The tale of City Mouse and Country Mouse is one of Aesop’s enduring fables, and it has been retold for centuries to highlight the contrast between two very different ways of living. And this is the theme for Tina’s Lens Artist PhotoChallenge this week… are you a City Mouse or a Country Mouse?
I’ve always been a city girl, something I’ve mentioned a few times in my posts. Back when I lived in the Philippines, I loved the energy of city life, the movement, the people, the after work night life, the constant buzz. Of course, the traffic and noise could be overwhelming at times, but there was still something about the pace of it all that I enjoyed.
When my family first moved to Australia, living in the city wasn’t something we could afford. So we settled in the suburbs, about an hour from Melbourne—a choice that wasn’t easy at the time. I felt the change almost instantly (but it was a good change). The quiet here was different: not the kind that feels empty, but the kind that lets you exhale and breathe a little deeper. Mornings came with birdsong and the rustle of trees instead of car horns and hurried footsteps. Evenings slowed into golden sunsets stretching wide across the sky. It took time to adjust, but I’ve come to find a certain peace in this rhythm of life—a softness the city rarely leaves room for.
But there are still times when I feel the pull to go back and experience the pulse of the city again. Luckily, my daughter lives there, which gives me the perfect excuse to visit. Life in Melbourne moves quickly—the streets hum with trams, the aroma of coffee drifts from every corner café, and the laneways burst with colour and art. There’s a constant energy in the air, with people rushing between work, gatherings, and late-night events. Around every corner, there’s something happening—live music spilling out of bars, galleries opening their doors, and a buzz that never quite fades.
The City Mouse and the Country Mouse debate may never end—but for me, I’ve learned I don’t have to choose. The suburbs give me quiet mornings, open skies, and a gentler pace, while the city—just an hour away—offers energy, art, and the rush of life when I crave it. In between the two, I’ve found a balance that feels like home
Perfect. You’ve ended up with the ideal balance for you. And your pictures tell that story so well.
Yes Margaret, just lucky that I can have that choice. Thanks a lot my dear!
Beautifully written post.
The photos are wonderful and show that feel at home in both worlds.
Thanks Nes. I try being happy in whatever situation I am in or whatever environment you put me. Life is too short.
It sounds like you have the best of both worlds here and the photos to go with it – I love the brightly coloured bird, the tram murals and the illuminated flowers. I don’t do cities but Melbourne looks like a place I would love to visit.
I suppose I’m more of a country mouse at heart, I was brought up in a northern area of town only half an hour’s walk from open countryside and my parents would take me on some lovely walks and picnics when I was young. Now I live even closer – open countryside and moorland is just ten minutes up the road from home, there’s a field right at the end of my street and a farm not far away. I do make frequent trips to the city just a 20-minute train ride away but only to find street art or something interesting for my blog – I much prefer being in the countryside or by the sea.
It seems that just like me, you have the best of both worlds too since you are not too far from the hustle and bustle of city life. Sometimes it is the tranquility of home that is what we need.
Well said and shown Teresa! I feel the same way. I think Melbourne is a great city, much like Sacramento. Your buildings are more beautiful though! I didn’t get to see the suburbs while I was there. Take care!
Thanks so much Ann, this challenge, thanks to Tina, highlights that anywhere we stay can be perfect, just depends on our attitude in life. Take care too!
Perfectly expressed Teresa! You highlight the pleasures of both city and country life and it’s clear you can be comfortable in either as long as the other is within easy reach 🙂 It’s interesting that so many of us have expressed a preference for a suburban life, me included – it really does seem the perfect compromise for all of us!
Yes I know, I noticed that in the comments. Maybe it’s because of our age that some people, me included, would often like to take life more slowly.
Teresa, beautiful photos of the city and country. Looks like you have found the perfect place to call home.
Thanks a lot. Yes perfect combination for me.
I agree 100% Teresa – given the choice I’m going with BOTH 😊. Your images are wonderful as are your thoughts. Thanks so much for joining us!
My pleasure to join in, a clever topic it is. Glad you enjoyed my perspective. Thanks Tina.
I totally agree with your description of Melbourne Teresa it really is all that. I love your country mouse photos too.
Thanks Leanne. I wouldn’t go and visit the city much if my kids didn’t live there. But I do enjoy the drive.
I always think of you as a city person, Teresa, but I know you have a quiet side too. I always enjoy your posts but I have a suspicion that WordPress has unfollowed me so I’m going to sign up again xx
Thanks Jo for enjoying my posts. And yes that happened to me too with WordPress. Just a glitch maybe.
Teresa, these comparisons are great and show the beauty in both city and country.
There is beauty in both but now that I am getting more mature the lure of the country is becoming more and more attractive to me. Thanks Egidio.
I clearly understand you are in the right place – both worlds in reach! Perfect1
Glad that I found a place to feel comfortable and content. Thanks A-C.
I’m so glad you’ve found that balance, Teresa and that it feels like home. Both galleries are wonderful.
Thanks Sofia, happy that I found a wonderful place and friends as well to make me feel at home wherever I am.