10

There is a handful of treats for Bean on the tray, as well as all the (brown-coloured) deliciousness for me. Hence her perfect pose.

When the sun is shining the guest cabin deck is the perfect location for lunch. 

The extra shows the next leg of our daily walk, taken from just beside the signs in yesterday's Blip. As you see, it opens up as we reach the village.

10 years ago today was my last day of conventional work. I walked away from the bureaucracy in which I had almost lost my sanity with an exhausted and relieved spring in my step. 

Looking back from this distance I know it was one of my better decisions. The personal cost of doing the right thing, for the right reasons, while being a part of local government systems, processes and being subjected to bullying and mismanagement, left me teetering on the brink. 

I walked away from the communities and good colleagues I worked alongside with very mixed feelings. But gradually over the following months I realised that they had nothing but admiration and love for my persistence; and understanding about my departure.

Do I have any regrets? Not one!

Being able to afford to 'retire' aged 53 was an extraordinary privilege. After a few hiccups, I put in place my long-held plans to live as I now do. 

I look around me today, taking stock, and I feel nothing but gratitude for the extraordinary, wonderful life I have experienced so far.

More please. Much more...