“A mind stretched by new experiences can never go back to its’ old dimensions. Travel. Learn. Grow.” – Mollie Bylett
I’ve added a new item to my 17-page Bucket List…owning a B&B when I “officially” retire. I’ve had so much fun staying at Stephen and Simon’s motel – The Stella. I’ve met a ton of fun travelers and a few of the permanent residents staying here. We’ve swapped fun travel and life stories. I’ve got to see the behind-the-scenes of what it takes to operate a 42-room accommodation – it’s not as easy as they make it look. I’ve learned a great deal just by watching and listening to their conversations about bookings, cleaning, organizing the staff, repairs & renovations, etc. It’s been educational, to say the least. This is a bigger operation than I would want in the future but I could definitely see myself settling down later in life and letting world travelers come to my front door. There is just something so refreshing about spending time with people who are on vacation.
Sadly, my time in Australia is winding down…too quickly. Only a couple of days left. I’ve had an absolutely amazing time, but as does everything, the seasons are changing and the cooler weather has arrived to kick off Autumn here in the Southern Hemisphere. I’m not a fan of colder weather so I’m headed back to the North just in time for Spring. Oh, how I do love the sunshine, warmth, and new flower buds springing up from the wet ground.
I’ve been spending the last few days taking in all the sights, sounds, tastes, and even smells – which is why this blog post is extremely delayed. I tend to do this when I know it’s the last of something (but I should do it every day). I never know when or if I’ll get the chance to experience this place again so I want to stamp it in my memory for good.
I’ve enjoyed some lovely meals (and wine) with new and old friends, listened to the kookaburras (birds) singing first thing in the morning, watched the sunset from the rooftop of the motel and the full moon rise over the ocean at the beach. I’ve smelled the salty air, and we went for a five-mile hike along the coast. I’ve spent many afternoons at the beach with my toes in the sand staring at the waves (and cute surfers) and reading. Just the other morning, I watched the sunrise on the beach by myself before the crowds showed up. I enjoyed watching the seagulls running around on the sand trying to snag the little crabs for breakfast as they popped up out of their tiny caves. Mother Nature can be harsh at times.
I’m filled with gratitude for this brief phase of visiting three countries around the globe and trying new things. Six months is barely a dot on the timeline of life but I learned so much about the world, the people in it, and myself along the way.
I grew immensely from my relationship with Luca in Italy…sadly, I learned love doesn’t always trump logistics. But I now have a strong understanding of the Italian language and I’m still practicing on Duolingo every day (70-day streak so far!). I learned a new personal yoga practice that I will take with me wherever I go, and to drive a scooter (on the opposite side of the road, I might add) in Bali. I gained a ton of confidence while learning to surf in Australia. Plus, the best part of my travels was that I got to spend time with people who I enjoy, and can laugh/cry with…we made some wonderful memories together.
Tomorrow I’m headed North to have an Easter celebration lunch with Grams (Joyce – who is like an adopted grandma) and her family. I know this goodbye will be difficult. We aren’t getting any younger if you know what I mean. It’s been 12 years since my last visit and I hope I don’t wait that long until the next one.
In a couple of days, I’ll be back in the States to visit some friends and family before I hop on another plane for my next adventure. Travel writers have to travel so they have something to write about, right? It’s a tough gig but somebody has to do it.
I’m sad to leave (as usual) but I’m excited about the next chapter and future blog posts to share my adventures. I’m learning to lean into the constant change of my lifestyle. I tried for YEARS to live the “normal life” that most of my friends do – 9 to 5 jobs, steady home life, family & friends nearby – but it just isn’t for me at the moment. I’m a wondering wanderer, a curious traveler, who has more to see, do and learn…but someday I’ll start that B&B when I’m ready to stay in one place.
Goodnight and much love from Australia! 🇦🇺
PS: if you ever make it to Yamba, you must stay at The Stella. The views from the black and white chairs are stunning and the owners and staff will treat you like a Queen (or King).
