This is a sponsored post for Clime Asset Management
It’s not the most ideal place to spot something remarkable but from the toilet window, I could see that my mum’s garden was overflowing with a highly valued vegetable.
“No way!” I thought, peering out the window while flushing the loo.
“Ma!” I yelled out to the kitchen.
“Um, did you know that you’re growing kale right outside your toilet???”
Being a sucker for superfoods that also happen to be super expensive like kale, I couldn’t believe that my mother was growing it by the truckload.
I quickly calculated that if she sold it, she would instantly become Queen Kale.
“Oh, the kah-lei” she replied.
Her mispronounciation clinched how oblivious she was to the health food craze stirred by this innocent, almost weed looking vegetable.
“Just keep growing and growing. You want some?”
So typical of my green thumb mother.
Living in Canberra which sees the harshest of cold winters and the most brutally dry of summers, my Ma can still somehow manage a thriving garden.
Breaking through tough, rocky soil in our front yard, beautiful roses bloom in all their wonderous glory every year.
During these golden years of hers, I’ve finally started paying attention to the priceless lessons that my mother’s always been trying to teach me.
Gardening is not one of them.
However, she has taught me how to be resourceful.
More importantly, through the great pride that be her garden, my darling Ma not only reminded me to make the most of what you have but to make sure it keeps growing and thriving. Above all, to be savvy enough to prosper from it. No matter how long it takes for you to get there.
I have always been a great believer that women – single, married, divorced – should always set aside their own funds.
After many years of living and working in Japan (where it’s only 20% income tax, thank you very much), I came back to Australia with a LOT of kale.
When it was time for our marriage and family chapter to begin, Mr Surfer and I naturally combined our funds to buy a home.
In the meanwhile, I also kept some kale aside for myself.
For over 10 years now, it sits very comfortably, investing in managed funds, thank you very much.
It’s seen some prosperous periods, then went through tough times with the GFC (Global Financial Crisis). Now, we’re back on track after recovery mode.
Clime Asset Management offer individually managed accounts and managed funds for those who are looking for a mid-long term return in their investments.
I’m no shares expert but for the sake of my own managed funds, I see how volatile the market is. It makes sense to stay with the long term investment option.
So, no. Money doesn’t grow on trees. But if you wait long enough and stay resilient through the rough soil and the harshest of climates, you will get kale. Lots of it.
Are you a fan of kale? Do you have a green thumb?
What’s a life lesson your mother (or a significant female role model) has taught you?
Emily @ Have A Laugh On Me says
My mum also has a knack for growing things in the hardest of climates. The best life lesson that mum taught me was to be polite and kind and lots of doors will open for you. Both of my parents also taught me about the value of a dollar!
Emily @ Have A Laugh On Me recently posted..I love long skinny stick-like ones.
Kristyn says
OMG Mama Ga, you have Kale in managed funds? I am impressed! You so good with kale, glad we’re friends hehe.
Kristyn recently posted..Blogging, Reading, and Writing Oh My
Brenda says
Tell her to make some kale chips!!! And I can’t garden for shiz. I once killed a cactus.#truestory
Kirsty @ My Home Truths says
My mum is also very clever at growing things. She despairs of me every time she comes for a visit. Although I do have passionfruit. Lots of it. Apparently it can be quite pricey at times so maybe I should actually listen to her and start looking after it!
Kirsty @ My Home Truths recently posted..5 ways to show autism acceptance everyday (not just in April)
Min@WriteoftheMiddle says
I must admit that I have jumped on board the Kale brigade of late. If its so healthy then I’m giving it a whirl – why not get some in my tummy! The things you see out toilet windows huh?!! 😉 x
Min@WriteoftheMiddle recently posted..10 good reasons to introduce regular Digital Detox time into your life
Mandy Barbie Bieber Beyond says
You know I’m a bit embarrassed to admit I have never even tried Kale! Me? I have never had a green thumb, everything I touch dramatically decreases its life span…
Mandy Barbie Bieber Beyond recently posted..Dads! How To Do Your Daughters Hair
liz says
Our kale is not looking great at the moment due to aphids but it is surprisingly easy to grow. you should give it a try and you might surprise yourself – I think now is the perfect time to plant it
liz recently posted..Real Homemade Easter Eggs