I love the colour turquoise! It instantly makes me think of bright warm days, gentle waves and the serene rhythm of coastal life. That exact shade greeted me as I opened the door to this charming beach shack in Callala Bay.

The air smelled faintly of linen and sun-warmed wood. Sunlight poured through the windows, catching the soft creases of the fresh linen on the queen bed. The bookshelf overflowed with books, their spines whispering promises of lazy, immersive afternoons.  The kitchen space had everything I could need including oven, cooktops and a fridge. Although the real luxury was the soothing simplicity of the space, the quiet that let me exhale and settle. The highlight of this beach shack was totally the location. Just minutes’ walk to the beach, I could feel the soft, fine sand yielding beneath my toes as I walked one foot in front of the other. I wandered down one afternoon to the local boat ramp, which led me to Wowly Creek. And wow-we alright! Hit the Jacpot! The sunlight danced across the water, sparkling like scattered jewels. I nestled beneath the shade of the trees, eating sweet, juicy mangoes. The juice trickled down my fingers, sticky and fragrant. I paused to dip into the creek which connected to the open sea. Time stretched luxuriously and every moment felt vivid, alive and full of quiet wonder. As the afternoon waned I treated myself to local fish and chips followed by a long, steaming hot shower. Snuggled into bed I opened my current read and four pages later I landed in dreamland central.

The next morning carried a gentle rhythm of life. After a little life admin, I joined some friends for a beach walk. The sun was radiant and so were we!  The local ice cream shop had just opened and we were there right on time! We didn't muck about. Double scoop thank you very much! 
The afternoon brought a wild shift in the weather. I settled in for a cheeky meditation that turned into a nap surrounded by books from the shelf about India, a country I dreamed of exploring next year.  I took it as a full sign from the universe I was where I needed to be right now and in the future. 

I wondered back down to the beach and followed the shore line to Wowly creek to watch the sun set. Not another human in sight. Just me and sea. I took several deep ocean breaths and reflected on how far I’ve come in life, feeling a strong sense of empowerment by my journey and at peace in this very moment. It’s been a ride.
My final morning at this beachside shack and I was in no rush to leave. Cuppa tea on verandah as I laid about like a free ranging gypsy. Barefoot walk to the end of the street where I discovered some rock pools and bridge crossing to a white sandy bend. I wasn't ready to go just yet.

Callala Bay had become the beach haven my soul had been quietly craving. A place of calm, clarity and joy. Filled with gratitude, I whispered thanks to the little beach cabin for keeping me safe and nurtured.

My heart will remember you.