Hip hip hooray for the joy of annual leave! 

I am at the beginning of a much needed week off work, and there are fun plans afoot. 

In a couple of days I’m off to the seaside. 

There’s a sweet six year old’s birthday party to attend first, and a few household chores to do, and then I’m outta here…. see ya later suburbia. 

Yes, it’s a winter break, and that’s a-okay with me. 

Gimme a cosy cardigan and scarf, a blustery sea breeze and beautiful cafe to enjoy a long lunch in, and I’m all set. 

I decided to take a week off about a month ago, and Air BnB came through with a fab and funky apartment on the Mornington Peninsula. 

Today I spent approximately three minutes in an op-shop and I found three great books for three dollars each. Winning. 

Cute apartment – check. 

Books – check. 

Things are coming together swimmingly (though I’m not packing my bathers). 

I went back and forth about whether to splurge on a third night away, and I’m so happy I decided to book it. Thanks for helping me out with that decision Instagram pals. 

Hot tip: ask nicely about a late check-out and you might get FIVE extra hours in your getaway pad. Check! 

My plans are to enjoy the Peninsula’s trio of treasures – the beauty of nature, the peace and calm that being by the sea always gives me, and the gorgeous villages dotted with great local cafes and swoonworthy homewares stores. I’ll mostly be window shopping, but if I see something that catches my eye…. 

I’m definitely going to re-visit some favourite haunts, and I’d love to find some new favourites. 

All I’ve got to do now is pack up my paints, books, cosy cardigans and slippers – I never travel without them – and tootle off down the freeway to my winter wonderland. 

Oh I do love to be beside the seaside!! 

I’m sure to be sharing snaps on Instagram, so you’ll basically all be coming with me. Lucky you. 

If you’re a fan of the Mornington Peninsula, please leave a comment with your go-to cafes, bars, shops and seaside walks. 

Ahhhh, I can feel that sea air doing me good already. 

Bring it on. 

Excitedly,

Annette xx