“The only thing I knew with clarity was that a voice deep in my heart continued to chant, Keep going. You’re on the right track.”
- Rich Roll
Happy Monday! :) Unfortunately, the Sunday stack got pushed back a day this week, but for a very good reason. My weekend was heartwarming and incredibly fulfilling! It was filled with surprise visits from a beautiful friend from interstate, waking up to an ocean view from the back door of the troopy, and an evening spent supporting my good mate’s band, which set up an amazing gig at the Jive on Saturday night.
Life is long, and time moves only as fast as you allow it.
The 5 a.m. run clubs have been back in session since I resumed full-time work and started putting down roots here in Adelaide. I run 2-3 times a week with my friend, Mr. Pete Mann. He's a decade older than me, and I cherish that. I use it to my advantage to suck wisdom from him about all aspects of life since he's climbed a few more ranks than I have.
The morning alarms aren’t dreaded; they're welcomed and have quickly become a highlight of mine over the weeks I've been home. It's remarkable the conversations we dive into in our 35-40 minutes together before we fist-bump each other at the corner of King William. Pete heads home to sneak back into the house and greet his beautiful partner and their little one as their eyes begin to open. I settle into the next 3 or so kilometres alone on my way back home, often reflecting on the conversation Pete and I just had as the morning sun's glow starts to transform the sky’s colour.
On this particular morning, we delved into a conversation about my sailing trip.
In 2022, I spent 78 days out at sea, covering 8843 nautical miles from Seychelles, East Africa to Cairns, Australia. You can find the YouTube vlog linked here.
As I pondered this on my solo 3km journey back home, I realised I've been in Adelaide for a while now. I wondered if it's been more than 78 days. I took out my phone and opened Google Calendar to start counting.
It's been 75 days; I still have 3 days left at sea. Yet, it's felt much longer than that. Over these 75 days in one place, I've been reminded of what it's like to witness the seasons change.
During my morning runs, I've been able to witness firsthand the sun rising earlier and earlier. From July days requiring gloves, a long-sleeved shirt, and a neck buff, to gradually (very very slowly) returning to just a t-shirt. From winter to spring, I observed the trees on my final stretch back home bursting with colour and life again after months of trying to survive the cold winter but beautiful days.
From weather changes to other life seasons, I've noticed many things I hadn't picked up on in the last few years of being in so many different places.
Being able to share the small day-to-day wins with friends has been a joy. Typically, after being away from home for about 4 months, I'd get the standard rundown. It's been lovely to hear these little wins being checked off and celebrated.
A highlight of Pete's and my morning jog is passing by this one down-to-earth gym with the same 3-4 older gentlemen diligently working out. Up at 5 and in the gym day in and day out. My mind races with questions like: are they close friends? Rehab buddies? Or just gym pals. What's their story?
I'm also in the season of buying the value pack of rolled oats from Woolworths. As odd as it may sound, I haven't needed to in the past for a couple of reasons. Firstly, when I was living in the troopy or van, I didn't quite have enough space for them. Secondly, I wasn't in one place long enough for the value pack not to go to waste.
One change I've come to love is being able to contribute to a household. Things like going to the same shopping centre down the road and buying items I wouldn't purchase as frequently if I were solo or on the road; for instance, cooking oils, toilet paper, and dishwashing soap.
As much as I adore adventure and the travel lifestyle, this season of my life has taught me so much. It's shown me how much I appreciate a routine and what it's like to sow seeds in the community here in Adelaide.
As you go about your week, take a moment to look around and notice what's going on in this season of your life. Think about those little things that used to light you up, but have now become a regular part of your day. Channel back into them and keep them closer.
Below are 3 journal prompts I’ve been enjoying these past few months here in Adelaide.
How does this season of my life make me feel? Why?
What are the lessons I can learn from embracing this particular season?
What aspects of this season do I find most challenging? How can I navigate through them?
As always, I’d love for you to share one or two little wins from your past week/months. Maybe something that you used to love but it’s now your routine you no longer think of it as a win.
Does your barista remember your order? Win.
Taking a moment to catch the sunrise or sunset? Win.
Written in Parkside, Adelaide.
Hands and clothes covered in dirt and concrete after a day on the tools.
