Holding back the incoming tide of work, language learning, work, finances, work, upskilling and work, with eyes focussed 13 weeks into the future when I finally hit Roma.

Oh, wait, that's me, not this guy.

This guy is executing a perfectly balanced manoeuvre in the autumnal surf. But his hand position almost makes it look like he's pushing back the incoming waves. Or trying to. Believe me dude, I know the feeling.

I'm actually surprised that I got shots which are as clear as this. When I went out this morning an ugly smog layer was locked down over the coast yet again, the result of yet more hazard control burning.

I understand the need for it, but after almost two weeks of it I'm amazed that there still is any bushland left in the Sydney basin to burn off.