About me

Hi and welcome to my time on leave.

For a number of years I had made the same NYE’s resolution – to swim with whalesharkes in Western Australia, yet I never managed to get there.

I realised that I kept using the same excuse for that and so many other things, you know the one, “I have no time to go /see /do that”. So I thought I would create time for the things that I enjoy, by not working for a while.

In April 2013, I began this blog as I started a road-trip  from Sydney to Western Australia to swim with whalesharks. That has turned out to be only the beginning. Since then I stopped in Asia for some yoga and overdue friend catch ups before extended family & friends time in Ireland. After that I was back on the road again, first stopping in California before heading to Mexico and Central America. That was followed with some time in New Zealand before landing in Australia where I live.

Here’s a glimpse of where I have been:

Driving through Karijini National Park
1 Mile Jetty, in need of repair

What I have realised is that I can no longer use ‘having no time’ as an excuse ever again. There’s always time, it’s just how I chose to use it.

Here’s what I have discovered makes me happy and what I want to spend my time on

  • eating loads of mangos or drinking them in a daiquiri
  • reading more interesting books
  • learning to take better photographs
  • living simply
  • practicing yoga
  • becoming a better cook
  • swimming, splashing around or paddling in water
  • hiking
  • making new friends and maintaining valuable friendships
  • visiting interesting places
  • being told great stories
  • camping

I assure you, the days aren’t long enough 🙂

If you would like to get in touch either use the comment box below or send an email to thoughts@niamhonleave.com

33 thoughts on “About me”

  7. Niamh, Ireland is so beautiful (I secretely envy you!) 😉 Thanks for the visit on my blog! I see you’re writing on hiking. That’s awesome since I am a big fan of hiking trails too 🙂 Looking forwrad to upcoming adventures. Greetings!

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    1. Big thanks for saying hi. Have been in the water more than on land most recently but will be in Guatemala in a few weeks where I hope to get the hiking boots out again. Happy adventures to you too. Cannot wait to read more

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    1. So nice to hear from you and thanks for the positive feedback. I discovered your blog earlier today and really enjoyed it. Am looking forward to reading more. Happy adventures 🙂

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  10. Well hello again Niamh, on the other side of the world! Looks and sounds like you have exceeded your expectations on travel, adventure and u r enjoying the obvious fulfilment that has brought you. I just love all your ‘favourites’ and your photos in particular. I think they tell a great story and adventure on their own. However, the ‘Brogan’ satire adds a unique extra! Well done. So many would love to have the strength and guts to experience your adventures. Perhaps you’re the inspiration they need! Ur mum’s ‘long term friend’ Px

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  16. Hey, Thanks for checking out my blog! I really love yours. I’m new at this, and your format/photos/everything is awesome. Plus, I love your perspective on life– “What’s Been Making Me Happy” is so simple and perfect. I’ll be stalking ya.

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  19. What an inspiring outlook on life! It reminds me of one of my favourite quotes “All mankind is divided into three classes: those that are immovable, those that are movable and those that move”. I look forward to reading about your journey!

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    1. Hi sorry it’s taken me so long to get back to you, somehow I missed this one! Thanks for taking the time to drop me a line. I love that quote! Words to live by 🙂 Will be checking out your blog

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