The little things

Today, I enjoyed the simple things, stepping away from technology, and heading out into the gloriously warmish-sundrenched winter’s day. With a sense of spontaneity we headed out to several Orchards scattered along the North Western outskirts of Sydney. Incredibly lush semi-rural land, with sweeping panorama views, all the way to the Blue Mountains.

The winter’s sun cast long shadows, and a clear crisp brightness upon the Orchard groves. Pops of yellow, red and orange punctuated the earthy tones of brown and green. The azure blue sky providing the perfect contrast, as if an artist had painted the perfect backdrop. Trudging through the grass and almost dry mud, birdsong filled the morning air, and I was filled with a child-like joy. I was excited to be traipsing through the farm, ready to discover plump, lush fruit and vegetables. My beautiful daughter , who has special needs thoroughly enjoyed every moment. That in itself, was all I needed. I could feel my inner child leading me on.

Red juicy tomatoes, hung with pride of place, juxtaposed against the unripen green, and decaying fruit that had fallen, scattered, left to return to the soil. Life in full swing. The good, the bad and the ugly, all just one in the same.

We weren’t alone, the farm was a hive of activity, with small family groups, on a similar journey to ours. Small kids laughing, completely in the moment. The hum of tractors could be heard, and the rise and fall of laughter in the distance. Who knew a working farm could have such ambience.

The ripened red tomatoes gave way to small purple unripened eggplants. The purple of the eggplant, morphed into oranges, mandarins, tamarillos, lemons. and Bee Hives. The place was abuzz, a cacophony of birdsong, laughter, goats bleating, pigs oinking, and the hum of the tractor ride.

Antique dilapidated tractor bits, rusting amidst weathered wood piles. Even they held their own style of beauty. The rustic patina of the old red tractors, captivated my focus, especially when viewed through the camera lens. I stood transfixed, as a lone pig hypnotically chewed upon winter grass. The pig unaware of the incredible scene it helped to create. As I stood watching, I could feel the stresses and anxieties of work and family challenges dissipate. I felt actual joy, being bathed by the golden sunlight, and caressed by the fresh country air. It felt great to walk away, with bags full of fresh fruit, fresh honey, jams and home made sauces. Indeed, what a rich and rewarding few moments.