Author: jacquixox

An ordinary weekend, which always includes the necessary activities of housework, washing and grocery shopping is not front of mind when I consider living elegantly and pleasurably.   But these are the very same activities that ensure that my home is welcoming, comfortable and a nice place to be. 

The trick in not feeling like a total drudge, is to find small opportunities in the day to inject a little charm and delight.

So along with sorting odd socks and mopping the floors, I also painted my nails a glorious shade of French blue.   I enjoyed a blissful half hour at a French café with a latte and an oh so sinful mille fielle, and on the way home, along with the milk and cooking staples, bought a joyful wee bunch of pink gerberas.

Today’s pleasures were cheap as chips both in terms of money and time, and now, as the day is coming to a close, I have a spick and span house, am enjoying the beautiful flowers which I have arranged in a vase with sprigs from a hebe bush from my garden.  I have lit a scented candle and whilst my chicken Kiev cooks for my dinner I am pleasurably planning next week’s work wardrobe that will match my new nail colour.

Simple pleasures.

How lucky am I to work in the capital city, and within striking distance of the Botanic Gardens, should the urge to dwell in nature take hold of me.  Beautiful at any time of the year, but especially so in springtime.  Today was bright and clear, in contrast to the Monday workday (long and drear), so I enjoyed the opportunity in my lunch break to hike to the gardens.   The road to the gardens is flanked by wee wooden cottages, with box and lavender borders and shops that ooze character and artful style.

The tulips were in full bloom at the gardens, and along with the sunshine and birdsong, I arrived back at work with my soul restored.

A plaque at the entry of the gardens with a quote attributed to Erasmus (c.1500) states that they are dedicated to the honourable pleasure of rejoicing the eye, refreshing the nose and renewing the spirit.

This is probably my favourite sculpture in all the world. Solace of the Wind leans into the whipping northerly wind that Wellington, New Zealand is famous for, all the while retaining an aura of grace, quiet strength and tranquility.

What a metaphor for life. As we navigate our way through this mortal coil, I have learnt that a key to living well is to stop resisting the challenges we invariably face on our path, but to embrace them, with ease and acceptance.

It is easier said than done, I know. And for me, when I start to feel overwhelmed and out of balance, a wander by the sea is better than any therapy.

Today I walked around the beautiful Wellington harbour, which always renews my soul. It was such a lovely spring day. The waterfront is also the home of Wellington’s Writer’s walk, which includes artful installations tucked away here and there with extracts from the works of prominent New Zealand writers and poets.

I discovered a new piece today; with words from author Jack Lasenby:

“I want to live among people who believe in truth and freedom…I want to discuss ideas… I want books…“

Is there anything that clears the cobwebs, nourishes the soul and restores equilibrium more than art that resonates and a gentle harbour ramble?