Thank you Judy for this prompt! I love the idea of retrieving old photos, you never know what you might find and the memories they can evoke.
“To play along, go to your photos file folder and type that number into the search bar. Then post a selection of the photos you find that include that number and post a link to your blog in my Numbers Game blog of the day”.
Not surprising that this week’s number 206 has given me a couple of DOORS from my collection. This could be a common theme but I remember how much I loved the houses shown below.
It is 0628 here on A Sunday morning, I am having a coffee and about to go to the gym for a workout with some gym friends. Sometimes I think, “am I mad?” But I really love it and if I can’t do my exercise, I feel like something is missing and I feel sad about it (as strange as that sounds). I know I will feel good for the rest of the day!!!
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 AARDVARK.
An aardvark is a nocturnal mammal native to Africa, known for its long snout and love of ants and termites. Why am I writing about this animal? I have a friend from school that I used to think had similar qualities to an aardvark, such as a long face and a slow moving attitude. Probably not the best animal to resemble but we did find them very cute and endearing. I think my animal lookalike was a giraffe due to my long neck, equally not as flattering I would say. I think aardvarks are pretty cool as you don’t really hear people talking about them much, they appear at the start of the alphabet and they have a really unusual body type :
– Pig-like body (its name means earth pig in Afrikaans)
– Long ears like a rabbit
– A thick tail like a kangaroo
– Strong claws for digging
– Long, sticky tongue for slurping up insects.
You may also know some famous Aardvarks such as Arthur Read or Cedric / Cyril Sneer from the Racoons.
Happy Friday y’all. I am delighted to say I have that Friday feeling today as I am off tomorrow. It’s not often I can say that as I usually work Saturdays. Today I am showcasing the Chinese hibiscus as my flower of the day, spotted on our trip to Adelaide in the botanical gardens.
A little bit of info – Native to East Asia but now grown all over the world, this flower is more than a pretty face. In some cultures, it symbolizes delicate beauty, while in others it represents fame, glory, and even hospitality. It’s also the national flower of Malaysia, where it’s called the Bunga Raya.
Happy Thursday everyone from a wet and wild Sydney today. I’m staying dry in work but it is miserable out there. There is no Thursday Doors this week but I wanted to showcase this beauty as it’s a red door and fits in with Becky’s simply red challenge for the month of July. This door is from one of my favourite suburbs in Sydney called Darlinghurst, as I am sure you have heard, as I have mentioned it too many times before haha.
Posted as part of Becky’s SimplyRed challenge for the month of July. I love the colour of red with the green surroundings from the brickwork and plants. It’s almost a shame to have the door and windows covered by railings but as mentioned before, it is to enable opening the door and window with the ability to lock the railings. It provides both security and fresh air to flow in.
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 VINTAGE.
There is something extremely magical about the word vintage. It whispers of the past, of stories aged like fine wine, and treasures that get better with time. Whether it is a classic car, a record player or that perfect op shop find, vintage isn’t just old, it is timeless and classic.
Vintage carries character. It reminds you that style doesn’t have an expiry date, and some things were made to last. In a world that often chases the next big thing, vintage invites us to slow down and appreciate craftsmanship, history, and the charm of things with a bit of soul. The Volkswagen camper van showcased below SCREAMS vintage to me and absolutely oozes a timeless elegance and a very cool retro charm.
Also posted as part of Becky’s SimplyRed challenge for the month of July 🚍
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 COMPACT.
As per the Cambridge dictionary – compact is consisting of parts that are positioned together, closely or in a tidy way, using very little space. The car displayed below is one of my favourites and I was fortunate to drive one of these when I was last home in Ireland. It’s such an easy car to drive and park, plus it receives A LOT of attention!
A smart car spotted during the week and is posted as part of Becky’s SimplyRed challenge for the month of July 🚘
Today I hit a HUGE milestone (for me) with achieving one thousand subscribers.
That’s a thousand humans (and possibly a few bots) who clicked follow, subscribe or ‘I’m kind of curious with what Wayne is rambling about today’.
From Wayne’s Word to tray bakes, travel highlights to colourful doors, you have stuck around and I am incredibly grateful for that. Whether you have read, may it be one post or a hundred, I want to say, THANK YOU!
This is my 21st day posting in a row and I have to say this has been the key for me, posting often. With creating Wayne’s Word and joining in different blogging prompts, it has kept the fire burning within me to keep blogging. The community here is fantastic for encouraging you and making you feel extremely welcome when the world around us can seem hard and sad at times.
Here is to the next thousand followers, the next word, travel adventure or whatever wonders lie in between.
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 CHINWAG.
This is a great wee word that is used when having a chat about something or someone, it could be similar to having a gossip but nothing bad is being said. It’s known as a chinwag!
To have a chinwag is to enjoy a good natter or a long-overdue catch-up over a cup of tea or it could be when you meet a colleague at the photocopier in work. It is light-hearted, informal and wonderfully social. If you can picture two old friends bumping into each other at the shops – “We ended up having a right chinwag!”
The word blends chin (the part that wobbles when you talk) and wag (like a tail or in this case, the mouth going nonstop). It has a charmingly British flavour but you can hear it also in Aussie and Irish circles too.
Have you ever used this word to describe having a chat about something?
Aboriginal artwork is deeply significant as it serves as a powerful form of storytelling, cultural preservation, and spiritual connection. Each symbol, pattern, and colour carries meaning, often representing aspects of the Dreamtime, Aboriginal creation stories and the land, animals, and ancestral spirits. Passed down through generations, this art is not just decorative but a vital way of sharing knowledge, laws, and traditions. It reflects a profound relationship with Country and offers insight into the world’s oldest continuous culture.
This image is also posted as part of Becky’s SimplyRed challenge for the month of July 🖤💛❤️
Ok I thought this would be the perfect prompt to actually explain how I came about my blogging name Wrookieschu. You have to bear with me as it’s not a simple explanation.
I wanted my socials and blog to be open to the public but I didn’t want everyone able to find me, for example, my patients, my students or even certain extended family members. Therefore, I had to create an alias.
Firstly I swapped the first letters of my forename and surname with each other, so my first name became Wooke. Then I thought that was still pretty easy and I wanted to add a play to my German side of the family and always loved certain German words, such as Schuh for example. So my name became Wookieschu, however, I cannot remember where the R came from. I also was a huge fan of Star Wars so I loved that Wookie was included.
Chewbacca the Wookiee
I’m guessing I thought the name would look better with a WR at the beginning…and there you have it, Wrookieschu. It has been in existence for about eight years and although nobody has any idea what it means, I really like it so one reason or another.
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 WISHY-WASHY.
Wishy-washy is one of those wonderfully old-school words that just sounds like what it means, vague, indecisive, half-hearted. It could be like someone agreeing to plans they clearly do not want to attend
“Yes maybe, we’ll see…” that is peak wishy-washy.
It is also a great way to describe ideas that don’t quite commit. A wishy-washy opinion is like soggy toast, it is technically there, but it is not doing much for anyone.
Tucked away in the bustle of Darling Harbour, Sydney, the Chinese Garden of Friendship is like stepping into another world, one filled with winding paths, koi-filled ponds and beautiful bamboo. Built in 1988 as a gesture of goodwill between Sydney and Guangzhou, China, it is a rare slice of calm in the city. You can walk past waterfalls, under willow trees, and into quiet pavilions that feel a million miles from the skyscrapers just beyond the walls. It’s not just a garden but also a reminder that peace can grow right in the middle of chaos.
This is an image of a Chinese pavilion, used for a place to rest and reflect within the garden. This image is also posted as part of Becky’s SimplyRed challenge for the month of July ☮️
Happy Thursday everyone and welcome to another week of wonderful doors. This week I had the pleasure of walking around one of my old stomping grounds in Sydney. It’s the suburb of Paddington and I have shown you many, many doors from here before but I knew there were more to see. This area is a real treasure trove for door lovers and I was absolutely in my element. Let me know if you have a favourite this week.
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Although, I love all these doors, I am going to pick my favourite this week as number one, simply because of how inviting it looks. I also love the little stained glass windows in place.
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 AESTHETIC.
Aesthetic describes something that is visually pleasing or thoughtfully designed. Yesterday I spotted this fantastic building with a unique aesthetic exterior that really popped against the other buildings in the central business district.
This image is also posted as part of Becky’s SimplyRed challenge for the month of July.
Being a nurse, I listen to a lot of alarms ringing while I work, more specifically, dialysis machines alarming. I’m surprised I don’t hear them in my sleep 😜
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 FLEX.
To flex is to show strength, confidence, or skill. When you originally think of this word, it’s all about muscles, however, it has evolved into a fantastic little verb that means you are not afraid to show what you’ve got. Whether it’s flexing your biceps, your style, your kindness, or even your playlist, it’s all about owning your power.
Flex your joy, life is too short to frown!
This image is also posted as part of Becky’s SimplyRed challenge for the month of July.
Nestled in 16 acres of lush gardens on the edge of the Illawarra escarpment, Symbio Wildlife Park in Helensburgh offers a uniquely immersive wildlife experience for families, nature lovers, and curious explorers alike. Just a 30 minute drive from our home in the Shire, this is a fantastic place to take visitors who want to see some of the famous Australian wildlife.
Reasons to visit Symbio:
– Get up close and personal with wildlife. Here you can meet and great with iconic Australian animals like kangaroos, wallabies, wombats and koalas.
– Interactive Experiences . You can hand-feed kangaroos, wallabies, alpacas and goats, engage in lively keeper talks, and dive into immersive behind-the-scenes encounters. This is such a novelty that not many other zoos can offer.
– Exotics Meet the Natives. Say hello to cheetahs, red pandas, meerkats, lemurs, small monkeys, crocodiles, alligators, and more. However, as much as I love to see different animals, I can’t help but feel sad that they are here in a foreign country against their will presumably.
– Great facilities including a fantastic playground for kids, a pretty decent outdoor cafeteria, ample toilets and a gift shop.
Some of the animals on show. I love the fact that this zoo is also an animal sanctuary, caring for animals that have been injured and cannot return to the wild. Can you name all of these animals??
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 COCKEREL.
It’s not just a fancy name for a rooster but it’s actually a young one.
In British English, a cockerel is a male chicken under a year old. Once he matures and starts ruling the roost (literally), he graduates to being called a rooster, the term more commonly used in American English.
So while all cockerels are roosters, not all roosters are still cockerels. This was something I just learned today! We spotted this amazing cockerel this afternoon at our local zoo / animal sanctuary.
This image is also posted as part of Becky’s SimplyRed challenge for the month of July 🐓
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 DONOR.
The word donor comes from the Latin donare, meaning “to give” and that’s all it is, giving a little of what you have, so someone else gets a better shot. No fanfare, no fuss.
Last night I had some free time so I decided to donate some plasma. It’s fairly easy to do, takes about an hour, you relax on the chair and even enjoy a free milkshake. It’s something small but can mean the world of difference to someone that needs it.
This image is also posted as part of Becky’s SimplyRed challenge for the month of July 🩸
Happy Friday everyone! Today’s flower of the day is the New Guinea impatiens. These flowers are vibrant, tropical flowers known for their bold colors and glossy foliage, originating from Papa New Guinea. These really caught my eye as they look so luscious and if you look closely you can see the raindrops on them as it was a very wet day. Can you also spot two famous landmarks in the background?
This image is also posted as part of Becky’s SimplyRed challenge for the month of July.
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 LUSCIOUS.
This word is one of my favourites!!! It’s not just for describing chocolate cake or juicy apples, luscious is a word that oozes with richness. It means something that is delightfully appealing to the senses, often taste or touch, but it can also describe a voice, a garden, or even a vibe. A bed of New Guinea impatiens in full bloom? Absolutely luscious.
In the UK and Australia you may also be familiar with its shortened version. People often shorten luscious to lush, especially when describing something rich, full, or fabulous. That garden? Oh it’s lush. Those velvet cushions, they are lush. To me it just doesn’t have the same finesse as luscious so I would rarely say lush to be honest.
Happy Thursday everyone! That can only mean one thing…it’s Thursday doors!!! Haha I only have one door today but it’s a beautiful red door from an area, aptly named Strawberry Hills in the suburb of Surry Hills. Not only is the door red, but so is the light shade and the flower pots. I love it.
This image is also posted as part of Becky’s SimplyRed challenge for the month of July 🍓
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 LUGUBRIOUS (thanks for the word suggestion, Arlene) – meaning to look or sound dismal in an exaggerated way.
As you know I attempted a batch of chocolate flapjacks today but the oven had other plans. What emerged was a lugubrious slab of charcoal, dark, sunken, and sorrowful, as if it knew it had let me down. Ok maybe not that bad. Although they appeared slightly burnt, they did taste ok, considering it was my first ever batch. In my defence, our oven is extremely hot, hotter than most so I will adjust to a lower temperature next time. I still had one with a cup of tea and it was quite enjoyable.
Made with chocolate protein powder, oats, flax seeds and Greek yogurt (attempting to be healthy).
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 FLAPJACK.
Have you ever heard of a flapjack or even eaten one? These used to be one of my absolute most favourite treats and I would really love to try and make them but with a “healthier” twist.
Firstly what is a flapjack?
Not to be confused with the American pancake, the flapjack in the UK and Ireland is a chewy, golden traybake made from oats, butter, sugar, and syrup. It is simple and extremely satisfying.
You can think of it as the sweet, sticky cousin of granola bars, packed with oats, sometimes jazzed up with dried fruit, nuts, or chocolate chips. It used to be a comfort classic for lunchboxes, tea breaks, or just when you need a bit of “something nice.”
I have found a recipe to include protein powder, flax seeds and Greek yogurt and I will try to make them tomorrow. I will let you know how it goes, and if it is successful, I will share the recipe. Wish me luck!
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 FIBBER.
Meaning:
Someone who tells a fib – a small lie, usually harmless or playful. A fibber isn’t necessarily deceitful or malicious, just someone who is bending the truth a little.
Examples you could hear in Northern Ireland:
“You’re such a fibber!”
“Don’t be listening to him, he’s a total wee fibber.”
In Northern Ireland, fibber is more commonly heard than in many other parts of the UK. It is used affectionately among friends, family, and especially with kids –
“Are you tellin’ me porkies? You wee fibber!”
This is a very popular bar in Belfast that I used to drink in often when working across the road in the Grand Opera House Belfast. Featured for obvious reasons 😉
This image is also posted as part of Becky’s SimplyRed challenge for the month of July ♥️
Happy Friday everyone. I spotted this stunning Mexican Lily here in Miranda and had to share as my flower of the day. What a beautiful flower to discover on the side of the road, the red colour is POPPING!
Posted as part of Becky’s SimplyRed challenge for the month of July and thinking of Cee as this was where I discovered the flower of the day challenge.
Happy Thursday everyone and welcome to another week of doors. This week I have only one door to show but it’s a real pearl. This was spotted last weekend in a little bar on the main street of Bundeena and I instantly fell in love with its aesthetic. I’m not sure what the theme is, maybe you can help. I feel like it could be a nautical theme due to the porthole with a compass in the middle that they must have added. Also the couple of bottles on the door which I assume could be the idea of messages in a bottle, found at sea.
I love the wooden style and the fact that it looks weather beaten, maybe from the sea. The boat on the top left corner also adds to its nautical appearance. I happen to know that this bar is called The Salty Pearl, which also resonates with something nautical. I even had a Salty Pearl cocktail that was delicious. This is such a great bar to check out, one of our faves.
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 CHORTLE.
A word that sounds as funny as it feels. Chortle means to laugh in a breathy, gleeful way and it is a combination of a chuckle and a snort.
Created by Lewis Carroll in Through the Looking-Glass, it is a perfect word for those moments when a laugh bubbles up and escapes before you can stop it. It is joy, surprise, and silliness all tangled up in one noise and it is one of my favourite words, although not one I tend to use very often.
I do love when you cannot stop laughing at something silly and no matter how hard you try, you just cannot stop. Sometimes it’s at something very inappropriate too and you laugh that hard that your stomach actually starts to hurt.
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 ACCOMPLISHED.
The word comes from the verb accomplish, which means to carry out or achieve something successfully.
There’s something quietly powerful about the word accomplished. It is not flashy. It does not shout. It just stands there, finished, earned, done.
To feel accomplished doesn’t always mean climbing Everest or hitting a massive milestone. Sometimes, it’s ticking a goal off your list. Sometimes, it’s just getting through the day and still showing up for yourself.
In fitness, we chase progress but accomplishment isn’t always about size or speed. It’s about effort and consistency, as well as the little wins that build up over time. I was writing about competing in HYROX last week and yesterday came the official photos. It was so good to see some photos of the event and look back at what I have accomplished. I didn’t enter the competition to try and win, I just wanted to experience it, see if I could actually do it and to my absolute delight, I completed it and it wasn’t too bad at all. Overall, a thoroughly enjoyable experience that I would love to do again one day.
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 MILESTONE.
This can described as a significant stage or event in your life, a journey, or a story worth remembering.
Milestones are not always the big flashy things. Sometimes they are the small wins, for example, getting through a tough year, starting something new, or still showing up after all this time. That’s me today as I celebrate 8 years with WordPress on my blogging journey. I cannot believe it’s been that long since I started my blog and although it’s not life changing, I am proud to still be here and contributing in even a small way. Thank you all for making it such an enjoyable experience 🙂.
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 KNACKERED.
Do you ever get home, flop on the sofa and think, “I am absolutely knackered”? If so, you are in good company. In Northern Ireland, knackered is the go-to word when you are completely exhausted, physically, mentally or even both. It is one of those brilliant words that sounds exactly like what it means. For me, it can be shorthand for needing a sit down and a cup of tea. This is how I feel after competing in Hyrox on Friday. I felt fine yesterday and even worked a full shift but today my legs are tired and I am mentally drained.
However, it was a beautiful winter’s day here in the Shire and we wanted to make the most of it. We took the ferry to a favourite place of ours near the National Park, known as Bundeena. I have a previous post on this place here but it was just lovely to visit for a few hours this time. After walking from the ferry terminal, around the village, checking out the local markets, I am definitely ready now to sit down with a cup of tea. I hope you all have a lovely Sunday too. I can hear the thunder roaring here and a big storm is on its way so I won’t be leaving the house for the rest of the evening.
Tom Thumb 3rdLoved this friendly passenger Checking out the local art
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 HYROX.
Today I had the pleasure and opportunity to compete in a fitness challenge known as HYROX.
HYROX is a global fitness racing event that combines running and functional workout stations in a standardised format. It was started in Germany in 2017 and is now a popular fitness event all over the world, with HYROX competitions in various cities. It is made up of part CrossFit, part obstacle course, and part endurance test with a good bit of repetition. Every race is the same format, consisting of 8 x 1km runs, each followed by a gruelling functional movement like sled pushes, burpee broad jumps, rowing, sandbag lunges, or wall balls.
It’s not just for elite athletes, there are divisions for individuals, pairs (doubles), and even relays. People train for months to shave seconds off their time. In some circles, it’s become the new marathon a benchmark of hybrid fitness. I have been training for a few months and this was the perfect challenge to keep me motivated and accountable. I needed something to work towards and this was it!
Fortunately for me, I competed in the mens doubles so it was definitely easier but a challenge nonetheless. I was never going to win the race, so for me, I wanted to enjoy myself and see if I could actually do it. I was excited and nervous but had no need to be. I actually really enjoyed the whole event and found the stations very doable, thank goodness I had been training though.
I feel relief that it is now over, yet DELIGHTED to have taken part and I’m sure I will be looking for my next fitness challenge to keep the interest alive. I would definitely consider competing in HYROX again. It was well managed and a real vibe on the day, great music, friendly staff and competitors and a chance for everyone to celebrate their hard work and fitness journey together.
Happy Thursday everyone and welcome to another week of wonderful doors. This week I am showcasing a few more doors from one of my favourite suburbs in Sydney, Paddington. I have shown SO many doors from Paddington that I am truly amazed that there are still more to discover, it’s the gift that keeps on giving and I am here for it. As always, please let me know if you have a favourite this week.
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My favourite this week is number three due to the unusual colour for a door, the transom window and arch above it. I also love how the security door is the same colour. How about you?
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 WEE.
Now this is an absolute gem of a word and very much a staple of Northern Irish culture. You will be sure to hear it in every corner of Northern Ireland, from Belfast to Ballymena, the word wee is small in size but MASSIVE in usage. It might just be the most iconic Northern Irish word of them all.
At its core, wee means small or little but in Northern Irish language, it goes far beyond size, it is used to describe things affectionately, politely, or just habitually. You will hear wee being used all the time, in pretty much every sentence. I had actually forgotten how much we use the word when we hadn’t been home for a couple of years.
I remember going into Primark (a famous Northern Ireland department store) and the cashier said to me when I was about to pay for my goods, “Just put your wee card into the wee card machine”. Then she said “Do you want a wee bag for your wee purchases?”, I actually nearly choked with the amount of times wee was said.
I do use the word a lot, especially if I’m offering you a wee cup of tea. It’s not necessarily a small cup of tea, but rather it’s just being friendly. Other examples you might hear,
“Take a wee seat” – sit down (any size will do).
“Just a wee second” – hold on, give me a moment.
“A wee message for you” – might be important, might not be short.
It’s an endearing word that definitely makes you feel at home when everyone is using it. The word adds warmth, friendliness, or politeness, even to something serious or inconvenient. It is often about tone more than literal meaning.
It’s funny how people, especially in Australia are asking me why everything is described as wee. I have absolutely no idea, I think it’s just habit and something that’s hard to break away from.
It can also be used in Ireland and Scotland but especially beloved in Northern Ireland. Have you ever heard this word being used in these contexts? I would be curious to hear…
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 UNCOUTH.
I used this word at the weekend and remembered how much I loved it.
Uncouth describes someone who is rude, lacking in manners, or socially awkward, it can be someone who behaves in a way that’s considered rough, improper, or just not socially acceptable.
It can also mean crude, unrefined, or uncultured. It is not usually about appearance but more about behaviour, speech, and attitude.
I would never normally order chips at a Chinese restaurant in Sydney, however, in Northern Ireland this is part of the culture. Never have I ever eaten a chip with chopsticks and I did indeed feel a little uncouth, or as least I would have maybe appeared to be uncouth.
Kickstart the week in classic style! Have a good Monday everyone. I spotted this car yesterday and it was love at first sight. Can you believe today is the last day of June?!
I thought I would also share a song that I really love and it’s always appropriate on a Monday, or any day for that matter.
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 WOKE.
I know this word is controversial at the moment but genuinely, to be woke is simply to be aware, to be alert. Alive to the fact that not everyone gets a fair go.
Somewhere along the way, woke has gained a bad reputation.
It started out as a powerful word in African American communities, a quiet warning to stay awake to injustice, inequality, and racism but over time, it has become twisted and hijacked by culture wars. It is used as a sarcastic swipe against people who care too much, speak up too often, or challenge the status quo. Suddenly, being woke is painted as weak or annoying or “too much.”
However, here is the thing, woke still means what it always did, that you are caring. Noticing when things aren’t right and standing beside people who become ignored or pushed down. Being brave enough to ask, “Is this fair?” even when it’s easier to stay silent.
If woke means choosing kindness over cruelty, awareness over apathy, and progress over pretending, then maybe we all need to wake up a bit.
Sorry my word today is a bit of a rant but I keep hearing all the time that people are too woke as if it is a bad thing. It is the opposite actually, being woke is a good thing and shows that you have empathy for others.
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 NOGGIN.
Im not sure if this is a world wide word but in Northern Ireland it is used a lot and we’re talking about your head (as in the thing attached to your neck).
Used affectionately (or sometimes cheekily), you’ll hear things like:
“Use your noggin!” – meaning think about it, would you?! or
“He cracked his noggin open falling off that wall.”
Whether you’re scratching it, banging it or trying to get something into it, there’s no better word for your head than noggin.
Have you heard this word before? Or do you have another word for your head?
Happy Thursday everyone and welcome to another week of wonderful doors. I thought this week I would go back to basics and show case a few doors from Northern Ireland / Ireland that are still yet to be featured, as it has been a while. Let me know if you have a favourite this week.
Ok, so for this week I will be picking number one as my favourite. It is highly unusual to spot a purple door and I love the design of the door as well as the surrounding archway. What about you?
Have a great day everyone and I look forward to seeing all your door entries over on Dan’s page.
This is another very popular island in the Philippines that we were fortunate to visit. We were travelling here for my good friend’s wedding so it was extremely exciting to be here for something other than relaxation. It’s one thing to attend or be a part of a wedding but to experience it in another country / culture is right up my street. I love to be immersed in other cultures, learning their traditions, trying their food and being enveloped in their unrelenting hospitality. We spent a lot of time with my friends and their families which was really lovely, very welcoming and a lot of fun.
Suman Malagkit – a Filipino sticky rice cake made of sweetened glutinous rice steamed in banana leaves. We were encouraged to eat lots of these and we gladly did with a nice cup of coffee, made by the family.
We stayed at the Savoy Mactan Hotel Located just 15 minutes from Mactan-Cebu International Airport and nestled within The Mactan Newtown, a dynamic township featuring retail shops, office towers, and leisure facilities. The hotel boasts clean, modern rooms, friendly staff, and a convenient location, making it a great choice for both business and leisure travelers. They had a swimming pool on site and just a 10 minute walk away, you could find their infinity pool with poolside bar and cabanas. We chilled out here a lot after the wedding, the perfect spot to unwind and appreciate the hotels amenities.
Along the strip where the hotel is situated has many shops, a supermarket and plenty of stunning eateries. Our favourite place to eat and drink was a five minute walk from our hotel and just across the road from the strip. It was a little area consisting only of a food truck and a drinks van BUT the ambiance here was absolutely fantastic; the lighting, being outdoors and relatively cheap and tasty food made this the perfect place to hang out.
We headed here for drinks the night before the wedding. Food at An’Dale and drinks at Bar Kantu, loved it that much that we returned another time. The absolute best wedding and what a stunning venue and bride!!!
To conclude, we had the most amazing time in Cebu and the Philippines as a whole. It was great to see around but also to spend time with good friends and be a part of something really special. Thank you all for taking a look at our short trip and I look forward to showcasing my next holiday. Ps. take a look at the video below by Enya. You might know it, it’s called Orinoco Flow and it was the first time I had heard of Cebu (from Peru).
This small island in the Philippines has long been a favourite for travellers seeking the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. While the island is only seven kilometres long, it packs a lot into a small space, especially along its famous White Beach, which is divided into three main areas: Station 1, Station 2, and Station 3. I have wanted to visit here for years as I have a good friend who is from this area and has always talked about how beautiful Boracay is.
Getting to Boracay involves flying into either Caticlan (Godofredo P. Ramos Airport), the closest and most convenient or Kalibo International Airport, which is about two hours away by road. From Caticlan, a short boat ride will whisk you across to the island, where paradise begins. This was the option we took and it was a real novelty to be taken to our destination by boat!
Very friendly and helpful staffOur carriage awaitsA lovely welcomeView from our balcony
Station 1: Luxe and Laidback at The Lind
For a truly indulgent stay, Station 1 is where the upscale resorts and peaceful beachfront vibes live and The Lind Boracay is the jewel in its crown. We opted to stay here on a friend’s recommendation and boy were we glad we did. Perched right on the soft sands, The Lind blends modern luxury with tropical charm. Think of infinity pools with ocean views, breezy lounges, warm service, and stylish rooms that feel like a private hideaway. It’s the perfect base if you want a quieter, more refined slice of Boracay. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay here, the service was fantastic and the pool / gym amenities were greatly appreciated. The food was delicious too, we had breakfast included which is always a good way to start the day and they had themed nights also if you wanted something different from the standard menus.
Just at the back of the hotelStunning walk to the infinity pool View from the infinity poolYou had to drag me away from here Bilo bilo with my waffles, yum! Pandan waffles made with pandan leaves
Station 2: Buzz and Bargains at D’Mall
When you’re ready for a change of pace, a short stroll or quick e-trike ride takes you down to Station 2, the island’s lively heart. Here, you’ll find D’Mall, a bustling outdoor maze of shops, market stalls, cafés, and restaurants. It’s where flip-flops meet fashion, street food meets gelato, and beachwear meets bargain-hunting. From fresh mango shakes to island souvenirs and local eats, D’Mall is the place to dive into the energetic, colourful side of Boracay. We were lucky to have the hotel bus take us there and then we sauntered home along the beach in the evening, taking in the sunset and watching people make the most of the remaining daylight.
D’Mall marketsLove these little E-trikesLots of boats on the water, beautiful sunset and people playing volleyball Apparently Boracay is famous for its smoothies and this was truly delicious
The beauty of Boracay is in its blend, stay in serene Station 1, play in vibrant Station 2, and if you’re curious, Station 3 offers a more rustic, backpacker-friendly scene (we didn’t venture here though). Whether you’re here for romance, relaxation, or just to roam barefoot through island life, Boracay delivers it all, with a sunset on the side, we absolutely loved it!
Exploring Manila’s Makati: A Tale of Three Neighbourhoods.
When you think of Manila’s modern heart, Makati often comes to mind, however, we picked this area as it had good reviews for tourists and it had different pockets to visit. Within this urban core lie three unique areas worth discovering: Bel-Air, Greenbelt, and Poblacion. Each brings its own energy, rhythm, and charm.
1. Bel-Air: Calm Behind the Buzz
Tucked just off the bustling avenues, Bel-Air Village offers an unexpected pocket of calm in the middle of the city. It’s a well-maintained residential enclave, home to embassies, expats, and local families. The streets are wide and leafy, and there’s a real sense of community here. It’s also just a short walk to the main roads, so you get the peace without missing out on convenience.
Some local food, we avoided all the StarbucksBeautiful sculptures Very leafyThe local library Jeepneys – best way to travel These underground pedestrian walkways are fantastic
2. Greenbelt: Luxe and Lifestyle
A Manila icon, Greenbelt is more than just a mall – it’s a lifestyle complex that blends luxury shopping, lush gardens, fine dining, and a serene chapel at its centre. Whether you’re sipping coffee, shopping high fashion, or attending mass under the trees, Greenbelt offers an upscale escape right in the middle of Makati’s CBD. Great for business travellers or anyone looking for a polished Manila experience, just be aware, the designer shops are pretty pricey.
Garden Chapel We couldn’t believe we found an M&SThey really look after their cats here
3. Poblacion: Manila’s Creative Pulse
Just a few blocks from the business district, Poblacion is where Manila lets its hair down. It’s gritty, colourful, and constantly evolving. With its street art, hole-in-the-wall bars, and indie eateries, Poblacion has become the city’s go-to spot for nightlife and creative culture. If Greenbelt is the polished suit, Poblacion is the leather jacket and we had really wanted to see the not so polished side of Makati.
Beautiful church Love how the city lights up at night
Final Thoughts
Makati isn’t one-note, it’s a patchwork of experiences. Whether you’re after the quiet charm of Bel-Air, the refined atmosphere of Greenbelt, or the electric buzz of Poblacion, there’s something here for every mood and moment. However, Makati is just one part of Manila. There was SO much more to explore but we only had a couple of days to see the sights…which means that we will have to come back again!
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 SAUNTER.
In Northern Ireland, when someone says they’re going for a saunter, you know they’re not in a rush. They’re taking their time, maybe strolling down a country lane, around the shops, or just walking about with no particular purpose. It’s not just walking, it’s a complete vibe.
Where other places might say “walk” or “stroll,” saunter in Northern Irish usage often has a laid-back, even slightly cheeky tone. An example might be –
“We just went for a saunter around town”.
It’s casual and unbothered, you’re not just moving, you’re taking your time and letting the world wait.
Today we went for a saunter around Wollongong, a coastal city just south of Sydney. It’s about a 50 minute drive from our home in the Shire and although we had been there before, today we just took our time to take it all in and explore a little more. We walked along the beach, spotted not one but two lighthouses and had some fish and chips by the water. It was a really lovely day, blue skies and very sunny, a perfect winter’s day.
Happy Thursday everyone and welcome to another week of doors. In my previous doors post I had mentioned that I had only seen one door that stood out to me. I knew as soon as I said that, I would find more doors – it’s Sod’s Law! We took a walk through Makati Poblacion in Manila and I was able to spot three doors that I thought were pretty special. I am working on my Philippines blog posts and will be completed shortly but for now here is a sneak peak.
1 – when do you see a gold door??2 – love this orange door3 – This was a fantastic church door and my fave this week.
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 DURE (pronounced like lure).
When someone is “dure” in Northern Irish dialect, they’re being:
Sullen, grumpy, surly, unsmiling or hard to crack.
It’s often used to describe someone who’s in bad form, moody, or just plain difficult to be around.
For example, “He’s a dure wee man, he never cracks a smile.”
I thought of this word when being served by a sales assistant today at the post office, who looked pretty dure. This is quite often the case when I visit the post office, for whatever reason 🙊.
WrookieSchU 