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what's inside my shopping trolley

What’s Inside My Shopping Trolley

Hi friends, welcome to the March edition of ‘Let’s Look’ with Erika and Shay. It’s time to share what’s inside our grocery carts! I love a good sticky beak at people’s grocery carts (or shopping trolley as we commonly call them). Another thing I find interesting is seeing food products and packaging from different parts of the world that we don’t have in our supermarkets. I guess that’s why I’m so intrigued by crescent rolls and coffee creamer. We just don’t have these two fascinating products over here! What’s Inside My Shopping Trolley These days I mainly do my grocery shopping online. I used to pop into the shops after work and do small quick shops but these days it’s a whole lot easier to do a single online grocery order. Shopping online gives me a huge breather from the daily hustle, particularly since my days are packed with full-time work. I think this small luxury is what’s keeping me sane! Haha! In my shopping trolley, there’s typically a mix of the usual staples such as dairy, meat or fish, fresh fruit and vegetables, cleaning products, cat food and protein items. Oh yes, and maybe a bottle of wine as well! Extra protein products are also a regular addition to my shopping trolley because my son lifts weights, and it’s all about consuming a certain quantity of protein. Hmmm. Me, I just want to be like the people who come from the Blue Zones and live to 100! So I try and stay away from processed food and too many fatty, salty, sweet (and oh so delicious) snacks. But I’m not a sergeant major about it, so there will always be a couple of treats in my shopping trolley. Here is what I ordered the other day.   Can I just say, the price of food these days has gotten crazy!! Anyway, that is usually what I have in my shopping trolley. Of course, it varies depending on what we have run out of and what’s on the menu for the week. What’s inside yours, I’m so curious to know! Let’s Look Here is what we have looked at so far this year In January we looked at how we cleaned our closets. February was all about the little things we do every single day.

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Work-Life Balance: Maximising Post-Work Time

Feeling overwhelmed with work-life balance? Do you rush home from work only to find there’s hardly any time before you’re back in the cycle again? You’re not alone! Whether you’re employed or running your own business, the struggle to find quality time out of those post-work hours is real. Even when you’ve got upwards of 6 hours left of the day, the time we get after a full day of work can feel miniscule. How are you supposed to enjoy life when it feels like there’s never going to be a balance between these two worlds? Here are 3 tips that might just work for you.  Pexels Image – CC0 Licence Work-Life Balance: Maximising Post-Work Time Cook Easy Meals (or Plan Ahead!) Let’s face it, whipping up a three-course meal after a long day at work? Not happening. And who has the energy to figure out dinner on the spot, especially if you’ve got a hungry family to feed? Instead of wrestling with these challenges, why not streamline the process by planning your meals ahead of time? Take a moment on the weekend to map out your meals for the week. Then hit the shops to grab everything you need or save even more time by ordering your groceries online. With your meals planned and ingredients stocked, you’ll breeze through dinnertime without the mid-week grocery runs. You can also say goodbye to spending an hour or more in the kitchen preparing meals. That means more relaxation time on the sofa for you! Another way to balance work and life is through batch cooking. Spend time on weekends preparing large batches of meals to freeze and reheat during the week, reducing daily cooking stress. You can also explore meal delivery services for pre-portioned ingredients and recipes, eliminating meal planning and grocery shopping. Opt for simple, quick recipes with minimal prep time to further streamline your cooking routine. By adopting these strategies, you’ll save time and energy in the kitchen, leaving more room to relax and unwind after work Realise That Not Everything Depends On You Handling demanding projects, whether in business or at home, can be tough. Whether it’s managing a big event or keeping your living space clean, the pressure to succeed can weigh heavily. But here’s an important truth: You don’t have to carry the entire burden alone. In the business world, where deadlines loom and expectations run high. It’s quite common for companies to go into overdrive when they’ve got something big in the works, such as attendance at a summit or a new client that requires a lot of time and attention. Hire a professional to help plan your event, such as Catalyst Event Solutions, and make sure you’re properly staffed round the clock to cope with new project demands. Similarly, when it comes to managing your household, think of it as running a small business. Delegate chores among family members or roommates to lighten the load and maintain a harmonious living environment. Outsourcing tasks like cleaning or lawn care can also provide valuable relief, freeing up precious time for activities that bring joy and fulfilment. By sharing tasks and managing resources effectively, you’ll understand that success doesn’t solely depend on you. Remember, you’re just one part of the equation. Strike a balance between work and life, knowing you have support to thrive in both areas. Don’t Be Hard On Yourself For Taking Time to Relax Do you ever find yourself feeling guilty for simply unwinding at home after a long day of work? It’s a common sentiment, but dwelling on it isn’t productive. Remember, you’re not wasting time – you’re taking the opportunity to enjoy yourself! Relaxation is key, even if it’s just for a short time before bed. Don’t feel bad about taking a break – it’s important! Embrace it, and you’ll feel much happier than if you spent the time worrying about being busy all the time. If you’re constantly feeling like your evenings vanish in the blink of an eye, these tips could be just what you need to reclaim your after-work hours and strike that perfect work-life balance!

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5 things I can't live without post

5 Things I Can’t Live Without

Hi friends it’s time to share 5 things I can’t live without on today’s ‘Share Our Lives link up’ hosted by Adrienne, Dara, Jen, Joanne and Sarah. Some are practical and some are personal and they all help me out every day. While I could add essentials like food, water, family, love etc to the list. I’ve narrowed it down to the five items that make my life easier and brighten my days. So, let’s take a look! 5 Things I Can’t Live Without 1. MOBILE PHONE I remember way back in the dark ages when mobile phones first came out and they were known as ‘bricks’. They probably weighed about the same and looked clunky like a brick. I also remember thinking “Who on earth would need to carry a phone around all day. As if anybody ever needs to be that contactable…hmph”. Well, wasn’t I wrong!! Now here I am in 2024 and the mobile phone has made it to the top of the list of things I can’t live without. This tiny little device has become my lifeline! It connects me to friends and family (as well as the occasional scammer). I can check emails, set reminders and alarms, I have endless information and entertainment at my fingertips. It’s almost impossible to imagine life without a mobile phone. Who would have thought? Certainly not me! 2. AIRPODS My kids surprised me with a pair of AirPods for Mother’s Day last year, and I love them! I use them every day when I walk to and from work. Sometimes I listen to a podcast or music, other times I have hands-free conversations. It’s funny how common it is nowadays to see people out and about seemingly talking to themselves with earphones in. I used to think it was so weird, ha! But now I’ve joined the club! 3. THE INTERNET I can’t imagine a world without the internet and it definitely makes it on my list of things I can’t live without. I know that I’m not alone either. Because on the odd tragic occasion when our internet service hasn’t been working. My whole family (myself included) behaves as if we have had our oxygen supply cut off and our very survival is at stake! 4. ORTHOTICS A while ago, I shared how I suffered from annoying lower back pain that made every day a misery for me. Thankfully, I saw a podiatrist who saved me with custom-made orthotics that support my arch and align my knees, meaning no more back pain for me! Now that I wear orthotics inside my comfortable work shoes, I could never live without them. While my everyday footwear isn’t the fanciest because I have to buy shoes that fit my orthotics, no pain trumps fancy shoes! Plus, the good news for me is that I can wear any shoes I like whenever I go out and on the weekends. Wearing orthotics every workday does the trick in keeping my dodgy knees aligned. 5. COMPUTER AND LAPTOP My computer means that I can do what I love and that is blogging! For the longest time, I held back from starting a blog, partly due to shyness and mostly because I didn’t have my own laptop. Then, I inherited my son’s old Macbook he used for school when they had to upgrade in year 12. It changed everything and I finally took the plunge and started blogging. Then last year I got an iMac and I felt like such a grown-up because it’s so sleek and fancy! That’s a wrap for today! Thanks so much for being here as I shared the 5 things I can’t live without. What are some of yours? Please share, I’d love to know!  

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It's Friday

Friday Favourites

Hi everyone! welcome to Friday favourites. I am super excited that it’s Friday and we can say a huge hello to the weekend. Because friends it sure has been a week!! Up until Thursday afternoon, I probably had zero favourites. This week was mainly all about getting over the huge hurdle called assessment and rating. In New South Wales, this process is a thorough evaluation to ensure compliance with quality standards for early childhood education and care. I know that the preschool where I work is really something special! Our team consists of wonderfully kind, patient, caring, and passionate teachers, many of whom I’m lucky to count as friends. We’re also incredibly fortunate to have the best director anyone could ask for! Our learning environment is truly fantastic, especially since the big renovations over the summer holidays. Despite all the hard work to make sure everything was spot on, the upcoming assessment and rating process has been looming over us like a dark cloud for what feels like an eternity. So, it’s fair to say that most of this week was all about getting ready for the big assessment days – Wednesday and Thursday. Assessment Days The assessment itself was incredibly intense! The assessor was so meticulous as she examined every single little detail and I’m convinced she would make an excellent detective! As she observed she also took notes. At one point she came over to where I was sitting in the playground reading a book to a group of children. I felt so stressed because I could see that she was taking notes as she observed me. I started seeing little lights flashing in front of my eyes and quickly realised that as I was reading I was also holding my breath. Hahahaha!!! I’m laughing now but I wasn’t then. I remember thinking, Oh no I’m going to pass out in front of the assessor, I’m going to traumatise the kids and then we will fail for sure!! Well, the good news is, I composed myself, took some deep breaths and then she moved on. Phew!! Finally, Some Favourites! Thursday afternoon couldn’t come fast enough and I almost ran out of work in the afternoon, I think we all did because we were all so happy that the assessment and rating days were finally over! Now we have to wait for the results and fingers crossed we get the rating we know we deserve. I had booked a hair appointment for 4 pm at a nearby salon conveniently located halfway between where I work and where I live. It was my first time there and stepping into the cool air-conditioned salon felt heavenly after a hot and stressful couple of work days. The staff at the salon were so friendly and welcoming, they had soft relaxing music playing in the background and gorgeous big mirrors and comfortable chairs. The lovely hairdresser listened to my woes as I told her all about my constant battle with frizzy hair and damaged ends. In the end, we both agreed that a partial keratin treatment was the best way to go. I felt so pampered and spoilt the whole time I was there! They even had a refreshments menu and I chose a coffee that came with a cute heart-shaped chocolate. So many sweet touches! Keratin Treatment The keratin treatment was quite the process. I spent about two hours at the salon, the hairdresser applied the treatment mainly to the top layer of my hair, including my fringe. She explained that this approach would help maintain some volume and prevent my hair from looking too flat. However, the downside is- I can’t wash my hair until Sunday, which means that for now, I can’t style it the way I’m used to. Additionally, the keratin stripped the colour from my hair, leaving it a much lighter shade of brown. I’m convinced it’s orange, but my work friends disagree (I think they are being kind). I have to wait two weeks to colour my hair back to the shade of brown that I am used to. But despite the unexpected colour change, the upside is that my hair is now smooth and completely frizz-free for at least six months, and that’s definitely a win!  Treats Today with A&R over we were back to our usual fun relaxed vibe at work. Many of my colleagues brought some treats to celebrate and it was a fantastic way to finish off a stressful week. Thankfully we won’t have to go through this whole process for at least another three years! I’m celebrating a relaxed Friday evening with one of these! Cheers to the weekend! Linking up with Andrea and Erika    

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currently March

Currently

Hi, friends can you believe that it’s March already? The last couple of months have just flown by and I can hardly believe that we are halfway through the first term of preschool. It’s now Autumn and before we know it, it will be Easter! Anyway, I better stop and focus on today instead of getting ahead of myself! I’m excited to be back for this month’s edition of Currently hosted by Jennifer from Overflowing With Thankfulness. Today we will be chatting about what we are currently loving, looking forward to, planning, wearing and eating. Thanks so much for being here! LOVING I can’t tell you how much I love walking everywhere! Last year when my husband totalled his car but saved two silly cats from being run over, we went from two cars to one. We instantly made plans to get another car but I’m so glad we held off and didn’t. Instead, we decided to wait because everything was so expensive coming out of COVID times. I gave Steve my car to drive to work and because my workplace is within walking distance I started walking to and from work. It has been the best decision ever! These days I feel healthier and even managed to lose about 5 kilos that wouldn’t budge. Walking home in the afternoons gives me a chance to destress and I just feel so good by the time I get home. Now we don’t have to pay for two lots of car insurance, registration or fuel.  I walk an average of 7km a day so I feel as if I’m exercising without exercising if you know what I mean. I think it’s always more fun to get a good workout when you don’t even realise you’re doing it! Eventually, we will have to get another car because my little Suzuki Alto is from 2012 so it’s getting on in years. It’s also not the most comfortable car for anyone taller than 162cm like myself. Six-foot Steve does look a lot like Fred Flinstone all squished inside the tiny car when he drives it! But I’m pretty sure that we won’t ever need two cars again. LOOKING FORWARD TO I’m catching up with my former boss on Saturday, she is such a lovely lady and I’m so glad that even though we don’t see each other often, we are still in contact. I’m also going out on Sunday to see the old 90s band FIVE perform live. I think it will be a fun weekend after a couple of much-needed low-key weekends. PLANNING I just got off the phone with my lovely cousin and we are planning our next cousin connect for the 16th of March. Somehow we have gotten out of sync as far as meeting on the first weekend of every month. But the first item on the agenda at our next get-together is to get back on track! WEARING Jeans! It’s been too hot for jeans for such a long time. But there’s been a slight shift towards Autumn and the weather has been cool enough for me to wear jeans again lately. EATING Avocado in everything. Well, not really, that’s an exaggeration. But we have been making the most of what seems to be an abundance of avocados selling quite cheaply. I add it to salads, slice it up as a side, eat them on their own for morning tea at work and of course, we have enjoyed eating lots of guac! That’s a wrap for now and a peek at what we have been currently up to. I hope you have a wonderful day ahead and I look forward to being back here on Friday to share some favourites!

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3 Tips To Overcome Your Insecurities

No matter how impeccably put-together someone may appear, let’s face it: insecurities are a common part of the human experience. Whether arising from childhood memories, dissatisfaction with one’s looks, past traumas, or the dreaded comparison game, these persistent doubts have a knack for infiltrating minds and causing feelings of inadequacy. They can lead to an obsession over appearance, incessant worry about the future, or feeling small in social situations. It’s essential for personal growth and fulfilment to overcome your insecurities. Despite their knack for causing distress, there’s a silver lining: insecurities don’t have to define us. In fact, they can be the catalyst for profound personal growth and resilience. By arming ourselves with the right tools and mindset, we can transform these insecurities into sources of strength. So, let’s dive into some empowering strategies to overcome your insecurities and emerge even stronger on the other side! 3 Tips To Overcome Your Insecurities Face Your Negative Feelings: Confronting Insecurities Head-On Ready to take on those feelings of inadequacy like a true champion? The first step is to shine a spotlight on those sneaky beliefs and perceptions you have about yourself. Instead of sweeping them under the rug, let’s get curious! Dive deep and uncover what’s triggering those fears and anxieties. And hey, don’t be afraid to question them. It’s time to flip the script! Say you’re gearing up for that nerve-wracking job interview. Instead of letting doubts run rampant, pump yourself up with positive reasons why you are the perfect fit for the job. Now, it’s time to map out your battle plan. Pinpoint those areas where your insecurities like to lurk and craft a strategy to show them who’s boss. And remember, perfection is overrated! Embrace those quirks and imperfections—they’re what make you uniquely awesome! So, are you ready to kick those insecurities to the curb and unleash your inner confidence? You’ve got this! Embrace Your Unique Beauty Embracing self-love and acceptance is crucial on the journey to overcome insecurities, especially those related to our physical appearance. Let’s face it, those physical insecurities can feel like a constant battle, staring back at us from every mirror and echoing in every negative comment. But here’s the thing: while you can overcome some of these challenges, others are simply part of what makes you uniquely you. However, if there’s something within your control that you’d like to change, go for it! For example, if you’re not thrilled with your teeth, cosmetic dentistry could be just the ticket to a winning smile! And why not explore shedding a few pounds or experimenting with a fresh hairstyle? It’s like hitting the reset button on your confidence! Furthermore, if you’re dealing with minor style hiccups, consider diving into body type research and curating a killer capsule wardrobe that truly reflects you. It’s all about embracing the journey of self-enhancement and feeling absolutely fabulous in your own skin! Embrace The Adventure Feeling stuck in your comfort zone? Break free and unleash your full potential! Don’t let insecurities hold you back – Instead, spark your creativity and boost your courage by trying new things. When was the last time you challenged yourself? Discover new passions and uncover what truly drives you. Whether it’s trying out a new hobby or embarking on a thrilling adventure, now’s your chance to shake things up! Start by creating your very own bucket list – jot down those daring dreams and aspirations that give you butterflies. From exploring far-off lands to achieving those lofty career goals, let your imagination run wild! Once you’ve got your list, it’s time to turn those dreams into reality. Break it down into actionable steps and watch as you inch closer to your goals with each stride. And hey, you don’t have to go it alone! Share your bucket list with a trusted friend or family member who’ll cheer you on every step of the way. Together, you’ll overcome your insecurities and unleash a whole new world of possibilities! Conclusion Viewing insecurities as an opportunity for growth and self-discovery is crucial. Remember, progress takes time, so patience is key. Each step forward, regardless of size, brings you closer to your aspirations. Insecurities are just part of the journey, not the final destination. Confronting insecurities head-on, embracing your unique qualities, and diving into new experiences can transform weaknesses into strengths. With confidence and acknowledging your inner strength, you’ll conquer any doubts that arise. Everyone possesses incredible potential waiting to be unleashed. Celebrate your progress, honour your strengths, and embrace life with optimism. Keep moving forward, because each step takes you closer to being able to overcome your insecurities and be your best self!  

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Weekend Snapshot

Hi friends it feels like a minute ago I was wishing everyone a happy Friday. Now just like that, it’s Monday again! Thanks so much for being here today as I share a snapshot of my weekend. Saturday We had plans to go out for breakfast on Saturday, but Steve had to cover for his coworker who was off sick. So that meant he had to work longer and close the restaurant. He didn’t get home until 4 am and there was no way he was going to be able to get up until at least before midday. I did my Saturday meal planning as well as online grocery shopping and scheduled for it to be delivered at 7 pm. So easy! A great thing about living so close to about 3 Woolworths stores is that I can get same-day delivery with no problem! I made breakfast and we had it for lunch – scrambled eggs, tomatoes, mushrooms and smoked salmon. Easy, delicious and cheaper than going out! A Quick Shopping Trip After Steve went to work I made a quick trip into the city to return a bra. I ordered it online and would you believe it, I accidentally ordered one size too small. If I didn’t return it on Saturday then I knew that I wouldn’t be able to any time soon. The returns policy says that I only had 30 days. It had been two weeks since I bought it already. It turned out to be a worthwhile trip because I bought some shoes for work. Walking to and from work meant that I had worn my shoes right down. I hadn’t realised that they had both split across the sole. A kind little preschooler pointed it out to me on Friday!! “Hey Miss Ruth, your shoes are broken”. They sure were and I hadn’t even noticed!! These Skechers are great because I can fit my orthopedic supports inside. They also have a really soft cushioned sole. I felt as if I was bouncing around all day in them today at work. Boing boing boing! My last pair were just ordinary leather sneakers and the soles were hard and flat. I also picked up some brownies from David Jones, they were discounted from $18.00 to $4.00. Brownies are delicious but I wouldn’t have bought them if they weren’t discounted. I mean to pay $18.00 I would have wanted them to sing or something! I raced home and made it just in time for my grocery delivery. Phew! Sunday I spent Sunday getting ready for the beginning of the week. I had another staff meeting planned for Monday after work as well as plans to go out for dinner with friends in the evening. But I wanted to leave some dinner for when Sam got home from his placement at the hospital. He finishes at around 9 pm and doesn’t get home until nearly 10. So I made some tuna patties the way my mum used to make them. She beat the egg whites first and the patties come out all fluffy and delicious. After some chores, Steve and I had a small snack for lunch and watched TV. The rest of the evening I spent doing some work and I went to bed at a reasonable time. I can’t wait for this week to be over. Preschool Assessment and rating is on this Wednesday and Thursday. If I hear those words again after this week I’m going to cry. Oh wait, I can’t cry much these days. I’ll probably scream!! Haha. That’s it for today friends. I just got home and I am going to jump off the computer and get ready fast! My friends are coming to pick me up soon and I want to forget about work and enjoy dinner tonight! Have a great day! Linking up with Holly and Sarah  

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home repairs that are easy to overlook

Home Repairs That Are Easy To Overlook

Attention, homeowners! Let’s dive into the exciting world of home maintenance. Sure, we all know that repairs are part of the package, but there’s a silver lining: they keep our homes in tip-top shape! While plumbing and electrical issues might steal the spotlight, there’s a whole cast of subtle repairs waiting in the wings. Don’t underestimate them; these important problems can pack a punch if ignored. Imagine the impact they could have over time! So let’s shed light on three often-overlooked repairs that can make a huge difference in your home sweet home. Essential Home Repairs: 3 Often Overlooked Fixes 1. Vent Maintenance: Keeping Your Home Breathing Easy Let’s talk about vent maintenance – a crucial yet often overlooked aspect of home care. Throughout your home, you’ll find various vents, particularly in areas like bathrooms and near air conditioning units. While they may seem insignificant, these vents require regular attention and maintenance to keep your home running smoothly. Don’t underestimate their importance! Thankfully, maintaining them isn’t as daunting as it sounds. A simple cleaning routine can work wonders; you can easily handle giving the vents a regular cleaning yourself. Occasionally, you might encounter minor issues that need fixing, but fret not – these are usually straightforward tasks that won’t break the bank. If you find yourself unsure or overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to call in a professional. They can provide expert assistance without draining your wallet. Remember, investing a little effort into vent maintenance now can save you from bigger headaches down the road. 2. Pool Repairs: Splish, Splash, Fix Let’s dive into pool maintenance, an essential aspect of keeping your aquatic paradise pristine and ready for enjoyment! If you’re fortunate enough to have a pool, ensuring it’s well-maintained is key to enjoying it to the fullest. After all, nobody wants a stagnant pool turned breeding ground for bacteria! While many pool maintenance tasks are relatively simple, such as the essential pool pump repair it’s still wise to enlist the help of a professional. Their expertise ensures everything functions smoothly, allowing you to bask in the joy of your pristine pool without worry. Don’t let maintenance slip through the cracks; a little care now ensures endless summer fun later! 3. Gutter Repairs: Securing Your Home Against the Elements Gutters often play the role of silent protectors, quietly safeguarding our homes. Yet, they’re frequently overlooked in the hustle and bustle of home care. Many of us rarely glance upward to notice their condition until disaster strikes, and suddenly, they’re tumbling down. But why wait for a gutter catastrophe? It’s far wiser to tackle issues head-on before they escalate. Fortunately, most gutter repairs are minor and can be dealt with quite easily. With just a bit of time and effort, you can nip potential problems in the bud, ensuring your home stays safe and dry. Don’t let your gutters go unnoticed any longer—give them the attention they deserve! Wrapping Up Home Repairs As a homeowner, you’re no stranger to the world of home repairs. From the expected fixes to the surprises that pop up, your to-do list is never-ending. While some issues are glaringly obvious, there’s a whole world of sneaky repairs waiting to catch you off guard. Staying vigilant and proactive enables you to tackle these hidden repairs head-on, ensuring your home remains a sanctuary of peace and comfort. By staying ahead of the game, you’ll not only prevent costly damages but also save yourself from unnecessary stress. So, as you wrap up your home repair journey, remember: with a little foresight, your home will always be your happy place.    

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health symptoms you should never ignore

Health Symptoms You Should Never Ignore

Feeling like it’s time to level up your health game? You’re not alone. Recognizing health symptoms you should never ignore is the first step toward a journey of self-improvement. Let’s dive into some key indicators and proactive steps you can take to enhance your well-being, all while maintaining a positive outlook: Elevating Your Health: Recognizing Symptoms You Should Never Ignore and Embracing Change 1. Catching Your Breath Shortness of breath can be concerning and if you find yourself gasping for air, then you need to call your doctor, or your Illawarra GP right away as it could signal underlying issues like asthma, cardiovascular concerns or pneumonia. These are health symptoms you should never ignore. Early intervention can make a significant difference in managing these conditions. With their expert guidance, you’ll gain valuable insights and feel empowered to manage your health effectively. 2. Headaches: A Nudge to Check In While headaches can be very common, experiencing sudden and severe ones could be your body’s cue to pause and evaluate your well-being. If you have a sudden onset of headaches or feel like you’re experiencing the worst headache of your life, it’s a clear sign that you need to take action. This is especially crucial if accompanied by other neurological symptoms, as they may indicate more serious conditions such as migraines, stroke, or aneurysm. By consulting with your healthcare team, you not only address the pain but also gain valuable insights into your overall health. Together, you’ll navigate the path forward with clarity and confidence, ensuring a positive approach to managing your well-being. 3. Allergies: Listen to Your Body’s Symphony When allergies strike, it’s as if your body is prompting you to listen and respond to its needs—a reminder to pay attention to your health signals. Sudden allergic reactions may catch you off guard, but they’re a sign that your body is communicating with you. Whether it’s a reaction to food, pollen, or other triggers, consulting your GP or healthcare provider ensures you’re in sync with your body’s needs. With their professional support, you’ll refine your approach to wellness, maintaining a harmonious balance. Severe allergic reactions, known as anaphylaxis, highlight the importance of staying vigilant. Symptoms like swelling and a drop in blood pressure are your body’s way of signalling potential health concerns. If you suspect an allergic reaction, reaching out to your GP or healthcare provider promptly ensures you receive the help and support needed to address the issue effectively, ensuring your continued well-being. 4. Weight Loss: Unraveling the Mystery Unexplained weight loss might feel like a puzzle, yet it’s one of those vital health symptoms you should never ignore. If you notice the numbers on the scale dropping without explanation, it’s time to decipher the message your body is sending. Consulting your doctor enables you to explore potential underlying causes, ensuring you uncover clues to restore balance and vitality. Remember, every step toward understanding your body is a step toward greater well-being. Doctors emphasize the significance of addressing unexplained weight loss, as it could indicate underlying health issues. Losing weight unintentionally, especially up to 5% of your body weight, without trying warrants prompt attention. By seeking medical guidance early on, you can prevent the issue from getting worse and avoid any long-lasting consequences. Seize the Day: Your Wellness Journey Begins Now Feeling inspired to embark on your wellness journey? Your healthcare team can guide you every step of the way. Whether it’s addressing specific health symptoms you should never ignore or adopting healthier habits, the expertise and support of your GP can pave the way for a brighter, healthier future. Embrace the signs, take proactive steps, and trust in your ability to elevate your health. With determination and optimism, you’re well-equipped to make positive changes and thrive. Here’s to embracing wellness and living your best life!      

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February Fun – What’s Up Wednesday

Hi friends and welcome to the February edition of What’s Up Wednesday. It’s time to share a little of what we have been up to during our fun February. It’s the last month of summer and we’ve soaked it up big time! So let’s jump right in shall we? WHAT WE’RE EATING THIS WEEK On the menu this week Monday – Chicken casserole and rice Tuesday – Spinach pie with leftovers from Monday night Wednesday – Teriyaki salmon with Asian salad Thursday – Chilli con carne Friday – Spiced mango chicken with veggies Saturday – Pesto pasta Sunday –  Chicken schnitzel with roast potatoes, veggies and lots of gravy WHAT I’M REMINISCING ABOUT I think that I’m reminiscing about how quickly time flies! It’s March next week and it only feels as if we had Christmas about five minutes ago! I can’t help but reflect on all the fun we had during the summer school holidays, and now here we are, already five weeks into the new school year. WHAT I’M LOVING I’m still loving the hot weather and I know it won’t be long before the seasons change and it will be our turn for some cold weather. WHAT WE’VE BEEN UP TO February has been all about getting back into routine. I went back to work after the long summer break, Sam started back at uni and he is now in his second year studying for a Bachelor of Nursing. Steve just kept ploughing through the busiest time in the hospitality industry. I guess you could say that we are well and truly back into the swing of things. I’ve adjusted my meal planning routine and it’s working great. I meal plan and online grocery shop on a Saturday morning and I’m hoping that because I am enjoying this. I will keep it up and not fall off the meal-planning train halfway through the year as I usually tend to do. Goals!! Along with the usual work-related stuff we have also enjoyed some fun times and I’m back to looking forward to the weekends. This is something I try not to do because I really want to be grateful and enjoy the little sprinkles of joy every day. But I still count down to Fridays! Can you see a big contradiction here? haha! Some of the fun February moments we have been up to include- Our monthly Cousin Connect dinner. Valentine’s Day treats Celebrating my birthday with a nice family lunch in the city at the old Fortune of War pub. Dinner and games night with friends WHAT I’M DREADING Our preschool received the news that all the staff have been waiting for since last year. We are going to be assessed and rated next month. In NSW preschools, assessment and rating are all about ensuring top-notch quality! Preschools are evaluated on their educational programs, safety measures, staff qualifications, and management practices. After the assessment, preschools receive ratings, ranging from ‘Exceeding National Quality Standard’ to ‘Significant Improvement Required’. We have always received an Exceeding Rating which is fantastic but it’s no fun being observed by the department for two whole days. So I’m already dreading it and feeling nervous knots in my stomach. All the team are, and we can’t wait until it’s over! WHAT I’M EXCITED ABOUT Do you remember the British boy band from the 90s called FIVE? They had fun hits like “When The Lights Go Out” and “Everybody Get Up”. Well, they are coming to Sydney to perform the second weekend in March and Steve and I are going to see them. Over the years the five band members have disbanded and then reunited. Now the band is made up of three members but it’s still called five. Which I think is kind of funny but maybe that’s just me. Anyway, I’m excited to go and see them perform and it should be a great night reliving my 30s. WHAT I’M WATCHING I’ve been really getting into European shows lately. One of my recent finds on SBS Australia is ‘The Shift,’ a Danish series set in a maternity ward. It’s a great show full of interesting characters and engaging plots without too much drama. I used to love shows full of action, and adventure with a good dose of drama. But my preferences have shifted and lately, I prefer less drama and more good storytelling. I’m excited to hear they’re making another season and this time it will be set in a pediatric ward with new characters as well as some old favourites.  I think European shows offer a fresh perspective and they are different from what I’m used to so it’s been a nice change. WHAT I’M LISTENING TO My older cat snoring! She is twelve years old and has had a hard time adjusting to our new kitten, Mochi who is just like a toddler who can’t keep her hands to herself. She is constantly invading Sushi’s space and loves to jump all over her and annoy her! I think Sushi gets exhausted from so much hyperactivity around her. So now she’s enjoying some quiet time here in the office/garage as I type away. She is peacefully sleeping and snoring so loudly! WHAT I’M WEARING I’m still wearing lots of summer clothes but I can feel that it’s beginning to cool down a little in the mornings and evenings. But having said that, tomorrow we have temperatures forecast to reach as high as 38ºC. We are definitely on the brink of transitioning into Autumn and the weather is going to be all over the place again until the cold weather sets in. Hmmm, I’m not a fan of the cold! On the upside, I guess cooler weather means I get to wear my favourite pair of comfortable Levi’s jeans that I’ve had for 18 years! WHAT I’M LOOKING FORWARD TO NEXT MONTH We have been discussing the possibility of going on a big overseas trip with some from our cousin group. However,

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