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Hello Monday

Hey everyone, I’m so excited to be back today! I’m joining Holly and Sarah for Hello Monday. It’s time to catch up on a super fun three-day weekend that just flew by way too quickly! Friday I had Friday off from work because I had accumulated enough time for a day off. It was amazing not having to get up so early and I spent most of the day enjoying my time at home. I even got a head start on a few weekend tasks and it felt like I was winning! We went for a walk and saw some beautiful spring blooms that I shared on Friday favourites. Spring is coming! Surprise Dinner Destination Then in the evening, we went out for dinner to celebrate Steve’s birthday. I kept the location a surprise and didn’t tell him I had booked a table at Mr Wong’s a famous modern Cantonese restaurant in Sydney that we’ve both been wanting to try. He was convinced we were going to Hungry Jack’s which is our version of Burger King. Hahaha!! I assured him we were definitely not and to wear something nice! We caught the train from Allawah station so by then he knew we were going to the city. While we were on the train, he kept trying to guess where! He was like a kid and he was making me laugh so much. In the end, when I wouldn’t give anything away, he made me promise that if we didn’t eat enough at the restaurant “could we please go to McDonald’s as well”…sheesh!! It was a good 10-minute walk from Martin Place station and Steve walked like a champ! Before his knee replacement, we would have taken it real slow or even caught an Uber. So that’s massive progress and it makes the whole surgery so worth it! When we turned into Bridge Lane, Steve still had no clue. The alleyway was dark and mysterious—exactly the kind of place where you’d expect something shady to happen. He was completely confused! But as we reached the end, there it was, tucked behind a wall—the famous Mr Wong’s. Steve’s expression was priceless and the surprise was worth every bit of the secrecy. Mr Wong’s Before we went, I had spent some time looking at the menu and decided that the best option for us was the Banquet menu. There were just too many delicious dishes with incredible ingredients to choose from. Steve felt relieved that we didn’t have to make any decisions and could just sit back and enjoy a variety of dishes. He was still in shock that we weren’t sitting at a fast food joint—such little faith! Just like all the reviews said, the food and service were amazing! It was definitely a feast, and we loved everything from the delicate kingfish sashimi to the Angus beef cubes that melted in your mouth. One of the standout dishes for us was the Balmain bugs. In case you’re not familiar, Balmain bugs are a type of Australian slipper lobster with sweet, delicate meat. They were so good! We enjoyed ten dishes in total, including dessert, and no, we didn’t need to hit McDonald’s afterwards! I loved the little touches, like how they brought out the dessert with ‘Happy Birthday’ written on it. Palmer & Co After dinner, we decided to continue the celebration and head to Palmer & Co. A prohibition-style bar where all the bartenders were dressed in 1920s attire-so cool! There was also a jazz band playing some contemporary tunes. Steve had a cider, and I sipped on a glass of bourbon that felt like it would have been perfect with a cigar. I’ve never had a cigar, but the whole atmosphere really got to my head! I also tried straight bourbon with ice for the first time and was surprised I enjoyed it (maybe a little too much!) Cousin Connect Saturday We were set to host Cousin Connect on the 10th, but Steve thought he had shingles (it turned out to be eczema) and Sam had a bad cold. So, we rescheduled for this past Saturday, which was also Steve’s actual birthday. It turned out great that we could all be together to celebrate! Cousin S put together another one of his amazing charcuterie boards. I made pulled pork that we enjoyed with bread rolls and coleslaw. Oh, and I also made rice for my little cousin E, who, apart from my mum, is the biggest rice lover I’ve ever met! Cousin T made pigs in blankets, and my aunt brought guacamole. We played our usual board game and laughed so hard at some of the things the cousins came up with. Cousin J even suggested making Cousin Connect T-shirts featuring some of the hilarious one-liners! I think it’s a great idea! Sunday Sunday was recovery day after all the eating and fun. We watched a couple of episodes of Blue Bloods and then thought we better get started on our “homework”. As I shared in another post, we’re heading to L.A. next January. Along with Disneyland, we’re also planning a visit to Universal Studios, which I’ve heard has an incredible Harry Potter-themed area. The thing is, none of us have ever watched or read anything Harry Potter-related. So, we figured it was high time to start! We watched Harry Potter and The Philosopher’s Stone and we loved it! I was surprised to see The Dowager from Downton Abbey in the film! We’ve also realised that we better get started on watching The Simpsons, as Springfield is also such a big part of the Universal Studios experience. I know, I know—clearly, we’ve been living under a rock because we must be the only ones who haven’t watched these two major pop culture hits! And that wraps up our very fun three-day weekend! Thanks so much for stopping by today, I’m jumping off the computer to go have dinner and catch up on some more homework! Happy Monday!

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Friday Favourites

6 Comments / Friday Favourites, Home

Hi friends! I can smell spring in the air today, and when you combine that with a Friday and a day off work, it’s looking like a pretty fantastic start to my three-day weekend! I’m just popping in quickly to say hi and share some photos I took recently that have me excited for spring. I’ve been counting down since the first day of winter and now there are only 15 more days until the 1st of September. Yippee! I snapped this photo at 5:45 when we went out for a walk on Tuesday. Look, it’s not completely dark at this time anymore! This gorgeous rose seemed to appear out of nowhere and I spotted it in our front garden when I came home from work the other day. We went for a walk in the sunshine and spotted even more colourful flowers along the way. Spring, I love you so much! Tonight, I’m taking Steve out to dinner at a surprise location. Tomorrow night, we’re having a combined Cousin Connect and birthday celebration for Steve since it’s his actual birthday. After some wonderfully low-key weekends, it’s time to celebrate and make the most of this one. I’m excited! Thanks so much for being here today and I hope you have an amazing weekend. I look forward to being back here on Monday! Happy Friday and happy weekend!! Linking up with Andrea and Erika

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What’s In My Pantry

6 Comments / Cleaning and Organising, Home, Home Improvement Ideas

When we revamped our kitchen and added a pantry, it was like a dream come true. I’d never had a dedicated pantry before, so the idea of having all our pantry essentials in one spot—rather than crammed into different cupboards—was super exciting. Fast forward three years, and we haven’t done too bad at keeping it tidy. Go us! Most of our essentials manage to stay in their place. It’s amazing how much easier meal prep is when you can actually find what you need without digging through a mess of jars and cans. Believe me, we did plenty of digging around looking for stuff before we got our new kitchen! Our Pantry Essentials Our pantry is tall—our whole galley-style kitchen is pretty compact! Getting a photo that shows just how tall the pantry is was a bit tricky, so I snapped it from an angle to give you a better view. The pantry has some pretty great storage options, like drawers, shelves, and pull-out baskets. Our entire kitchen is from Ikea, and they really know how to make the most of every bit of space. The pantry might be on the smaller side, but it’s packed with all the essentials we need. Here’s a peek at what’s inside: Staples At the very top of the pantry, I keep passata, long-life milk, Krummies, coconut water, and a few other things I don’t need to reach for very often. It’s the perfect spot for those items I use less frequently, so they’re out of the way but still easy to access when I need them. We’ve got a stash of pasta, rice, and grains. Because these are pantry essentials we need for everyday meals. I also keep my Massel stock cubes in there because I use them all the time, they give meals an excellent flavour boost. Canned Goods We also usually have canned tomatoes, beans, and tuna. The cupboard’s a bit bare at the moment since my shopping order is coming tomorrow—canned Mutti tomatoes are definitely on the list. The pull-out baskets need some attention and I’m thinking I will buy some clear containers so that the random bits and pieces look more organised. I always keep a carton of long-life cream in the pantry. Cream is one of those ingredients that’s great to have “just in case.” Since we don’t use it very often, the fresh version tends to go off quickly. And I always feel bad wasting food. But when you need cream, you really need it! Long-life cream is the perfect solution for those times. Jars The first pull-out drawer is full of jars containing nuts, almond flour, seeds, coconut and other dry goods. Condiments and Other Bits In the next pull-out drawer, we have olive oil, vegetable oil, and a variety of vinegar. Sam also keeps his all-important protein powder in there. The lonely jar of peanut butter is there because…. I have no clue why but that’s where it lives. And the tall spaghetti jar doesn’t fit anywhere else. I spy a treat jar! My cousin made each of us a treat jar for Christmas one year. Mine’s usually filled with snakes, while Steve’s has licorice (bleh). But I think right now his jar has some Japanese snacks that Sam brought back from his trip. The last pull-out drawer is where we keep more containers of dry goods such as brown sugar, caster sugar and corn flour. There are also wooden boxes with onions, potatoes and fruit that needs to ripen. Once the fruit is ripe enough but not over ripe I transfer it to the fridge. Avocadoes are usually the trickiest and I check them regularly. One minute they are as hard as my head and then the next they’re ready to eat all at once! What I Love About Our Pantry I just love that we have a pantry after so many years without one! The solid pull-out drawers are wonderful because you can clearly see what’s inside right to the back. I love that I can fit almost all of my pantry essentials in one place. The tall shelves are perfect for storing those items I use less frequently. I get a kick out of seeing all the jars lined up neatly and clearly labelled. What I Don’t Love About Our Pantry I’m not sure how I feel about the pull-out baskets. Things tend to slide through the gaps, which can be a bit frustrating. On the flip side, if we had solid pull-out drawers, I wouldn’t be able to see what’s in them when they’re pulled out as I’m not tall enough. At least with the baskets, I can pull them out and see from underneath. But after writing this post and taking photos, I can see an obvious solution—get some clear containers ASAP, Ruth! The two top shelves are very deep, and sometimes things get pushed to the back. I need to remember to check what I have back there in the beyond before buying things unnecessarily. I’m 162 cm tall and can’t reach the two top shelves without my trusty $4.00 step stool from Kmart. It folds, so I can easily store it in a small gap beside the fridge—it’s the best! These are minor inconveniences, and I almost feel like I’m hurting my pantry’s feelings by criticising it in any way. Overall, I think it’s just totally amazing! Thanks so much for stopping by for this month’s edition of Let’s Look. I’m excited to take a peek at what everyone else has inside their pantries! Have a great day! Linking up with Erika and Shay

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Least Favourite Activities

13 Comments / Family Life, Home

Hi friends, it’s time to link up with Adrienne, Dara, Jen, Joanne and Sarah for this month’s edition of Share Our Lives. The topic for August is our least favourite activities. Yep, it’s the perfect chance to get a few things off my chest, have a bit of a vent, and then find my Zen. I’m looking forward to sharing what really makes me groan. Thanks so much for stopping by! My Least Favourite Activities Filling The Car With Petrol I don’t have to deal with this much anymore since I walk everywhere now, and I’m absolutely loving it! But lining up to fill up the car really had a knack for ruining a good day. I know, it sounds a bit dramatic, but honestly, it’s one of my least favourite activities! I don’t like dealing with the fiddly fuel cap, and I get really stressed if the petrol pump isn’t on the right side of where my car is parked. Another thing that gets to me about the whole petrol station experience is when people seem to take forever to get back to their cars. They pick out snacks, sort out their indecisive kids, take ages to pay, examine their receipts, adjust their sunglasses, check their lipstick, and chat on their phones—all while the line of cars keeps growing. Aaaargh! I know everyone’s busy, but it can feel like forever! Taxes It’s tax time over here, and I tackled this yesterday – phew, now that’s over I don’t have to think about it for another year! Yay! Setting Passwords Just take my identity already because I’m done setting and remembering passwords! Unclogging Drains Any hair in the drain, even if it’s my own, just makes me gag…ugh! I’ve just turned green. Going To The Doctors I know I shouldn’t feel this way, but I really dislike and have a strong aversion to seeing the doctor. If I have a health concern, I stress myself out, convincing myself that when I finally walk into the doctor’s office, they’re going to tell me I have three months to live. So what do I do? I put it off, Google (big mistake), and lie awake fearing the worst. Then, I make that dreaded appointment. Going To The Dentist I’m not scared…….ok, I’m scared. Cleaning The Oven We’ve got a self-cleaning oven… Hallelujah! But I still have to take out the racks, scrub them, and tackle the glass, so it still makes the list of my least favourite activities. The first time I cleaned this oven, I couldn’t remember how to put the glass back, and it just wouldn’t click into place. I may have ended up sitting on the kitchen floor and crying. Putting Flat-Packed Furniture Together I was totally ok with this and would knock together anything from Ikea. Until the dreaded Hemnes bed, we got for Sam. It had the most confusing instructions with a gazillion screws. I have never felt so overwhelmed and may have cried over this too. In the end, I MacGyvered a few things together and hoped for the best. So far, it’s still standing, but none of us can figure out what the aluminium stick that keeps falling off is actually for. We just put it back and don’t talk about it. Cleaning The Cat Litter Two cats double the…… fun. You thought I was going to say poop didn’t you? Taking Off Or Putting On The Sandpit Cover At Work Sometimes, I wonder how many times I have done this least favourite activity over all the years I have been working at preschool…lots! It’s a two-person job because it’s heavy, especially if it’s been raining and it always feels kind of icky, so I wear plastic gloves when I have to touch it. Many times, we hear parents say how lucky we are because we get to play all day long and how they wish they had our fun, relaxing jobs. Hmm, that’s not always the case. But I guess it’s the same when I wish I could wear lovely clothes and stylish shoes and sit in a relaxing air-conditioned office. I’m sure office jobs are stressful too. Packing Away Christmas Decorations Not only is packing away Christmas decorations one of my least favourite activities, but it’s also a bit of a downer! I absolutely love Christmas, and, like a kid, I look forward to it all year. Once Father’s Day is over in September, out come the decorations in the shops, and I get so excited! But even though I love decorating for Christmas, come January 1st, I usually pack everything away. Because when it’s over, it’s over, and you have to rip it off like a band-aid. Oof, that sounds a bit harsh, doesn’t it? Ironing I used to iron everything–even teatowels. Ha! I must have had rocks in my head. Now, I fold like a champ, and whenever something needs ironing, I pull out my steamer or my cheap Kmart iron and tiny Ikea ironing board. But the steamer usually wins because it’s quick and easy! I’m sure I’ve forgotten a whole bunch of other least favourite activities, but here are a few that come to mind and it sure feels great to share them. It’s almost like a therapy session! If you’d like to find out about a few other things that get me ruffled you can read all about my pet peeves and fashion pet peeves too. I hope you have an amazing week, and may your least favourite activities be few and far between!

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Simple Tips for Addressing Common Pains

Leave a Comment / Health and Well Being, Home

Your body works hard for you every day, and it deserves some love in return. When it comes to addressing common pains, paying attention to those little signals can make a world of difference. Whether it’s a minor ache or something that nags at you more often, being in tune with your body helps you stay healthy and happy. Let’s look at how you can tackle some of the common types of pain, so you can keep living your best life. Simple Tips for Addressing Common Pains: Headaches, Back Pain, Chest Discomfort, and Abdominal Sensations Headaches? Time to Take Action Headaches are a pain—literally! We all get them from time to time, usually from not drinking enough water, stress, or just a busy day. But if you notice they’re happening more often, it’s worth addressing these common pains before they slow you down. A quick chat with your healthcare provider can help you find the right fix, so you can get back to feeling good and enjoying your day. Overcome Back Pain and Restore Your Well-being Back pain is no fun, but it doesn’t have to stop you in your tracks. Addressing common pains like this early on can really help. If you’ve been dealing with back pain that just won’t quit, it might be time to see your doctor or check out a place like My Back Relief Clinic. They offer effective treatments to help you feel better and return to your everyday activities with ease. Don’t Ignore Chest Discomfort Chest discomfort is something you definitely shouldn’t ignore. Addressing it promptly can make a huge difference. If you ever feel any unusual sensations in your chest, especially if they come with symptoms like shortness of breath, don’t wait—get it checked out right away. It might turn out to be nothing, but it’s always best to be safe and keep your heart in top shape. Tackle Abdominal Sensations with Ease Feeling something weird in your abdomen? It’s not the most pleasant topic, but addressing common pains like this is important for your peace of mind. Whether it’s a cramp, bloating, or something that just doesn’t feel right, talking to your healthcare provider can help you sort it out. Knowing what’s going on helps you stay comfortable and confident, so you can keep enjoying life without distractions. Additional Tips for a Pain-Free Life While it’s important to address common pains when they arise, prevention is always better than cure. Here are a few simple lifestyle tips to keep you feeling your best: Stay Hydrated: Drinking enough water can prevent headaches and keep your body functioning optimally. Move Regularly: Incorporate stretching and exercise into your daily routine to keep your muscles and joints in good shape. Mind Your Posture: Whether you’re sitting at a desk or lifting something heavy, good posture can prevent back pain and other discomforts. Eat a Balanced Diet: Proper nutrition supports your overall health and can help prevent various types of pain. Take Care and Stay Happy Addressing common pains isn’t just about getting rid of discomfort—it’s about taking charge of your well-being. By listening to your body and taking action when needed, you’re doing something positive for yourself. Simple steps like staying hydrated, stretching, and regular check-ups can go a long way in keeping you feeling good. Taking care of yourself means you’re ready to take on whatever life throws your way. Addressing common pains as soon as they pop up helps you stay on top of your game, so you can keep doing all the things that make you happy. After all, your health is your best asset, and a little extra care goes a long way. Disclaimer: This content is intended for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Please consult with a healthcare professional for any medical concerns or before making any changes to your health routine.

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Friday Favourites

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Hi friends! It’s finally Friday and I couldn’t be happier! I’m linking up with Andrea and Erika to share some weekly favourites. Thanks for being here! First up, I’m excited to share that on Tuesday, I got an email saying I’ve been granted credits for my course! Even better, I can complete it through the RPL (Recognition of Prior Learning) program, which means I can use my previous experience to fast-track the rest of my studies. What a huge relief! Now, I’m one step closer to finishing this course way sooner than I expected! Ha, and to think I was procrastinating on answering those assessment questions that got me this credit. Lesson learned— no more procrastinating on future tasks. I have a phone meeting with the course advisor next week, and she’ll be sending me my first assignment, which I plan on knocking off ASAP. Backtracking to Monday, we had our monthly dinner with friends at Bexley RSL. I was starving by the time we got there around 7:30. It was such a busy day at work, and I hardly ate anything—which is so unlike me! I used to hear people say, “I was so busy I forgot to eat,” and I’d think, “No way!” But yes way, it happened to me on Monday. We were down a couple of staff, and it was a pretty manic, full-on day. So I devoured this delicious plate of fish and chips in no time! We started watching the final season of our favourite series, Blue Bloods, this week. I have to admit, I wasn’t sure I wanted to start it because I’m not ready to say goodbye to the Reagan family. I’m going to miss them so much! Many years ago, I bought a bread basket for myself and for a friend of mine. We both loved it and used it all the time. We’d pull it out every time we went over to each others’ houses for dinners. Then one day, I had the bright idea to keep the bread warm in the basket by putting it in the oven that was still warm but cooling down. Huge mistake! I hadn’t realised that inside the rim, there was plastic that held the basket up. So when I pulled the bread out, the plastic had melted, and the whole basket caved in and was ruined. Sigh! So I lost my basket and I soon discovered that they didn’t even sell them anymore. Fast forward about 5 years, and the other day, my friend surprised me with the exact same basket. It turns out she’s been on the lookout for years and finally found one on eBay! How nice is that? We had dinner together as a family a few times this week. If Steve gets the all-clear to go back to work on August 22nd, we won’t be having these dinners as often. On Wednesday night, I made my favourite spaghetti bolognese! Steve and Sam don’t like it, and the conversation always goes the same way when I make it. “It tastes great, Mum, but we just don’t like it.” To which I respond, “I just don’t get it. Other than you two, I’ve never met anyone who doesn’t like it. Are there more of you spaghetti bolognese non-lovers out there? I’d love to know! This tin of apple slices is perfect for making an easy apple crumble. We had it hot with vanilla ice cream, and it was so good! I got some more of this R+Co shampoo because I ran out. I made it last five months, so I think I did pretty well! After I had a keratin treatment back in March, I started using it because it’s free of sulfates, parabens, and other harsh chemicals that can strip away the treatment’s benefits. It’s been great for maintaining my hair plus, it has a lovely scent. I used to wash my hair every second day and couldn’t figure out why it was always so dry—probably because the shampoo I was using stripped away all the natural oils. Since I switched to R+Co and started washing my hair less often, it’s been so much healthier and more hydrated. The keratin treatment made a huge difference too, and this shampoo helps maintain those benefits. The downside is the price compared to the shampoo I buy from the supermarket, but it’s worth it. I just keep it away from Sam in case he decides to use it—he tends to go through shampoo so fast. I want to make sure this one lasts as long as possible for me! Fortunately, I don’t have to worry about Steve using it—his hair care routine doesn’t include shampoo if you get my drift. Hehe! There we have it—some of my favourites! It’s been quite a week, friends, and I’m so excited to welcome the weekend. Happy Friday, enjoy your weekend, and I look forward to being back here on Monday!

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Currently

7 Comments / Family Life, Home

Hi friends it’s time to link up with Jennifer for the August edition of Currently. I am so happy you have stopped by! Today we are chatting about what we are currently loving, looking forward to, dreading, eating and buying. Let’s go! Loving January this year I spotted some colourful Bauhaus prints when I went to Mitchell Road Antique and Design Centre. I fell in love with them instantly! I was so tempted to get them, but I didn’t because I don’t usually go for such colourful choices. Normally, I go for neutrals or darker tones. I actually had some Jackson Pollock-inspired canvases up on the dining room wall for years. They were done in shades of brown with splashes of black and cream. I painted them when Sam was about four years old. He watched me splash paint around and looked a bit horrified. I remember him saying ” No mummy, you need to paint nicely!” He was too young to appreciate true art, hehe. Over the winter holidays, I decided to get creative and make my own prints instead of buying the ones from Mitchell Road Antiques. I’m surprised by how much I’m enjoying a bit of colour these days! The prints have brought a refreshing change to the dining room, and they were so easy and inexpensive to make. Looking Forward To I love having something to look forward to because it makes each day (especially those dreary winter days) feel brighter. Luckily for me, I have a few exciting things coming up. First on the list is our Cousin Connect get-together this Saturday. We’re hosting at our place this time, and the theme is finger food. Everyone will bring something we can eat with our hands, so we won’t have to worry about too much washing up. Then, I have a day off work on the 16th (yay!), and I’m taking Steve out for dinner that night to a surprise venue (double yay!). And, of course, I’m super excited for spring! Oh gosh, I am so looking forward to it and can’t wait for it to arrive! Dreading I’m not dreading anything, hooray! Eating Snacks at work! My friend, who works at our preschool on a casual basis, often comes in to cover for staff who are away. She always brings us snacks, which is a lovely treat! Just having her at work is a treat in itself because she’s so friendly, fun, and has such an infectious, upbeat vibe. We always know it’s going to be a great day when we see her car parked outside our preschool in the morning! Buying Other than groceries, I haven’t been buying anything. I’m trying to have a no-spend month because the more I save now, the more I can spend overseas next year. But then I found out Country Road is having its ‘Spend and Save’ sale until mid-August. Ooof, it’s going to be hard to resist! And that’s a wrap for this month’s Currently link-up! I’m looking forward to catching up with you all again on Friday. Happy Wednesday, wherever you are—day or night!

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Relaxed Weekend Recap

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Hey there, friends! Another Monday has rolled around, and I hope you’re all feeling refreshed and ready to tackle the week ahead. My weekend was a bit on the quiet side, and it was nice mainly staying at home. I think I’ve reached the point where I’m counting down to spring! I know we don’t get the harsh winters here, but it’s still cold, and I’m longing for warmer days and blooming flowers to lift my spirits. I’m not down or anything; I’m just getting impatient and a bit over having to wear so many layers! I can’t wait for longer, warmer days! Anyway, that’s enough whinging from me because it’s time to link up with Holly and Sarah to share a recap of our relaxed and very quiet weekend. Friday You know how you get so excited about Friday nights? I know that I sure do! After finishing my Friday Favourites post, which was all about my simple skincare routine, we had dinner in front of the TV because my husband is watching the Olympics 24/7. I had my headphones on while watching a Disney vlogger on my iPad. After dinner, I had plans to write down more details for our trip. I tidied up the kitchen, lay on the lounge for a second, and then it was lights out for me! The next thing I remember, it was around 1 am, and Steve was waking me up to go to bed. That’s how tired I was! I was almost annoyed at myself for wasting a good Friday evening asleep, but I guess I needed it. Hmph! Saturday Moving on to Saturday, it was a really slow day with no plans. I took the opportunity to catch up on a few things around the house since my usual routine has gone a bit off track. With Steve home recovering, I haven’t been able to stick to my normal evening routine, which means some chores I’d usually tackle during the week are now getting pushed to the weekend. But that’s okay; I’m learning to go with the flow and embrace a bit of flexibility. Change and uncertainty can work two ways: you either hold on, become more stubborn, and freak out, or you let go. Now being post-menopause and minus a thyroid. I’m much more chilled. Phew! Saturday’s highlight was our afternoon snack—halloumi cheese! I pan-fried it in olive oil, sprinkled some oregano and drizzled it with lemon juice. We love halloumi cheese; it’s a little on the salty side, and for someone like me who carries little salt sachets in my handbag for ‘just in case,’ it’s perfect! Later on, we had turkey burgers for dinner. It was a relaxed Saturday all around! Sunday On Sunday, we went to my aunt and uncle’s house for lunch, and I caught up with my cousin and her husband, whom I hadn’t seen for almost a year. We aren’t blood relatives, but our bond goes back several generations, so we’re like family. It seems like I have cousins everywhere! However, these cousins aren’t part of our cousin connect group, as it’s only me who has that generational bond with them. When we came home, Steve and I went for a walk. We walk together now! Before his operation, walking was agony and not something we would just do for fun. We would only walk to get to places with many rest stops along the way. He still has a slight limp, but it’s nothing compared to the limp he had pre-operation. It’s much less pronounced than before the surgery, and I can see that he’s walking more naturally and with less hesitation. After our walk, I snapped a photo of him outside our house doing the exercises the physiotherapist recommended. The man can bend his knee! Do you know what a miracle that is? I haven’t seen him bend his knee in forever! On Sunday evening, Steve watched more of the Olympics while I got brave and tackled the task I had been dreading, which I mentioned in What’s Up Wednesday. I tackled the assessment questions that will determine whether I receive any credit toward the second part of my study journey. Fingers crossed that I do! I was extremely thorough and answered them as best as I could because I’d love to complete this course as soon as possible. It took me over four hours, and hitting that send button was such a relief! I can be a champion procrastinator sometimes—ugh! I texted my lovely friend to tell her I had finished, and she replied in her usual kind and encouraging way. Everyone needs a friend like her; she’s always cheering me along and offering support. She even puts up with me when I’m saying, “Nooooo, I don’t want to, I can’t!” Haha! And that was my relaxed weekend recap! I didn’t do a whole lot or take many photos, but I won a major procrastination battle, and I think that’s pretty good! How was yours? I hope you had a good one! Thanks so much for stopping by, and I look forward to being back here on Wednesday. See ya!

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My Simple Skincare Routine

3 Comments / Beauty and Self Care, Friday Favourites, Home

Happy Friday everyone! It’s great to be back today linking up with Andrea and Erika for Friday Favourites. Today, I’m excited to share one of my favourite routines that keeps my skin feeling fresh and healthy. Over the years, I’ve tried several skincare products and techniques, but I’ve found that a simple skincare routine works best for me. Here’s my go-to skincare routine that’s easy to follow and doesn’t require a ton of products. Keeping things as fuss-free as possible is the way to go for me! Morning Routine Cleanser I start my day with a gentle cleanser to wash away any impurities that have built up overnight. My current favourite is Neutrogena Deep Clean facial cleanser. It’s mild, doesn’t strip my skin of its natural oils, and leaves my face feeling clean and refreshed. Toner Next, I use a hydrating toner. I love Sukin Hydrating Skin Toner because it preps my skin for the next steps and adds a layer of moisture. A few spritzes does the trick and in the summertime, I like to keep it in the fridge for an instant refresh on a hot day. Moisturiser For hydration, I apply a lightweight moisturiser. I usually use Lacura Renew Expert Day Cream. It’s perfect for my skin type—non-greasy, absorbs quickly and provides the right amount of moisture to keep my skin soft and supple all day. Plus, it has received rave reviews for its affordability and effectiveness, making it a fantastic addition to my simple skincare routine. At the moment, I’m treating myself to the Chanel Revitalizing No.1 cream lately, but to be honest, I can’t really tell the difference between the Lacura moisturiser from Aldi – they both feel great on my skin. Still, it’s nice to indulge occasionally; it helps with the psychology of age reversal! Pay more, age less (if only!). Sunscreen I wish I had paid attention to the amazing benefits of sunscreen when I was younger. Back then I was also washing my face with soap (shudder). Now, sunscreen is a non-negotiable part of my routine. Living in Australia, where the sun is fierce, it’s essential! I use Naked Sundays Hydrating Glow Mist Top-Up Spray with SPF 50 – my cousin gave me a bottle of this amazing sunscreen, and it leaves my skin beautifully dewy. When I initially used the spray, I was excited that it came in a spray bottle. So, I did what I thought I was supposed to do – I sprayed it directly on my face. Big mistake! The sunscreen got in my eye, and it felt like I had a knife stuck in my eyeball for a good hour. It hurt so bad! Eventually, I flushed it out with saline, and all was fine. I should have read the instructions on the bottle: ‘Spray on hands first, then apply to your face’. Oh oh! Evening Routine Cleanser In the evening, I double cleanse. I used to start with my Neutrogena cleanser to remove makeup and sunscreen, and then I used micellar water afterwards. I’ve learned that it’s actually better to start with micellar water first to break down makeup and sunscreen, and then follow up with a water-based cleanser. Does that sound right? Toner I apply my hydrating toner to replenish moisture and soothe my skin after cleansing. Bakuchiol Serum At night, I have started using Lacura Bakuchiol serum, which I picked up from Aldi a few weeks ago. After cleansing and toning, I apply the bakuchiol serum, gently patting it onto my skin. A few drops go a long way and are enough to cover my face and neck. Amazingly, this routine has even softened a deep line on my cheek. I try serums and creams, and I’m always so sceptical, but this one gave me an obvious result, so I’m happy! Moisturiser Finally, I use the same Chanel moisturiser or the Lacura night-time moisturiser. Extras Face Mask Once every couple of weeks, I treat myself to a sheet mask. It’s perfect for extra hydration, and because it’s a sheet mask, it forces me to sit back and relax. It’s a wonderful way to unwind and give my skin some extra love. Facial Rollers I also use a roller in my routine, which is fantastic for a bit of extra pampering. I watched a YouTube video to learn the best technique, and now I roll it gently from the centre of my face outwards. This technique helps to boost circulation and reduce puffiness. The soothing sensation feels great! Water I try not to forget the importance of staying hydrated! Some days I’m a champ and remember all day long, while others, not so much. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day is essential for maintaining healthy, glowing skin. It helps flush out toxins, supports cellular function, and keeps your skin moisturised from the inside out. Pairing good hydration with your simple skincare routine is a winning combination—I just need to get better about being consistent with it! That’s it! My simple skincare routine is all about consistency and using products that work well for my skin. If all else fails, my top tip is to look in the mirror before you head out, use your fingers to gently hold your face back to where it was a few years ago (ten or twenty years, in my case), smile, and then run out the door with that image in your mind. It works a treat! What are your favourite skincare products or tips? I’d love to hear about them!

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Recapping July-What’s Up Wednesday

7 Comments / Home, What's Up Wednesday

Hi friends! It’s the last Wednesday in July, which means it’s time to link up with Shay and Sheaffer for What’s Up Wednesday. I’m sharing a bit of this and that and recapping what happened in July. I’m so glad you’re here! Just a heads up—this post contains affiliate links. If you decide to make a purchase through one of these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your support! WHAT WE’RE EATING THIS WEEK I’m constantly hungry, and I blame the freezing cold weather! Salads for work lunches just don’t cut it anymore, so this week, I have been having soup and toast. This is what our dinner menu looks like for the week. Monday – Mexican chicken Tuesday – Tuna patties with rice and green salad Wednesday – Salmon pasta with string beans and garlic bread (the half that I made and froze the other day) Thursday – Hopefully leftovers and I’ll make a zucchini slice as well Friday -turkey burgers and homemade chips Saturday – ?? WHAT I’M REMINISCING ABOUT Sunny, blooming flowers! Everything feels so dull and grey at the moment, and I’m really longing for the brightness and freshness of spring. WHAT I’M LOVING The pure wool socks I bought from Costco a while back. They keep my feet so warm in the freezing cold preschool playground, and I couldn’t love them more. Bless my socks!! WHAT WE’VE BEEN UP TO Sometimes, I have trouble remembering what I did five minutes ago. So luckily, I can look back on some photos to jog my memory about some of the things we’ve been up to in July. Here’s a snapshot. We saw Boney M in concert and had so much fun singing along and dancing to some pretty cool disco classics My winter school holiday break was a fantastic mix of getting stuff done around the house and enjoying some much-needed downtime. Our short trip to Gosford was a highlight. We had a fantastic stay at The Hotel Gosford! We loved the cozy atmosphere with its blend of heritage charm and modern comforts. Figuring out how to use the heritage lift was interesting and almost a bit scary at first, but we soon got the hang of it. I painted and reorganised our small walk-in closet. Now I don’t mind leaving the door open anymore because it looks so neat and tidy. I enjoyed a few trips to IKEA, and on one of those trips, I bought a new rug for the living room. The cats had made a mess of the other one, and despite using every cleaner, disinfectant, and freshener, as well as scrubbing away like crazy, I couldn’t save it. Although nobody else at home could smell “it,” I definitely could. This new rug is machine washable, and I’ve also had some strict words with the cats! So, fingers crossed that they listen. One of the best things (along with a million other best things) about being on school holidays is having the time to get a bit creative! I made some prints to hang in our dining room with the Canva website and used lots of Bauhaus inspiration. We celebrated Christmas in July I got my passport, and we bought our Disneyland and Universal Studios tickets online on Saturday. We’ve also sorted our accommodation for LA and Hawaii and hired a van to drive from LA to Las Vegas and then on to Zion National Park. Aaaahhhh! It’s all getting so real now! Steve had another procedure on his knee—manipulation therapy—to help with his range of motion. We were a bit down about this setback, expecting more pain and a longer recovery. But he actually did way better than we expected, with not much pain after the procedure, and I see improvements every day. Good job, Steve! He’s got physiotherapists coming to the house a couple of times a week and is also doing his own exercises at our local pool, walking up and down in the water to strengthen his knee. They weren’t kidding when they said it would be a long recovery! July was a pretty good month, with the usual mix of fun moments and a few of life’s surprises to keep us on our toes and remind us to be grateful for the ‘ordinary’ times. WHAT I’M DREADING I’m not really dreading anything at the moment. Hmmm, maybe I’m dreading a little something. I’m up to the second part of my study journey, and I’m procrastinating badly. I have to respond to a few long assessment-style questions to see if I’m eligible for any credits, and it’s been hard to get started. I know that once I get going, I’ll be ok. It’s the get-going part I’m having trouble with! WHAT I’M EXCITED ABOUT August is the final month of winter. It doesn’t get much more exciting than that!! WHAT I’M WATCHING We were hooked on Crossing Lines and loved it until we reached the end of season 2. I totally understand why the show only lasted three seasons! They ruined the ending of the second season and offered a pitiful explanation about what happened to three of the main characters. It was so disappointing that we decided to give up on it. Last night, we started watching DI Ray, a British police series. I was really enjoying it, but then I woke up and saw the first episode had finished. Why can’t I stay awake?! I’m keen to see more, so I’ll definitely be rewatching it and catching up! WHAT I’M LISTENING TO The airconditioner keeping us warm. I wonder what our electricity bill will look like in August…hmmmm?? WHAT I’M WEARING I remembered to take a couple of photos this month! This is my favourite wool jumper. It’s so warm, and I love that it has a zipper on the front, so I have the option of leaving it down or zipping it all the way up

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