Rest Day in Perth

Daily miles: 0 | Total miles: 9,348.91

My alarm rang at 9 a.m. I had slept really well, but I was still immensely tired — the kind of deep fatigue that comes after a big milestone. When I stepped into the kitchen, Ron prepared a coffee for me. He wore a colorful “Start a Conversation” shirt — bright, bold, and impossible to ignore. I love Ron’s attitude; he really lives that message.

A few minutes later, Jan joined us, wearing a wonderfully colorful sweater. I laughed and told them they looked like two vibrant birds — full of life, open minds, and warm hearts. Their kindness and energy have been such a gift.

Before long, we headed out to the post office to pick up a parcel I had mailed to myself from Adelaide. I finally met Vimal, the friendly voice I had spoken to several times on the phone. It was nice to thank him in person. Then, we stopped by an op shop nearby — and there it was: a shirt that matched the two “colorful birds” beside me perfectly. I tried it on, and it fit. A sign, maybe.

On our way back, we visited Kings Park — one of the largest and most beautiful inner-city parks in the world. We walked the treetop path while Jan and Ron shared their knowledge about trees, plants, and flowers. The view of Perth from above was gorgeous, and the walk together was peaceful. I was still tired but deeply content.

Back “home,” Jan sliced her freshly baked sourdough bread, and I enjoyed it with butter and avocado — simple perfection. Later, we picked mulberries together in their garden, surrounded by avocado, orange, and mango trees — a little paradise. Jan then introduced me to the fairy world hidden among the plants.

Dinner was a feast: Jan’s delicious quinoa salad, good food, laughter, and company. Mary, John, Ann, Terry, and Jan’s son David joined in. The conversation flowed easily, and the evening felt perfectly Australian — warm, welcoming, full of life.

I’m being spoiled here with love, food, space, and everything else I need to recharge before the next chapter. Thank you, my dear Perth family. What a beautiful way to pause and simply be.

Let’s see when the journey continues.

Be well, Andrea