I don’t remember it but mum tells a story about Dad bringing a two year old me home icy and blue from being in baby carry backpack while Dad went hiking in the Tasmanian winter. He was warm from the movement so didn’t realize that the poor kid on his back was freezing!
As a teen, I complained about being ‘forced’ to go on adventures with him even though they created such amazing memories. I did pathfinders (Church version of Scouts) to hone my skills and completed my Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award.
After school I traded nature for the big smoke and moved to Sydney. I distracted myself working several jobs and hanging with the social crowd. I tried hard to fit in but it was an awkward connection between a bunch of misfits who were trying to impress the cool kids.
I began traveling and realized that Travel ‘ABC’ meant Another Bloody City and although I am fascinated with history, I much preferred the mountains. Dad taught us never to leave home without a survival kit and so i gained cudos from fellow travellers as i fixed broken luggage, broken legs (no joke), blisters and torn pants.
I was chuffed when a dude said that if he ever got stuck on a island survivor style he would want me there (#best compliment ever!)
The penny finally dropped after I spent a month trekking and climbing in nepal without showers or mirrors and then rushed home attempting to be a glamorous bridesmaid with make-up, heels, and even a limousine.
Forget the Chanel lipstick and carefully styled hair, my favourite pics are the Mera Peak summit shots with blue lips.
tommy the travelling turtle 