Mooloolaba Mile
My love of the ocean knows no bounds so of course the first event I took part in was an ocean swim - the Mooloolaba Mile on 5 March.
According to my sources this is one of the most popular ocean swims in Queensland and my first event struggle to park on the day somewhat proves that!
The main event is a one mile (1.6km) course at the southern end of the beach but given my complete lack of training or exercise prior to my impulsive decision to enter, this time around I opted for the half mile - just to wet my feet. There is also a 3km course for more proficient ocean fish.
The event takes up the entire morning so there is plenty of action for everyone but the beach is big enough for all so regular swimmers and sun bakers won't be too bothered.
So I donned a pink cap (I always seem to end up getting the pink ones...) and did a slow - not very Baywatch-esque run into the sea and hoped my muscles would remember how to swim for about 20 minutes.
The swim itself was great with perfect conditions, clear water and loads of that sunshine we love so much.
If you do make it into (and out of) the water, there is a complimentary event shirt that will be given as a token of gratitude for joining the swim.
This is definitely one event I will be putting on the 2018 calendar - hopefully feeling fit enough to do the full 1.6km course.
It's all about the sea change
Sydney is an exciting city with an intoxicating harbour but after 17 years, the hustle and bustle and the constant feeling of being on the 'go', it lost some of its charm for me.
Now I am aware that a sea change doesn't necessarily mean a move to the sea but growing up with the ocean as my backyard in Batemans Bay, I realised I am my happiest when I am close to the sea.
Seeking a change of pace and life closer to the beach (yes, yes Sydney has many beaches but have you experienced that Bondi or Manly traffic?) my significant other and I landed on the sunny Sunshine Coast as a spot to try something new.
It was a swift progression from idea to actuality and in the space of a month we cleared out our lives, said goodbye to our loved ones and hit the road for a long drive north.
In the rush to make sure everything was sorted, I didn't have time to think about the enormity of uprooting your life and moving away from everything, and everyone, familiar so the reality of settling in and having a routine will definitely take time.
Just two weeks after arriving we have a new home - with a pool - and so many beaches on our doorstep that it will take some time before I even start the search for my favourite one.
A love of the outdoor lifestyle and the gorgeous natural scenery was part of what drew us to this part of Australia and I cannot wait to uncover the hidden hiking trails, secret waterfalls and innovative restaurants the area has to offer as I find my way through #asunnierlife.