Heavens. How was your weekend? We were blessed with an extra day off to celebrate a Royal birthday, however there was no cake and candles on the menu at our house. We did however enjoy a samosa style pie featuring potatoes, peas, with warming spices of ginger, cumin, coriander and Chili and a handful of currants and cashews thrown in for good measure. This is probably as close as we’ll be getting to Delhi anytime soon and was a warming and welcoming dish to satisfy our hungry tummies and warm our souls.
Samosa style pie from Flour Shop, Turramurra
All cosy with warm coats and scarves we took ourselves to the movies to see The Father, depicting the inner world of a dementia patient and the impact his mental illness has on those around him. Anthony Hopkins portrays this complex character in a powerful way, his moods changing from happy to sad and from angry to loving. Dementia is a heartbreaking disorder for both the carer and sufferer and many of the themes ring true in my own family, including denial that you need to be cared for, rudeness and cruelty towards those providing the care and also a recurring belief that possessions misplaced have been stolen from you. A gripping and tearful movie which twists the conventions of narrative storytelling to match the awful effects of the disease it’s portraying. A must see.
It was wonderful to be able to experience the pure magic of live theatre again at the Australian production of the award winning Broadway musical Hamilton. Against the backdrop of the American War of Independence Alexander Hamilton rises out of poverty after the abandonment of his father, the death of his mother and the destruction of his hometown to make something of his life. His relentless determination to seize the moment and ‘not throw away his shot’ sees him become an indispensable aide to George Washington and one of America’s founding fathers. The diverse cast perform the roles with passion and authenticity, and the energetic hiphopera style of delivery of the musical anthems has the audience captivated and almost up on their feet marching along to the pervading beat. Indeed a brilliant and entertaining performance from a truly brilliant cast.
This week I came across a purpose led organisation committed to reducing isolation and loneliness in vulnerable communities with a mission to ensure everyone has the opportunity to feel connected to others. ConnectedAU, launched in early 2020, aims to facilitate meaningful ways for people to connect through two simple programs. The Letterbox Project aims to connect people through the exchange of handwritten letters, and Hobby Groups such as book or cooking clubs, provide a safe and welcoming space where people can connect with others with similar interests from the comfort of their own homes. You can become involved or learn more about ConnectedAU here.
Here in Australia we are now into the second week of winter which has me thinking about all of the rough sleepers braving the cold out on the streets. My significant other volunteers with a charity that helps out people that have been displaced from their homes and families, and always reminds me that all of us are only one bad decision or unfortunate event away from being in the same position as many rough sleepers. Do Something for Nothing is a book written by Joshua Coombes, a London hairdresser who took to the streets with his scissors to offer haircuts to people sleeping rough. Coombes shares stories about the people he met and connected with, and is of the opinion that small acts of kindness can make a big impact. From this a movement #DoSomethingForNothing was born, which encourages people to contribute their skills and time to those who need it.
I planted Sweet Pea seeds and have my fingers crossed that I will be filling vases and enjoying their sweet perfume come spring.
Until next week, may your days be both serendipitous and enjoyable.
Eugenia