What it means, to be British living abroad!

After a walk to Woodbridge Lake yesterday morning, I was left, with memories of Britain very much in the forefront of my mind. It doesn't take much to trigger a memory, from my time living in the UK, and the lake does particularly remind me of home — so much so, I can almost taste the English country air. 

Spring has sprung in Western Australia — the sites and smells of this rather short season, down under, plays beautifully with the senses. Woodbridge has a distinctly British feel, and reminds me of lazy days spent in the Forest of Bere on the south coast of England, near Winchester in Hampshire. Woodbridge is my go-to place when I am feeling homesick. It conjures up so many recollections, that have become far more important, since moving to the other side of the World.

My life today is very much Australian. As I approach my two-year anniversary, living in Perth, I no longer give my new incarnation another thought. When I am home, however, I do catch up with life in The UK, as much as I can. The Mother country still has a special place in my heart, and the Anglophile in me, certainly needs a daily dose of Britain on the box.

There is a huge contingent of UK Expats living here, more than any other state, percentage wise, so I am not alone in my reminiscences. Mine may well be a little fresher than others, with most of the Expats I have met, having lived here thirty years or more. Nevertheless, all of us have one thing in common, a fondness for the country where we grew up. It really doesn't matter where I live in The World, I will always be British, and that is something I am very proud of.

Today, in a homage to home, I am talking briefly about all things British, as well as reflecting on the past week. It is comforting to recall special moments in my life, carrying them along with me, to the far side of the globe. Wherever you are from, don't be afraid to celebrate your nationality, your personality, your ancestry, and birth rite. There are the genes that make you who you are, and environmental factors which determine your identity. All of us need to know our roots, and be content with the life we once led, and the new life we lead today. It is important to remain connected to all those who played a part in our life, not forgetting the contribution everyone made. Being content with current choices and direction; being adaptable to change, and being aware of the road you are travelling, will ultimately, almost certainly, define the person you are. In the end we are here for but a short time, so enjoy the nest you have made for yourself and the mountain you continue to climb!

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