received Covid for Christmas and the New Year (I was fully vaccinated) and have been very sick with every symptom. I’m stunned at just how terrible Covid can be and wouldn’t wish it on (or risk giving it to) anyone.
I’m still trying to get through it and have lost being able to taste and smell, (devastating to someone who loves cooking!) but I’m hoping these will return in time – fingers crossed. And I also still hold hope for this fresh, new year.
If anything, going through this past month makes me appreciate so much more and I’m grateful to have had those I’ve lost, for the pain means there was much love, and so it takes time to adjust and adapt.
In the meantime, I’m always amazed at how simply stepping out into the garden can help lift your spirits. Seeing what’s flowering right now, hearing the muffled beat of a bird flying across, feeling the warm, gentle summer breeze and thinking of the year ahead.
Knowing that yes, there will be more trials and griefs to come – that’s life – but there will also be many beautiful happenings too, even tiny ones. Buon anno, baci e auguri, Zoe xx
PS. Some pictures from my garden… (this morning’s lovely discovery – a self-sown pumpkin). I live on an ordinary-sized suburban block and am often happily surprised by just how much life is going on within it!
PPS. When I get back to being able to taste and smell, I have a feeling I’ll be cooking up a storm. 👀🙂
Zoë Boccabella 
Hope you recover soon completely from Covid. Good Health wishes & blessings from Lauree Brown in Southern Tasmania.
Thank you, Lauree, very much appreciated. Sending you kind wishes and much happiness to your lovely part of the world. Zoe xx
Hello Zoe ,Here is something to brighten your day ! This Christmas I purchased my own present : “The Proxy Bride ” ! I could not wait for Santa or the “Christkindl” .Well , I read the book in two days ( left all house work and other duties for later ) and thoroughly enjoyed it .- Sending you best wishes for a full recovery ! Sincerely ,Lydia xox
Hello Lydia, you have indeed brightened my day, thank you! It’s so great to hear how much you enjoyed the book (and glad it spared you from housework and other duties for a little bit). 😉 Really appreciate your kind wishes too, many thanks. Have a lovely day. Zoe xxx
Zoe sorry to hear that the festive season has been saddened for you with the passing of some dear friends and by you contracting Covid. Trusting that you will recover quickly with good rest and plenty of fresh air. It’s amazing how therapeutic our gardens are, together with some visiting birds, when we just take time to appreciate it.
Get well soon, regards Izabela
Thank you, Izabela, much appreciated, it’s been a tough time but am hanging in there. And yes, being able to get out into the garden is such a gift that I’m so grateful for, gardens and nature truly are so restoring. Have a good day. Zoe x