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Least Favourite Activities

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

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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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Weekend Moments

10 Comments / Hello Monday, Home

Hey friends! It’s time to link up with Holly and Sarah for Hello Monday and dive into our weekend moments. I hope you all had an amazing weekend and are feeling pumped and ready for the last week of July. Can you even believe that it’s the last week of July? The days are just flying by so fast! Friday Night Friday night, Steve and I went out for an early dinner at our local club. We ordered the seafood platter, which was delicious, although a lot less generous than the ones we used to enjoy at the Motor Boat Club. It seems times are tough in the restaurant world these days! The generous platters we used to enjoy have now doubled in price, so we thought we’d try this new venue. We are mindful of the fact that we are planning a big trip next year. So we are eating out less these days and trying places that offer better value. This place wasn’t one of them, but we enjoyed the night anyway and may have stopped off at McDonald’s on the way home for a burger and fries. Haha! Saturday Saturday was a day for pottering around, getting this and that done. One of the tasks was a sewing chore. Sam bought a Sloppy Joe online, and when it arrived, it had a gap on the sleeve where the overlocker must have missed. He emailed the clothing company for an exchange, but they refunded him the cost price and he got to keep the sloppy Joe. A few stitches later, and it was all fixed. I caught up on some blogs, and in the afternoon, my cousins came over to book more things for our trip to the USA next year. Steve put together a quick cheese board for us to munch on while we bought Disneyland and Universal Studios tickets. We also scoured the internet for accommodation. I’m giddy with excitement about our big adventure, though I can’t help but feel a bit nervous too (especially with my fear of flying—gulp!)! While we were sorting out the details, I had to face the fact that the exchange rate wasn’t in our favour. It seemed much better when I was doing ‘girl maths’ in my head. But we’re still super excited and looking forward to our trip! 23 weeks, 5 hours, and 23 minutes to go! Sunday Sunday, I went to my aunt and uncle’s house for lunch. I hadn’t seen them for a few months, and it was so good to catch up with them. We were so busy chatting and eating, and I forgot to take any pics. My aunt is an amazing cook, and we had the most delicious tender and juicy roast pork with vegetables and other sides. In the evening, I went to my other aunt’s house, and we watched some of the Olympic events. This time, I’m just not as into them as usual; I usually get really excited about the Olympics. Steve, on the other hand, watched the four-hour-long replay of the opening ceremony on Saturday. I only saw a few glimpses and wasn’t particularly impressed with some aspects of it. Did you guys watch it? What did you think? Some of my cousins were visiting as well, and I caught up with our fur cousin Zila in her fancy outfit. That wraps up our weekend! And of course, it was back to work today. I had a feeling that last week’s spring-like temps wouldn’t last long, and I was right. It was freezing cold today, and I’m sure it’s snowing somewhere because the wind is strong and the chill is biting, brrrrrr! Thanks so much for stopping by today and I hope you have a wonderful Monday morning or evening wherever you are! I look forward to being back here on Wednesday for What’s Up Wednesday. See ya!

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Friday Favourites

3 Comments / Friday Favourites, Home

Hi friends! It’s time to link up with Andrea and Erika to share some recent favourites. Well, it was back to work for me on Monday. Even though I had an amazing break, when Monday morning rolled around, it sure felt like it had gone by in a flash. Fun, relaxing times always seem to go by so fast! I shouldn’t complain because my winter school holidays were pretty terrific. I got quite a lot of things done around the house that I wanted to do. Things like painting and reorganising which I never have much time for when I’m at work. Plus, I spent time with friends and family and a fun time away in Gosford was also a highlight. Our first day back at work was a pupil-free day. We started the morning with a team meeting, followed by morning tea—fruit bun, strawberries, and blueberries, compliments of the preschool. Then it was time for a workshop called “Understanding Yourself and Others.” This session was all about getting to know different personality styles and how these differences can either lead to conflicts or foster cooperation. We also did a personality self-assessment, which was very insightful and reminded me of all those quizzes I loved as a teen from “Dolly” and “Cosmopolitan” – “Are You His Type, Take This Quiz and Find Out! We also explored practical ways to encourage respectful communication and teamwork. And it was honestly one of the most interesting workshops I’ve ever attended. I’ve been to so many that are a sure cure for insomnia, but I was wide awake for this one and learned so much. After the workshop, it was time for lunch, again kindly provided by the preschool. We had delicious BBQ chicken with salad, pickles, and chips. I added a big dollop of garlic sauce—enough to keep the vampires away for the rest of the year! I’m back to walking to and from work, and it feels great. It’s definitely a huge favourite. Another big bonus this week has been the amazing weather. With temps hitting as high as 23ºC, it almost felt like spring on Thursday and Friday. I’m so excited that soon we’ll only have one more month of winter, then it will be spring, and all will be right with my world again. I’m so happy with my SILVTJÄRN glass jar from IKEA (I wish I spoke Swedish). I swapped out the pineapple container that you can see at the back of the photo. I used to keep my hoop earrings and a few bracelets inside the pineapple container, but I never loved it as it looked a bit odd on my dressing table. I’m much happier with this new container; I think it looks much nicer. It was only $8.00! My lovely cousin flew in from her holiday in Switzerland, and her mum picked her up from the airport so they could join us for our Cousin Connect Christmas in July. Since it was her birthday while she was away, we had a surprise birthday cake waiting for her. My aunt baked it, and doesn’t it look nice with the macarons on top? Another recent favourite is dessert! It’s a special treat since we don’t often have dessert, but this week, I made caramel bananas for Wednesday night. We’re all still enjoying homemade garlic bread over here. I’ve been buying bread from the fruit shop near my place and making my own garlic butter. It’s a bit of extra work, but it tastes great, and I split it in half and freeze it for later—win/win! I used to steam my zucchini because, you know, we need to eat veggies for health. But they never tasted great. These days, I roast them in the oven and sprinkle a little Parmesan cheese on top. Mwah! Delicious! Even though the days have been warmer, the evenings are still cold. Dunking these almond biscuits from IKEA in my steamy cup of tea is a winner! Olive oil is so expensive right now! The European heatwave and drought have sent prices through the roof due to a significant drop in production. We use a lot of olive oil, so I was excited to find this bottle at a slight discount. My mum always used to say, “Use all your special things whenever you can and don’t save them only for a special occasion.” I love this thinking and try to follow it. So yesterday, I pulled out this Corningware that my mum and I brought back from our visit to see my uncle in New York way back in 1984. We carried the set as part of our hand luggage, and I still don’t know how we managed it—it’s so heavy! But back then, this Corningware wasn’t readily available here in Australia, and it was quite the sensation at our dinner gatherings. Fast forward to yesterday, and I used the big dish to make a pot roast. I had heard a while ago that this set was going for thousands, and I didn’t think much of it. I just Googled it, and— no way, that can’t be right, can it? By the way, the pot roast turned out delicious, but it made a bit of a mess of the dish. Don’t worry—it came out perfectly clean in the dishwasher. Now I’m wondering if we might be sitting on a gold mine. Who on earth would pay so much for a Corningware set? Seriously?? That’s a whole lot of trips to Disneyland! Hmmm… On that note, I’m going to list my Corningware on eBay – just kidding! I’m having a shower and getting ready to go out for dinner. Hooray for the weekend!! Happy Friday, and thank you so much for stopping by!

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Gosford Getaway

4 Comments / Discovering NSW Australia, Home

The first weekend of the winter school holidays, I went away to Gosford for a two-night getaway with my husband. Even though it wasn’t that long ago, now that I’m back at work, that relaxing and fun weekend almost feels like a distant memory. Fun times sure go by so fast, don’t they? Anyway, I’m here today to share a recap of our trip and some of the highlights we enjoyed. Thanks so much for stopping by! Where is Gosford Gosford is on the Central Coast of NSW, just an hour and a half from Sydney by train. Even though it’s technically a city, it’s often called a town because it has that cozy, small-town feel. The waterfront views are absolutely stunning, and there are so many parks and cute cafes to explore. Big developers have definitely taken notice—construction is everywhere! High-rise apartments are popping up all over; clearly, they are making the most of those beautiful water views. While it’s exciting to see the area grow, it’s also a bit sad to think that skyrocketing property prices might change the character of this cute and charming place where life feels less hurried. On Saturday, we caught the train from Kingsgrove Station, changing at Central Station for the scenic hour-and-a-half ride. It’s such a relaxing way to travel, and the views get more beautiful as you approach Gosford. Hotel Gosford We stayed at Hotel Gosford, which is a short six-minute walk from the station. The hotel has a heritage facade, and with its recent refurbishment, we found the perfect mix of old-world charm and modern comfort. It was so warm and inviting! The hotel has three stories and a staircase with a beautiful wooden handrail. In fact, there is wood everywhere, which I love. We decided to take the lift, and would you believe it—it was a heritage lift! I’m so impressed with how they’ve chosen to preserve treasures like this from the past. It says a lot about their respect for the hotel’s history and commitment to maintaining its unique character. Steve and I fumbled around a bit, trying to get the lift to go up. There were two doors—one was a folding steel gate (I think it’s called a cage door) that had to be closed before the lift would move, and the other was a glass door. We also had to make sure to insert the room key, turn it, and press the button to go up. It took us a moment to get the sequence right, but once we figured it out, we were all set. By the time we checked out two days later, we were experts! Our Accommodation We stayed in a room with its own bathroom. Since it’s a pub, many of the rooms don’t have private facilities, so you might end up using a shared bathroom. I’m really glad we chose to pay extra for a room with a private ensuite! The room was compact but very clean and comfortable. The bathroom looked newly renovated, with modern fixtures and a sleek, fresh design. The walk-in shower was particularly nice, with a rain-head showerhead that had the right amount of pressure and felt very luxurious. I even took some photos of the space and might have said, “Quick, don’t touch anything until I get the pictures!” When we booked, the website warned us that it gets noisy on Saturday nights because they have a DJ in the pub. And boy, were they right! Haha, it was definitely loud, but the DJ played so many fun hits that I was itching to go downstairs. Steve, still recovering from his knee replacement, wasn’t keen—he’s not much of a dancer anyway, so it was a convenient excuse. But I went with it. He’d better be prepared for the next time we stay because nothing is going to stop me from hitting the dance floor! The hotel had kindly provided earplugs on the bedside table, which we only discovered the next day. Duh! Earls Kitchen The first night we stayed, we booked a table for dinner at Earl’s Kitchen, which is located downstairs in the pub. What an amazing meal we enjoyed! My mouth is watering just thinking about it. If the accommodation and atmosphere in Hotel Gosford weren’t enough to convince us to come back for another visit, the dinner absolutely sealed the deal! Earl’s Kitchen is such a gem! We both loved the modern yet cozy vibe. The decor blends stylish elements with a touch of rustic charm, and the warm lighting made everything feel so comfortable and inviting. The restaurant has an open-plan layout with a variety of seating options, from intimate tables for two to larger communal tables. Our table was located near the bar, on the edge of the main dining area. Next time, I’d prefer to sit closer to the centre, near the kitchen, where you can see all the action and soak up the lively atmosphere. It’s always fun to watch the chefs at work creating magic and feel the buzz of the place. Dinner It was a cold evening, and we were both craving something comforting—what better solution than to go for carbs? We started with a warm cob loaf topped with delicious melted confit butter. For mains, we ordered smoked beef cheek, garlic mash, and heirloom Dutch carrots. The whole menu was packed with delicious options, including gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan choices. We spent a while trying to decide because everything sounded so good. In the end, we both chose the same dish to avoid dish envy, haha! For dessert, we shared the steamed dark ale pudding with praline and salted caramel ice cream—it was a mouthwatering finish to our meal! And let’s not forget the wine: we had a brut cuvée that made us feel extra festive and bubbly. Second Day Exploring Gosford The next day, I was craving a pie so badly! After a sleep-in, as a result of the late-night disco, we went out

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