Dear friend,
I did it, I did it, I did it. I did the challenging drive to Montrose to the Japanese Mountain Retreat. I find all the trucks on the road and the unknown territory a bit scary but I stayed focused and I did it.
The retreat was tremendous. It was a lovely place amidst Australian bushland. I had a hot stone massage, a Japanese banquet, a spa bath by candlelight, drew, read, went for walks. Read my travel book of Japan.
One thing I realised though is my idea of going to a Japanese village for 10 days isn't workable. I'd get too lonely on my own. I was disappointed for a few weeks at the idea of not being able to travel overseas. Then I came upon the idea of New York again and staying at a hotel near the metropolitan Museum of Art and seeing my friends and I thought I can do that. Easy, breezy I can do that. I have already practiced a few overnight stays at motels and have been thinking today of going into Melbourne for a few days as a practice run and as an adventure.
I was going to stay near the zoo for a couple of days but a friend said she'd like to do a day trip so I have made a change of plans.
I feel so inspired this morning at the thought of going to New York and it is closer than I think. I thought it would take me years to get the confidence up but I am confident today. OK Susan one step at a time just lets see how Melbourne goes first. I am deciding when is good to go. I thought August.
Meanwhile I have my next overnight stay planned for Frankston only 30 minutes away. I'll get my car an oil change while I am there.
lots and lots of love from susan in australia
