Jan 4 - DAY 4

Today was a day of spending - didn't really mean to, but got swayed into expanding our TV size which I have to say is rather nice to have. And then we drove by the farm machinery depot and there was a 2nd hand slasher - just the one we'd been searching for..and at the right price too! Now our paddocks will once again look shorn and smooth....instead of long and tufty and rather odd. Oh how I'll miss them when we move to the suburbs.

Jan 3 - DAY 3

Living on acreage means hard physical output in the summer, but this year it's been easier....perhaps because of the relatively dry spring. However today we needed all our various cutting tools and machinery to start the tidying up process. Chain saw, tractor and slasher, lawnmower and brush cutter were all utilized and the result was satisfying.

Jan 2 - DAY 2

What is it about being the first to walk on the new day? I was on the road at 4.45am this morning - as the sun showed its first glow behind the hill and the bush turkey began his wanderings. Above me six yellow tailed black cockatoos were discussing their dreams before sailing off across the canopy of eucalypts in search of breakfast. A hare galloped past me at a rate of knots following the central line until he became a mere speck in the distance. We had it all to ourselves. What a peaceful world it seems.....before mankind starts his daily intrusion.

January 1st 2012 - DAY ONE

In words and pictures this is my project 365

I've just been diagnosed with a benign brain tumour - two days ago at the tender age of 65. For someone who has prided themselves on staying fit, eating well and living in a healthy environment, this comes as not just a huge shock, but as a bloody insult to my efforts. However, sometimes it's hard to control emotional stress and life hasn't been easy for many a long year. I probably won't mention this fact again, but take it from me that health of the mind, laughter and meditation are as important to attain as any physical attributes.

I have thirty more years to enjoy being active and adventurous and no tumour is going to take that time away from me. This year will be a struggle, there's no doubt about that while I deal with what is growing in my head. But deal with it I will. And during the scary months ahead, I intend to blog and snap my way through the fear and come up at the end of 2012 Smiling Sally once again.