Lifelong Learning

10/08/2025

'Never Give Up On Your Dreams' -- a stunning reminder.

Take a peek.

01/08/2025

Yesterday I had lunch with three Sues. Yes—three! We’ve known each other since primary school. And when we get together, the conversation flows so easily, we barely come up for air. Four hours vanished in stories, laughter, and the kind of deep remembering that only old friends can bring out.

There’s something grounding about people who knew you before the world asked you to be anything else. These long lunches always linger with me, and I suspect they shape my writing more than I realise.

Memory, friendship, and the passage of time thread through my Footprints in the Future trilogy. One of the characters, Billie, reflects on the past in her later years through a piece I’ve shared on my site—A is for Awareness—as part of an A–Z of lifelong learning. It’s fiction… but not entirely.

Have a read if you're curious:
👉 https://lifelonglearning.com.au/a-z-of-lifelong-learning/a-is-for-awareness/

Let me know what you think ...

21/07/2025

🌱 Creative obsession = wellness in disguise?

I’ve had my head down lately, immersed in fiction and creative writing—a deep dive that has so been filling my heart with joy.

It’s reminded me that lifelong learning doesn’t always look like study or structure. Sometimes, it’s getting completely lost in a project that lights you up. Creativity has its own kind of nourishment—it steadies us, surprises us, and quietly teaches us something new about ourselves.

So I’m easing back in here—thankful, a little foggy-eyed, and definitely still writing.

What about you? What’s been feeding your curiosity or creativity lately? I'm also thinking about a train ride soon? Anyone interested?

👇 Share in the comments—I’d love to hear.

16/06/2025

🌿 I’ve created a new category on my blog—Essays—as a space to explore deeper reflections on learning, change, and what shapes the way we live.

The first one is called “When Stillness Provides the Clarity.”
It’s about those quiet moments when we begin to notice our thoughts—really notice them—and how that awareness can gently change the way we show up in the world.

This way of listening inward started for me years ago, during my mosaic-making era. That slow, absorbing craft—alongside journaling—quietly taught me how to tune into the inner stories I was telling myself. It changed how I learn, how I lead, and how I live.

If you have a moment, I’d love for you to read it. And if it resonates, let me know.

https://lifelonglearning.com.au/essay/when-stillness-provides-the-clarity/

How tuning into our thoughts, gently and honestly, can open the door to clarity, connection, and meaningful change.

06/06/2025

Off to Bolgart to catch up with old friends. First leg to East Perth Station done. Then onto the to Toodyay, then road trip to Bolgart. Toot. 🚂

Drop a comment if you’re keen for a train trip soon. Toods is a good place to start. This time of year, glorious.✨

05/06/2025

Just a Little Update 🌿

You might notice this page now has my name on it — that's because I'm simplifying! Since I’m retired and lifelong learning is still very much part of who I am, it makes sense to bring everything under one roof.

I haven’t posted here in a while, but this space is still open for the occasional musing, reflection, interesting find and train travel. No big changes, just a quieter, simpler kind of presence.

Thanks for sticking around! 😊

Oh, and did I mention—I'm writing a novel. Speculative fiction.

02/03/2025

Life, Learning & the Shifting Seasons

It’s been a wonderfully hectic holiday season—full of connection, celebration, and perhaps a little chaos. And now, life resumes its steady rhythm, both at home and on the world stage.

Is it just me, or does the world feel like it’s shaping up to be quite different than expected?

Through all the change though, one thing remains constant: our shared humanity. Kindness, curiosity, and the simple act of listening remind us that we’re all part of something bigger—woven into the 'world' we shape together.

As the seasons begin to shift and the air cools, there’s something about the crispness of autumn that invites reflection. A perfect time for quiet train journeys across WA, for deep conversations, for learning—not just in books but in the stories we share with each other.

Stay tuned, if you're feeling a train trip in order, it's coming. Meanwhile, check out some of my potted garden, all grown from cuttings; an activity that brings me joy. ✨

So, how’s everyone doing? What’s been on your mind? Let’s start a conversation. ⬇️💬

17/01/2025

✨ Have You Had a Peek at The Resource Hub Yet? ✨

I’ve been designing learning pieces for… well, forever! Many have found their way into personal and professional workshops, but here’s the thing—they’re also available to you.

The Resource Hub is all about uncovering new perspectives by exploring topics that enhance life in meaningful ways. The pieces are designed to give you moments of clarity and curiosity—a space to pause, reflect, and take actionable steps toward the life you truly desire.

Dive into bite-sized learning that challenges your thinking, strengthens your self-awareness, and equips you to lead with purpose. Because growth? It’s not just about what you achieve; it’s about who you become along the way.

Oh, and don’t forget to join the Lifelong Learning Club -- it’s the perfect space to spark discussions around a learning piece or any topic that piques your interest.

Explore now at https://lifelonglearning.com.au/resource-hub/ -- let's see where your curiosity might take you!

Welcome to the Learning Resource Hub! A space designed with lifelong learners and facilitators in mind. Whether you're exploring personal growth or

16/01/2025

A Wonderful Wellness Day Out ✨

As always, there’s nothing quite like the charm of train travel, and yesterday’s trip to Toodyay was an absolute joy. It’s such a lovely way to spend a day. Did I mention I was a regular AvonLink commuter up until last year when I moved back to the city? Arriving at East Perth station felt like a reunion, with new year’s hugs and chats with familiar train drivers and customer service faces—such a delightful start to the day.

The clip -- watch it here: https://fb.watch/x84BYqlyuN/ -- is of the Toodyay Hotel at 11:30, just as it opened before the lunch rush. This beautifully refurbished historic hotel has captured my heart and will remain my chosen venue for future Train Traveller days. It’s perfect for exploring connections over lunch and fostering curious conversations about topics of interest. There’s even a function-style room at the back, ideal for diving deeper into meaningful discussions and shared ideas.

Here’s to the joy of the journey and discovering the magic of connection through curious conversations. 🚂🧡

13/01/2025

Q is for Quality [of life] -- is the latest installment in the A-Z of Lifelong Learning series. Take a peek at this thought-provoking piece that potentially challenges the way we define quality and encourages reflection on living a life aligned with our true values. Check it out and join the conversation!

Often when we think about quality of life, we default to material markers like bigger homes, fancy cars and latest gadgets. True quality of life extends beyond possessions.

10/01/2025

🌟 What makes a great leader? 🌟

Leadership isn’t just about titles or positions—it’s about how we show up every day. Whether in world affairs, workplaces, or within our own circles, true leadership is grounded in trust, respect, and genuine communication.

In my corporate days, we’d reflect on the qualities that inspire us in great leaders, and one truth always stood out: the power of listening and being heard.

This blog dives into the characteristics that define impactful leadership and how we can embody them in our lives. Take a moment to reflect—who inspires you as a leader, and why?

👇 Click the link to read more.

Let’s keep the conversation going—what’s your number one quality in a great leader? 💬

Leadership is a characteristic that weaves its way through our everyday lives, shaping how we interact, influence, and inspire those around us.

07/01/2025

🌱 Curiosity Inspires Growth 🌱

Have you ever pondered how curious you are? How does curiosity show up for you in life? Are you more inclined to 'ask' questions or 'tell' events from your perspective?

Growth comes from exploring the views of others and seeing life through the lens of 'and' rather than 'but'.

For example:

"I understand your point, and I think there's another way to approach this."
vs.
"I understand your point, but I think there's another way to approach this."

Notice how 'and' opens possibilities while 'but' closes them off?

Let curiosity guide you toward connection and deeper understanding.

💡 How will you use 'and' today?