Welcome to my special place in the world!
Feel free to grab a drink, get comfy and join me for a virtual cuppa. I’ll also offer you a virtual hug – we’re still keeping our distance here despite some restrictions being lifted 🙂
Let’s start with this fabulous quote that sums things up perfectly!
Jump into my nightmare, the water’s warm
Jerry Maguire/Tom Cruise
Jump – WOTY
My word of the year (WOTY) is Jump, so most of my monthly updates will use the theme of jump. And I also get to show a ‘jump’ pic each month.
At the end of the year I’ll be putting all my jump photos together in one big jump-fest post.
You can read more about my ideas for Jumping my way though 2020, in my post Jumping into the New Year.
I will admit so far this year there have been many times when I haven’t felt like jumping, or felt particularly joyful but I’ve pushed on and tried to make the most of the moments when the joy has hit me.
A jump in May
Despite the Mathematician recovering from emergency surgery, he managed to capture my sheer joy and love of autumn leaves. (Update, he is getting on well and recovering, doing what he should be, which is not much!)
I LOVED this month’s jump photo shoot and all the fun outtakes made me smile! I’m also very impressed with my colour coordination, my yellow jumper is on trend and matches the colour of the leaves perfectly 🙂
Maybe I should start doing a photo shoot with my outfit of the day 🙂
I have to say this was one of the highlights of the month for me. I really enjoyed making a bit of a fool of myself 🙂
But seriously, how much fun is this action shot?
Blog jumping
I have to say May has been HUGE in terms of my blogging. I had a week off due to my husband’s emergency surgery and during that time I wrote this post, a guide to our newly opened rail trail.
It has been shared heaps of times and my views have gone through the roof as a result – not a lot of comments from non-bloggers, but that is to be expected. It was a very time consuming post to put together and I’m thrilled it’s been so well received. The word ‘comprehensive’ springs to mind 🙂
I contributed a piece for Christine’s blog, in response to her question ‘After the shutdown, where will you travel to next? It was interesting to read the responses of the five bloggers. So where will you go to first?
And guess what, I was jumping then too!
Jumping around at home – what’s been happening?
Not a lot of socialising has been going on, that’s for sure! We have been staying at home as much as possible.
Home made entertainment has included fire pit fun, reading, some cooking and rail trail riding.
Jumping to distractions – photo challenges
My sister and brother-in-law had the fabulous idea of doing family photo challenges during the period of lockdown. We started with An Alphabet of Isolation and then moved onto Images by the Dozen (without using numbers).
This was one of my favourite number photos – I just love the bendy match!
We’re currently working on our next family photo challenge – 10 Ordinary Objects.
It’s been a great way to think of something other than the prevailing pandemic and be creative. My sister has gone onto produce a magazine of our photos so we all have a memory from this time. We meet up on zoom once a week to share our photos, so it’s been a good way to stay connected too.
Jumping back into life
I’ve been getting back into the swing of things but pacing myself apart from this one week. Monday I had a haircut, the first in over 3 months, it’s grown nicely during that time and we decided to not cover the small forest of greys but to just weave a few blondie foils through, giving it a nice natural tone. I’m very happy with the result.
The next day I had a massage for the first time this year and it was AMAZING!!!! Oh how I’ve missed them.
Then the very next day I had a physiotherapist appointment for my knee which has been sore for the past few months – and I’m happy to say it should respond to gentle treatment. I can’t walk very far or very fast, but I can cycle without any problem at all – so guess what I’m doing a lot of?
So after that little foray back into the real world, I’ve slowed down again and now, apart from my weekly physio appointment, food shopping and the odd errand, I’m staying home again. I must admit I was worn out from all that activity and it felt really kind of weird to be out doing such ‘normal’ things too. Have you found that?
Not jumping into a new career
My husband had not had a haircut for months and months while in lockdown, so I decided to have a go! My daughter sent me a youtube tutorial which I watched a number of times and then watched and paused periodically while following it and cutting my husband’s hair! It just happened to be Mother’s Day on the day I decided to give him his haircut and as we couldn’t share the day with anyone in person, I enjoyed doing something completely different.
We were both very pleased, and a bit surprised if I’m honest, about how well it turned out! I have decided that I am not changing careers at this late stage in life and will send him back to the barber when he’s due for his next haircut. I also believe they earn their money!
Birthday girls
I don’t know what I was thinking back in the day but having my three daughters’ birthdays all within 5 weeks of each other, (spread over 5 years), starting in early May and ending in early June, has always made it an interesting time! It’s a case of get over one and you’re ready to go again with lists flying around and presents being ordered for delivery. They are all mothers themselves now so I love spoiling them when I can 🙂
Doll’s House renovation time
I won this delightful old doll’s house in a silent auction a few months ago. As it was a Bushfire Recovery fundraiser I just kept adding to my bids! A good friend helped me get it ready for an upcoming visit from one of my grandchildren and I’m thrilled with the result. It’s amazing what a difference some new wallpaper (coloured paper), pictures, stickers, a glue stick, ribbon plus new furniture and a family of little people can make!
Doesn’t it look great?
As restrictions start to ease, this video from Sammy J is worth a watch!
The best part of May was the end of it
The best bit about May, for me, was that as restrictions eased, we could have a visit from our daughter and her husband, and of course that meant we got to see Emilia our granddaughter! It was so much fun and I loved every minute of it, until I had to say goodbye.
Fire pit fun with a family visit
Jumping through a screen
I’m happy to report my two other grandchildren, Dottie and Patrick, are also progressing well, but unfortunately it will be quite some time before I can see them in person, rather than through a screen, due to travel restrictions! I’m so pleased that with technology we can be together in some form. I’d hate to have lived during this pandemic in a time when technology wasn’t as advanced as it is now.
So, how was your May?
We’re entering the winter months here and I will miss the autumn hues. Let me know if your area is starting to lift restrictions and what you have planned.
I’m desperately hoping that June is a better month around the world. Take care and stay well everyone.
Thanks for the cuppa and the chat 🙂
Deb xx
Previous monthly updates:
Jump into a new year – January
Jump in for a chat – February update
Jump in for a chat – March update
You can also find Deb’s World in lots of other places – stay in touch by clicking any of the buttons below.
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Deb's World 
Restrictions are slowly lifting and now we’re hit with demonstrations. 😩
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I feel for you Carol. Take care x
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Thanks! I continue to social isolate now for two reasons!
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Wonderful post, pics, and good news! I needed a little inspiration! Thanks for posting some positive changes during these restrictive times! C
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Many thanks Cheryl, I do try to be positive and share good things but it’s not always easy! These strange times have been testing haven’t they?
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The energy in your post is contagious! Great pics! I might have to try a photo of the month! 😂
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Thanks Chandra! I don’t always feel like jumping or feel positive but I do enjoy writing up my monthly posts and catching up with blogging friends out there!
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I love the video of you jumping with the leaves! Restrictions are easing here but my husband and I aren’t rushing to get out among the throngs. I think since it’s turning to summer here, it will be harder to keep most people close to home. We’ll see… I’m glad to know that your husband is doing well.
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Oh thanks for letting me know that you enjoyed my jump Janis! I really put a lot of thought into it each month and enjoy myself no end in doing so 🙂 in case you hadn’t noticed! We are quite happy pottering around for the next little while as winter sets in here things tend to go into hibernation anyway. Thanks for sharing your thoughts, it’s much appreciated 🙂
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We are pleased to have heard that Grant is on the mend. Quiet here, and we’re just sitting back and waiting to see how “things” go. I have no inclination of heading to the mall or shopping, so my shopping outing is only to the supermarket.
Unfortunately, the economic downturn has yet to hit many and we as a country will be going into a recession. Enjoying the simple things in life like jumping with leaves, family/friends are the things to concentrate on and not focus on other “events” we can’t control.
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Yes we will be heading to a recession too I feel. I agree with you the simple things have been crystal clear these past months and are so important to getting by. Lovely to hear from you and your situation over the ditch. Hope ‘things’ settle for you soon.
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Hi Deb – lovely to catch up for an end of May cuppa – loved your live action jumping shot and all the wonderful family pics – gotta love those grandbabies! I must say that I’m envisioning myself in your sunroom as we chat, but those green biscuits in your cover shot might need to be replaced! Aldi sell wonderful melting moments – you should buy those for me instead when I visit 😀
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Thanks for joining me Leanne. I’ll take note of your biscuit request for next month’s catch up :). I couldn’t resist the urge to share some grandbaby shots and was given permission. Glad you enjoyed the jump shots, I make a real effort during the month to try to capture what’s going on and jump on board!
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Hi Deb – yes, I always ask if it’s okay to put family photos onto the blog or FB – I like that my kids are careful about what’s posted and don’t drown everyone with pics of their lives (our son has actually deleted his FB acct because he didn’t use it and thought it wasn’t something he wanted to use anymore – I’m tempted to do the same sometimes!)
Thanks for linking up with us at MLSTL and I’ve shared on my SM 😊
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I love your jump video. It looks such fun. We have had our driest and sunniest Spring ever so
I have spent a lot of time outdoors. I still have not been further than I can walk since the beginning of March and no hair cuts here until July at the earliest. I miss swimming.
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Hi, Debbie – You are a very brave woman to cut your husband’s hair. Richard begged for me to do this. No can do!
Glad that your husband has recovered well (from his surgery…not the haircut).
Loved your JUMP video. So much fun!
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Fall is my favorite seasons so I am still enjoying pictures of your fall. We had snow here 2 1/2 weeks ago and last week it was in the 80’s. I washed the blankets from my bed and put them away and washed my winter coat and put it a way. Then the temp dropped and I had to retrieve a blanket! Love the jumping picture with the leaves, very, very cool.
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Did you do the timing to have three daughters’ birth so closely, Deb? Wow, it’s amazing if you did. I cut my own hair and some girls’ hair when I lived in a dorm in college, so I was okay cutting mu husband’s hair. I liked the way you made the jumping video with the leaves. I must try it with my photo app. What a great month you had!!
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I really love your family visit photos – that was the best of Autumn right there! #MLSTL
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Back again for MSTL. Deb, I forgot to mention the first time around that I hope your knee heals quickly. Take care, and I am now out to enjoy the sunshine 🙂
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Food is one of my passions and I’m curious what kind of cookie or green snack thing is pictured above. Thanks for sharing this post at #MLSTL. Perhaps you’ll jump for joy when you read my post, “Budget Friendly Activities to Inspire Joy” at #MLSTL.
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Hi Deb, Good to see you resuming some social time with your family and getting a few personal care appointments done. Your jumping shots are fun. Thank you for your May updates and cuppa. #MLSTL
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Must ring my hairdresser today, I had an appointment just when the lockdown started and she rang and cancelled it. She is now open but only doing appointments, my hair is so long and needs some foils – to much grey. What a month to jump into and jump out and into June! Lets hope more things open up and life gets back to some sort of normality. Im catching up with 3 friends this afternoon for some food drinks and chat. I cant wait. #mlstl
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Great images – love the photoshoot, your new hair and that dollhouse & glad to hear the mathematician is doing what he should be doing. Here’s to some joy in June.
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Your hair looks great! I’ve cut my husband’s hair 3 times now (it grows like crazy!) and we’ve worked together to trim our 3 boys’ hair a few times but I am relieved to have appointments for all of us this week as I am definitely not a hairdresser!
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I love that jump pic! It’s stunning! Lovely you got a granddaughter visit and glad your hubby is on the mend. I love the positivity overall. Also… so much of it outdoors. I’m really so slack about heading out but your comment about ‘where you’ll travel first’ reminded me that I’m keen to do a little trip. I’m not working so money is tight but I’m thinking a couple of nights away might be perfect!
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So much to love about your post, Deb and I felt like getting up and jumping for joy myself when I saw your photos. Love your #ootd! The dolls house is just gorgeous and will be a treasured heirloom, I’m sure. I could never qualify as a hairstylist Deb, just ask Rachel and Nathan LOL:) Have a great week!
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Thanks Sue you are such a great friend and motivator! Hope you are enjoying your new changes to your blog, it’s all looking great.
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Such a lovely post. I love your outfit and how it matches with the colours of the autumn leaves (oh how I love autumn leaves)! Lovely photo of your girls too, and I wanna come have some fire pit fun with you all! BTW – that dollshouse is incredible! I would’ve loved that so much as a child. Your granddaughters will be captivated!
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Thanks Min, you are welcome to visit my world anytime. I loved the way the colours worked in my video and could do a good #ootd photo shoot!! The dolls house has been very popular with Emilia already so I’m happy 😃
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Hi, Deb – I’m dropping back in from #MLSTL. I’ve shared this post on my social media.
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There is so much joy in this post Deb. I love it and it really made me smile. Great jumping especially considering your knee isn’t great at the moment. #MLSTL Sharing
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Thanks Jennifer, I’m trying to find joyful moments amongst the hard days. I will confess that my knee was aching for a while afterwards!! It’s getting much better with the physio and bike riding.
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What a lovely post – and a fab action shot of you colour co ordinated jumping in the leaves! Pleased to hear that your husband is recovering well, he’s obviously getting very good nursing at home 😉
Oh a haircut and a massage – what a treat! I can’t see that happening here for quite some time yet, but I am starting to think that maybe it is time to embrace the grey … not totally, but going for less coloured highlights, we will see, I think we’re still more than a month away from salons reopening.
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Thanks Deb, I love the effort I went to to colour coordinate with the leaves!! I’m enjoying my foray into being more natural in my hair colour and am embracing it! I don’t have much grey though so I’m lucky there. Hope things ease up soon for you but it’s been really bad for you hasn’t it?
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I have always liked your WOTY, Deb. “Jump”. Full of such possibility. 🙂 I am happy to hear your husband is recovering well. The action shot is great and very effective.
Funny about the YouTube hair tutorials. I have watched a few and my husband still does not let me get close to him with scissors. I don’t get it?
The doll house is amazing! We have done some recent family visits, too, with the grandchildren. The best! A great post, Deb. Fun photos! Thank you. xx Sharing #MLSTL and on SM
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Lovely to have you join me Erica, as we jump our way through the year, or is that lurch through the year?? Sometimes as I said I don’t feel positive or joyful and jumping is too much effort (gasp), but I pick myself up and continue on, as we all do! I’m so glad you enjoyed my post and I love having you in my blogging community as you are always so encouraging and supportive, many many thanks for that.
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I know it is getting cold..but your place makes Autumn so pretty. I too would be jumping (not really, you are much fitter!) with all those leaves. Thank goodness for finally seeing some of the family in person. I used to cut my husband’s hair in between school holidays when we lived in the bush. Nah, not a good idea. His hair was/is quite wiry and curly in its own way. Thanks for sharing all that was good about May. Loved it. Denyse #mlstl
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Yes it was so nice to finally see family in the flesh and to be able to cuddle Emilia again. The leaves were so much fun and they are almost all gone now. My husband’s hair is thick and wiry and I’m very surprised I got it looking OK, he was quite impressed but I’ll leave it to the professionals next time. Thanks for your visit and support Denyse, always appreciate it.xx
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Absolutely love seeing you jump around in your yellow jumper. And so glad your husband has recovered.
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Thanks Jennifer, I had a bit of fun I must say :). I am easily amused! He is doing well thank goodness.
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I loved seeing your jumping photos and video…very impressive! You and your family made some wonderful memories during this time, and that is inspiring. Loved Sammy J, too! 🙂 I was able to visit with the kids and grandkids the other day and that was the highlight of May. Looking forward to more in-person family time soon.
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Thank you Candi, my jumping skills are going well even with a sore knee! I’m pleased to hear you had visits with family too, it makes such a difference to our mindset doesn’t it?
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Great jumping skills Deb. The Autumnal video is brilliant and looks like you had fun doing it. Wonderful that your restrictions have eased and you can see family and friends again. Seems like such a long time that we’ve been locked down doesn’t it? Hopefully we will be following you guys out of lockdown soon.
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Yes I did have fun Jonno 🙂 The weeks have just rolled by while in lockdown, I’ve lost count now! I’m sure your restrictions are easing too but your figures are still very high, sadly. Take care.
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Deb it is of no surprise to me that your comprehensive guide is bringing in a ton of traffic. Those take a ton of work to do but are so valuable to those looking for the information. Applause to you.
Great to hear your husband is coming along well. Bravo to him on that boomerang shot!
Enjoy your autumn. So wonderful that you were able to have a visit with Emilia and thank goodness for technology in these times of travel restrictions. xo
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Many thanks for your understanding Sue, it’s been a huge ordeal and the trail is proving very successful which makes us all happy! It was so nice to have time with Emilia, you couldn’t wipe the smile off my face. Hope things are easing up for you over there too.
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So glad your guide brought you so much traffic – it was really good, you deserve that. Toni x
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Thanks Toni, it’s been great to have so many people find it useful!
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This is a good uplifting post. Thank you for sharing it with us.
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Thanks for that Geri. I do enjoy sharing my monthly updates, it’s good for me to look back on too.
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