It is my husband’s birthday.  Another year older. What shall we do? I know. A gifted weekend away in a cabin in the beautiful foothills of Mt Warning. Actually, the gift voucher was for last year’s birthday, given by his medical staff for his 65th birthday but not yet used, so this was the weekend to do so. Just a year later!

A cabin that was originally an old dairy, complete with concrete floors and a small rug to soften the décor and to ward off that cold concrete look. An original cream separating room transformed into our bedroom, an added on extremely large remarkable bathroom with a vast shower and toilet area, complete with stonework and corrugated walls and a small kitchen with a timber top bench for preparing, cooking on, and eating at.

It was an amazingly wonderful place. What more could we want for a birthday weekend?

The soft chirping of birds sang outside our bedroom window, as sunlight filtered through the trees, casting a golden glow on the green scenery before us. As we stepped outside, we were greeted by the crisp mountain air, carrying with it the scent of moisture and luscious earth. Yes, colder temperature-wise than at home, even though we were only 45 minutes further inland, but wrapped up in our winter warmth, our golden retriever lying at our feet, morning coffee in hands we were caressed by the sunlight enfolding us in its seasonal light.

A trip to the local Saturday and Sunday markets where we ambled along the small country streets, past the fruit and vegetable vendors, past the cake stalls…(well actually not quite past them as we bought a few “for later” …), past the friendly smiles of these modest communities before returning once more to the quietness of our insignificant but attractive country cabin and surrounding mountain view lush greenery. Enveloped by the beauty of nature, we indulge in simple pleasures and heartfelt moments, cherishing each laugh and shared glances as we soak in this ambience together.

It is utterly amazing what this quietness can do for your soul. The silence of the air cloaks you like a comforting embrace, a gentle reminder of the tranquility that surrounds you in this mountain sanctuary. There is a serene stillness that permeates the atmosphere, broken only by the occasional rustle of leaves or the distant call of a bird. It is a silence that speaks volumes, inviting introspection and reflection as you immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. Each breath feels like a sacred communion with the world around you. It is a reminder in our busy world of the profound peace that can be found in simply being present in the moment. In this moment. Now.

In this quietude, as we relax into our chairs, our backs to the midday and afternoon sun immersing ourselves in the sun’s rays of warmth and read a book, we find solace and serenity,

The sun gradually disappears behind the mountain and cool mountain air begins to wrap around us like a soft embrace, refreshing and invigorating. With each breath the crispness of the air clears away any lingering worries or stress. And as that air covers us, we return to the cabin, to sink into the lounge chair, a glass of red in one hand and the same book in the other, with only background peaceful resting music playing. But inside or outside, it is a weekend respite from the noise and chaos of the outside world, allowing us to reconnect with the natural rhythms of life.

And truthfully. even more enjoyable, no hikes were suggested, no bicycle rides proposed! For those that know my husband…this was a most amazing very different situation!

As the last of the sun graces the mountain peaks with its golden rays, I find myself filled with an unexpected sense of relief and contentment of not going bicycle riding. Although I truly love this activity, instead of the rush and exertion of cycling, today ( and tomorrow) I have reveled in the unhurried pace of the day, finding joy in quieter pursuits and the simple pleasures of cabin life. With each other.

But I do have to wonder. Knowing our previous birthday celebrations ..what will next year’s birthday will bring? Where has the real Marc gone? I am not sure I want to even think about it!

Happy birthday to my beloved husband, my partner in adventure (and this weekend, my partner in solace) and my greatest love.