An introduction

I grew up in the suburban landscape of South-Western Sydney, in a lovely home on a quarter acre block. We had a great sized backyard complete with swimming pool, swing-set, trampoline and even a pergola, providing ample room for roller-skating, playing barbies (yes, even barbies need to get some sunshine) or for my little brother to chase me endlessly. We also had a decent sized front-yard, where my sister and I would try and impress many a passer-by with our cart-wheeling skills or just take the time to ride our bikes round and round, taking care to avoid mum's rockery and the temptation to take the bike just that little bit closer to the road. It was the perfect way to grow up and one day, I could imagine the same lifestyle for when I had children of my own.

Fast forward 30 years and I now have a baby of my own but not a house or yard in sight! My husband, Cam, and I have lived in Sydney for nearly 6 years in an area we have grown to love and two years ago, decided to dive into the real estate market and see what we could find. We weighed up the suburban dream home versus the inner-city apartment and with proximity to work a big ticket item for both of us, an apartment was the only affordable choice. As fate would have it, we came across a decent sized 3 bedroom flat - 15 mins to work, a 5 min drive from the beach and within walking distance of some fantastic shops, parks and cafe's. Sold!

I always knew that it would be a challenge with a little person underfoot in an apartment and with my 6-month old son and I bunkered down in our apartment day after day, I am starting to experience the intriguing and unique challenges - and joys - of the lifestyle we have chosen. Welcome to our world which is Flat Out!