“Rural life still good?”
“Rural? You mean beach life?” I responded during a recent online chat. “It’s very laid back.” Life in Coolum Beach (approx population: 7200) is still leisurely, despite the installation of a third set of traffic lights in town - I’m still getting used to our relatively new roundabout on the main street.
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I don’t mind getting my hands dirty. As a teenager I regularly pulled apart my bicycle and changed the seat, handle bars and flat tyres.
These days, I occasionally poke around in the dirt in my few scattered pot plants on the deck; however, kneading a ball of dough into a respectable-looking chapatti is quite a different challenge. For starters, I'll need a frilly polka dot apron. “Find out one thing about your partner that no one else knows and share it with the group.”
There were lots of ooh-aahs as people shed light on their little-known achievements and talents at our recent choir retreat, even though some of us have been singing together for three or more years. “I didn’t know that about you!” If we asked that question more often, we’d learn so much more about each other beyond just our jobs or interest groups. “Do you want a coffee?”
“Yes, I’d love one,” I say as I settle myself on my friend’s sofa. “Good. Make me one while you’re at it,” she quips. Have you noticed that only a best friend will tell you to make your own coffee when you go over for a visit? “You know you should be fasting this week!” says mum.
“Why?” I ask, stuffing a chocolate Easter egg into my mouth. “It’s Easter Holy Week. You’re not supposed to eat meat.” “Err… I’m vegetarian,” I remind her. “Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to our Big Fat Greek Easter Show,” Nick announced with a flourish. “We've got an exciting performance for you this afternoon and we hope you enjoy it.”
Aunts, uncles, grandparents and cousins cheered in rowdy applause as the curtains parted, while Jen and I were discreetly positioned behind the handcrafted stage. We’d spent weeks rehearsing for our live puppet show which featured an elaborate and colourful array of props and musical performances. My first typewriter was a monster of a machine. It was a bulky contraption that needed great physical strength to operate it, but provided an all-body workout that modern technology sadly can’t match.
Just carrying the damn thing required brute strength, unwavering concentration and fine-tuned reflexes; if accidentally dropped, it could cause grievous bodily harm and potential loss of toes. “Excuse me,” I said, leaning over to the young man at the next table. “What does that sign say?”
“There’s a free yoga class here tonight from 6pm,” he translated for me. “You’re welcome to come along.” Perfect timing, I thought. It’s just what I need to clear the jet lag after arriving in Lima, Peru earlier that day following a 17-hour flight. Yoga in Spanish; now there’s a new experience. |
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December 2019
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I acknowledge the traditional Custodians of the land on which I work and live, the Gubbi Gubbi / Kabi Kabi and Joondoburri people, and recognise their continuing connection to land, the waters and sky. I pay my respect to them and their cultures; and to Elders past, present and emerging.
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© 2024 HARI KOTROTSIOS
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