The Oxford Dictionary describes smitten as being strongly attracted to someone or something. In my case I am smitten with the town of Wanganui. After years of visiting this town regularly – but never staying more than a weekend – I have gained a whole new perspective of my husband’s hometown.
I have been here for almost a week now and I have discovered many things about Wanganui that I never appreciated before … it’s beauty (the main street is stunning with all its hanging baskets and beautiful old buildings) … there’s no such thing as a rush hour so that you can get from one end of town to the other in 5 minutes even at the “wrong” time of day … nothing appears to open before 9am apart from some cafes … everything seems to be closed by 5pm (the shops in the main street definitely are) … people have figured out what work/life balance is all about … it is amazingly well serviced with all sorts of cultural, educational and sporting facilities … they have a beautiful Opera House and it gets used (we went to the opera last night) … when you go to a restaurant for a meal on a week night you feel as though the place has been booked for only you because it is virtually empty (how they make a living I do not know) … you can walk on the road in the main street after 9pm because there are hardly any cars around … the people are friendly … there is so much to see and do … the new river walkway is fantastic … and most importantly they host Summer School of the Arts every January!
No doubt there are loads of things I have forgotten to list but I’m sure you get my drift - I think this place is worth visiting and for more than a night. I know there are so many things I didn’t even see or experience.
I have loved being here in Wanganui this week. It is the perfect place to learn, to be challenged and be inspired.
I wonder if Lynsey will consider moving back here? I spotted a wonderful old brick building down by the river that took my fancy.
Isn’t it interesting how when you look with different eyes how the familiar can be so new and different?
Manifesto
26. Every day take action. Every small step counts.
22. Every day refine, clarify and simplify.
46. Every day you can change your thoughts.
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2 Comments
Okay. I’ll move there if you guys do!
Ok, that would do it. I’d move back if you guys moved there. Wanganui is a town much in need of new business, so I’m sure you’d be very welcome. It’s certainly a town with a great deal going for it.