An ex-pat from the US, I came to Australia in late 1989 and soon came to feel more at home here than in my country of origin. Most of the Aussies I have met are genuine and good-hearted. Plus, I always feel more comfortable around people who don’t take themselves too seriously.
If I had to describe my personality in brief, I would say that I am an extrovert who likes solitude. I am not great at keeping my emotions or opinions to myself, but I have learned how to behave in public (most of the time). Not a fan of the heat, wind or crowds. I love to laugh, I think I’m pretty clever and I become instant friends with anyone who laughs at my jokes. I have raised two outstanding children, who are out in the world, kicking ass. They are a huge source of pride, and they have taught me as much as I have taught them. Maybe more.
In 2003, I met the man of my dreams and spent several months endearing myself to him. My efforts finally paid off and we have been “an item” ever since. He’s the best person I have ever met.
Before I retired, I worked at a community college, teaching people how to use computers and working the reception desk a few days a week. It was a great gig, and I enjoyed it very much. For 10 years, the staff at the college were my family, a wonderfully diverse and colourful family. It was far and above the best part of a great job.
My love affair with camping began with a couple of early trips with Rod (the aforementioned “man of my dreams,” if that wasn’t clear). We started out tent camping, then graduated to our wonderful 3-Dog “Pup” camper trailer, which we took into the outback country in NSW and Queensland, on increasingly longer and more frequent trips.
We explored some beautiful and remote country, and I never ever wanted to go back home. Every trip, I wished we could just keep going. An unexpected bump in the road was cause for some re-evaluation and eventually led to a decision to live our dream life.
I have no idea what is around the corner, when, where or if we will set down roots again. I believe I have a chance to reinvent myself, which is exhilarating and terrifying at the same time.
I know for certain that I am very, very lucky.