A photographic essay about our journey 'connecting to place' in Aotea, Great Barrier Island.
What better way to start this blog by two images that seem to me in contrast to our lives. Mangroves, how symmetrical yet not symmetrical they are. I love the oddity of them and it fascinates me they survive so well in such brackish water, a border between salt and fresh that is destined to never marry, yet depend on each other for life! and yet here we are on Aotea, Great Barrier Island, working for Hillary Outdoors, and still feeling so far from home! I sometimes feel torn between the salt and fresh water, when I try to connect to the place I am in. Presently home seems so far away!
We don't have a couch and often sit here opposite, chatting about everyday life. It is a place I am grateful to connect with my best friend.
Mangroves, how symmetrical yet not symmetrical they are. It like the juxtaposed position I find myself in!
Meet our fur child. Actually, in dog-human years she is 13 x 7 = 91 years old. I have been with her since a pup and am so lucky and grateful to have her in our lives. She is my last connection to my previous family and I am not looking forward to the day she passes. I will grieve her loss, yet know it is part of the deal. I would not be without here no matter what the heartache!
Giving Molly a haircut is a battle but she does always feel better afterwards. This is just after a brief cut, and it seemed Molly has decided enough was enough!
The first image I took when we arrived on Aotea. Great Barrier Island from the ferry. Medlands beach!, Orhuawharo Bay. There is so much stunning beauty here.
A view of the bay, Karaka By we live in. The strong line at the bottom of the image is the wildlife sanctuary fence, managed by Glenfern. Our house is lower left in Arthurs Bay. Te Hauturu-o-Toi is on the horizon.
It is funny to be living in such a beautiful location, yet feel detached, disconnected, and homesick. I am still working through this process to find my connection to the place I am in. Work is demanding and not being able to escape lately is a road to 'Karaka Bay cabin fever'. Attitude is everything and I am working hard to wrestle with this. On most occasions I am solid, yet there are private times I struggle to balance my mind, with imposter syndromes, my professional and personal challenges and the wonderful people I know. I am grateful for the people I met here.
Andy