June at A Deer Cottage – Finding Hope in the Little Things
- adeercottage
- Jun 27
- 5 min read
Winter has certainly arrived here at.........
Website link: ↪️ A Deer Cottage Bed and Breakfast in Kaukapakapa, Auckland.
The hills overlooking the Kaipara Harbour have taken on their beautiful winter colours, the mornings have become crisp, and although the rain has visited us often, there is still something incredibly peaceful about this time of year.
June has been a month of continuing to take life gently, while learning that hope often returns in the smallest and most unexpected moments.
One Step Closer to Answers
One of the biggest events this month was my appointment with the lung specialist.
After several weeks of uncertainty, it was reassuring to learn that my lungs appear to be in much better shape than we had feared. While that was wonderful news, the investigation now returns to my heart.
For many years I've known about my leaking left ventricle valve, but recent testing has also shown moderate calcification in my arteries. I'm now waiting to see my cardiologist again to better understand what is causing the symptoms affecting the right side of my heart.
Waiting is never easy, especially when health anxiety has a habit of filling in the gaps with worry. My hope is that we'll have clearer answers before our planned family trip to Australia in August to visit our daughters and those precious grandsons we've been missing so much.
As difficult as uncertainty can be, I'm learning that worrying doesn't change tomorrow — it only steals today. Some days I'm better at remembering that than others, but I'm trying.
A beautiful Māori whakataukī (proverb) that I think is rather fitting:
"He waka eke noa."
It means, "We are all in this canoe together."
Celebrating Family
One of the absolute highlights of June was celebrating my birthday surrounded by family.
Lily came home from Australia, and Wiremu came home from Korea, and together we all escaped to beautiful Bland Bay for the weekend. My two sisters, and our son's Fiance joined us, making it an extra special family gathering.
There was plenty of laughter, games, birthday cake decorating (with varying levels of artistic talent!), delicious food, and simply enjoying being together.
I even managed a quick winter dip in the ocean while the rest of the family stayed in for a much longer swim. It certainly woke me up!
Sometimes the greatest birthday gift isn't wrapped at all — it's simply having the people you love around you.
Learning Something New
Since needing to slow life down a little, I've discovered the joy of trying new things.
I'm teaching myself to play the piano and am quietly thrilled to have learnt the first verse of Für Elise. It's certainly far from perfect, but every note learned feels like a little achievement.
I've also been keeping busy sewing curtains, another project that allows me to slow my thoughts and enjoy creating something with my hands.
I'm beginning to realise that creativity has its own quiet way of healing.
Small Acts of Kindness
Health challenges have also reminded me how important kindness can be.
I've been spending time visiting some of our friends, and those visits often leave me feeling just as uplifted as I hope they do. Sharing a cup of tea, a conversation, and simply being present is sometimes exactly what both people need. On the first of June, my Aunty June turned 106, it was a privilege to pop over to visit with two of my sisters, to sit and spend time with her, I have many childhood memories of Aunty June and Uncle Bob, and the happiness they shared.
Reading has also become another peaceful companion through the quieter days, helping me step into different worlds for a little while.
Winter at A Deer Cottage
Winter is naturally a quieter season here at A Deer Cottage.
The gardens have slowed, the rain has settled in, and the pace of life has become gentler.
Our returning guests often tell us that's exactly why they love coming during winter. There is something wonderfully calming about curling up inside, watching the changing skies over the Kaipara Harbour, enjoying the warmth of the cottage, and simply pressing pause on busy lives.
One of my own favourite places to unwind in the evenings has become our beautiful marine aquarium. Watching the gentle movement of the corals, our playful clownfish, and the colourful tangs is surprisingly calming. There is something mesmerising about the quiet rhythm of underwater life, and it has become another little reminder to slow down and simply enjoy the present moment.
Perhaps that's what A Deer Cottage has always been about.
Not rushing.
Not ticking off a long list.
Just finding space to breathe.
Looking Ahead
Life continues to have its uncertainties, and sadly this month also brought more family farewells, with Te Kani attending two more funerals. Moments like these remind us once again to treasure the people we love and the time we share together.
We said goodbye to Lily as she headed back to Oz, as well as to Wiremu, as he headed back to Palmerston North, however, I am left with happy memories which will keep me going until we are together again.
As we move into July, my hope is simple — for continued answers, improving health, time with family, and many more peaceful sunsets over our beautiful hills.
If you're looking for somewhere to escape the rush of everyday life, whether for a romantic getaway, a wedding nearby, or simply a quiet weekend to recharge, we'd love to welcome you to A Deer Cottage Bed and Breakfast in Kaukapakapa. ⬅️Website link
Until next month...
Warm wishes,
Angela & Te Kani
A Deer Cottage – Kaukapakapa, Auckland 🦌❤️🦌
If you wish to follow our journey on social media you can do so through these channels below:
Follow us on social media to keep up with our latest updates, beautiful photos, and special offers:
Facebook: A Deer Cottage's Bed and Breakfast
Instagram: @adeercottagebnb
Pinterest: A Deer Cottage B&B
Youtube: ADeer Cottage's Bed and Breakfast
Kaukapakapa Accommodation, Kaukapakapa Bed and Breakfast, Auckland Rural Accommodation, North Auckland Accommodation, Peaceful Getaway Auckland, Relaxation Retreat NZ, Romantic Getaway Auckland, Couples Retreat Auckland, Boutique Bed and Breakfast NZ, Rest and Relaxation Accommodation, Quiet Escape Auckland, Wellness Retreat Auckland, Stress Relief Getaway NZ, Accommodation Near Auckland, Kaipara Accommodation, Kaipara Harbour Views, Peaceful Accommodation Auckland, Relaxing Getaway Auckland, Rest and Relaxation Retreat, Romantic Getaway NZ, Countryside Retreat Auckland, Weekend Escape Auckland,
Comments