10 years in Melbourne - I love this city!

10 years ago today I set off down the Hume Highway and made a new home in Melbourne. It is hard to believe I've lived here just over a third of my life. I'm so glad I've made the move. Melbourne's the place that's made me whole, allowed me to blend in, allowed me to be myself, and allowed me to stand out. All at once.

When I first moved here, I would explore like a tourist, I'd take a tram to anywhere, looking out of the window in awe, marvelling that this city is my home now.

I have good friends here. It's a community. I love that even among four million people, I can still bump into someone I know. And when the city feels too big, I can call my parents (every day) for a chat. I do.

I don't mind the weather. Melbourne goes through many costume changes - grey coats, full skirted midnight blue gowns dotted with rhinestones, and cornflower sundresses. She's a stylish one. I like that for the majority of the year, it's cool, and knowing that even when it's ridiculously hot, it will probably be close to half that temperature the next day!



I love that some of the world is brought to me in the form of cafe strips, flash restaurants and cafe strips. If I take the train just for one stop, I can alight then choose from Malaysian, Indian, Vietnamese, Chinese,Thai, various African, pizza, Mexican, and the Golden Arches if I want.

I love the culture. Just last weekend I saw Perfect Tripod featuring Eddie Perfect and Tripod at the Arts Centre (and Eddie Perfect remembered my name!!), and then I saw Chrissie Swan, Virginia Gay, Care Kennedy, Stella Young and Steph Hughes read out letters they'd written to themselves at Women of Letters. I love the street art and the music scene.

 

I love living alone - the thought of coming home to do whatever I want is a wonderful one. Cooking excites me, I'm ok with cooking for one. This year I'm learning to be a better housekeeper. It's about time.

I love this city. I love being able to call it home. Look how she sparkles.