We continued our journey towards Canberra, leaving Albury early in the morning after saying goodbye to dear Granny Brown’s.

The day was already looking brighter — not as rainy as yesterday.

The sun decided to join us, peeking out from behind the clouds now and then. Even its brief visits lifted our spirits.

As the Australian countryside rolled past, shades of green and gold painted a softer landscape than at other times of the year. Everything looked alive, refreshed, and we couldn’t help but feel happy watching it all unfold through the car windows.

Our usual stop, The Sir George in Jugiong, was closed today, but fate had other plans.

Just next door, the Long Track Pantry welcomed us in — and what a lovely discovery it turned out to be.

The café was buzzing with travellers, the smell of good coffee, and the charm of a country gift shop filled with handmade treats and treasures.

I loved stretching my legs after the drive.

Browsing through the shelves of preserves, pottery, and pretty things was such a joy.

Over coffee and cake, we chatted with fellow travellers who, like us, seemed delighted by this little gem of a place.

On the wall, I noticed a sign that read: “All roads lead to Juiong”. I couldn’t help but agree. Jugiong truly is a must-stop between Melbourne and Canberra — small, friendly, and full of heart.

By midday, we reached Canberra and were warmly welcomed by our hosts.

Their home instantly felt inviting — warm, welcoming, and filled with thoughtful touches. Among them was a proper Finnish sauna (a delight in itself!) and the tiniest, most adorable miniature sauna model that immediately caught my eye.

It made me smile; I fell in love with it straight away.

After a delicious lunch of Finnish salmon soup and homemade rye bread, I laced up my shoes for a walk — part of my Pink Ribbon Walking Challenge for the month of October.

Canberra’s streets and alleyways felt different from Melbourne’s — quieter somehow, with their own kind of rhythm and character.

This trip to Canberra isn’t just for sightseeing though.

We’re here for the Head to the Hill event, a gathering that brings together people affected by brain tumours — patients, families, and advocates. Tonight’s “Night Before” social catch-up at the Central Social Club was deeply moving.

It was informal and relaxed, yet profoundly powerful. Conversations flowed easily as we met others from the brain tumour community — people who understood, shared, and listened with open hearts. There was courage in every story, tenderness in every handshake. I left feeling humbled, connected, and full of gratitude for the strength that exists in shared experience.

The evening ended in the most comforting way possible — with our hosts warming up their sauna for us.

The gentle heat, soft light, and quiet hum of the night wrapped around me like a warm embrace.

It was the perfect way to close a day filled with travel, emotion, and human connection.