It has been a stressful couple of weeks, but we have finally moved into our flat and I am now gainfully employed! It took a lot of energy to get here, but we did it. I wish someone would have told me the amount of pressure moving and getting set up puts on you. To anyone who is thinking of moving cities or countries: be healthy and strong because your body will need it. Unfortunately, I haven’t been so lucky. After six gleeful years living without a doctor in the UK I have been to the doctor twice in the six weeks I’ve been back in Australia. I’ve had the flu, cracked a rib, put my back out, got a rash and lost weight!

Putting the dramas and injuries aside, we are both loving Brisbane and the surrounding areas. The weather is great here. The city has a lot going on but still maintains a relaxed feel. You can also get a good coffee just about anywhere! We did a day trip with Nat and Mike to North Stradbroke, a beautiful island accessible via public transport from Brisbane.  We’ve also spent two weekends in Northern NSW. The primary aim of these trips was to sort out our storage, but we did get to do some sightseeing. I took Mark on a road trip all around where I grew up. It was so nice to share it with him and to have a trip down memory lane. We stayed with Keith and Mickey who have a gorgeous home right in the centre of Bangalow. We also got to catch up with Noel. Both hosts spoiled us with great food and wine and made our stressful weekends so much more enjoyable.

Mum has made it a tradition to visit us when we’re moving. Having her here was a fantastic help for us, but I’m not sure mum got the best deal. Mark, mum and I worked bloody hard for a weekend moving all of our storage from Ballina up to Brisbane. It was great to spend time with mum again and the three of us made a good team getting everything sorted out (we wish Daz could have been here too but someone had to mind the baby (dog)!). Secretly, I think mum enjoyed fussing over us and seeing us get settled back in Australia

Mark and I are having our first relaxing day in a long time. We are chilling out in our little flat, which is looking bare but at least is somewhere to call home. This week I started a contract with Brisbane City Council in their marketing department, which is helping me to get a routine. I am also getting started volunteering for World Wildlife Fund. I finally feel like I’m on the right path to doing work I am really passionate about.

All in all, life is good.

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