Why did you become a Sparkie?
Because the Spark team asked me!! Also because I believe in the project and want to see it positively impact the Adelaide Hills Council area but also that it might ripple out further afield. For some time I have wanted to contribute more meaningfully in life and this has been a worthwhile opportunity.

What brings you joy?
So many things bring me joy every day!  I am enormously grateful to be living in the Adelaide Hills. I open the front door and greet each day first thing in the morning (out aloud!). I have such an appreciation for the trees, the wildlife, the space that I get to enjoy.

What hobbies do you have?
I have expanded my hobbies lately by learning new skills
at the Hut Community Centre. Sessions in watercolour painting and weaving have captured my interest and hopefully there will be a course in mosaics! I have had a lifelong interest in collecting seeds, growing plants and garden design. I also enjoy walking, bike riding, reading and camping.

Can you share any personal experiences with loneliness?
I don’t think I can recall experiencing loneliness (in the absence of human company, it is the trees that provide satisfying company for me) but I can certainly say I have experienced isolation and of being shunned. I have a strong belief in who I am and an attitude of flowing with life despite the disappointments that are felt when expectations of family support fall short. How else do we cultivate resilience, compassion, empathy, curiosity and wonder without experiencing and witnessing the struggles?  

What’s your favourite movie?
Gosh, that’s a hard one to answer. Every Friday night when my daughter was still at home, we would select a movie to watch and usually it was something funny and emotional! The series of McLeod’s Daughters always drew me in!

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