As soon as we start to think about the smell of fresh baked bread, the crunch of a crisp apple or the rich taste of chocolate, our body starts to respond. Just writing this and my saliva glands start working, my stomach gurgles and my brain tells me that I am ready to eat something. The fact that food is fuel for our body is only one aspect of this gift God has given to us. Food is also about aromas, textures, flavours and colour. Food speaks to all of our senses. When we think of the times when we connect with friends or gather with family it is often around the intimacy of a shared meal. Food is one of the pleasures of life.

At a recent clergy network conference, Father Laurie McNamara spoke about the Clergy Health Care Coordinator’s role and how this role creates continuity, contact and reassurance for the priests. Fr Laurie also reminded us how much the priests value our presence and support especially when we accompany them to their doctor’s or specialist’s appointment, particularly when an appointment is for a serious health issue.

Are you living dangerously? When it comes to matters of the heart you may be taking greater risks with your future health than you are aware. Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of premature death and disability in Australia. This includes heart, stroke and blood vessel disease. There are some things which you can do to reduce your risk of heart disease and there are some things not in your control.

What is happening in clergy care? It seems this is a hot topic on more than a few agendas – it was certainly the main discussion at a recent gathering in Adelaide.

Do you sometimes worry you may be turning into a grumpy old man? Perhaps you already are one but people are afraid to tell you? We can all go through periods when our patience is tested or our tolerance is lowered but how do you know when these things may be influenced by a health change rather than personality weakness, or just a bad day?

Some flannelette pj’s, a cup of warm milk, a fluffy doona and a dark bedroom, who could ask for anything more? Lots of us apparently. Not all of us get enough sleep in quality or quantity. In recent years the scientific study of sleep has unlocked the mystery and wonder of an activity we have usually considered as an interruption to getting things done. Now we know sleep is a vital part of doing things well.

Considering this magazine is called The Swag I thought we might go for a travelling theme. Not travels that take you to the Caribbean or Kathmandu, this is more about how you are ‘travelling’ in the ups and downs of your life’s journey. It’s about the ultimate adventure!