It has been quite an intense period in our “down-under” household over these past couple of months.
Surgery on my leg, the passing of Janet’s father, Archie, after a long innings stretching almost to his 100th year, and presently the terminal illness my father, Brian, is suffering and that will take him from us in the not too distant future.
Mind you, Brian is comfortable and at peace, and even quipped to me the other day that we’re all dying from the day we’re born, it isn’t how long you live, but how you live it that counts. Of course, his only real concern has been for the love of his life, his partner for over 50 years, Fay.
Courageous words indeed I thought and his faith has kept him, both of them strong…
But I wanted to drop a note to thank you for your kind words of support over these past couple of months, and to be honest, I haven’t caught up on all the news and stories that many of you write on a daily basis, but rest assured, I’m looking forward to getting back into the routine soon.
And speaking of routine, I have stepped back from my usual training regime to avoid “running myself down” during this difficult time, but I’m looking forward to a return shortly, and of course, back into the mountains, back on the journey to the summit of some of the world’s highest mountains.
Oh, sorry, what of the jet-setters. I hear you ask?
Strewth, TomO and Janet are having a “whale of a time” over in the south of England, but I must confess, I’m missing them and look forward to their return in about a week’s time.
By crikey, I’m sure they’ll have some news and tales of adventure that will be sure to cheer us all up!
Good luck out there, and remember, those that don’t think it can be done shouldn’t bother the person doing it!
Cheers, Baz and the crew
XPLORE - Out & About 
Baz, steady as she goes. Glad Archie had many years, and Brian’s wise-brave view of living is uplifting. We’re in a veiled passage just now. In time, the brilliance of what seems to make little sense now I believe will be made clear in higher contexts, much as you can see so much more as you ascend to summits. Imagine floating beyond summits, flying effortlessly. I hope this is a comforting meditation. Prayers from here for your wonderful family.
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I just reread the first line of your introduction – “I’m on a journey”. Right now, you and your family are on a bit different of a journey then the one you intended to blog about. But all of life is indeed a journey, the good and the not so good, the happy and the sad. In the end it is all temporary, just changes. What sustains us through these changes are one another. Blessings to you and your family Baz during these difficult days.
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Sorry to hear about what a difficult time you have had lately! But it’s great to hear what a positive attitude you have about everything; it will get you through!
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Thanks, and how is all the camping going, should be a nice warm time of year for it over your way!! 🙂
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Sending you good, healing thoughts for your body and mind!
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And I’m feeling it, thanks!
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When you’re going through difficult times it can feel like it’s never going to end. Make use of the good friends you have around you. By the way, your family have chosen the right week to visit England – hottest week of the year this week!
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And they are loving it over there, they’ve been down in Dittisham in Devon at Janet’s Aunt…
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Ooh, a nice part of the country to visit. I bet it’s really warm down there. You can actually see North Devon from where I live in Cardiff on a clear day, although it’s usually a good few degrees cooler here and not as sunny 😦
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I’m so glad you checked in. Take care of yourself. I’m sending hugs and lots of, uh melted, ice cream your way.
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Ta, and I’ve been chomping down on a few myself, TomO’s stock in the freezer! 🙂
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Life: quality over quantity, hands down. And both together is bliss…
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And how true is that! Cheers…
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Prayers being sent for more strength to get through all the loss and pain and back to adventure. Take care of yourself to in the process.
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Ta, thanks for that!
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🙂
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Very sorry to hear you and your family have been going through such a rough patch, Baz. The road through life is full of them. Keep up your amazing positive attitude and you know you’ll get to the smooth again. Best wishes.
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Cheers, and hope you are getting in plenty of flying with those long summer days you’re getting!
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Love the shot of Archie. The billabong is truly peaceful. Thinking of you all
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Thanks…it is a beautiful spot…and that photo of the big guy on the bike sums Archie up perfectly!
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I’m glad to hear Janet and TomO are having a splendid time on holiday; good choice on stepping back from training as life has gotten complicated; and most importantly, don’t fret about the disappearing act, you have more pressing things on your plate.
Your father sounds like a fun chap, someone who has lived life and is prepared for the inevitable. And his quip isn’t too far from the truth! Losing a family member is always hard, but it’s wonderful to know your dad has had both a loving and fulfilling life with your mom and his offspring. It’s not much comfort in the short run, but it’s something to remember nonetheless. I’m praying for you and your family, that your father’s passing is painless and peaceful and for strength and comfort for those left behind.
Take care of yourself and your family, Baz!
P.S. I’m convinced you post pictures of your beautiful country just to make me want to come visit even more! Shame on you! 😉
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Thanks Beth…
And of course, come on over and enjoy our great country….Baz 🙂
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Sorry to hear that you are going through all of this at one time man.
Since it is full-blown summer here in the states and I am contemplating a trip into the Sierra’s….I have been wondering about you and your adventures.
In time, all will be well and you will be in your mountains once again.
My prayers & best wishes
Chris
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Strewth, it certainly has been a tricky couple of months, so thanks. And enjoy the trip into the Sierra’s… Cheers, Baz
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Thanks
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Sorry to hear you’re going through a difficult time, take all the time you need before getting back to us. Love the photo of Lyme Regis, one of my favourite spots on the south coast.
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Thanks…and yes the Jet-setters loved it..
And I have your story to read, been looking forward to it, and I’ll catch up on it this weekend!! 🙂
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good to hear from you…..sending lots of good thoughts……
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Thanks BG, working my way back towards the rowing machine! 🙂
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Sounds like you’ve had more than enough to deal with lately! BTW, I LOVE that billabong pic. It could be a painting! 🙂
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Well you’ll have to come over and visit it…we’ve got thousand’s of places like it…
And thanks! 🙂
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