A Tranquil Retreat on Mt Tamborine: Our Time with a Cute Long-Haired Chihuahua

“My fashion philosophy is, if you’re not covered in dog hair, your life is empty.” – Elayne Boosler

Nestled in the stunning Gold Coast Hinterland, Mt Tamborine is known for its breathtaking views, lush rainforests, and charming small-town atmosphere.

Recently, we had the chance to experience this beautiful corner of the world while house-sitting, and our companion for the stay? An adorable, long-haired Chihuahua called Poppy who quickly stole our hearts.

From the moment we arrived, this little ball of fluff welcomed us as if we were old friends. With big, soulful eyes and a personality far larger than her tiny frame, she was the perfect host.

Together, we explored the mountain, taking peaceful morning walks, where she proudly trotted along, ears perked and tail wagging. Well she trotted for a bit, then put the anchors on. She's not used to the big wide world and so when she's had enough, she simply lies down on her side and stops.

One of my favorite moments was sitting on the veranda, soaking up the serene mountain views as she curled up on my lap, content with the world around her. It was the perfect way to relax after a day spent wandering through Mt Tamborine and visiting the local markets.

We didn't realise that there are no dogs allowed at the markets. We'd actually gone to the markets first by ourselves, and then when we saw quite a few other dogs there, we went back with Poppy, as her home is just around the corner.

We thought it'd be a good way for her to socialise a bit, but on the way out, we were gently told that dogs weren't allowed. Then as we walked out, then we saw the no dogs sign. Oh dear, so if you happen to be going to the markets, best leave your dog buddy at home.

Make sure you try one of the wood fired pizzas at Mt Tamborine markets, they were delightful.

Caring for Poppy was a joy. She loves her snacks and likes to hide them in the lounge or under the blankets, she has a gorgeous fluffy cushion on the couch and a cozy blanket for nap time.

She is so endearing. Her gentle nature and quiet companionship added a special touch to the peaceful atmosphere of the mountain.

Mt Tamborine itself was a dream. From the magical Curtis Falls to the artisan shops and cafes, there was no shortage of things to see and do.

But no matter where we went, our little Poppy was always the highlight of the day, reminding us that sometimes the simplest moments—like a cuddle on the couch or a playful throw of her favourite whale toy, are the ones that stay with you the longest.

One thing that was just magical, happened one evening when I walked the garbage bins out to the sidewalk. As I walked back to the house, I was aware of something overhead. When I looked up there was this amazing halo around the moon.

I've never seen one before so close and to have it directly overhead was very special. Sadly the photo just doesn't do it justice. My sister in law told me that the Indigenous people had told her that depending on how many stars you see in the centre of the halo, will tell you how many days of rain you can expect.

Here's a link to@Arianna.Busker on Instagram, we loved listening to her music at the markets.

Mt Tamborine Botanical Gardens

Between the natural beauty of Mt Tamborine and the joy of spending time with such a sweet, loyal companion, it was an unforgettable experience. If you ever get the chance to house-sit for a long-haired Chihuahua on a mountain, don’t pass it up—you’ll leave with memories (and probably more than a few photos) that will warm your heart for years to come.

For anyone considering a house-sit in the area, I can’t recommend it enough.

House Sitting - Beautiful Mt Tamborine

"Money can buy you a fine dog, but only love can make him wag his tail." – Kinky Friedman

We haven't done a lot of house sitting of late. We decided to put our house on the market this year, and have had our attention else where. With all the busyness of late, it was so nice to see an invite from the Aussie House Sitters site in our email.

We were delighted to be invited for a house sit on Mt Tamborine minding gorgeous little Poppy. She is an absolute darling and was very easy to fall in love with.

We had such a lovely evening with her owner who invited us to stay the evening before, and spoiled us rotten with a gorgeous welcome and meal, that he'd cooked himself. It was just so lovely to be in Poppy's lovely home with the fire roaring and such good company.

Poppy had a few outings with us, to our favourite Spice of Life cafe, her dad did warn us she wasn't much of a walker, and it was so funny to see her simply lie on her side when she'd had enough of the stoll along Knoll road. She was much cosier tucked inside Kevin's jacket all warm and toasty, and had a carry back to the car.

We certainly needed our winter woolies on while we were there, and had the fire going most days. It sure was very chilly, and much colder than on the coast. How's that mist in the picture above? It's so eerie too to watch it roll in, and everything gets really quiet.

But it was also gorgeous to see the mist rolling in, and to know that it was warm and cosy inside. One evening we braved the cold night air, and wandered down to the lookout where the hang gliders leave from.

The atmosphere was so lovely, with crowds of people, families and friends with their picnics. But the chill got the better of us and we high tailed it back home once the sun hit the horizon.

There are so many lovely bush walks on Tambo, and we had a lovely walk into Witches Falls, not far from our house sit.

Witches Falls was Queensland’s first national park to be declared under the new State Forests and National Park Act 1906. Declared in 1908, it is Queensland’s oldest national park.

It is graded at a 4 which means walking experience recommended. "Tracks may be long, rough and very steep. Directional signs may be limited."

It's fairly easy to find your way around the loop, but once a couple of years ago, we did turn left when leaving the falls instead of right back to the loop, and had quite a hike back. Visit Qld Govt Parks and Forests to learn more.

House Sit New York - Imagine

One can't paint New York as it is, but rather as it's felt. Georgia O'Keefe

How gorgeous is this sketch by Miss Moss - you can call her Diana:
click here to visit her blog.

I would give the greatest sunset in the world for one sight of New York's skyline.

I'm not sure if the quote above makes sense, however, I'd sure love to visit, wander the streets, look at Central Park, shop in the local. Dance Argentine Tango to musicians there, and join in the local Tango scene.

We're pretty OK at Tango now, says she, we've learned for about 20years and just love the dance so much. It's such a beautiful dance. We've danced in Paris on the side of the river Seine, and in Venice in St Marks square, and to a fantastic singer outside a cafe on Lido. It's quite wonderful to join in with a street musician and dance with them.

Years ago my son and I were visiting the US to see my family in Washington State, and I very nearly bought us a ticket to go to New York to see the Statue of Liberty. I've regretted not buying that ticket ever since.

We also nearly ended up in Denver, we hopped on a plane that was taking us to WA from LA, so I thought, only, when we got down to where our seats were supposed to be, there was no seat. Luckily I checked with the steward and they looked as confused as I was. It took a bit of time to twig that we were on the wrong plane. I've also wondered what Denver's like ever since.

Such a poignant tribute. We just watched the documentary on John Lennon's life the other day, one in the 'A Portrait in 9 Pictures series. Really worth watching

You may say I'm a dreamer, but I'm not the only one. I did an exercise by Kyle Cease the other day, called An Exercise to Change Your Life. He's on FB if you'd like to have a look. In essence, he asks you to get two pages, on the left hand side, write down all the things you dream about doing. Then on the right hand side, write down the 'yes but' responses that your brain comes up with. Then go back to the dreaming side, and then start doing one thing at a time.

After doing the exercise, I decided to apply for a scholarship to the Trauma Certificate program. Gosh I got a response straight away, to say I was accepted in. It's a 7 month online program and some rather wonderful teachers will be presenting it.

How gorgeous are these elegant pre-war buildings and brownstones?

So... what are you imagining? Do you have a dream that's just waiting in the wings?

House Sitting New York - The Statue Of Liberty

Isn't she beautiful?

What would a trip to New York be without a visit to The Great Lady. Did you know that you can hop on the Staten Island Ferry to see her? No charge either.

The New Colossus is a sonnet written by Emma Lazarus. She wrote the poem in 1883 to raise money for the pedestal that The Statue of Liberty sits on. The sonnet was part of an auction of art and literary works held to raise money for the pedestal's construction. Emma was involved in helping Jewish refugees to New York and was convinced to take part in the auction, by another writer who told her that the Statue would give great hope to those immigrating to the US.

The New Colossus

Not like the brazen giant of Greek fame,

With conquering limbs astride from land to land;

Here at our sea-washed, sunset gates shall stand

A mighty woman with a torch, whose flame

Is the imprisoned lightning, and her name

Mother of Exiles. From her beacon-hand

Glows world-wide welcome; her mild eyes command

The air-bridged harbor that twin cities frame.

"Keep, ancient lands, your storied pomp!" cries she

With silent lips. "Give me your tired, your poor,

Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free,

The wretched refuse of your teeming shore.

Send these, the homeless, tempest-tost to me,

I lift my lamp beside the golden door!"

Emma Lazarus - November 2, 1883

The wretched refuse of your teeming shore! I wonder how that sonnet would be taken today if it were entered into an auction. We discovered that a few of our ancestors had travelled via Ellis Island recently when doing Ancestry. So I've been even more interested in visiting New York.

Inside Statue of Liberty Museum

If you want to visit the Statue of Liberty then you'll need to get a ferry there. Here's a link to find out more: click here for the National Park Service

You can depart from and return to different locations which is handy. There are two locations, New Jersey - Liberty State Park - lots of car parks here. Or you can hop on at Battery Park New York.

If you're like us and want to us Public Transport we'd use Battery Park. We tried driving in the US once, and never again. A certain husband who shall remain nameless, drove us up the off ramp of a highway. It was more than a bit terrifying and there was a certain amount of screaming in the car. But that's another story for when we do a house sit in LA.

And did we visit The Statue of Liberty when we were in Paris? No we didn't, so much we missed there. Ah well another house sit.

Swell Sculpture Festival 2023 - House Sit Currumbin Beach

Every year Currumbin Beach in Queensland hosts the Swell Sculpture Festival. It's a delight to wander the beautiful beach, and see the current year's offerings.

Always a bit of fun to find that you've colour co-ordinated with the art.