Dear Jo, this is ab-soul-utely breathtaking! Raw, ruffled, weather‑cured and utterly alive, written with the kind of presence that turns a life on the edge into something luminous. You carry such power in the way you witness yourself here on the page ... and from my Jungian lens this season of 'tiny spaces' and 'stripped‑back living' feels less like deprivation and more like a sacred vessel ... a temenos ... the psyche’s way of creating a protected container where the next version of you can take shape.
And I have to say ... the way you’re living and seeing this chapter is extraordinary. If you ever chose to write a book about this time, it would be a gift to the world and yourself. Not because you need to 'make something' of it, but because your presence inside this temenos ... your humour, your honesty, your wild grace ... would help others feel less alone in their own uncharted seasons.
For when life compresses the outer world, it’s often because the inner world is widening, deepening, and asking to be met. You’re not lost; you’re being forged. And the beauty is, you're already feeling it all around you ... in the wind, the mud, the stars, the laughter, the gumboots, the light. Your presence is the real home being built here, and it’s extraordinary to witness. 🙏💖
Wow Deborah, thank you. 🙏💖 I have re-read your generous comment many times.
I appreciate your Jungian lens and I do see that "sacred vessel" at times.
It is rather tiring though being "forged" especially as there have been a number of forgings and dark containers and new versions over the last 10 years! 😀
But yes we must look at things like this and I do as often as I can. 🙏
Thank you re the book ....many ideas have certainly been brewing over my last interesting 10-12 years. Your words are encouragement to come back to.
If I didn't have my dear beautiful family to worry about housing this would be a very different scenario. I can cope with my own struggles, but when you are responsible for others it takes on another level.
But again, its all part of the Journey!
I hope all is well with you and Lin and the trees and the rituals.
Much Love and looking forward to reading your next instalment. 💖
Oh forgive me Jo, I couldn't help but laugh a little at your beautiful, heartfelt reply, remembering how once I read in one of Marion Woodman's books her reply to a frustrated client re her own 'forging'. In that unmistakeable way of hers she said ...
"You didn't think it was going to be that easy, did you?"
And I remember sitting there, in the midst of yet another dark night of the soul, not knowing whether to slam the book shut and throw it across the room or fall to my knees in awe.
Instead, I started laughing ... that deep, knowing laugh ... because the Truth has a way of shining straight through. Those few words helped me more than ever I realised at the time. Still so. Big love. 💖🙏🕯️
My wife and children and I spent one whole summer wandering the United States and camping in national forests. The following summer we slept in tents as we built a log home in the wilds of West Virginia. We lost something when we moved into the completed house. Maybe it was the loss of intimacy with the outdoors where weather made a difference and the bird song was so much more in your face. I loved the fact that my wife stopped shaving her legs and armpit hair! Sounds to me like you're living the dream... well, ok sometimes it's a nightmare. Either way, a mighty pleasurable read. Thanks for sharing.
How wonderful that you and your family took time out to do some wild nature wandering! 🥰 These adventures are so important for family growth and togetherness.
Yeah I get it - that you would fee a loss for the intimacy with the outdoors and the bird song when you moved into a completed house. There is something enlivening and "in your face" about being immersed in nature and I love that - most of the time. 😊
Thanks again for being here.
ps maybe you could suggest to your wife she gives the shaving a rest again... 😄
The cabin, the wind, the gumboots, the searching for home — it all reads like someone learning to live honestly inside uncertainty instead of waiting for stability first. That line about life stripping away clutter until only meaning remains really stayed with me. It reminded me that sometimes being “off the map” is exactly where transformation happens. I’ve been reflecting on that same idea of presence and finding light in the middle of the journey — if you’d like to read something connected to that, here it is: https://theeternalnowmm.substack.com/p/eternal-love?r=71z4jh
Thank you so much for your thoughtful comment M. A. Miller. 😊 Yes I agree. I don't think any transformation can happen in comfort and security. Unfortunately!
Dear Jo, what a stunning soulful read. You’ve paid attention to the joy while feeling the storm whip around you. I came upon your post and just had to tap in. Then I read the quote you offered from Gabor Maté and what a coincidence I thought, just last night I added it to a reading I’ll be sharing this Sunday in our writing circle. Wow! You’ve shared such raw, honest truths, with beautiful expression. Thank you for sharing!
How I loved this, how I cried and laughed and heard the resonant sound whispering, I know, I know... I remember, I've been there in that muddy cabin!
Be proud of of your ruffled feathers Jo, even when they are muddy, they might not be designer label trendy, or even terribly elegant — do we care about that, or unshaved armpits for that matter? — but damn they show people you are alive! Not simply living unconsciously but grabbing everything with your beautiful wild passion and shaking it with your strong arms and big heart until it takes the shape you always dreamed of. You will get there, you will find that place you need to hold your children in just keep swimming in the atlas of stars and the route will be come clear.
Be proud that no matter how dark, how difficult, how desperate you feel the days to be, you never give up!
Ah Jo, clever and funny and mournful and uplifting. A reminder that whatever is going on in life, there’s always the choice to turn pain into pretty and sparkly.
Thanks Emily. 🙏❤️ Pretty and sparkly is always good as you well know! Your illustrations and photographs point us in that direction - broomsticks, sparkles and stars, mushrooms. leaves and flowers. This is where the magic is. ❤️💫
I have been reading and re-reading this post Jo. There are so many pieces of you to respond to. I might have to place this post carefully in an airtight container and return to open it and nibble at it a little more when relaxing with cups of tea made from herbs in my garden.
You write beautifully, and I could feel the wind stirring your words from the page. The photos are muted and mournful. There is a longing here. Weatherworn. I hope you find your family nest soon.
And Mitre10 red top gumboots. Yes who knew there were so many. I too opted for the shin-high ones when I return to NZ after a lifetime in Europe. Shin-high felt about right. Any lower would have represented too tentative a stepping into my life new life in this part of the world. The longer ones felt too overwhelming. Shin-high felt like just the right amount of commitment. So when the walk to get the soy sauce feels too far, too much, and too long, you can tell yourself that at least you are living life 'boots an'all'. Go well x
Thank you Georgina - what a beautiful message. ❤️🙏
What an honour that your freshly picked herbal tea will accompany some of my writing. 🥰
Just a thought.... would that be something for your Substack? To share some of your herbal healing recipes? You may choose to make it for paid subscribers only or interspersed with some free... Sorry - I'm advice giving again! And I know you have a lot on your plate already! xx
You are so bang on with your description of gumboots and how you relate it to your personal experience. Too low, too high - just right. 😊
Hi Jo and fellow gumboot philosopher. It's funny you mention that about herbs and Substack. I have been thinking about doing something like that, so you thoughts are a helpful nudge. I'm still trying to figure out where to best focus attention on the various things I do. 😊
Thank you, Jo, for your continued reflections on that which makes us who we are and why, and the psychological resonance of being home, the seed of our unfolding love, blooming petals of words that speak of our inevitable and irreversible journey.
Mountain cabins slapping our own behinds as the wind tries to keep us from going in through the door. Finally one day to realize we were always inside. Home has a way of finding us even through all the hair and the fucking exhaustion. Somehow it knows where we are. Stained glass and cactus flowers. Sound healing chanting into gumboots. Living on the edge is frightening. Turning towards what lights us up in the dark as we patiently wait to blossom. Dawn keeps coming for us! I love your writing. Thanks for being here out on the edges of everything 🙏❤️💫
"Finally one day to realize we were always inside". Yes I know! I keep trying to remind myself. 🤪 That beautiful Rumi story of finally realising we have been knocking from the inside...
From my gumboots to your snow boots - sending much appreciation. 🙏❤️💫
Good morning Jo, your words have this beautiful way of bringing a wry smile … punctuated with a few chuckles of, ‘yeah, l remember when ….”, back to hand on the heart … your nature fuelled resilience shines through your words and photos. Those stories, yes we are all of those emotions … “The beauty of writing everyday … All versions are true.” Thank you for sharing your journey Jo, raw and unfiltered, both tender and funny. I reckon if l looked into your eyes, l would see the stars there. Have a great weekend. Sending love to you. 💙🙏
Ahhh gorgeous Simone. Thank you. I am glad you have a wry smile when reading. That is no doubt a reflection of mine as I write. It's the only way sometimes isn't it!
Love that you see stars in my eyes. This morning you may be seeing black holes though... 🤪😀
Have an ocean swim for me gorgeous woman. Sending love right back. xx 💙🙏
Yes, it is … oftentimes! 🤣 Black holes … resting ground for those stars 🤩😊🙏. I will certainly have a splash for you 🌊💙. Have a great day Jo, lots of love drifting back from over here … it’s travelling on the clouds that stretch along your beautiful NZ👋🤗💛
Terrific Jo; the outside loo is so 'in' this year. Our elderly Christmas cactus seems to have come out in sympathy, despite being at the other end of the globe; very beautiful, tasteful, small flaming pink to celebrate her window and occasional daylight.
We have mud, so very sorry to hear of wellies left on North Island. Must admit Micawber's sixpence still has its uses for body and soul, with or without wellies.
Dear Jo, this is ab-soul-utely breathtaking! Raw, ruffled, weather‑cured and utterly alive, written with the kind of presence that turns a life on the edge into something luminous. You carry such power in the way you witness yourself here on the page ... and from my Jungian lens this season of 'tiny spaces' and 'stripped‑back living' feels less like deprivation and more like a sacred vessel ... a temenos ... the psyche’s way of creating a protected container where the next version of you can take shape.
And I have to say ... the way you’re living and seeing this chapter is extraordinary. If you ever chose to write a book about this time, it would be a gift to the world and yourself. Not because you need to 'make something' of it, but because your presence inside this temenos ... your humour, your honesty, your wild grace ... would help others feel less alone in their own uncharted seasons.
For when life compresses the outer world, it’s often because the inner world is widening, deepening, and asking to be met. You’re not lost; you’re being forged. And the beauty is, you're already feeling it all around you ... in the wind, the mud, the stars, the laughter, the gumboots, the light. Your presence is the real home being built here, and it’s extraordinary to witness. 🙏💖
Wow Deborah, thank you. 🙏💖 I have re-read your generous comment many times.
I appreciate your Jungian lens and I do see that "sacred vessel" at times.
It is rather tiring though being "forged" especially as there have been a number of forgings and dark containers and new versions over the last 10 years! 😀
But yes we must look at things like this and I do as often as I can. 🙏
Thank you re the book ....many ideas have certainly been brewing over my last interesting 10-12 years. Your words are encouragement to come back to.
If I didn't have my dear beautiful family to worry about housing this would be a very different scenario. I can cope with my own struggles, but when you are responsible for others it takes on another level.
But again, its all part of the Journey!
I hope all is well with you and Lin and the trees and the rituals.
Much Love and looking forward to reading your next instalment. 💖
Oh forgive me Jo, I couldn't help but laugh a little at your beautiful, heartfelt reply, remembering how once I read in one of Marion Woodman's books her reply to a frustrated client re her own 'forging'. In that unmistakeable way of hers she said ...
"You didn't think it was going to be that easy, did you?"
And I remember sitting there, in the midst of yet another dark night of the soul, not knowing whether to slam the book shut and throw it across the room or fall to my knees in awe.
Instead, I started laughing ... that deep, knowing laugh ... because the Truth has a way of shining straight through. Those few words helped me more than ever I realised at the time. Still so. Big love. 💖🙏🕯️
💖🙏🕯️
My wife and children and I spent one whole summer wandering the United States and camping in national forests. The following summer we slept in tents as we built a log home in the wilds of West Virginia. We lost something when we moved into the completed house. Maybe it was the loss of intimacy with the outdoors where weather made a difference and the bird song was so much more in your face. I loved the fact that my wife stopped shaving her legs and armpit hair! Sounds to me like you're living the dream... well, ok sometimes it's a nightmare. Either way, a mighty pleasurable read. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks so much for reading and commenting Robert.
How wonderful that you and your family took time out to do some wild nature wandering! 🥰 These adventures are so important for family growth and togetherness.
Yeah I get it - that you would fee a loss for the intimacy with the outdoors and the bird song when you moved into a completed house. There is something enlivening and "in your face" about being immersed in nature and I love that - most of the time. 😊
Thanks again for being here.
ps maybe you could suggest to your wife she gives the shaving a rest again... 😄
The cabin, the wind, the gumboots, the searching for home — it all reads like someone learning to live honestly inside uncertainty instead of waiting for stability first. That line about life stripping away clutter until only meaning remains really stayed with me. It reminded me that sometimes being “off the map” is exactly where transformation happens. I’ve been reflecting on that same idea of presence and finding light in the middle of the journey — if you’d like to read something connected to that, here it is: https://theeternalnowmm.substack.com/p/eternal-love?r=71z4jh
Thank you so much for your thoughtful comment M. A. Miller. 😊 Yes I agree. I don't think any transformation can happen in comfort and security. Unfortunately!
Will have a look at the link to your substack. 😊
Have a great day.
Dear Jo, what a stunning soulful read. You’ve paid attention to the joy while feeling the storm whip around you. I came upon your post and just had to tap in. Then I read the quote you offered from Gabor Maté and what a coincidence I thought, just last night I added it to a reading I’ll be sharing this Sunday in our writing circle. Wow! You’ve shared such raw, honest truths, with beautiful expression. Thank you for sharing!
Hello and welcome Alegria! Thank you for reading and your gorgeous description of the storm whipping around. 😊
All the best for your writing circle on Sunday. Can't go wrong with a quote from Gabor!
xx
Thanks for the wishes and the warm welcome Jo.
How I loved this, how I cried and laughed and heard the resonant sound whispering, I know, I know... I remember, I've been there in that muddy cabin!
Be proud of of your ruffled feathers Jo, even when they are muddy, they might not be designer label trendy, or even terribly elegant — do we care about that, or unshaved armpits for that matter? — but damn they show people you are alive! Not simply living unconsciously but grabbing everything with your beautiful wild passion and shaking it with your strong arms and big heart until it takes the shape you always dreamed of. You will get there, you will find that place you need to hold your children in just keep swimming in the atlas of stars and the route will be come clear.
Be proud that no matter how dark, how difficult, how desperate you feel the days to be, you never give up!
All love and respect from me... ♥️xxx
Thank you dear Susie. Ouch, that got me, wiping tears. 🙏❤️
I am "swimming in the atlas of stars" now as I reply. The sky is dark and the stars give light and hope.
Thank you for being here. Thinking of you on your hill with all that you do to create such a full and vibrant life. Much Love ♥️xxx
♥️🥰
Ah Jo, clever and funny and mournful and uplifting. A reminder that whatever is going on in life, there’s always the choice to turn pain into pretty and sparkly.
Thanks Emily. 🙏❤️ Pretty and sparkly is always good as you well know! Your illustrations and photographs point us in that direction - broomsticks, sparkles and stars, mushrooms. leaves and flowers. This is where the magic is. ❤️💫
❤️
I adore you! Thank you for being vulnerable and authentic and raw. It is always the best reading! XO
Ohhh 🥰 Thank you so much Danielle. Always love having you here.
Hope all is well with you. 🙏💖
Thank you, sweetheart!
All is well. I am growing and expanding quietly, though still writing. XO
Yay look forward to reading some more of your writing when you are ready. xx
I have been reading and re-reading this post Jo. There are so many pieces of you to respond to. I might have to place this post carefully in an airtight container and return to open it and nibble at it a little more when relaxing with cups of tea made from herbs in my garden.
You write beautifully, and I could feel the wind stirring your words from the page. The photos are muted and mournful. There is a longing here. Weatherworn. I hope you find your family nest soon.
And Mitre10 red top gumboots. Yes who knew there were so many. I too opted for the shin-high ones when I return to NZ after a lifetime in Europe. Shin-high felt about right. Any lower would have represented too tentative a stepping into my life new life in this part of the world. The longer ones felt too overwhelming. Shin-high felt like just the right amount of commitment. So when the walk to get the soy sauce feels too far, too much, and too long, you can tell yourself that at least you are living life 'boots an'all'. Go well x
Thank you Georgina - what a beautiful message. ❤️🙏
What an honour that your freshly picked herbal tea will accompany some of my writing. 🥰
Just a thought.... would that be something for your Substack? To share some of your herbal healing recipes? You may choose to make it for paid subscribers only or interspersed with some free... Sorry - I'm advice giving again! And I know you have a lot on your plate already! xx
You are so bang on with your description of gumboots and how you relate it to your personal experience. Too low, too high - just right. 😊
Have a wonderful week. xx
Hi Jo and fellow gumboot philosopher. It's funny you mention that about herbs and Substack. I have been thinking about doing something like that, so you thoughts are a helpful nudge. I'm still trying to figure out where to best focus attention on the various things I do. 😊
😊🥰 I love it - Gumboot Philosopher. Yep that's me. I may just have to borrow that term for something if that's ok?
Yeah - so many things to do, so many passion projects - what to focus on?
Look forward to watching your space. xx
Go for it! I look forward to reading what comes up! Xx
Uncharted territory is the land of the truly alive, thanks as always for sharing Jo
That's for sure Richard. Hope all is well with you. ❤️🙏
"Life must be a constant turning towards
Towards what lights us up
allowing ourselves to be totally captivated in those moments." Aww, Jo, this is the key to life. Thank you for the beauty you share. ✨💖
Thank you Nancy. ❤️🙏 Yes easier said than done sometimes but it is a good guide to come back to.
Thank you for the beauty you share also. xx
Thank you, Jo, for your continued reflections on that which makes us who we are and why, and the psychological resonance of being home, the seed of our unfolding love, blooming petals of words that speak of our inevitable and irreversible journey.
Thank you Galen for being here. ❤️🙏
Thanks Jo!
Mountain cabins slapping our own behinds as the wind tries to keep us from going in through the door. Finally one day to realize we were always inside. Home has a way of finding us even through all the hair and the fucking exhaustion. Somehow it knows where we are. Stained glass and cactus flowers. Sound healing chanting into gumboots. Living on the edge is frightening. Turning towards what lights us up in the dark as we patiently wait to blossom. Dawn keeps coming for us! I love your writing. Thanks for being here out on the edges of everything 🙏❤️💫
And I love your replies! Thanks Jamie.
"Finally one day to realize we were always inside". Yes I know! I keep trying to remind myself. 🤪 That beautiful Rumi story of finally realising we have been knocking from the inside...
From my gumboots to your snow boots - sending much appreciation. 🙏❤️💫
Good morning Jo, your words have this beautiful way of bringing a wry smile … punctuated with a few chuckles of, ‘yeah, l remember when ….”, back to hand on the heart … your nature fuelled resilience shines through your words and photos. Those stories, yes we are all of those emotions … “The beauty of writing everyday … All versions are true.” Thank you for sharing your journey Jo, raw and unfiltered, both tender and funny. I reckon if l looked into your eyes, l would see the stars there. Have a great weekend. Sending love to you. 💙🙏
Ahhh gorgeous Simone. Thank you. I am glad you have a wry smile when reading. That is no doubt a reflection of mine as I write. It's the only way sometimes isn't it!
Love that you see stars in my eyes. This morning you may be seeing black holes though... 🤪😀
Have an ocean swim for me gorgeous woman. Sending love right back. xx 💙🙏
Yes, it is … oftentimes! 🤣 Black holes … resting ground for those stars 🤩😊🙏. I will certainly have a splash for you 🌊💙. Have a great day Jo, lots of love drifting back from over here … it’s travelling on the clouds that stretch along your beautiful NZ👋🤗💛
👋🤗💛
Terrific Jo; the outside loo is so 'in' this year. Our elderly Christmas cactus seems to have come out in sympathy, despite being at the other end of the globe; very beautiful, tasteful, small flaming pink to celebrate her window and occasional daylight.
We have mud, so very sorry to hear of wellies left on North Island. Must admit Micawber's sixpence still has its uses for body and soul, with or without wellies.
The outside loo is so "in" this year. Love it!!! 😀. Thank you Philip for being here with your humour and insights.
Gorgeous to think of your pink flowered cactus shining her light on the other side of the world.
Sending love to you. xx ✨💖