Simple Living with Rhonda and Antonia

'I was pulled into simple living before I knew what it was. It crept up on me using the smallest of steps and didn't reveal its true beauty and real power until I was totally hooked. I was searching for a way to live well while spending very little money. What I found was a way of life that also gave me independence, opportunity and freedom.' - Rhonda Hetzel, Down to Earth

Yesterday, I had the pleasure of listening to Rhonda Hetzel and Antonia Kidman discuss simple living with Nina Stacey, as part of the brilliant Brisbane Writers Festival. Rhonda's blog and book, Down To Earth, have been a great inspiration and practical resource for me as I pursue my simple living dreams. Her gentle encouragement has often been exactly what I needed to commit to making changes in our day to day. From switching to home made laundry liquid and cloth nappies, to making jam and budgeting, Rhonda's wisdom has been indispensable. And it was just as inspiring listening to her speaking to those of us who filled the cinema room of the Gallery Of Modern Art. In essence, Rhonda spoke of her simple living philosophy, which includes redefining what success means, learning to live well and being satisfied with 'enough'.

Antonia spoke to the same topic. It was actually the first I had heard of her book, The Simple Things, but it is now on my to-read list. Antonia mentioned "peeling back the layers of life and discovering what makes me happy and content." By so doing, said she realised that her home and family were her joy, and that she needed to resist the pressure of expectation - that she can't and doesn't need to "be something and do something" to find joy, as it is right in front of her already. She found the "clarity of de-cluttering everyday life deeply liberating." Things I am sure we can all relate to, though often need reminding of. Another point she made that stuck with me was in her discussion of beauty. We are lead to believe, primarily by advertising, that we will be happy if we are beautiful. However, beauty that is only skin deep is not lasting beauty. True beauty is an inner calm and self confidence. The way we feel will be reflected in the way we look. A much worthier ambition I should think.

As I left the gallery and headed to the State Library to listen to love poems with my sister and Emerson, I reflected on how incredibly lucky I am. Lucky that Dave and I have our individual roles yet work together as a team, lucky that after ten years of marriage we have grown and changed so much but have still developed a philosophy of lifestyle and parenting that is compatible, lucky with the time I get to spend in our home with our children nurturing our family as a stay at home mother, lucky to be able to grow our own food and live in such a way as to allow us to thrive on a single wage. As Nina remarked during the discussion, she has found that how she wants to live her life in her thirties is very different to how she wanted to live her life in her twenties. I would wholeheartedly agree. 

Stitch. Read. Covet. Blog.

I'm running a little late today after a late night last night, early morning soccer-mothering and a day spent with my family. Today though I am celebrate bloggers and the insight, skills and inspiration they have to offer.

Stitch: Oh my. I just love these stitched rope baskets. They have made their way to the top of my to make list. So many possibilities. Yet another wonderful the read thread tutorial. The paper patchwork art and coil bowls are also fantastic. This entire blog is a visual feast and a constant surprise.

Read: If, like myself, you are interested in simple living, a move towards self sufficiency, making your own laundry liquid and growing your own vegetables, Rhonda Hetzel's book will long be a valuable reference in your library. Written with a gentle, Grandmotherly tone, Rhonda imparts her wisdom in an inspiring and achievable way. My Stitch. Read. Covet. Blog. series would hardly be complete if I did not include this volume. Rhonda's blog is also a beacon of simple living advice and inspiration.

Covet: Two of my long time favourite bloggers, Paravent and Belinda Marshall, are currently on the other side of the world, undertaking Camilla Engman's ACE Camp. What's not to covet about six days in a studio learning with a wonderful artist, in Gothenburg, Sweeden?! After contributing to Belinda's successful Pozzible campaign, I am closely following the instagram feeds of both these lovely ladies and living vicariously though them. Though I am not at point in my life where I could hop on a plane and undertake such an experience, it is a joy to have them share their travels with us. To find out more check out their blogs and follow their instagram feeds - @paravent and @belindajmarshall

Blog: Many crafters would need no introduction to Yardage Design, or the lovely Nic, designer and print maker behind the label. I've admired (and been purchasing from) Nic for a few years now. There is nothing quite like hand printed linen! This week I was fortunate enough to meet her in person, at Thea and Sami's morning tea. It reminded me again of all the wonderful things that blogging has brought in to my life. Nicole's blog and instagram feed (@yardagedesign) are creative journals of her work, loves and travels, and will have you itching to try your hand at screen printing, have you dusting off your sewing machine, or investing in a macro lens.

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So dear readers, what have you been stitching, reading, coveting or blog-loving lately? Leave a comment below so we can share in the goodness.

Book signing

Rhonda Hetzel

Emerson, sleeping throughout the talk in her Aunts welcoming arms. (Though she was awoken by the applause at the end.) 

Aunty Fiona and Emerson

Last night Fiona, Emerson and I attended a book signing at Avid Reader in West End, where we were able to meet the lovely Rhonda Hetzel. I have only ever been to one other book signing previously, for Alain De Botton's book 'Status Anxiety.' Another author whom I admire greatly. I recall I was in such a quandary at the time as to what one says to a philosopher, without sounding like a dill, that when my time came I merely muttered my name as he good-naturedly inscribed my book. I still have the book and I still haven't thought of the perfect thing I could have said. And I probably looked like a dill. Last night though, I actually managed to introduce myself, Fiona and Emerson to Rhonda and thank her for linking to my blog recently.

Rhonda's successful blog, 'Down to Earth,' has been a source of inspiration for me ever since a friend first emailed me the address, knowing it was something I would be interested in. From homemaking to growing veggies, Rhonda's blog provides a nurturing example of a simpler life in modern times. An example that is difficult not to want to emulate. Her recent book release is a beautifully presented reference for all that information, which I know I shall continue to return to. 

I was so pleased to be able to listen to Rhonda talk about her journey and have her sign my copy of her book. Now I'm looking forward to some quiet reading time.

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If you have little ones in your life and you are fond of vintage clothing, don't forget to enter the 'Ivy loves Jack' giveaway.