Inverloch: Letting go, taking risks… The universe rewards courage!

So, we've swapped the hustle and bustle of Melbourne for the seaside vibes of Inverloch. With my partner Dows and our two bundles of energy, Maverick (5) and Harlow (3), in tow, we made the leap earlier this year in January 2024. And let me tell you, it's been nothing short of a game-changer.

You know how it goes - in today's world, it's not uncommon to have family spread out all over the place. My side is over in Perth, Western Australia, while Dows' folks are right here in Inverloch. Despite their love and willingness to pitch in with the kids, the distance sometimes made things a tad tricky.

Now, let's talk dreams. For as long as I can remember, I've had this itch to live by the beach. It seemed like a far-off fantasy until we started making regular trips to Inverloch to visit Dows' parents and our family escapades to Perth. There's just something about the ocean that soothes the soul, you know?

Making the decision to move wasn't exactly a walk in the park. I mean, I mulled it over for what felt like forever, fretting about the kids adjusting, feeling isolated in a small town, and the daunting task of rebuilding my business from scratch. And don't even get me started on saying goodbye to their daycare - talk about heart-wrenching!

But here's the thing: three months into our Inverloch adventure, and I've never felt more connected. The community here is something else. We've met families who've gone through the same struggles as us, especially after those tough Victorian lockdowns. And let me tell you, the local Inverloch kindergarten has been so great and the kids also now do a day of daycare in Wonthaggi. I finally have 2 whole days to work!

And then there are the mums - my kind of people. We're all about holistic well-being, from getting our sweat on to nourishing our souls with sunrise ocean dips to using low-tox cleaning products in our homes! There's just this shared vision of raising our kids in nature, close to the beach, where they can grow into resilient and emotionally intelligent individuals. It's pretty magical.

Sure, I still miss the buzz of Melbourne every now and then. I mean, who wouldn't? But knowing it's just a two-hour drive away takes the edge off. It's fun to pop back for a taste of the city life, catch up with friends, and hit up the cool cafes. Matilda in Mont Albert is my favourite! But let me tell you, nothing beats the feeling of coming home to the ocean breeze and the laid-back charm of Inverloch.

And the local spots are so great too. We love to take a short trip to Cape Patterson and grab a coffee at Zeal and Flow and a quick dip at the basin! Day trips to Phillip Island - San Remo, Churchill Island and Cowes are just magical! Trips to the koala park in Grantville have been fun but anywhere here in the Bass Coast is just great! Tarwin Lower, Korumburra and the health food store at Leongatha have all been fun to check out. Still on our list is the Farm at Wattlebank Farm and a drive out to Konwack.

I highly recommend if you are thinking of taking a risk in your life or making any chance and it scares you, do it! The universe rewards courage!

Gen