Doors of WordPress V144

It’s Thursday again already and that can only mean one thing…time to showcase some doors! I have a few more doors to display from one of my favourite suburbs for doors, Paddington. I’m sure you are all sick to death of hearing about this place but it has the most fantastic doors in the state, maybe even the country! I know that’s a bold statement but I am yet to meet another place like it. There are a few neighbouring suburbs that can give Paddington a run for its money but I feel that they are also extensions of Paddington, for example, Darlinghurst and Surry Hills, both neighbours to Paddington. As always, let me know if you have a favourite this week.

1
2 and 3
4 and 5
6

I absolutely love doors 2 and 3, how cheery and uplifting they both look. I wonder did they choose the colours together as they match perfectly. The design of these town houses is just fantastic and don’t be fooled to think these are small town houses as they are huge inside, extending backwards for quite a distance! I have been lucky to have been in a few of these and they are just as stunning on the inside! Have a great Thursday everybody!!!

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Wayne’s Word – parasocial

It’s a little nod to Wayne’s World, but instead of ‘party time, excellent’ (if you are aware of the cult nineties classic) I will be diving into one WORD each day. It could be something I learned, something bizarre that happened, a favourite word that I have rediscovered or just a thought that won’t leave me alone.

If you’re joining in on today’s word, feel free to use this tag to connect your post to the series: #WaynesWord

Today’s word is PARASOCIAL.

Parasocial is one of those words that suddenly exploded into everyday conversation, however, to be honest, I have only heard it today as it has been named Word of the Year (appropriate word for today).

A parasocial relationship is a one-sided relationship we form with someone we don’t actually know, it could be a celebrity, an influencer, a podcaster, or even a fictional character. It happens when you feel connected to them, invested in their lives, and sometimes convinced you truly know them, even though they have no idea you exist. To be honest I’m not sure I have ever experienced this, although when I was younger I was invested in some celebrity singers and actors etc but I never felt like I was in a relationship with them.

Apparently it is not always a bad thing, parasocial relationships can be comforting, motivating, or inspiring. However, they can also blur boundaries, make you forget what is real, and fill spaces where genuine connection is missing.

With social media, where creators are talking directly to us, and it can feel personal. The line between audience and friend gets thinner and thinner, and that’s exactly why parasocial has earned its moment in the spotlight.

14

That gut feeling

Do you trust your instincts?

I have learned that my instinct usually shows up before the logic does, a quick sense of yes or no that I can’t always explain straight away. Over time, I have realised I am a pretty good judge of character (in my opinion). When I meet someone and something just feels “off,” I feel that I am often right. It isn’t drama or paranoia; it’s pattern-spotting. My brain notices things before I have had time to put words to them.

That’s why I trust my instinct. It’s not loud or panicky, it’s a quiet nudge that says pay attention. When I ignore it, I usually regret it. When I follow it, I avoid situations or people that don’t sit well with me.

So yes, I do trust my instinct because, at the end of the day, it’s really just me trusting myself and I want to avoid people or situations that could potentially cause stress for whatever the reason.

19

December: A Tale of Two Seasons

What’s your favorite month of the year? Why?

My favourite month has always been December. Christmas season arrives, and with it comes office parties, mulled wine, decorations, and everyone generally being in good spirits.

Growing up in the Northern Hemisphere, December meant cold weather, dark evenings, and a cosy atmosphere that made Christmas feel extra special. That’s the version of the holiday that’s still in my head.

Living in Australia now, December looks completely different. It’s the middle of summer, and instead of coats and gloves, it’s all about heat, swims, and barbecues. I actually love the warm weather and getting outside as much as possible.

However, Christmas just doesn’t feel the same when you’re wearing shorts and a T-shirt and hearing festive music in the sun. It’s nice in its own way, but it’s not what I am used to.

Even with the changes, December is still my favourite month, just for very different reasons depending on which side of the world I’m on.

Christmas in Australia
21

November Shadows # 17

Yesterday’s lunch spot. We have always wanted to try here and were very fortunate to find an available table by the water – posted as part of Becky’s November shadows challenge.
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Wayne’s Word – Umpteen

It’s a little nod to Wayne’s World, but instead of ‘party time, excellent’ (if you are aware of the cult nineties classic) I will be diving into one WORD each day. It could be something I learned, something bizarre that happened, a favourite word that I have rediscovered or just a thought that won’t leave me alone.

If you’re joining in on today’s word, feel free to use this tag to connect your post to the series: #WaynesWord

Today’s word is UMPTEEN.

I used the word umpteen today and suddenly realised I hadn’t said it in ages. It’s one of those wonderfully vague, old-fashioned expressions that slips out when you’re trying to describe “lots,” “many,” or “more than I can be bothered to count.”

Umpteen is informal, a bit playful, and somehow always sounds more dramatic than simply saying “a lot.” It carries the sense of exaggeration without actually exaggerating, perfect when you’ve told someone something for the umpteenth time or when you’ve had umpteen little jobs to do in a day.

Funny how some words drift out of our vocabulary until a moment brings them back. Maybe umpteen deserves a comeback.

10

My favourite view in Sydney

What is your favorite place to go in your city?

In Sydney, it has to be the Opera Bar! Drinks by the water, seeing the most famous landmarks, the Sydney Opera House and the Harbour Bridge. Being here is just magical, day or night! It reminds me that I live in Australia, my journey to get here and why I live here, for this amazing beauty and lifestyle. It’s not just for the amazing landmarks, it means so much more. I have umpteen photos of being at this exact spot and have selected a few to show you.

My favourite time was taking my parents here and seeing how much they loved it too.
17

November Shadows # 16

Today’s Sunday stroll was along a beach that we haven’t seen before until today, absolutely stunning. Can you spot a drummer in the shadows? He was beating away on his drum and providing some very good percussive sounds –
posted as part of Becky’s November Shadows Challenge
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First impressions

What’s the first impression you want to give people?

The first impression I want to give people is that I am approachable, someone you can walk up to, talk to, and feel at ease with. In both my roles as a teacher and a nurse, trust is everything. I want people to feel that I am reliable, kind, and genuinely there to help. Whether it is a student needing guidance or a patient needing reassurance, I hope my presence communicates safety, openness, and support from the very first hello.

22

Poetic Justice

A Rascal Todd Mystery with Brody Thompson

What book are you reading right now?

I actually started Poetic Justice by an Dan Antion and Willow Willers a couple of months ago, but I’m still working my way through it, mostly because I can be a slow reader and only get the chance to read on my daily commute (which isn’t every day). Even so, it is a gripping story that keeps pulling me back in. The book is a mystery about a man re-investigating his father’s death with the help of a retired police officer. Their search takes them back to Pittsburgh, where a mysterious figure known as “the Poet” leaves haunting clues and verses that unravel long-buried secrets. The mix of mystery, poetry, and hidden secrets makes it one I’m genuinely looking forward to finishing! I actually look forward to my commutes so I can see what’s going to happen next and I plan to leave a review when I have finished. Ps. You may even know the authors! 😉

9

FOTD – Jacaranda

Happy Friday everyone! Today’s flower of the day is the jacaranda, signalling spring in Sydney and reminding us that summer is just around the corner.

The blossoms fall like confetti, leaving a carpet of colour beneath your feet, bringing colour and happiness to the streets. Although short lived, they are truly unforgettable and a highlight of spring.

6

Home is where the heart is / November Shadows # 14

If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be?

For me, it would have to be Northern Ireland, close to family and friends, surrounded by stunning scenery, and just a hop away from Europe. More specifically I would say a little town called Hillsborough. We absolutely loved living here in 2023 for almost a year. It has the most beautiful forest park, cosy pubs and close to the capital city of Belfast, however, it is super unaffordable to buy property here, for me at least.

That being said, to live in Northern Ireland, a few things would need to change…higher wages, a lower cost of living, and maybe a little more sunshine wouldn’t go astray! 

The most magical place, Hillsborough Forest Park. Also posted as part of Becky’s November Shadows Challenge! Look at those autumnal colours!!!

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Doors of WordPress V143 / November Shadows # 13

Happy Thursday everyone and welcome to another week of wonderful doors! This week I am combining two challenges with the one image, inspired by Brian from Bushboys World. I have a beautiful door that belongs to a house in Paddington (one of my favourite suburbs) that hides in the silent shadows. This door is the most amazing colour of green and has matching green wooden window shutters. I love how the trees surrounding the house cast big shadows over it, protecting it from the sun. The white picket fence is the icing on the cake!

Also posted as part of Becky’s November shadows challenge.
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November Shadows # 11

MOOPALOOP –
refers to the Magnificent Moopaloops, a type of imaginary creature in the children’s book ‘Uno’s Garden’ by Graeme Base.
Posted 
as part of Becky’s November shadows challenge

7

Share your world – 11/11/25

Thanks Di for this week’s questions.

  1. If you were a colour, what would you choose to be?
    Green or blue. I own a lot of these colours in clothing as I think they are happy colours for me. I love a blue sky and I adore greenery like trees, grass, plants, woodlands etc. I feel like they’re warm and uplifting colours. Therefore, you will quite often see me wearing these colour of clothes.
  2.  What one piece of advice would you give your younger self?
    Don’t do a degree because all your friends are doing it. I completed a geography degree as my friends had all enjoyed it and I had heard the field trip to Europe was amazing. However, I didn’t really enjoy it, the field trip really wasn’t that great and I have never used this degree. A complete waste of time.
  3.   What was the best piece of advice you were ever given?
    Your health is your wealth. I really appreciate this one.
  4.   If you needed advice on a matter, who would you ask (friend, family, professional etc)
    It was always my dad and sometimes still is but more often now it is my partner.

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Pets make life better

What is good about having a pet?

I have so many points to say about having a pet and you can probably tell that I am a huge advocate for having one. Having grown up with dogs all my life, I feel I am warranted to say these points. My dream is to have a couple of dogs in the next couple of years for all these reasons!

1 – Companionship – they’re simply there

2 – Comfort in emotional times

3 – Great for exercise and getting you outdoors.

4 – Builds confidence for children

5 – Good for mental health

6 – They release feel-good hormones

7 – Pets (more-so dogs) love you unconditionally

8 – They bring pure joy

9 – Provide people with a purpose in life

10 – They become your confidante

11 – They help create routine

12 – They can lower stress and blood pressure

13 – They can make you laugh

14 – They can help relieve loneliness, especially for people who live alone

15 – They create community (dog parks, pet cafĂŠs, online pet groups) and can bring strangers together

In the end, people think we rescue pets but I think they rescue us more…plus they become an integral part of our families!!! Jeez I need a dog!!

This is my parent’s dog that they have had for fourteen years, a definite part of the family.
19

Wayne’s Word – Masquerade

It’s a little nod to Wayne’s World, but instead of ‘party time, excellent’ (if you are aware of the cult nineties classic) I will be diving into one WORD each day. It could be something I learned, something bizarre that happened, a favourite word that I have rediscovered or just a thought that won’t leave me alone.

If you’re joining in on today’s word, feel free to use this tag to connect your post to the series: #WaynesWord

Today’s word is MASQUERADE.

Masquerade is a word wrapped in intrigue. At its simplest, it means to pretend to be someone or something else, often with a mask, a costume, or a false impression.

Last night was our hospital masquerade ball, a night of celebration for a hard year of work and a chance to let your hair down with your work colleagues. We wore our best dress and each had to wear a mask, fun indeed and my first time to attend such an event.

12

FOTD – Ornamental Onion

Happy Friday everyone! I love that Dan and Marsha have created a special challenge today to post a flower in remembrance of Cee, the lady who started the flower of the day challenge. I remember always wanting to find new flowers and post about them, so when I spotted Cee’s challenge I was delighted. Cee was extremely welcoming, friendly and really played a big part in my blogging journey with her encouragement and positive energy. I am delighted her memory lives on through other bloggers and their flower posts, or other challenges that she had inspired. Today I am showing a very beautiful ornamental onion, part of the allium family, which also includes garlic, chives, and leeks. Known for their tall stems and globe-shaped blooms, I thought this singular flower would be perfect for today.

Discovered at Hillsborough Forest Castle & Gardens, Northern Ireland.

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Doors of WordPress V142

Happy Thursday everyone and welcome to another week of wonderful doors. This week I am showcasing more doors that I have left over from our trip to Perth. As always, please do let me know if you have a favourite this week.

1
2
3
4
5

I’m really torn between doors 2, 4 and 5 but I think I will pick 4 as my favourite simply because of how inviting it looks and I love the curtain on the inside of the door, it feels very Italian 🇮🇹.

17

Share your World – 03/11/25

Thanks Di for this week’s questions. I love eggs so I felt the desire to answer your chosen questions this week again.

1.  If you were offered “The Full English” what would you expect?

I do love a full English breakfast or an Ulster Fry (the difference is in the breads used). I would hope for sausage, bacon, fried eggs, tomatoes, black or white pudding, toast or fried bread and baked beans. I know not everywhere offers beans but may have mushrooms or a hash brown. It’s not the healthiest of breakfasts but boy is it tasty!! Maybe some HP brown sauce too! The Ulster Fry found in Northern Ireland will have soda bread and potato bread, lovely!! I used to eat these all the time but now extremely rarely, especially since moving to Australia, it’s just not the same and I am more health conscious these days, boring!


2.  How do you like your toast (with butter, jam, marmalade etc) ?

I do love toast with jam or marmalade but I try to be healthy and have avocado on my toast these days.


3.  How do you prefer you eggs?

Scrambled or poached. Fried if I have a hangover (not often these days thankfully).


4.  If you have a boiled egg, do you like to dunk ‘soldiers’?

Oh I do love dunking soldiers. It reminds me of my childhood, where the yolk has to be runny and you cut your toast into strips to be able to dunk into your egg, sitting in its egg cup. Good times!

This was in Edinburgh, Scotland. As you can see it’s missing the beans and brown sauce for me.
16

Wayne’s Word – mundane

It’s a little nod to Wayne’s World, but instead of ‘party time, excellent’ (if you are aware of the cult nineties classic) I will be diving into one WORD each day. It could be something I learned, something bizarre that happened, a favourite word that I have rediscovered or just a thought that won’t leave me alone.

If you’re joining in on today’s word, feel free to use this tag to connect your post to the series: #WaynesWord

Today’s word is MUNDANE.

Monday can often feel mundane…the glitter of the weekend fades, and suddenly we are thrown back into routine, structure and the ordinary. It feels even heavier today because I am genuinely tired after a busy weekend, but I know once I’ve had my morning coffee and siting at my desk, I will be right as rain.

I actually really like Mondays, they usually feel like a fresh page but today is just a bit meh. Hopefully once I ease into it, the mundane lifts. Have a great Monday everyone!

11

Back to the Future: The Musical

Last night we went to see Back to the Future: The Musical at the Sydney Lyric Theatre, and it was an absolute blast. If you love the original movie, then you will really appreciate this musical version! The actors playing Marty and George McFly completely nailed their roles, the mannerisms, the voices, the attitude and it felt so close to the original movie characters. It was hilarious and mesmerising to watch.

The music was brilliant too. You still get the iconic film moments, but the musical numbers really surprised me. There are brand new songs we had never heard before, and they slot so seamlessly into the story that you could be convinced that they’d always been part of Back to the Future.

Furthermore, the effects!!! From the lighting to the sound to the way they bring the DeLorean to life on stage, it’s full of WOW moments. It feels like a proper cinematic spectacle, just happening right in front of you.

If you’re a fan of the original movie, or you just want a fun theatre experience with energy and nostalgia, this one delivers.

Great Scott! A fun fact for you all, the DeLorean car itself, the iconic time machine was actually manufactured in Belfast back in the 1980s.

Sydney Lyric Theatre
8

Wayne’s Word – minging

It’s a little nod to Wayne’s World, but instead of ‘party time, excellent’ (if you are aware of the cult nineties classic) I will be diving into one WORD each day. It could be something I learned, something bizarre that happened, a favourite word that I have rediscovered or just a thought that won’t leave me alone.

If you’re joining in on today’s word, feel free to use this tag to connect your post to the series: #WaynesWord

Today’s word is MINGING.

This word follows on nicely from brutal, our last word used. If you’re from Northern Ireland, you’ll know exactly what minging means. It’s one of those wonderfully expressive words we use to describe anything truly unpleasant, something grotesque, dirty, or downright disgusting. Food can be minging, clothes can be minging, and yes, even people can be minging!

It’s also a go-to word for describing the weather, when it’s wet, cold, and damp, you’ll often hear someone sigh, “It’s absolutely minging out there.” A perfect Northern Irish way to sum up a miserable day, which is exactly what we have again today in Sydney! What is up with this weather?!

On a positive note, we’re heading to see another musical tonight at the theatre, this time it’s Back to the Future! I will let you know how it goes. Have a lovely Saturday everyone.

9

FOTD – African Daisy

Happy Friday everyone! Today’s flower of the day is the African daisy, spotted not in Africa but in Lisburn, Northern Ireland. They are sure to brighten even the darkest day!

Bright, bold and beautiful. Posted as
Part of Cee’s flower of the day challenge
21

The lessons we never learn

What historical event fascinates you the most?

There are so many moments in history that fascinate me, some because of their scale, others because of what they reveal about human nature. An obvious one for me is The Troubles, growing up in Northern Ireland and seeing how conflict can divide communities so deeply. I’ve always been intrigued by World War II, and how ordinary people could turn on others and somehow convince themselves that genocide was acceptable.

Other events stand out too, the AIDS pandemic, COVID-19, Brexit, Trump gaining power (not once, but twice), and of course September 11. Each of these moments changed the world in ways we’re still processing.

However, the one that has occupied most of my thoughts in recent years is Palestine. It’s devastating to see history repeating itself, another genocide unfolding before our eyes while the world watches. It makes me wonder how we, as humans, never seem to learn. Greed, power, and fear drive the same cycles of suffering again and again.

One day, we will look back on this time and ask ourselves, what on earth were we doing?

16

Tick tock (Not TikTok)

What’s something you believe everyone should know.

I believe everyone should know how to read an analog clock. In an age where digital devices tell us everything instantly, many young people have never learned to read a traditional clock face and that’s a shame. I always assumed everyone could read a clock, but I have since realised that many young people cannot. It’s such a simple skill, yet it connects us to the rhythm of time in a way that screens never can. There’s something satisfying about watching the hands move, a quiet reminder that time is always ticking on, even when we’re too busy scrolling to notice.

16

Doors of WordPress V141 – Fremantle Prison

Happy Thursday everyone and welcome to another week of doors. This week, seeing as it is Halloween tomorrow, I thought I would focus on one building, Fremantle Prison. I want to give you a little history whilst also showcasing a couple of doors that I spotted.

High on the limestone ridge above Fremantle stands one of Western Australia’s most striking reminders of its convict past, this striking prison. Built in the 1850s by the very men it was meant to contain, the prison’s pale stone walls still echo with the stories of those who carved them from the earth.

The convicts who built Fremantle Prison were transported from Britain and Ireland, often for minor crimes (such as stealing a loaf of bread) or acts of defiance. Under the burning Western Australian sun, they quarried local limestone by hand, shaping it into the massive cell blocks, watchtowers, and walls that would soon imprison them. Every stone they laid was both their punishment and their legacy.

Life inside was harsh and silent. Prisoners slept in tiny cells, just large enough for a hammock, a desk, and a bucket. Discipline was strict, and the worst punishment of all was solitary confinement, known as the Separate Division. Here, men were locked alone for 23 hours a day, forbidden from speaking or seeing another soul. For some, the silence proved more unbearable than chains – can you imagine how this would affect your mental health!?


Steel iron doors that once locked away lives,

Solitary confinement

When their sentences ended, few found true freedom. Many were granted a ticket of leave or a conditional pardon, allowing them to live and work in the colony, but NEVER to return home. They had served their time, yet remained prisoners of Australia, forever separated from the lives and families they once knew.

Today, Fremantle Prison stands as a UNESCO World Heritage site, a powerful monument to endurance, punishment, and the beginnings of a new nation built by those who had no choice but to stay.

A tragic chapter in Australia’s past, yet one that tells a fascinating story of endurance, punishment, and the making of a new colony.

23

Wayne’s Word – brutal

It’s a little nod to Wayne’s World, but instead of ‘party time, excellent’ (if you are aware of the cult nineties classic) I will be diving into one WORD each day. It could be something I learned, something bizarre that happened, a favourite word that I have rediscovered or just a thought that won’t leave me alone.

If you’re joining in on today’s word, feel free to use this tag to connect your post to the series: #WaynesWord

Today’s word is BRUTAL.

In Northern Ireland, when someone says “it’s brutal out there,” they don’t mean violent, they mean the weather. Cold, wet, windy, or just plain miserable, brutal perfectly sums up those days when you instantly regret stepping outside.

Also, in case you weren’t aware, people from Northern Ireland LOVE talking about the weather, it’s practically part of our DNA. Whether it’s raining, freezing, or just a bit grey, there’s always time for a quick weather update and a shake of the head, because if you can’t change it, you might as well talk about it until the cows come home.

I’m using this word today as the weather has been absolutely brutal for the past couple of days here in Sydney. Bring on summer!!!

17

Kid at heart

What does it mean to be a kid at heart?

For me, it’s about being carefree, innocent, and full of joy. It’s about holding onto that spark of wonder, the belief that good things can still happen, even when life can be very serious. I remember my parents always saying I was like Peter Pan, not wanting to grow up. Who knows, but I think I have always been a bit of a kid at heart, the eternal optimist, clinging to hope when others might give up. Maybe it’s because I don’t have children of my own and still see the world through a youthful lens, or maybe it’s just who I am, my age in numbers, but not in spirit.

9

FOTD – Walking Iris

Happy Tuesday everyone. I don’t normally post a flower of the day on a Tuesday but I just had to showcase this flower today!

I bought a plant a couple of months ago at the local markets, without even realising what it was and woke up this morning to find my very own walking iris in full bloom! For someone with notoriously brown thumbs, this little miracle made my day.

The walking iris gets its name from the way it “walks” across the garden, after flowering, new baby plants form on the stems, which eventually bend down and root themselves in the soil. A plant that practically grows itself?! Amazing for someone like me.

18

Wishful thinking

You have three magic genie wishes, what are you asking for?

1 – World Peace.

2 – Equal rights for ALL.

3 – For me and my family to have good health.

Cheesy but true!

29

Share your World – 28/10/25

Thanks Di for this week’s questions. I haven’t participated in some time but these questions really resonated with me this week.

1. Can you remember your first wage packet?

I remember I was so excited to receive my first payslip when I was 16. I cannot remember the total but I remember the hourly rate being £3.30 an hour. I thought this was great at the time and I’m sure it was as I had nothing to pay for, no bills, rent etc.

2. Was it cash, a cheque or paid directly into your bank account?

It was paid directly into my bank account.

3. Do you prefer to shop with cash or card?

I much prefer to pay with card, it’s so much easier and much cleaner than having to touch money. In fact, I don’t even carry a bank card as I have it on my phone. I literally just carry my phone for everything, which is slightly worrying, if I lose my phone or it runs out of battery. That being said, I am going to actively try to use cash for small things like coffees, getting my hair cut etc as I have noticed that banks are charging a fee to use your phone / card and the shop assistant etc never tell you this. For example, a coffee here is about $4.50 but if I use my phone / card they charge an extra 30 cents. That soon adds up if you’re using your phone / card all the time. Plus I hate to think I am giving my hard earned cash to the banks!

4. Do you know the price of half a dozen eggs?

I don’t buy eggs very often as they had been very hard to get here in Australia for some time and they’re very expensive. I think half a dozen would be about $5 but I could be wrong. If I was to buy eggs, I would always buy a dozen which is normally about $8 or $9.

5. Have you ever kept chickens?

No but I would absolutely love to in the future!!! They are such quirky birds with lots of character and imagine having all those free eggs!!

17

RENT the musical : No Day but Today

R E N T

Rent has always been one of our favourite musicals even though, up until now, we had only seen the movie and listened (on repeat!) to the soundtrack. We have been obsessed with its songs, the raw emotion, the humour, and the unforgettable characters ever since we first heard of this musical over a decade or more. Every track hits differently, from the heartbreak of One Song Glory to the infectious joy of La Vie Bohème.

Rent tells the story of a group of young artists and friends living in New York City’s East Village during the late 1980s. Struggling to make ends meet, they face love, loss, and the harsh realities of life with courage and creativity. Set against the backdrop of the HIV/AIDS crisis, the musical celebrates community, acceptance, and living authentically in the face of uncertainty. The recurring line “No day but today” captures the heart of Rent, a reminder to embrace the present moment, to love deeply, and to live fully despite whatever challenges life brings. It’s a message that feels just as powerful and relevant now as it did when the show first debuted.

The story itself is a modern reimagining of Puccini’s opera La Bohème. Where the original was set in 19th-century Paris and centred around bohemian artists battling poverty and illness, Rent moves the story to New York City’s East Village in the late 1980s. The characters face different struggles; addiction, ambition, and the HIV/AIDS epidemic, but the themes remain the same – love, art, friendship, and the fleeting beauty of life. Jonathan Larson transformed a classic tale into something raw, real, and profoundly human.

So when Rent came to the Sydney Opera House, I knew we couldn’t miss it. Surprisingly, despite living in Sydney for many years now and taking countless photos outside the Opera House, we had never actually been inside until now…and what a first experience it was!

The show was everything we hoped for and more, powerful performances, vocal powerhouses, and a production that captured the grit, energy, and heart of the original story. It is one of those musicals that reminds you why you love theatre in the first place, the music, the message, and the magic of live performance.

For me, Rent is more than just a musical, it is a stark reminder to live life with passion, to make time for the people and moments that matter, and to not let life pass by unnoticed because truly, there is “no day but today” (one of their famous lines).

Gin & tonics at the interval. It was lovely to step outside and see the Opera House from another angle.
26

The power of a walk

What is your favorite form of physical exercise?

Walking, walking and more walking!

I have always loved walking. There’s something so simple yet powerful about it. Here is why I love it so much:

– It clears my head. Walking helps me unwind after a busy day and process my thoughts.

– It lifts my mood. Even a short walk can completely change how I feel. It gives me space to just be.

– I love being outdoors. The sound of nature and the fresh air is food for the soul.

– It’s good for my health. Gentle movement that keeps me active without feeling like hard work.

– It’s versatile. I can walk with music, chat with someone, or enjoy peaceful solitude.

– It feels like freedom. Just putting one foot in front of the other gives me a sense of control and release.

20

Wayne’s Word – crikey

It’s a little nod to Wayne’s World, but instead of ‘party time, excellent’ (if you are aware of the cult nineties classic) I will be diving into one WORD each day. It could be something I learned, something bizarre that happened, a favourite word that I have rediscovered or just a thought that won’t leave me alone.

If you’re joining in on today’s word, feel free to use this tag to connect your post to the series: #WaynesWord

Today’s word is CRIKEY.

Crikey! Now there’s a word that just makes you smile. It has that perfect mix of surprise and good humour, the kind of thing you can almost hear in an Aussie accent before it’s even been said. Most famously, of course, it was Steve Irwin’s trademark exclamation, the Crocodile Hunter himself, bounding across the outback with infectious enthusiasm.

Crikey is an old-fashioned expression of astonishment or disbelief, much like blimey or goodness me. Apparently it started out as a polite way to avoid saying “Christ,” which would have been considered too strong or blasphemous in the 19th century. So people softened it and crikey was born.

It is still very much used in Australia and the UK, though maybe a bit tongue-in-cheek these days. It is cheerful, harmless, and just a bit theatrical, perfect for today as we are heading to the theatre today to watch one of our all time favourite musicals, RENT! Will let you know how it goes. Enjoy your Sunday everyone!

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The moon can wait

How much would you pay to go to the moon?

Personally, I wouldn’t pay anything. I don’t really have any desire to see the moon up close. There is something about being in space that completely terrifies me, the same kind of fear I get thinking about being at the bottom of the ocean. I think it’s the idea of being so far from everything familiar, so utterly alone.

I also can’t help but feel like a trip like that would be a bit over the top, especially with everything happening in the world right now. I remember when Katy Perry and a few other celebrities went into orbit, I wasn’t sure what I felt watching it unfold. Maybe embarrassment, maybe shame. The backlash was huge, and I understood why. The sheer amount of money spent on a few minutes in space could have done so much good back here on Earth.

So no, I’m happy right where I am, firmly grounded. The moon can stay exactly where it is, beautiful, mysterious, and very, very far away.

The moon is beautiful to look at. Image from the free WordPress library.
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FOTD – Gazania rigens (Treasure Flower)

Happy Friday everyone. Below is my flower of the day and you can see why it is known as a treasure flower.

Spotted outside our accommodation in Margaret River. Really beautiful flowers, thrive best in direct sunlight.
It is often called “treasure flower” because of its bright, jewel-like blossoms and is a member of the daisy family.


 

Part of Cee’s flower of the day challenge.

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