A reminder to myself that might be helpful to you: take a break. For inspiration, I read Robert Dessaix's The Pleasures of Leisure. (I picked up a copy for $3 at the local Vinnies; in pristine, unread condition, it is inscribed with a message of congratulations for "twenty years of unswerving, faithful service"). Dessaix acknowledges … Continue reading Take a break
Parenting
Look up
Walking up to school this morning, my son said 'I love the sky'. You can see why: It's the beginning of spring on this side of the world, and Sydney celebrates with days in the mid 20s. Members of the Cloud Appreciation Society would have found little joy this morning. After a week of rain, … Continue reading Look up
Beginnings, endings and lifetimes
The past few weeks have reminded me of the importance of rituals to mark beginnings, endings and the lifetimes in between. At work, we have celebrated new jobs and roles, baby showers, reunions, farewells and retirements. Took 50+ contracts & 14 years, but I'm now in a continuing role at the university. Thanks to the … Continue reading Beginnings, endings and lifetimes
Sharing space
Last week I participated in the conference Beyond Mothering Myths? Motherhood in an Age of Neoliberalism and Individualisation. With a partner recovering from foot surgery, children on school holidays and a busy time at work, my attendance was partial and interrupted. Those presentations I did attend were provocative and affecting. Lilia Mantai and I presented … Continue reading Sharing space
The edge of knowing
Several times recently I have become aware of the limits of knowledge, and what it is like to feel uncertain and unknowing. In writing group, I gave feedback on a paper about teaching grammar to young children. Unfortunately, I came of age in an era of Australian education that refused to teach grammatics. The limit … Continue reading The edge of knowing
Staying optimistic
When I mentioned to my kids last Friday morning that it was board game night, they both cheered. This response kept me happy all day. Playing together has been enjoyable for all of us. There have been other benefits: I am finding it easier not to win, something I have enjoyed most of my life. … Continue reading Staying optimistic
