The final week gearing up to my trip back to England has been exciting yet daunting nevertheless. Of course I can’t wait to see my family and catch up with friends after nearly 10 months of being away, but I can already anticipate the overwhelming pressure I will put upon myself to make the most of my time back home and fill my diary with the ongoing list of things I need to do and people I must see.
Having finished up work here in the Southern Highlands a week prior to my flight, I’ve decided to actually relax and do those things that I enjoy before a long journey and emotional visit back to England. I took a trip to some local cafes and wineries I’ve been meaning to visit and finally found the time to sunbathe in our little garden. Cooking and cleaning has always been my way of switching off – as backwards as that sounds! – so I’ve been making some delicious dinners and my favourite breakfast bowls to enjoy too.
Now it’s time to zip up my suitcase and begin the journey back to Sydney and then home. I can’t quite comprehend the amount of time that has passed but I know not much will have changed in my absence. My visit to England will fly by so I’m eager to see as many of my friends as possible and soak up being reunited with my family. On reflection, this adventure down under has changed the course of my life and I just can’t wait to get back on Australian soil and hit the ground running as I start the next chapter!
Dani Aneka 