The view was something straight off a postcard. This one-bedroom, modern-style villa sat right on the Kangaroo Valley Golf Course — though I wasn’t here to whack balls all day like Happy Gilmore. Girl was here for the views, the front porch hangs, aaaand the wildlife.

I sipped my cheeky cuppa while wombats and kangaroos roamed free as the sun said goodbye to the day. Pastel shades of pink, orange, yellow, and blue filled the sky — and my heart. It was pretty spectacular. I slept like the queen I am on the queen-sized bed and woke to king parrots perched right outside my window, their chests blazing red and vibrant.

I made banana pancakes in the fully kitted-out kitchen and sat by the window, breakfasting with my new feathery friends and that view. Later, I took a short drive into the quaint town of Kangaroo Valley and wandered down to Hampden Bridge — sandy toes and all — ready to brave the fresh river water. And she was fresh, alright, friends. Just like me.

I set up a little picnic spot on the sand, soaking in the morning while watching kayakers glide by, wildlife wander, and collecting love heart-shaped rocks along the river’s edge. A little sun-kissed, I made my way back to my humble abode for a cheeky queen-sized nap and a late-arvo shower. I fixed myself another cuppa and eased into the afternoon as the local birdlife sang their song. So peaceful. The valley softened as the light began to fade, birdsong echoing in the distance.

No rush. Just stillness, and me — with a cuppa tea. I felt completely grounded and grateful. In that moment, I knew I was exactly where I needed to be.