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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!

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  

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.    

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!      

Hi friends welcome to Friday favourites! I’m sharing a quick New Year’s recap as well as a few other favourites. Thanks so much for stopping by. New Year’s Celebrations For New Year’s Eve, we had no plans right up until the last minute. Steve and I were quite happy just to stay home and binge-watch a new series on Netflix. Usually, Steve works on New Year’s Eve but as it fell on a Sunday this year and Sunday is his usual day off. It meant that he got to stay home. Yay! Sam was out at a friend’s place for a small gathering with a few of his friends from school. In the end, a friend of ours invited us and another couple over to their place for an early dinner. It was a lovely cozy evening with lots of cheese, wine and a delicious dinner. The night ended at around 11 pm and luckily our friends live within walking distance. We purposely didn’t drive so that we could both enjoy a drink or three. On the way home there were so many fireworks being let off and you wouldn’t think that they were illegal over here! We got home in time to watch the midnight fireworks on TV. But we had our own local fireworks going off right near our house. Thanks again to some enthusiastic local residents! So I ditched the ones on TV and ran out to watch the ones outside our house. They were quite impressive! On New Year’s Day, we continued with our celebrations and enjoyed prawns, oysters and some fancy French bubbly. That’s A Wrap For Christmas 2023! Later on, it was time to undecorate the house. I love Christmas and I feel sad that all the fun festivities are over so I prefer to get this task over and done with. Admittedly I do like the extra space when everything is packed away. In the evening we went out for dinner with the same friends we spent New Year’s Eve with. After all the delicious food I wasn’t feeling very hungry so I just ordered a burger. My Favourite New Diary On Tuesday I caught up with my bestie for brunch. We went to a cafe called The Leaf Cafe and it was decorated with all this amazing greenery. I had the poached eggs. My friend had the smashed avocado. She surprised me with a new Twigseeds diary. My lovely friend gave me one last year and I used it the whole year. In the past my diary game usually drops off as the year moves along and then I start to rely on my memory…big mistake! But this gorgeous diary is full of cute illustrations as well as inspirational quotes. So it’s very motivating. Salads Again I have gone back to eating salads for lunch! As much as I love all the treats and delicious meals over Christmas. After a while, I find that I start to crave simple fresh meals. When I’m at work it’s the other way around and I start to crave burgers and fries after eating salads all week. Ha! Sydney Kings vs Melbourne United A big favourite this week was going to see a basketball game with Sam and some of our cousins. It was the Sydney Kings Vs Melbourne United. We had so much fun watching and cheering for Sydney. Well, half of our group cheered for Sydney but my cousin and her family are big Melbourne United fans. The whole atmosphere in the Qudos Bank arena was amazing. I love how basketball is a fast game where both teams are constantly scoring. Then during the breaks the DJ plays music and people get up and dance hoping to win prizes and get a chance to be on camera. My Favourite Ikea Purchase I love my shopping trolley from Ikea and it just might be my favourite Ikea purchase ever. Look how much shopping I can fit into it. This afternoon I went to get some things for our Cousin Connect dinner tomorrow night. We are having Italian food, that’s why I got all the fresh parsley and basil. So I better jump off the computer now and start food prepping!  I hope you all have an amazing weekend and I look forward to being back here on Monday. Happy weekend! Linking up with Andrea