cover:
"Is city life getting to you? Do you wake up on Monday mornings and dread the commute? Afraid to look up into the washed-out face of the person sitting opposite you on the train home for fear that you're actually just looking at a mirror image of yourself? Fed up with office politics and the stress and strain of your working week? Do you dream of a life change?"

"Well, here are 52 brilliant ideas for de-stressing your world and living the good life. And they've been truly road-tested. A few years ago I was in exactly the situation I describe above. Now I live in the country in a rambling farmhouse alongside 14 acres. I cannot describe the feeling of well-being that flooded me when I first arrived and which still remains with me day after day. I have written this book to share my experiences of downshifting - good and bad. Whether you decide to put some or all of the ideas into practice is up to you, but whatever you choose will enhance your life." Lynn Huggins-Cooper

Downshift to the Good Life is for anyone who dreams of a more peaceful and relaxing lifestyle and who wants to leap off the treadmill. It's packed full of inspirational ideas to help readers assess where they are, where they want to be and how to get there. A daydream of living and working in the country is a great thing, but reality can be harsh. So whether you are after a country idyll or just want to work less and play more Downshift to the Good Life will prove invaluable in helping you achieve your hopes and dreams.

Have you always fancied being your own boss? Check out the pros and cons of starting your own business and leaving the rat race behind. Discover how you can create your own downshifted Utopia without moving to the sticks. Fancy growing your own food and becoming more self-sufficient? See how the downshifters do it...

Travelling south to visit D-face.

Received in the mail from the very generous Catsalive. We are looking forward to reading and releasing this one!

Lots of good hints on changing to a slower pace and a gentler life in the countryside

Canberra Book Crossing meet up release

Had a wonderful evening as we watched 2011 set behind the National Museum and the fireworks rise over Lake Burley Griffin. A glass of champagne, BookCrossing friends and books. Kids running around on the lawns. Chips and dips. And this book, which looks like a cracker!

Happy New Year!

My philosophy group tonight, or at least I'm helping to hand out the tea and scones. Will leave this book somewhere on the premises.