Oasis

When I first started working in the big city, I was overwhelmed. A whole new chapter had begun. It was exciting and fast and loud and vibrant. So incredibly appealing to a young, fresh faced twenty year old. Meeting people, making friends, after work drinks on a Friday. So many adventures to embark on. It is no surprise that I think about these times often. Lately, I have been reminiscing more and more on the past 12 or so years and I suspect these feelings will only intensify the closer I come to saying goodbye to it all. To closing the final chapter.

One place, I am particularly nostalgic for, is a pretty garden oasis surrounding a majestic old sandstone pub and beer garden. Literally smack bang in the middle of a sea of sky rise concrete and glass. I have spent many a lunch hour, relaxing in the sun, chatting with friends, shaking off the cares of the world, at this very location. Being there is almost like stepping back in time, because nothing about it has ever changed. Though I have changed. Experienced love and heartache. Joy and sadness. Marriage and children. I've taken extended periods of leave and returned... twice! But this place has remained constant throughout and I'm fond of it. It feels like home. Looking around today, as the sun fought it's way through the clouds and onto the blue sky, I realised just how much I will miss my treasured spot. Along with all the colourful memories. So much history shared within this picturesque Oasis, in the big city.