You know it’s a sign you’re hankering to travel when a vegetable concoction on the barbecue looks like the shape of Australia!
Yep, seems hubby was sharing a similar hankering. I asked him, where’s Tasmania and he said he ate it!
Fact: I’m having withdrawal symptoms. Reason: Not enough camping. I’m missing the simple things like sitting by a river, cooking over hot coals, star gazing, writing stories …
BUT last weekend I was with my daughter, three hours from home, and whilst it wasn’t exactly camping, it was nice to spend time with her, in her beautiful backyard.
Being up there reminded me of my most recent published article “A Playground for all Seasons” which I wrote after an earlier visit a few months ago.
It’s featured this month in the latest On the Road Magazine. And she’s my cover girl!
Looking at the big picture with moments like these make me realise how incredibly blessed I am and how much I have to be grateful for.
My wonderful family that keeps me on my toes, good friends, stories published and more on the way. My Life Mastery course. Online connections and wonderful friendships. A new caravan that will be arriving soon. So much is happening on the horizon that hubby said to me the other night “it all feels so surreal. I’m buying things for a car I haven’t got yet to tow a van that we haven’t picked up yet …”
Yes, I said, I know. And I thought to myself “it’s like my dream that hasn’t manifested yet, though in my mind I can see it.

Sometimes the best part of a dream can be the planning and imagining. That sense of anticipation that fuels the fire.
It feels so real you can almost touch it, even though reality says otherwise. But I’m discovering that getting there is half the fun. Like any journey, I’m honouring all the baby steps that lead me forward.
I’m learning it’s ok to have days where I feel ‘stuck’ and days when things don’t turn out. I’m learning it’s ok to be kind to myself, to take time out and do what makes me happy.
Ultimately when we’re honouring our soul’s purpose and being true to our desires, thoughts and feelings, it feels like anything is possible. It feels like we have wings.
Today (having written and scheduled this three days ago) I turn 54 and I feel like those wings are taking shape.
Sure, there are aches that remind me I’m not 21 anymore, my eye sight ain’t what it used to be and neither is that dodgy memory of mine BUT …
Life is good. I’m on this ever evolving journey of discovery, of learning, unravelling and creating myself.
It feels expansive, filled with unknowns, twists and turns. It’s filled with uncertainties but also surprises and gifts I’m willing to receive.
Are you open to receiving?
Every day is a gift, another opportunity to get right what we missed the day before. Every breath is a blessing and every nightfall another chance to give thanks for it all.Today I embrace a profound sense of peace, inner calm and aliveness. It’s all happening as it should be.
I may not be where I want to be but I’m not where I was last year either. Or even last week for that matter. In my eyes that’s called progress.
May you find your own flow wherever you are on the path. Fill yourself up with what makes you happy.
Let go of any doubts and spread your wings. And anticipate something wonderful will happen today. Remember, imagination has no age.
In love and light
Follow the path that leads to bliss
When you can’t go camping a big backyard burger banquet is the next best thing!
A backyard bbq with friends is the nicest way to spend an evening!
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Couldn’t agree more Carol.
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Love the photo of the horses and hope you get some more camping/outdoor action soon, lovely inspiring post
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Thanks very much Sharon. Me too!
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Wow!
Many happy returns of the day, Miriam. May your wings take you where you want to be 🙂
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Thanks so much Hammad. I’m looking forward to seeing where they take me to! 😊
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there’s that young lady once again 🙂
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Yep, it’s me!
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A culinary Rorschach test? It’s time to travel again, Miriam. 🙂
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I had to google that one Rob! 😜 And yes, it is!
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Happy Birthday Miriam! I giggled when you wrote that your hubby ate Tasmania. It’s so exciting to see how you are succeeding with your writing, and growing your wings! I’m so happy for you.
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Thanks so very much Wendy. That’s so nice of you to say. ❤️
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Happy Birthday Miriam!!!
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Thanks very much!
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Happy Birthday, Miriam – That backyard bbq banquet looks amazing!
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It was the best! Thanks Donna.
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Hi Miriam,
Love this: “May you find your own flow wherever you are on the path. Fill yourself up with what makes you happy.”
I thank you for that wish – and right back at ya!
Happy Birthday
(PS – You are just a kid!)
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Aww, thanks so much Nancy.
P.S. Sometimes I feel like a kid! 🤣
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Every day a gift indeed. I also turn 54 in a couple weeks, feel the sting of weaker bones and eyes, yet I feel life has just started to reveal all I was meant to see before I leave this world and I am determined to capture it all through the lens of my camera and my minds eye. The only thing you take with you when you die is the memories of a life well spent so do your best to make it count!
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So very true. You’ve captured exactly how I feel about life too John. Happy early birthday to you my friend.
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Happy Birthday!! That bbq certainly looked delicious! I cannot wait to read about your adventures. Making life count is what matters 💗🎂🎉🎈
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It sure is Lisa. Thank you so much. I love having you along with me for the journey, even if it’s only virtually. 💕
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ah that aussie map was a sign! Happy birthday Mir … may your path with smooth and insightful 🙂
Lovely write and glad you got more time with your daughter … can’t wait to hear about your new van. I’m one year in tiny and getting the 12v fridge repaired … it’s been an adventure
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Thanks Kate, yep, it was a sign alright! One year in hey, good luck with that fridge. The adventures keep coming, don’t they? Keeps us on our toes. 🙃
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non-stop but the joy is there also 🙂
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That’s the main thing 😊
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Hahaha, at the shape of Australia 🙂 Miriam, have fun planning your next adventure.
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Thanks Suzanne. Looking forward to it.
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Happy Birthday! So much to anticipate, and what a line you used – imagination has no age. Absolutely!
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Thanks so much PC. It’s so true isn’t it. 😊
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I have been feeling the same way! I’m not sure why, but turning 54 flipped a switch inside of me!! All I am focused on is gratitude and recognizing how wonderful life is right now. It seems surreal to me too. I have not felt this inner peace before and it’s addictive! I want to hold on to it for the rest of my days. Hence the start of i choose this ❤️ I hope you had an amazing birthday!!!
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That’s so awesome to hear. Yes, I’m feeling a peace and gratitude that’s grown so expansive this year and like you I never want to let it go. So glad to hear you’re feeling the same way. And thank you, yes, I had an amazing birthday. ❤️
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With all my gratitude I am coveting your new camper! I can’t wait to read about the adventures!!!
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Thanks. I can’t wait to write about them!
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Imagination has no age! That’s a great line, Miriam 🙂 🙂 I sometimes think I do too much running around, but I can’t stop myself. So glad you are enjoying life, one day at a time.
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Aww, thanks. Busy can be a good thing, especially if it’s things we love doing. Just enjoy yourself Jo. 😊 xx
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Good advice!
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Thanks Sarah
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Congratulations on the publication of another article! I’m glad you got to spend time with your daughter and her horses, and hope that you get to camp again very soon.
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Thanks very much Ann. I’m sure it’s only a matter of time before we’re out on the road again and camping. In the meantime I’m enjoying catching up with lots of things at home. Hope you’re well.
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He ate Tasmania! Have a great birthday Miriam 🎂🥂
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Haha, he did and yes, so did I. Thanks 😊
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Hope you had a wonderful birthday my friend! Your posts fill me with so much hope. Thank you for being that source of positivity on the internet. Appreciating little things and being grateful for what we have is so important. And, it’s something that’s easy to overlook. These simple reminders are a great way to beat the downward slump! Sending you a warm, bear hug from Seoul! xoxo
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Hi Cheryl, thanks so much my friend. It’s always so wonderful to hear from you. And I agree, we all need those reminders that lift us from down days, me included. Big hugs and love from a grey Melbourne Friday. xx
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Love that Australian shaped food, I want to see a series of posts now with other countries featured.
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Haha, ok, I’ll work on Canada or maybe I should start closer to home with NZ … 🤣
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New Zealand may be easier but whatever you do don’t try Norway! So many fjords.
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What a super post Miriam, and I wish you a happy belated birthday! You are a breath of fresh air with your enthusiasm and love for life, whatever it brings! Continue on your path…
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Thanks so much Deb, appreciate your kind words. Hope you’re enjoying being home in gorgeous Tumba. xx
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Spread your wings sounds so easy… I like the look of the BBQ 🙂
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Mm, easy in theory I guess. Maybe it comes down to intention. And yeah, that barbie was delicious! 😊
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Happy belated birthday, Miriam! Hope you’ll have the chance to go camping again soon.
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Thanks very much Magarisa. I’m sure I will! 😊
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Lovely post Miriam. Great Title scheduled three days ago on your birthday.happy birthday again!.You have lots of things to look forward to. It is nice to reflect on life and see how far we have come. We will always be work in progress and that is a good thing, that we are always progressing.
I find autumn a season of newness and planning and anticipation. It is always this time of year i naturally make plans for my life, as if by autopilot. Never at new years always at this time of year, weirdly! 🤔
Great post full of hope and exciting times ahead, eagerly anticipated.
All the best with it all
What is this online life mastery course? Sounds interesting?
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Hi Bella, you’re so right, we’re always a work in progress. And sometimes it takes a lot more effort than other times but it’s always worth it.
I love Autumn and I agree it’s a time of renewal and setting new intentions. I wish you a wonderful season filled with good health, joy and happiness.
As for the course, it’s been fabulous. A six month time of delving into personal growth and focusing on self developments, I’m loving it. All the best to you. Xx
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All the best you as well
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Thank you 🙏
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Many Happy’s dear Miriam, I foresee lots of time spent on the open road in your future. Enjoy. X
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Thanks Barbara. I think you’re right. You must be clairvoyant! 😊
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Hahaha Miriam, but I fear not.
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I love how you dream Miriam! In FULL technicolour. Literally! Love the photos, the journey, and the writing. You are a consummate storyteller. xo
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I guess when you have a vision there’s only one way to dream it and that’s in full! Thanks so much Andrea, I love and appreciate your support. xx
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🥰🥰🥰
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Hope you had a wonderful birthday, Miriam! 😀
I love the garden photo with the fountain; it looks perfectly peaceful. Ahhhh! 🙂
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Thanks so much and yeah, I had a very nice birthday. Hope you’re well Ang. 😊
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Happy birthday Miriam. What a journey you and your husband are on. Yes you are in a phase of anticipation, with all the excitement and frustration that may bring. Yet you two are really on the brink of spreading your wings – literally. Life’s journey is certainly an adventure. I’m guessing all you are anticipating hasnt simply evolved. No doubt the delights around the corner have come out of commitment and hard work. Wishing you fun times celebrating your birthday and anticipating all that’s to come in the year ahead
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Thanks so much Estelle. You’re quite right, amidst all the anticipation, frustration and excitement is a sense of change and moving ahead and I’m so looking forward to it. Yes, life’s an adventure for sure and, as we both know, one to be lived fully each day. Thanks again for your wonderful comment and good wishes.
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Ahhhh i am a bit late (mommy duties) ..but happy birthday Mirriam..and what a lovely post on your birthday.it seemed like you are really living life the most..i love your anticipations and dreams…
And i love the most when you say “dare to dream the most colorful dreams.”
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No need to apologise Mich, I absolutely understand how real life takes priority. Thank you for your lovely words. Hope you’re well. x
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Congratulations on your feature article in On The Road. Happy Belated. The best is yet to come.
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Thanks so much for your kind wishes Lisa. And yes, I agree, the best is yet to come, for all of us.
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Everyday is a gift. And when we stop to realize that there is no promise for tomorrow, we should cherish every oment of today even more.
Love the gratitude that pours out of your heart. It is heartwarming and inspiring.
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Thank you so much Drew for your kind words. You’re so right, every day and every moment is indeed a gift. I hope you’re well and happy my friend.
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A beautiful post Miriam.
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Thanks so much Darren
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That veggie on the barbie really does look like the shape of Australia! Very nicely done 😛 Amazing to hear that your work got published in On The Road Magazine. Well done and looks like they gave you a lot of space for words and photography. So exciting that you got a new caravan arriving soon, and then many more travels and memories for you. That burger spread looks delicious. Hope you enjoyed it 🙂
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Thanks so much Mabel, I’m certainly very blessed to have had many articles published over the years. Having my own regular column today in On the Road magazine still feels like a dream sometimes. Yes, that barbecue was definitely delicious. Looking forward to many more this summer. Hope you’re doing well. 😊
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Beautiful post about growth, battles we face and what matters is the moment we are ready to welcome and embrace change.
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Thank you so much Vishal.
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Hope you had a wonderful birthday!! As you know being in Gratitude is the key to a wider heart opening. Keep smiling, barbecuing, traveling, writing and loving big!!
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What a beautiful message! Thank you so much Bernice. And yes, I’ll do my best. xx 💙
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Happy Belated Birthday, Miriam!! xx
Progress, not perfection is something that I try to remind myself. I’m so glad that you are enjoying the ever-evolving journey. And thank you so much for sharing your beautiful words and reminders with us. ❤
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Thanks so much Amy. Progress not perfection, I love that. xx
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Congrats on the article, Miriam! Wonderful. And yum… I can actually smell those burgers on the bbq! Dinner time here 🙂
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Thanks so much Jenny. Hope your dinner was good! Cheers. xx
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It was!😋 cheers Miriam❤️
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Thank you for this uplifting — and hunger-inducing — blog post. I also appreciate all of the comments which were inspired by your post. I like the phrase “Progress not perfection” a lot. I am never confident, for example, that one of my GarageBand recordings is finished… But “progress not perfection” helps me feel more comfortable sharing a song which might not be perfect but is probably “good enough.” I also like these sentences from your post: “I’m discovering that getting there is half the fun. Like any journey, I’m honouring all the baby steps that lead me forward.” A happy and healthy belated birthday to you from the other side of planet earth!
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Thanks so much Will for your lovely words and birthday wishes. I’m glad that my post resonated with you, particularly the “progress not perfection” part. I need to take my own advice though as sometimes I can be a bit critical and harsh on myself with regards to my writing aspirations. Take care and I hope you have a great week ahead.
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“Ultimately when we’re honouring our soul’s purpose and being true to our desires, thoughts and feelings, it feels like anything is possible.” – This really spoke to me. Your words are such a joy to read and a gift to us all. Keep soaring my friend.
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Thanks so much for reading Ali.
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Your words always make my day better.
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That’s such a beautiful thing to say. Thank you 💙
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Wishing for only joyful bounties for you, my lovely! I hope your birthday was grand! xoxox ❤ *hugs*
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Thank you so much my beautiful friend. I hope you’re keeping well. Sending big hugs back ❤️ xx
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Lovely post Miriam. You are indeed blessed, and grateful. 🙂
Those burgers look yummy!
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Ooh yes, they were indeed. Happy Wednesday!
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Really enjoyed this – ah the blessings of camping in Australia! I went camping for the first time in my life when living in Oz and couldn´t get enough of it…sleeping beyond the stars in the majestic forests close to Margaret River was just out of this world. So grateful for these memories! Also, happy belated birthday, Miriam, love your outlook and attitude of gratitude and conscious co-creation! You´re right up my alley, girl 🙂 And that veggie-concoction truly does look like the shape of Tazzie! Lol. Have a good one 🙂 xx
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Thanks so much Maria. I have a feeling you and I would get on famously if we met in real life. Love the exuberance that I feel in your words and spirit.
Ahh, so you’ve tried camping. You know then why I love it so much and why I can never get enough of it. I’m not sure if you know but Margaret River was recently voted the best camping experience in Australia! You chose your first camping destination well. Anyway my Sunday has just begun. Hope you enjoy the rest of your weekend. Ciao for now. xx
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Miriam, thanks you so much, you are gifting me with such marvelous lines and feedback:) I feel humbled, and I agree that we would surely hit it off in real life. Who knows, we might be able to meet some day in person, as I do hope to come back to Australia and Melbourne at some point in the next years 🙂
I did not know that Margaret River got voted best camping experience, so cool! Well I can only applaud that decision, because camping there was nothing short of sublime! Australia has so many incredible nature spots though…just bloody fantastic 😀! Wishing you a great start to your week, catch ya soon xx
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Maria, I would absolutely love to meet in person one day, wouldn’t that be wonderful! Who knows? In the meantime stay well and have a great week. Yep, catch ya soon. xx
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Thanks Miriam, yeah that would be absolutely fantastic to meet in person sometime in the future:) Fingers crossed! Have a lovely week and talk soon, lovely soul 🙂 xx
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This post lifted my spirit. It’s important to embrace change and enjoy the journey. Thanks for sharing.
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You’re very welcome. Thanks so much for reading Marie
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