I've been corresponding ( FaceBook, it has it's uses) with a lady who is in Russia right now, undergoing intensive physiotherapy and rehabilitation after AHSCT at a specialised centre. She is vastly more impacted than I ever was, but is showing true courage and determination in this long journey, through an exceptionally hard year. I've … Continue reading Reflections, 27 months later →

I'm home now, and finding the change to WA weather a real shock. After the cool grey light and softness of the atmosphere in Tasmania, a hot and humid Perth day has been brutal. The drive to the top of Mount Wellington is a challenge in itself, then the view from the top is fantastic. … Continue reading Last Tasmania photos, and home →

A few more photographs of Tasmania, and the weather is just as changeable as it appears. This morning was howling gales, bright sunshine, a puffy jacket needed, and snow on Mount Wellington. Yesterday was warm and humid, followed by misty rain, if you count 26C as warm. It's lovely to see old buildings. Because Tasmania … Continue reading Next few days in Tasmania →

I am back in Tasmania, and a few people have remarked that Tasmania seems to be my happy place. Thinking about it, yes. I am content here, there is something very peaceful about the rolling hills, lush fields, small villages, the dated and gorgeous nature of Hobart. I am comfortable in the weather, recognising that … Continue reading First couple of days in Tasmania →

I'm now happily back home, after a lovely trip. The journey back turned into a visit to Yallingup, as it felt very important to say goodbye to my graduate at the place she was swept off the rocks. I let GoogleMaps take me from Bremer Bay to Augusta. whichever way it wanted. That was a … Continue reading The trip home, and a visit for remembrance →

Just a few photos of the amazing beaches around Esperance. I got the most mixed weather I’ve seen for years; sunshine, horizontal rain, howling gales, followed by sunshine. Not to mention a life size replica of Stonehenge, aligned for the solstice. Bizarre, wrong in so many ways yet weirdly intriguing. And some views of flowers … Continue reading Amazing beaches →

The journey to Esperance showed me so much space, with wide straight roads ( when GoogleMaps told me to turn in 127km, they really meant that was the very first turn ) where everyone does the country wave of acknowledgement. A feature of our WA wheatbelt area is slowly changing, rolling country with trees outlining … Continue reading Journey to Esperance →

The road trip has restarted, south not north this time. Tonight I’m in the Lake Grace campsite, after being uninspired by the accomodation options. Also, I’m heading to the south coast just as rain is due to hit, so I want to get at least one night of camping in. Typical timing ! The drive … Continue reading The road trip resumed →

Sitting in a Fremantle cafe, listening to the staff laughing and joking with a very elderly lady. She is clearly a frequent customer, as they know her order and her name. Maybe this pandemic will remind us to enjoy the small pleasures and appreciate the people who make them happen. Good coffee and a savoury … Continue reading A pleasant breakfast →

It's been a sombre week but slowly brightening. Talking to lots of people who knew her definitely helps, as has compiling memories of time spent with her to send to her mother. We are focussing on the positive memories and time shared, rather than the means of her death. Lives of great men all remind … Continue reading Sombre week, slowly improving →