This past week, I've been looking for ways to connect with local artists, whether it be photographers, filmmakers, models or musicians, but what I found instead was a pot of gold in the form of a picnic; a plant-loving feast in the shade of a Pōhutukawa tree, hosted by none other than Nirrimi Firebrace.

Nirrimi, an Australian photographer with a heart and soul that could fill up the Universe, has been a huge inspiration to me over the past couple of years, not only in her photographs but in her words and way of life. The first time I stumbled upon her blog I ended up reading her whole story from start to finish in one night, and felt like I'd opened a door to an entire new world.

She is actually one of the motivations behind moving to the other side of the world, which doesn't particularly make any sense when I think about it now, but perhaps the thought of being closer to the source of energy that has kept me going through some tougher times would somehow sprinkle a touch of magic over my journey.

Isn't it peculiar that our paths crossed after just 7 days of being here?

I'm filled with a feeling I can only describe as excitement, but it is much, much more than that. I feel charged with an energy that makes me want to dash into the fields of the future and grab a hold of every blooming flower of opportunity.

A heart-felt thank you to Nirrimi for the love you spread and the energy you provide - I hope our paths will cross again soon.

www.theroadishome.com