Enjoying the space

I am well and truly enjoying the wide open spaces that abound in and around Melbourne, especially as I have just read that the population of Ho Chi Minh City is approximately 8-9 million! Yes, you read it correctly!

So, when I sat in Chloe's bar in Young and Jackson's overlooking the busy intersection of Flinders and Swanston Streets, I pondered the fact that we are truly are blessed, with our well organised cities and such a low population density! I am not sure that I know what is going to hit me.

This weekend, I really appreciated the beautiful blue skies as well as the cold mornings.

I also enjoyed my 5th amazing art class with Ann Bidstrup of Heart-Art . Ann runs courses out of her stunning property in Park Orchards - the gardens are divine and there is always such active bird life which I love. Ann establishes such a warm, nurturing and creative space, that everyone enjoys the opportunity to completely immerse themselves in their individual art project. Mine was the final installation of my collage trilogy, this time focussing on the desert. I was exhausted at the end of the day  due to the concentration, but also uplifted and proud of myself!!

Then it was off to Lilydale and the Yarra Valley. I enjoyed my walk along the Warburton Trail, even though it was -2C and the ground was a little frosty!! 

                                 

Again, the serenity was appreciated, as it was whilst tasting a few wines at Sticks in Yarra Glen. From our spot by the log fire, the view across the valley was breathtaking. 

                                             

A slightly different angle was enjoyed from our table at The Vines restaurant, Helen's Hill Winery. And the food .... a divine veal scallopini plus a pear and macadamia tart! Yummo!

You can tell that I really am making the most of this time. Melbourne is such an amazing place to live -  and it seems I am keeping the hospitality industry afloat!