A Fortunate Life

I love all of my lives.

Despite how that sounds I don't have a multiple personality disorder. I'm just thankful I can indulge my conflicting needs: to live in a vibrant city, breathe salt air with my toes in sand, and unwind in open acres near a boulder-filled creek.

On my family's farm I'm surrounded by nature. A myriad birds calling, creeks gushing, resident wombats, wallabies and echidnas. Cows that surprise me with their personalities and intelligence. And always something fruiting or in flower. We drink water from a spring and burn fallen branches to keep warm in winter. I relish the space, the freedom, the cliffs and majestic trees.

Calves on afternoon nap

But when I have the ocean spread in front of me, or a salty bay beneath our little boat, I belong only to the water. Sand and seashells and tides have a replenishing effect on me. I watch in awe as a pelican glides to a perfect landing, a fish jumps clear of the surface. Nothing beats snorkelling, looking through a tiny window into a vastly different world. I can't bear the thought of a chlorinated pool after swimming in salt water, and I'm always reluctant to leave the cleansing environment, the build and release of the waves.

Deeban Spit

Yet too much time away from the city and I start craving that industrious buzz; the people, the energy, the buildings, new and old sitting shoulder to shoulder. Our architectural heritage helps me peek into the past and gives me another perspective on the world. The city is a magnet for events and culture, local talent and celebrated artists and performers from beyond our shores. I am constantly learning and absorbing when in the city, and dread that feeling of loss when I leave, the never-finished quest for more knowledge of it.

So, I'm resigned to kiss-chasing contentment. City, country or coast? I adore them all and I'm lucky I don't have to choose just one. My corner of the world lets me embrace all three, and fondly squeeze the best from each. I started this blog to share the inspiration, beauty and joy I find in all my favourite places.

And also to remind myself how fortunate I am, living more than one life.