A rediscovered 'happy place'

My mum, brother and I with dad sporting one of his fave shirts

Yesterday, I dropped into my parents for an ad lib visit.   Mum was walking the dog before she hit the gym and dad was in his bike kit ready to peddle off to his new found hobby.

When I say new, I don't mean brand new but more so rediscovered.  Dad now volunteers his time and skills to teach special need kids how to sail.

From early as I can remember we used to spend many a weekend down at the beach watching and waiting for dad to compete in catamaran racing. He was good at it too, and probably where my passion for competing to win and the surf began

Anyways, today presented itself with the perfect opportunity to go and watch, so Summer and I jumped in the car and met him out there. By the time we arrived he was already set up and sailing with co- yachtsman on board.

Dad sailing yesterday

I got talking to the organiser on the bank about the program and how some of the kids have represented Australia at the Olympics.  Then he said something that made me stop. "Your dad is enjoying seeing the change he can bring to the kids day".  This touched me and filling me with warmth.  I felt so proud of him.

I could have stayed there for hours just watching him, it was so peaceful and relaxing. I fully understand why dad loves it. I am so thrilled to see him out there enjoying the sport of sailing while helping out.

Later in the morning I text a photo of dad sailing to my husband, and his reply was "He loves it".  I replied back with no hesitation "It is his happy place".

To me your 'happy place' is defined as somewhere you feel at ease with the world and where your troubles are left behind for a while. It can be imaginary , but like my dad, my happy place is the ocean and feeling the flow and energy it brings.

Do you have a happy place, is it real or imaginary?

Have you entered this week's giveaway yet?  Hurry, I am drawing it on Monday!