The thud

I made my reluctant return to the real world last night after two days on the Northern Beaches.

I woke long before dawn to the sound of driving rain. I am not looking forward to emerging from under the doona, scooping a dog under each arm and running for the cover of the local shops to encourage my fur monsters to wee outside rather than inside.

Thud.

Yesterday started so differently. I sat with DD and the dogs at Avalon headland, sipping a strong flat white from the coffee van and watching the sun rise.

Afterwards we drove up to Palm Beach, where Charlie happily sniffed the sea air from the passenger window.

Then it was time to work for a few hours, while the dogs split their time between lying on the deck and DD’s sofa.

DD and I reconvened briefly at lunchtime for leftover lamb roast dinner before returning to our respective computers for the afternoon.

As night fell it was time to pack my belongings and clip the dogs into their respective car seats for the journey home.

I felt a little despondent about not being able to spend every day near the sea.

But my mandatory three days in the office beckoned and I am too young to toss my job in. And it is far more practical to live close to the city for a few more years.

One bright spot: the eldest made dinner for me last night! Chicken katsu poke bowl – soooooo good.

Another bright spot: I got an email saying my public service award pay rise is on its way!

I’m a little nervous about my commute this morning. The weather predictions are dire.

A low-pressure system is apparently gaining traction – in a process known as “bombogenesis” – off the east coast of NSW and is expected to bring damaging, destructive winds and heavy rainfall to the region.

Bombogenesis! It sounds like something from the plot line of a Roland Emmerlich disaster movie.

At least I’m not at risk of my home flooding.

Sending my best to everyone who might be impacted by the torrential rain. Stay safe.

Song of the day: Simon & Garfunkel “Homeward bound”