Flicking through Instagram on Sunday morning, I came across a quote attributed to Winnie the Pooh.
There was something about the simplicity of that little sentence that touched me deeply and at that point my morning dissolved into tears.
When I remembered it was Tim’s father’s birthday, the tears threatened to overwhelm me.
You see, it’s my father’s birthday in a few weeks and it’ll be the first birthday he won’t be with us. Oh, there were birthdays when he was away – but he was always within reach of a card and after the Navy years he was always reachable by phone.
But not this year.
It’s one of those firsts I’ve been warned about but haven’t fully understood, in the way you just don’t until you actually experience it.
After big and comforting hugs, we headed into the forest to the north-east of Melbourne, into the consolation of trees.
As an added bonus, there was water.
Never underestimate the consoling power of trees … and a waterfall at the end of the path.
Musings from the cold 
P.S Is that beautiful photo of a waterfall by any chance at Marysville?
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Hi Miriam … the waterfall is near Noojee – Toorongo Falls. It’s a lovely little walk and reminded us very much of Tasmania.
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Oh, I’ve been there! It’s gorgeous and near the trestle bridge.
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I agree and I understand all about firsts. Nature can be very comforting Sharon. Poignant and beautiful post.
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What a very timely quote and your post is lovely. We will have a year of firsts and I’m afraid they won’t get any easier.
My favourite quote at the moment is :Grief is just love with no place to go.
– Jamie Anderson
Another lovely quote in line with your post is this one: “If ever there is tomorrow when we’re not together… there is something you must always remember. You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think. But the most important thing is, even if we’re apart… I’ll always be with you.” — A.A. Milne
Dad is still with us, just not with us as we would like him to be 🙂 x
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