A love letter

I'm in a relationship, in fact, we might even be going steady.

I have a serious crush on Melbourne. Not in a 'you're better than Adelaide' way or anything. I'm loyal 'til the end. But in a Mr Right Now kind of way. It's where I'm supposed to be.

It helps that some of my very best friends live over here and my housemates are sweet and my location is second to none. There's also the great restaurants, coffee and yes, I even love the public transport system (gasp!).  

My room has awesome views of the city and a gorgeous high peaked ceiling, I can walk to the Tan and I've just discovered Leo's (thanks Sue!).

The markets are a feast for the senses and Zumbo has just opened up around the corner. And then there's Burch & Purchese - I'm without words. I have pho at my fingertips and Mexican just down the street. I've only filled up my car four times in six months - and that included a drive to Dean's Marsh!

It's not all rosy though. Work has been tough (I'll leave that post for a rainy day) and they use plastic bags over here like they're going out of fashion (yay for SA's stance on plastic bags). They don't have a bottle recycling program and my heart hurts every time I put 10c worth of glass or plastic in the recycling bins. Those poor Boy Scouts!

And I can get lonely. I derive so much happiness from bouncing off other people but my 'other people' have their own 'other people' and I miss my Mum. And my Dad. And my brother and sister in law. And I desperately miss my niece and nephew who are growing up way too fast. And I miss my grandparents and being 15 mins away from everything and everyone.

But this city still has me wrapped around its little finger.

There's the small issue of the terrible weather and serious hayfever conditions, and most of my above mentioned friends are grown ups with life partners and kids which isn't ideal for a 30 year old single gal's social life. But otherwise things are pretty good.

The shops are open til really late and they have ham on their parmies - sorry parmas - as a standard. Flowers are cheap and brunch is served all day.

I wouldn't say it's love - yet - but I've got a serious case of lust for this city. Enough to get me smiling again.

I've had a bit of a blog block recently, but I'm slowly trying to find my mojo again. If anyone still tunes in, I'd love to hear from you. Especially if you're in Melbourne - I could do with a tour guide, shopping  director and a glass of vino or two. Oh, and a job (long story - but I'm serious!!)

What do you love about Melbourne? Help me compile a 'must do' list so I can  see it through your eyes.

I'll be back again soon. Slowly. I'm finding my way xx