but life soon took me across the globe, first to South Africa and later to Australia. I settled in Brisbane’s bayside, my new home away from home. I’m happiest in the rainforest, surrounded by birds, but I will always miss the mountains.

Living so far from home, goodbyes and missing loved ones have always been a big part of my story. Memories and keepsakes help bridge the distance, keeping me close to home. They also allow me to share a little with my children, who have grown up between cultures. 

But there are some things I can’t share, because I simply don’t know. There are stories I don’t quite remember, and questions I can no longer ask. Time moves too fast.

I’ve learned that memories and stories are incredibly meaningful, and to help families preserve them, despite the challenges of distance and time, is a gift.