When Ansett airline closed down in 2002, we became loyal to Virgin Blue then Virgin Australia.
This morning, thinking we would buy a Virgin lounge pass, we discovered there is no longer a Virgin lounge at Cairns airport.
We dropped the Apex car rental off an hour earlier than necessary at 11:00am, so that we had plenty of time to navigate roadwork delays between Port Douglas and Cairns.
Naively, we believed we would able to drop our bags off at the airport, to access the shopping and dining opportunities prior to flying at 2:50pm.
We were greeted by closed Virgin Australia check-in desks, opening at 1:20 pm. Hopefully, we sit, occasionally gazing over at Virgin staff seated behind the check-in desks.
Other passengers arrive, speak to smiling staff, they are sent away.
I had refused to believe an online review of Virgin having become a budget airline.
For an idealist, reality is the foulest tasting pill to swallow, let alone digest. Gaily floating around on a cloud of optimism and wonder one second, to thudding to earth, gasping in lungs of detritus, the next.
From experience, a sound night’s sleep goes someway to reset and resume the ascension of the ladder of acceptance and commitment, through adaptation and evolution.
My delusions of grandeur know no bounds!
It is the King’s (previously Queen’s) birthday, long weekend in Queensland. A perfect opportunity to reflect on personal and financial duties whilst enjoying a break.
Balancing optimism with responsibility is a dance requiring grace and acknowledgement of reality. How do you strike that balance in your own life?
During this time, I have changed employer twice, we tied the knot, and we moved home from Lewisham to Leichhardt to Morningside to Deception Bay to Hamilton.
Thursday 21 August was the anniversary of the birth of Aubrey Beardsley in 1873.
Inspired by Aubrey’s sketches and the work of Margaret MacDonald Mackintosh (1864-1933), I doodled the above concept of outfit for my alter ego, Airhead to wear to a Winter opera.
Airhead would require a box to themselves, to accommodate the voluminous outfit. Bejewelled in green, swathed in a pink chiffon candy stripe gown, and overlaid by a purple candy stripe velvet cloak.
A large antique rose hued ovoid defines my 61+ years’ past. Subtle changes occur as new wafer-thin memories settle in layers, one upon another.
Arrogance, discourtesy, and challenging behaviours of others incessantly stain the past. In time, angry bruises fade to blotches, finally morphing into smirches and dots.
Emotions, beliefs, and self-recriminations jostle in gentle stewing ere burgeoning into recollections, reminders, remembrances.
Silent brain-wringing turmoil.
Above an etheric pale grey-blue future floats – seemingly innocuous – yet ominously waiting.
A paper-white, irregular circle pierces both rose and blue: authenticity within the calm of the present.
Inside a ninth floor suite of natural neutrals accented by tropical hues Light lofty stateroom habitat of linen clad lovelies Warm breezy beach vibes have a palm frond northern view A timely bijoux retreat for two naive nomadic flamingo sages To cook entertain chill and enjoy the twilight decades
Beyond flopsy hatted humans hasten along the Hamilton’s halls Kaleidoscopic thongs flip flopping euphonically Poolside accessory laden utility trollies jostling elevator bound Transferring the host to resort style amenities Dotty striped and floral flavoured swim wearers Recline relax relinquish the stressors Smiling sunny clad solar seekers sail by
The green jacquard sofa is a statement piece—its classic silhouette and textured botanical pattern lend a traditional touch, reminiscent of Art Deco revival or mid-century refinement. The bolster pillows with navy velvet, gold embroidery, and tassels reinforce this elevated feel with a hint of vintage European flair.
2. Artworks
The framed wall art—with stylized, tribal-inspired human figures—acts as a cultural and graphic focal point. The visual language suggests influence from Indigenous or African art, contributing depth and a storytelling element. Their placement—symmetrical and oversized—adds a modern gallery wall sensibility.
3. Color & Texture Play
Deep green, navy, ochre, and cream form a harmonious palette that feels grounded yet expressive. The mix of plush (velvet), embroidered (central cushion), and woven (ottoman) textures reflect curated, intentional layering.
4. Lighting & Accessories
The twin black lamps with gold bases and sculptural stacked-globe design are bold and elegant—leaning into Hollywood Regency or modern glamour. Accessories like the tray with clean-lined glassware, wooden stump side table, and ceramic side table all add tactile contrast and a natural element.
5. Surrounding Environment
The indoor plant, large glass doors, and visible natural light contribute a breezy, fresh element to balance the more ornate features.
🧭 Style Summary:
Eclectic meets Global Luxe
Aesthetic keywords:
🎨 Artisanal. Curated. Culturally aware. Textured. Timeless with personality.”
theINFP 