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Published: March 2nd 2012
Hello Thirty!
My first sunset as a 30 yr old woman was breath taking. This can only be a good omen.It was one of those eyes open, wide awake mornings, where you are instantly aware of your surroundings and the events of the upcoming day.
Yep, it only took a split second for me to fully register that this would be the last time I would wake up as a twenty-something. As dramatic as that sounds, I kid you not, this is a big deal for me. I thought the day would be painful, turns out it was, but not in the way I was expecting!
Off to work I went, excited about my looming trip to Perth, but having so much to get through before then. I knew we were having a ‘special’ morning tea but I never thought I would experience so much love from the staff/students at school. My wonderful ‘fairy godmother’ made me the most decadent birthday cake and I was spoiled rotten with all things sweet and savoury. Generous does not even begin to describe the C. family and my class was another matter altogether. One family even made a cake to share with the class. Love was practically dripping off me by the end of the day. I thought
it was going to be a sad day - where I would be saying goodbye to an era. Instead, I just felt overjoyed at what is yet to come and all the amazing people who I am surrounded by on a daily basis. How’s that for a slap in the face wake-up call???
That excitement all happened before lunch time. After lunch, we were off on an art excursion to sketch the Derby Jetty. So, I spent the afternoon ‘chilling’ with 15 of the most beautiful little people I know. Listening to them chat and laugh and be part of their world will be something I will treasure forever. I am so lucky and have the best job in the world.
After school I dashed home, spent all of forty seconds with my French couch surfers, (feeling v. guilty for leaving them to fend for themselves) before I jumped in the car and drove to Broome (pain soon to ensue). When I came back into the telephone reception zone I had a friendly text message from Qantas saying that my flight had been delayed. Never mind, I went and caught up with Prue and
Jono and a glass or two or red.
Then, back to the airport I went, ready for my 9pm flight. No… still not happening. Instead I’m now going to be celebrating the transition from twenties to thirties in the air. Yes, it’s annoying and disappointing that I’m not there already, but in the bigger scheme of things, it’s hugely symbolic to me to see that clock strike 12 and be halfway between my two homes. It also gives me the chance to write this, which I think I really needed to do.
So, I’m sitting at Broome airport, warm and care free, wondering where the next 10, 20, 30 years will take me. Hopelessly optimistic and truly grateful for all that has come my way thus far. I have a glass of wine in front of me and I’m listening to the Waifs, ‘Buffalo’ practically on repeat, as it seems to be ‘speaking’ to me in lyrics and melody. I have one more thing to write before I can close this chapter once and for all, (said with a sparkle in the eye and a cheeky grin).
Twenties Top
Ten
1. Meeting Vegemite (aged 22)
2. Sky diving in NYC – jumping out of a plane and into the big wide world! (aged 21)
3. Leander Street – glorious sunsets, significant friendships, the sweet ocean scent and the storms which would lull you to sleep as the house swayed from side to side! (aged 25-27)
4. An African mother trusting me to hold her baby while we were sitting on a bus in the middle of nowhere and the sounds of lions hunting at night as I lay listening, fascinated, from my tent. (aged 28)
5. Towns and travel. Jurien, Gero, Perth, Mandurah, Derby, America Asia and Africa. Not a bad effort really.
6. Cambodian eski dancing on my 28
th birthday in Siem Reap, then the unfortunate bus ride back to PP the next day!
7. Knowing love… and loss (age irrelevant)
8. Sisterly adventures; Nicole that means you too. Airlie Beach, Bali, Gero, Exmouth, Queenstown, Tunnel Creek, Barn Hill, Middle Lagoon. I have so much admiration for both of you. I’m so proud to
call you my sisters. xxxx
9. Hillside/Stronsay Easters, back burning, bonfires, baby animals, bikes, sunsets and beer o’clocks
10. My first day of teaching. Squeezed into half a donga, boiling hot, no clue = pure adrenalin rush! (aged 25).
These times stick in my memory but they’re nothing in comparison to the people who have touched my life. Thank you Mum, Dad, Mia and Vegemite, my extended family, my girls (you know who you are) and all those who took time to get to know me, even if it was only for a short time. Here’s to following the path wherever it may take us. X
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Carol Williams
non-member comment
happy Birthday dear Chloe
Chloe I just read your birthday blog and enjoyed it so much I'm so happy that you have had so many exciting experiences in your life and that you have met so many amazing people who have all shown you the love that you so readily give to everyone you meet I feel so proud of your achievements and I have loved being a part of your journey through your blog. It gives me double the pleasure knowing we have another vibrant , loving and dedicated teacher out there doing a fabulous job job. Have a wonderful birthday and a stunning year Chloe. May this next decade be as exciting and fulfilling as the last. Love lots Carolxx