Leading by example.

We're away at the beach. House-sitters are at home, work left behind, nothing but sand, surf, sun, at one of Our favourite places on earth.

We have many traditions while we ate here. There is ice-creams after dinner. Swims in the afternoon. Sleeps after lunch. Fishing at Ferry landing. Long days doing nothing and sunny evenings with friends.

I also love this place because it's where I feel closest to Shauna, a friend that passed a few years ago. Before she passed she made me promise to look after myself. Eat well, exercise often, drink plenty of water, all in the aim of making my body as strong as possible to fight any illness that comes my way. I guess she hoped those around her would escape illnesses such as hers.

So it seems fitting that one of my favourite things to do is to run to Cathedral Cove everyday, this is where I had my own personal goodbye to Shauna a few years back, writing her name in the sand to be carried away by the Pacific ocean on the same day her friends and family were celebrating her memory at the other side of the ocean.

This year both Abby and Braden have been walking with me. I run down, they walk, and I meet them halfway back andcomplete the track with them. I guess we lead by example and this one's a good one to pass on.

On the first day we went, I talked to them about Shauna before we left. I told them who Shauna was, how her example had led me through the start of my scrapbooking life and then encouraged me through my fitness trials as well. " wow she was like your hero, right mum?" Abby says. "I guess so" is my reply.

And so we got to the cove, a place you can only reach by bush track or boat. Both kids are proud of their tough trek. I'm proud of the example I've led.

I guess Shauna's story was something that touched them. Abby dropped behind and when I looked back she was writing in the sand.

In case you can't make it out, it says " Shauna xoxo best hero"

So true.
Laters.

Comments

[Nancy]

Awwwwwww!

[Linda L]

That is beautiful!

[Paris]

In tears as I type this. Hero indeed. So glad you can be there with S and your beautiful children. xoxoxoxoxoxo

[Cath S]

You *are* a good example, and Shauna continues to protect you through her words to you.

[Belinda Basson]

Cant really see though my tears, keep it up.

[Homoeopathy]

You deserve the best one,,,,and you are the part of inspirations.I am thankful to you.

[Jean]

What a beautiful story, Nic. You made my cry!