Wellbeing

Seasons

Living in Melbourne is so special for lots of reasons, but one of the things that I love the most is that we get to experience all the different seasons. My husband Kirk grew up in a town called Bright in the north east of Victoria. Bright is known for it's incredibly beautiful Autumn leaves and my family have spent many wonderful times walking in the bush, throwing leaves around and having fun. (The photo above is one of my favorites of my kids a few years ago in Bright).

Seasons also occur in our personal lives and families. I remember times when I have felt that I have been stuck in a particular season that seems to last forever. As a new parent I remember feeling like I would never get a good nights sleep again, but sure enough that season passed and I was able to sleep through the night uninterrupted! Best thing ever! 

This year has brought another season in our family, two of my sons have moved out of home. One got married and the other is doing a gap year away from home. Unexpectedly, both boys moved out in the same week and I was caught by surprise at the feelings that brought up. Obviously, I was super excited for both of my boys and all that was ahead of them, but I wasn't prepared for the sadness of the season of childhood coming to an end.

You might be feeling that you're in a really difficult season at the moment, perhaps personally or in your family or at work. As I chat with different parents across the different year levels I hear stories of difficult seasons and really positive seasons. Perhaps  you're experiencing a season of testing or trial, perhaps due to behavior issues with your child, health issues, relationship issues, financial pressures, or like me a season of change. Others among you may be experiencing a season of waiting and others a season of joy or success.

Seasons in nature can mirror seasons in our life, they aren't permanent but they shape our character, teach us things and help us grow. Spring - new beginnings, Summer - growing and nurturing, Autumn - harvesting and reaping and Winter - resting and reflecting.

Which ever season you find yourself in, know that you're not alone, there is hope. Lean into the opportunity to grow and be stretched and support others as they deal with their seasons. 

Please feel free to reach out to me if you feel you would like to catch up for a chat or if you feel your child needs some extra support. My mobile number is 0409559059 and my email is lisa.osborne@education.vic.gov.au