Live life 🙌🏼
List three jobs you’d consider pursuing if money didn’t matter.
1 – Personal trainer
2 – Pokemon trainer
3 – Sunset watcher
If money did not matter, I would spend my days either helping people grow stronger, catching Pokémon, or watching the sun go down. Either way, I would be in my element!
Happy Thursday everyone and welcome to another week of wonderful doors. I am currently travelling around Western Australia, having just left Scarborough and heading now to Fremantle, all not too far from Perth. I have spotted some cracking doors so far but will keep them for when I’m creating my WA blog posts. This week my doors are from my last Aussie adventures when we travelled to the German village of Hahndorf, near Adelaide. As always please let me know if you have a favourite.
I love the message beside number 3 – “Do more of what you love” – abso-freaking-lutely! However, number 4 is my favourite this week, it has that old school rustic charm and it looks very worn and weather beaten, lots of stories if it could speak.
What aspects of your cultural heritage are you most proud of or interested in?
I would say that I am most proud of the resilience, friendliness and sense of humour in Northern Ireland. No matter where you go, there is always a good story, a bit of banter, and a strong sense of community.
Despite a complex history, Northern Irish people are often admired for their warmth, strength, and ability to make light of tough times.
Also famous locations and landmarks such as The Giant’s Causeway, Mourne Mountains, Harland & Wolf, in addition to the rugged coastlines are all symbols of natural beauty and part of the cultural identity of Northern Ireland.
Traybakes like Fifteens, potato bread, soda farls, Veda bread, Irish stew, and a proper Ulster Fry are cultural touchstones that anyone from Northern Ireland will be aware of and instantly reminds you of home. The food is always a talking point when you meet others outside of Northern Ireland.
What brands do you associate with?
When I think of brands, I think of big names and high prices. I’m not a huge brand person, especially with items that I can buy cheaper but work just as well. I would say for sports wear, I do like to wear brands like Adidas and Nike. I just find that the quality lasts a lot longer and I love their style. You can also mix their clothes, for example, a Nike t-shirt with a cheaper pair of shorts.
Adidas has always been my go-to brand because it blends comfort, style, and quality so effortlessly. I love how it’s rooted in sports but also fits perfectly into everyday life, whether I’m working out, traveling, or just hanging out. The three stripes feel timeless, and there’s something about Adidas that always feels fresh but never tries too hard. I have loved this brand since as long as I can remember, probably when I hit my teenage years.
I also have a soft spot for Nike. Their “Just Do It” slogan has always stood out to me, it’s simple but powerful, like a little push to get moving no matter what, I often use this phrase! Nike feels bold and motivating, while Adidas feels classic and comfortable, and I like switching between the two depending on my mood.
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 CHOOK.
I have showcased many of my favourite Northern Irish words so I thought it was time to share one that I hear daily in Australia. Here, a chicken is almost always a chook. You will see it on pub menus (“half a roast chook”) or hear it in everyday chatter about backyard hens laying eggs. However, chook isn’t just about the bird it is Aussie slang too. If someone is “running around like a headless chook,” it means they’re rushing about in a chaotic state.
There’s also the infamous “chooky neck,” made popular by the hit Aussie comedy Kath & Kim. The term describes the loose, wobbly skin under the chin, not exactly flattering, but always said with humour. Kath & Kim, by the way, is an iconic Australian sitcom that lovingly pokes fun at suburban life with plenty of quirky sayings like this one.
Warm, funny, and uniquely Australian, chook is more than a bird, it is a word with real character and one that I have started to use!
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
“Eat every meal like it’s your last meal” – my Dad.
What things give you energy?
Below are the 14 things that work for me.
Good food 🍎
Quality sleep 😴
Exercise and movement 🏋️
Uplifting people 🙂
Sunshine and fresh air ☀️
Laughter 😂
Music 🎶
Time in nature 🌿
Taking breaks 🧘🏼♂️
Staying hydrated 💦
Learning something new 📚
Coffee ☕️
Blogging 📝
Travel 🧳
Speaking of travel, we have just arrived in Perth, Australia for the next couple of weeks. Time to rest and recharge, whilst also exploring a little of Western Australia. We have never been here before so we are super excited and when you have somewhere new to see, getting up early is a real joy. Have a great weekend everyone!!!
What’s your all-time favorite album?
If you asked me to pick just one album that has meant the most to me, I just wouldn’t be able to do it. Music has been the soundtrack to so many chapters of my life, different albums marking different moments, moods, and memories. One record takes me back to the angst of my teenage years, another reminds me of good times with friends, while others pull me straight into my escapisms, heartbreaks, or nights out.
Instead of settling on just one, I decided to put together my top 21 albums of all time. It’s not a “greatest albums ever made” list, it is personal. These are the ones that stuck with me, lifted me, shaped me, and still sound just as good today as when I first heard them. They are in no particular order.
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 GREGARIOUS.
I heard this word today and it was love at first sound. I’m not sure if I have heard it before or not but when I looked it up, I thought, yes that’s me, I am gregarious…although maybe not all the time!
Gregarious is one of those words that sounds a little grand, but really it just means describing someone who is sociable, outgoing, and enjoys being around others. A gregarious person thrives in company, loves conversation, and often draws energy from being part of a group.
I do love being in a group and I absolutely love connection, however, there are times where I like solitude, peace and quiet to reflect or relax. Also, as much as I love being sociable, in large groups where others are very vocal, I tend to slip into the background as I don’t have the energy or will to be centre of attention or having to shout to be heard.
Happy Friday everyone. Today’s flower was spotted in Hillsborough, Northern Ireland. Absolutely stunning to look at but looks can be deceiving. With some research I discovered this flower was introduced a long time ago and has thrived so well that it sometimes crowds out native plants, a reminder that not everything that looks attractive is harmless.
Which topics would you like to be more informed about?
One thing I would really like to be more informed about is the news, what is real and what is not. These days it feels harder than ever to know which headlines can be trusted and which are designed just to grab attention. I’d like to learn how to better separate fact from fiction, so I can be confident in what I’m reading and sharing, there is just so much misinformation and blatant lies being put out into the world. With the progression of AI, it is so difficult to differentiate fact from fiction.
I have made a list of some things that I currently do and will continue to adhere to:
– Choose trustworthy sources (not always easy)
– Cross check the story
– Look for evidence
– Watch out for BIAS
– Slow down before sharing.
Happy Thursday everyone and welcome to another week of wonderful doors. This week I am showcasing a few doors from the suburb next to us called Caringbah. We went for a walk here on Sunday looking for a popular board walk. The good news is that we went for a walk and got our steps completed, the bad news is that we took a wrong turn and totally missed the boardwalk. Ah well. We will have to try again at a later stage. It wasn’t all bad though as I was able to spot these beautiful houses with fantastic doors and we managed to stumble across a brewery that we had frequented before. It does the best creaming soda ale I have ever tasted. Ok, so it’s the only creaming soda ale I have ever tasted but it is absolutely delicious.
As always, let me know if you have a favourite this week.
How do you celebrate holidays?
I’m assuming this question refers to big holidays that we celebrate like Easter, Christmas etc and not going on a holiday.
For me, holidays are all about the big occasions, those moments that bring people together. I usually celebrate with friends and family, the people who matter most. I love when we can all get together to celebrate the holidays. There are very few times where we are ALL together but quite often we might have a few different gatherings with loved ones.
There is always food, plenty of drinks, and laughter that fills the room. We share stories, make memories, and of course, take lots of photos to look back on later. We might enjoy music together, play games, watch movies and maybe even get annoyed with each other!
Holidays are about more than just the day itself, they are about connection, joy, and the little moments that stick with you long after. Whether it is a quiet dinner or a big party, what makes it special is the time spent together.
Here in Australia it is a little different as I don’t have much family here and my friendship circle is pretty small but I always have my partner to celebrate the milestones with, we’re very much a two person family. Also I don’t need the celebrations to be particularly flashy, just meaningful and a little different from the normal routine.
Thanks Judy for today’s number of 212.
Welcome to “The Numbers Game”. 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.
This week I only retrieved two photos from this number but they are two good ones, showing my two favourite men and a couple of special memories. The first one was wine tasting on my birthday with my amazing husband and the second was is one of my favourite memories of having a BBQ with my Dad at the back of their house.
If you have seen my previous post about the Charlie Sheen documentary, I feel like this post ties in nicely. Two and a half Men with Charlie Sheen was a hugely successful comedy program with an exceptionally catchy theme tune, all about men. I just thought it was funny as I’m showcasing two men…I guess that means I’m the half!
I grew up watching Charlie Sheen, first in Hot Shots! where he was funny, charismatic, handsome, and totally endearing, even to me as a kid. Back then he seemed unstoppable, the kind of actor who could make you laugh and still look effortlessly cool doing it. That’s why it was so sad to see his life unravel, the drugs, the public meltdowns, and the headlines that turned him into more of a punchline than a person. For years it felt like he was burning through every chance, and yet, somehow, he’s still here.
Netflix’s new documentary aka Charlie Sheen takes us through that rise and fall, but more importantly, it shows a man who has survived himself. He’s now been sober for years, reflecting on the chaos, taking responsibility, and reconnecting with people who never fully gave up on him, including ex-wives and family. It is very raw, often heartbreaking, but strangely hopeful. For those of us who admired him from the start, it is good to see Charlie still standing, still fighting, and maybe finally turning the corner he always needed to.
Don’t get me wrong, it was a hard watch at times. I struggle with seeing people take drugs and hurting the ones nearest and dearest to them but Charlie survived it, and still lives to tell the tale. This was a fantastic two part documentary that I was really invested in for the last couple of nights. Definitely worth a watch!
Share a lesson you wish you had learned earlier in life.
I wish I had realised earlier that saving for a deposit and getting on the property ladder was worth sacrificing other things for, because the way house prices have skyrocketed has made it almost impossible now, I’m not sure if I will ever own my own house.
Not that I’m complaining, I’ve had a great life travelling and I am in a good position where I can have a roof over my head, a cosy place to live etc etc., many people don’t have that, so I am extremely grateful.
What are your favorite types of foods?
Food isn’t just about taste for me, it’s also about comfort, memories, and the joy of sharing something delicious with others. If I had to sum up my favourite foods, I’d say they fall into three main food types, Italian, Mexican and Irish home cooking.
Italian food always feels like a warm embrace. A bowl of pasta, a thin-crust pizza, or something as simple as bruschetta, it’s comfort food, made to be enjoyed slowly.
Mexican food, on the other hand, excites me. The spices, colours, and bold flavours bring a sense of celebration to the table.
Finally there is Irish home cooking. This is where nostalgia comes in. Stews, soda bread, potato bread, tray bakes, the kind of food that brings me back to simpler times and cosy evenings. It’s simple, it’s hearty, and full of meaning.
I also do love fresh flavours, things that feel light, bright, and vibrant. A crisp salad, ripe fruit, or a squeeze of lemon can completely transform a meal. Alongside that, I try to keep my eating on the healthier side, not in a strict way, but in a way that leaves me feeling good after I have eaten.
Living in Australia makes the love of food even richer. The diversity here is incredible, one night I can enjoy Greek flavours, the next Lebanese, or discover something new with Nepalese or Vietnamese dishes. It feels like the whole world is on my doorstep, and it keeps my love for food constantly inspired.
I feel grateful to experience that here as I had never tried any of these foods before in Northern Ireland. The most I had ever tried that was remotely exotic was Chinese and Indian food, that I LOVE by the way but in Northern Ireland the foods are cooked to suit the locals taste buds, i.e. made with MSG. Nothing authentic about it but suits those who have never left the country to try the real deal.
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 aloof.
I LOVE this word, mostly because of how it sounds.
To be aloof is to seem distant, detached, or reserved. It’s not necessarily about being unfriendly, but rather giving the impression of standing apart from others. Someone aloof might keep to themselves, avoid small talk, or appear emotionally cool even if they’re quietly observing everything around them.
However, in Northern Ireland aloof can sometimes be used a little differently than the standard English meaning. Locally, it can carry a softer, almost teasing tone, closer to someone being “a bit out of it”, “not really tuned in”, or “away with the fairies.” All things that I would say or think of when I am describing someone as being aloof.
Have you ever heard or used this word before?
Happy Friday everyone. Today’s flower of the day is the gladiolus (sounds like something from Harry Potter) and it is from the Iris family. Known also as “sword lilies” due to their long, pointed leaves, which resemble a sword.
Inner strength and courage is much needed in these testing times. The world is very heavy at the moment and I fear I should stop watching the news as I am losing faith in humanity.
Do you see yourself as a leader?
I do not see myself as a leader in the traditional sense. I do not command rooms or chase recognition, however, I do lead by example.
As a nurse and a teacher, I try to guide through action, showing care, clarity, and integrity in my interactions. Leadership, to me, is quiet, it is human, and it is grounded in values.
I lead by treating others the way I would want to be treated, with respect, patience, and kindness.
Leadership does not have to be loud. Sometimes, it is just being the kind of person others feel safe around.
Happy Thursday everyone and welcome to another week of doors. This week I am showcasing a beautiful door and building from Surry Hills that I spotted a few weeks ago. It really caught my eye when I just happened to walk down a certain road. Don’t you just love those unexpected finds?!
In the heart of Surry Hills stands Durham Hall, a Georgian gem of a building with a quiet kind of power. It was originally built in 1834–1835 for George Hill, a wealthy merchant, magistrate, and influential figure in early Sydney politics, even becoming a city councillor and later the Mayor of Sydney.
After the Hill family sold the property in 1889, Durham Hall went through a series of transformations until eventually being restored in 1983.
Since 1986 it has become the headquarters of the Royal College of Pathologists of Australasia (RCPA), consequently blending history with medical leadership.
Inside, pathologists and scientists shape the future of healthcare, diagnosing disease, setting lab standards, and training the experts behind every biopsy and blood test. It is the brain behind the scenes, elegant, essential, and deeply Australian.
Durham Hall doesn’t just house medicine, it holds a significant history and I for one am delighted the building has been reused for such an amazing purpose. There is something deeply satisfying about seeing a heritage space like Durham Hall not just preserved, but repurposed with intent. It isn’t simply bricks and mortar, it’s a living legacy, quietly supporting the health of millions through the work of pathologists and scientists.
What’s your favorite word?
I have many, many favourite words which you might already know from my series Wayne’s Word but this word SCUNDERED has to be up there as one of my all time favourites, very well known in Northern Ireland.
If you are scundered, you are embarrassed, fed up, or ABSOLUTELY MORTIFIED by something. It’s one of those wonderfully flexible words that can describe different shades of awkwardness, depending on tone. We can also use this sarcastically or dramatically, making something sound very over the top for the purpose of telling a good story.
For example:
If you trip in front of a crowd, you might say, “I was scundered!” or if your friend tells a cringe story, you might admit, “I am scundered for you.”
It is a uniquely Northern Irish way of expressing that mix of embarrassment and exasperation. Not only does it sound great rolling off the tongue, but it also captures an emotion most of us know far too well.
Something I might say or many from Northern Ireland might say, “Scundered to a hundred” – It’s like turning the embarrassment or annoyance all the way up to maximum!!!
What are you doing this evening?
Happy hump day everyone! So I really am a creature of habit and in the evenings I pretty much do the same thing every evening, unless I have plans. This evening I will –
Not overly exciting but I like routine and being organised 🙂
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 Arachibutyrophobia.
I can’t even say this word but thank you Ben and Steve for introducing it to me. They have a really fantastic post talking about unusual phobias, you can check it out here.
Arachibutyrophobia struck a chord with me as it is the fear of peanut butter sticking to the roof of your mouth.
It might sound funny at first glance, but for those who experience it, the anxiety can be very real and disruptive. It is not necessarily a fear of peanut butter itself, but of the sticky sensation it creates.
It can often be linked to broader fears like choking (pseudodysphagia) or sticky textures and can lead to avoidance behaviors, such as refusing peanut butter or similar foods altogether.
I’m not sure if I have this fear per se but I definitely have a strong dislike for this sensation, almost like my mouth is trapped in peanut butter. A very unusual feeling. Have you ever heard of this phobia and can you relate?
What personality trait in people raises a red flag with you?
If there is one personality trait that instantly raises a red flag for me, it’s rudeness. Not just the occasional off day we all have, but a consistent, dismissive way of treating others.
I have always believed in treating everyone the same, from the doctor to the cleaner, from the CEO to the person serving coffee. Titles and uniforms don’t make anyone more or less worthy of respect. What truly matters is how we carry ourselves, and how we treat the people around us.
This is why I notice when someone shows kindness to me, yet turns around and speaks rudely to someone else. It’s a clear sign of inconsistency. Kindness isn’t real if it’s selective. Personally, it is one of the biggest red flags in character, you have revealed how you really value others when you think no one is paying attention.
Thanks Judy for today’s number of 211.
Welcome to “The Numbers Game”. 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.
This week garnered two photos only taken in 2018. I love these photos of two incredible landmarks in Sydney. When I see these in person, I remember where I live and feel extremely grateful to call this amazing city my home.
Describe your ideal week.
My ideal week would be not working, to put it bluntly! Maybe lots of walks, gym sessions and catch ups with loved ones. I say this as I sit on my 6am morning commute to work on a Monday morning *sigh* – however, I am grateful to be able to work and the sun is shining here in Sydney so that’s a plus. It’s going to be a cool 28 degrees Celsius today, that’s 82.4 Fahrenheit apparently so I’m not going to complain.
Enjoy your day everyone.
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 GIGGLE.
A giggle is a light, silly, often uncontrollable laugh, and even the word makes me want to giggle. It is usually higher-pitched than a chuckle and tends to bubble out quickly, sometimes when you’re amused, embarrassed, or even nervous.
I wouldn’t say it’s as full or as loud as a laugh, but more playful and spontaneous, the kind of sound that can spread easily to others. It is definitely infectious and if I see someone with uncontrollable giggling, I will normally end up giggling too without being able to stop, almost growing into a complete belly laugh where my sides are splitting.
I have been known to do this at the most inappropriate times and have been in trouble on numerous occasions in my youth, with even being asked to leave the classroom.
Name the professional athletes you respect the most and why.
David Beckham has always been more than just a footballer to me. Yes, he was an exceptional talent but I was never really one to enjoy watching football. What I truly admire is how he carried himself through the tough times he endured during the nineties and emerged stronger, not just as an athlete, but as a brand.
From the highs of Manchester United and Real Madrid to the scrutiny he faced after the 1998 World Cup red card, dating a Spice Girl and his accusations of cheating, Beckham never let setbacks define him. He kept showing up, kept playing, kept evolving and I admire the man he has become today.
What’s even more impressive is how he transitioned beyond football. He didn’t just retire, he reinvented himself, albeit with the help from his wife. Beckham has become a global style icon, launching his own grooming line, clothing, aftershaves and sunglasses to name a few. Alongside his wife Victoria, he has built “Brand Beckham,” a powerhouse that blends sport and fashion, whilst being a family man and having a close relationship with his kids.
How do you relax?
Nothing relaxes me more than sitting in a comfortable chair, feet up and a big cup of tea. It has to be a hot cup of tea, not too milky but also not too strong (we can it builder’s tea).
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 PLETHORA.
At its simplest, plethora means “an abundance” or “an excess.” If you have a plethora of biscuits in the tin, it’s more than just enough, it’s overflowing. This fantastically regal word came to my mind this morning when I was looking through my flowers collection and realised I had a plethora of flowers to showcase for my future FOTD posts.
Happy Friday everyone! I was going through all my flower images this morning and thought I would post the last few roses that I have in my collection. After today, I will be roseless but I have so many other flower species to showcase. These roses were spotted in Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park in Belfast during their rose fair event that they hold annually.
Happy Thursday everyone! This week I am showcasing some electrical boxes that I have spotted over the past few years. I have been meaning to show them for some time and was reminded of them by Wandering Teresa who also featured some of her boxes on her blog. These electrical boxes caught my eye because of their decoration and colourfulness. They are really beautiful pieces of art and I’m sure they all have doors too, therefore, I think they are appropriate for Thursday doors. As always, please let me know if you have a favourite one.
I absolutely cannot pick one! I LOVE the two Aboriginal designed boxes…but also I love the house painted on number five…and number six was so colourful…I loved it that much that I wanted to sit with it 🤣🤣.
Are you holding a grudge? About?
The simple answer is no, I am not holding any grudges. I don’t see the point. Holding a grudge usually weighs more on the person carrying it than on the one it is directed at. Letting go doesn’t mean forgetting or excusing, it just means freeing yourself from the constant drag of resentment.
Share a story about the furthest you’ve ever traveled from home.
Taveuni, often called the “Garden Island of Fiji,” is famous not only for its lush rainforests, waterfalls, and vibrant coral reefs, but also for being one of the few inhabited places in the world where the International Date Line runs right through the land. The line, which marks the boundary between one calendar day and the next, cuts across the island so neatly that locals like to say you can stand with one foot in “today” and the other in “yesterday.”
I remember sitting on a quiet beach in Taveuni, watching the sun sink into the Pacific, when it suddenly struck me that I was as far from home as I could possibly be. I had crossed oceans and continents to reach this little island, and there was no way to go any further without starting the long journey back. That realisation of being quite literally on the other side of the world, made the moment feel both humbling and magical, as if I had reached the very edge of my own map.
What does your ideal home look like?
Have you ever seen this 2006 movie, The Holiday? It is one of my absolute favourites, especially at Christmas. Iris’s English cottage (Rosehill Cottage) in the Surrey countryside is exactly what my ideal home would look like, with its stone walls, timber framework, thatched roof, warm fireplaces, and that fairytale snow covered look.
I want a home to be warm and cosy, yet spacious enough that it’s not too cramped. I would love a garden, not necessarily at the front but definitely at the back so I can have some outdoor space and a couple of pooches. Lastly it would need to have a stunning front door or at least a door with a beautiful wreath on it.
What brings a tear of joy to your eye?
First of all, what is joy? Joy is a deep, uplifting emotion that comes when we experience something profoundly meaningful, beautiful, or fulfilling. Unlike fleeting happiness (which can come from small pleasures like a nice meal or a funny joke), joy tends to run deeper, it is tied to connection, love, gratitude, hope, or even a sense of awe.
As for why it can bring a tear to your eye, emotions aren’t neatly separated in our brains. Joy can overwhelm us in the same way sadness does, flooding the body with physical responses, like a lump in the throat, goosebumps, or tears. Tears of joy often happen when we feel something so intensely positive that it overflows, like seeing someone you love succeed or hearing a piece of music that stirs your soul.
I cried tears of joy at my sisters’ weddings, all three of them. I was caught totally unawares with my first sister to be married and had no idea that it could stir that kind of emotion. It was a real happy and proud moment for them to succeed in life and move onto the next chapter of their lives. A really lovely and emotional time.
Why do you blog?
Happy Sunday everyone! Let’s play a game. I have given 10 reasons why I blog but are they all true? From following my blog, would you know which points are true or false?
1 – Self-expression – My blog provides a space to share my thoughts and opinions.
2 – Building a personal brand – It helps me to establish my voice and identity online, whether professional or personal.
3 – Sharing knowledge – I blog to teach others, provide advice, or explain things I have learned.
4 – Documenting life – I use my blog as a digital diary to capture memories, milestones, and reflections.
5 – Community connection – I love how my blog can attract like-minded readers, fostering discussion and friendships.
6 – Improving writing skills – Regular posting helps me to refine my style, clarity, and communication.
7 – Career opportunities – My blog showcases expertise, attracts many job offers, collaborations, and freelance work.
8 – Inspiration and motivation – It gives me a sense of purpose and a creative outlet to explore new ideas.
9 – Earning income – I am fortunate to make a lot money on my blog through ads, sponsorships, and affiliate marketing.
10 – Leaving a legacy – My blog can become a lasting collection of my thoughts, stories, and contributions for others to discover. It will be read for generations to come.
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 GUINNESS.
This is a word that HAS to be featured.
The word “Guinness” comes directly from the surname of the family behind the famous Irish stout.
The name originates with Arthur Guinness (1725–1803), who founded the Guinness brewery at St. James’s Gate, Dublin, in 1759. The surname Guinness is of Irish origin, an anglicised form of the Gaelic Mag Aonghusa (meaning son of Aonghus or Angus). Aonghus itself is an old Gaelic personal name meaning “one strength” or “unique choice.”
So basically, Guinness the beer is named after Arthur Guinness. Guinness the family name comes from Gaelic roots, connecting back to early Irish clans with the name Magennis/MacGuinness.
Happy Friday everyone! I survived my stomach churning train journey this morning into the city and then walked to my workplace. It was a lovely morning and I managed to spot these wee beauties close to my work, nestled in the surrounding foliage.
They belong to the genus Rhododendron, and most evergreen types are native to Australia and Asia, especially Japan and China.They supposedly only flower in spring, which can mean only one thing here, spring has indeed sprung!
How are you feeling right now?
Just on my early morning commute to work, sitting on the train and happy to be warm when I hear a person below shouting. I can’t hear what he says but it sounds loud and with an aggressive tone. Other commuters start to take notice and one man actually leaves our carriage to go downstairs to tell the man to pipe down. To my surprise, it works and the man returns. We see these kind of people a lot in Sydney, you don’t want to presume but normally drugs have a lot to do with it. It sends the people crazy and you’re scared to even look at them in case they snap.
When the man returned to our carriage I thought how brave he was to go and speak to the noisy passenger but at the same time, a lot of people would be scared to intervene. What if the passenger returned with a knife or wanted to fight, you just never know these days.
Anything remotely confrontational makes me feel sick to my stomach so I am very grateful for the man who took a no nonsense approach. The train is now very quiet.
What would you do in that situation?
Happy Thursday everyone and welcome to another week of wonderful doors. We have turned a corner with Sydney’s weather with blue skies returning and temperatures increasing ever so slightly. This is the last official week of winter here, so roll on spring next week!
This week I am showing some doors from one of my favourite suburbs in Sydney known as Woollahra. I have shown many doors from here in the past but this place has been on the news of late due to a new train station being built here and new homes being created. The train station I think is being welcomed, however, the new housing is quite controversial as there is limited space in Woollahra. It would be a complete shame if they were to demolish some older buildings with abundance of character to make way for new apartment blocks to be erected. I have heard this may be happening but I’m hopeful that it will not go ahead.
As always, please let me know if you have a stand-out door this week.
For me, it is number 2 this week. I love the colour of the door and it blends perfectly with the home and the greenery. Have a great day everyone and I look forward to seeing many other doors being published today.
What was the last thing you searched for online? Why were you looking for it?
This is a funny question that I’m glad was asked. We were watching a documentary last night about the Tasmanian devil, an animal that only lives in Tasmania, Australia. You may know of it from the famous Warner Bros Looney Tunes series.
This animal used to live across mainland Australia thousands of years ago, but disappeared there around 3,000 years ago. Scientists believe this was due to competition with dingoes (which never made it to Tasmania), along with climate changes and human activity.
So now, the Tasmanian devil is endemic to Tasmania, meaning it is native there and nowhere else in the wild.
I was searching online to see what these creatures eat. I was thinking / hoping maybe they lived on berries etc but I know they have sharp teeth and claws. Here is what I discovered –
Tasmanian devils are carnivorous scavengers and hunters.
Their diet mainly consists of:
Carrion (dead animals): They’ll eat roadkill, livestock carcasses, or any remains they come across. Native animals: Wallabies, wombats, possums, birds, reptiles, and insects. Farm animals (if available): Chickens, sheep, or cattle carrion.
They are famous for eating almost the entire animal, i.e. flesh, fur, bones, and organs, thanks to their incredibly strong jaws and teeth. This makes them very efficient at cleaning up the environment. That’s a plus!
They are mostly scavengers, but they can hunt live prey if it’s small or weak. There you go. Have you ever heard of these animals? I have only seen them at the zoo here in Australia and on tv. They may appear cute but they can be aggressive, so beware the mighty Tasmanian Devil!
Thanks Judy for today’s number: Welcome to “The Numbers Game. This week’s number is 209. 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.
This week garnered 19 photos so a lot more than usual. The ones I have chosen to display today were taken again from our trip to Dijon where we had a wonderful mustard tasting and my appreciation for mustard was ignited. The cheese and bread were delicious and it was great to see the grapes used for Chardonnay blanc.
What’s your favorite time of day?
I love en early night, climbing into a cosy bed, especially at the moment as it is still winter here. I put the electric blanket on just to warm the bed up, it’s the best feeling. Even better when you are off work the next day, had a shower and have fresh sheets on ☺️.
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.
I’m not sure about the rest of the world but in Northern Ireland, noggin is a playful way to refer to your head. You’ll hear someone say “Use your noggin!” when they really mean “Think!” or in my case today, “I’ve a sore noggin” after having my third coffee. Nothing a glass of water won’t fix, I always feel dehydrated if I have more than two coffees in the morning, resulting in a sore head.
The sun again was shining today in Sydney so we went for a walk nearby followed by lunch and a couple of glasses of wine. It was just what the doctor ordered after a hectic couple of weeks. I was saying yesterday how I was excited to see the sunshine and I was on a bit of a high going to work in the afternoon, only to be smacked back down to reality when I reversed parked into an overhead drain, ending up with a smashed rear window to my car. Nightmare but no one was hurt so I’m remaining positive. A day off work today was bliss and my noggin is well and truly rested for another busy week at work incoming.
I hope you’re all having a lovely Sunday off and having some rest and relaxation.
Tell us about the last thing you got excited about.
“Keep your face always toward the sunshine—and shadows will fall behind you.” – Walt Whitman.
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 HEARTWARMING.
Some words do exactly what they describe, and heartwarming is one of them. It is the kind of word that makes you feel like you are wrapped up in a cosy blanket with a cup of tea on a cold day. To call something heartwarming is to say that it gives you more than just comfort, it stirs a glow inside of you, reminding you that kindness, joy, and connection still exist in the world.
Today one of my students brought me a token to say thank you. I was extremely touched at their kindness and thoughtfulness, and it’s heartwarming to know that we can make a difference in someone’s life, no matter how big or small. Never underestimate the power of kindness!
Happy Friday everyone!
The Belladonna lily spends much of the year looking like not much is happening, with its leaves gone and ground bare but then suddenly out of nowhere, tall stems rise and burst into bloom with vibrant pink flowers.
This flower jumped out at me this morning and made me think about hope. Hope that the weather improves and that next week will be less busy than this one has been. Ps. This isn’t an actually lily but rather belongs to the Amaryllidaceae family.
Enjoy your day everyone.
Happy Thursday everyone and welcome to another week of wonderful doors. As it continues to lash from the heavens with rain, I thought I would brighten the day with three absolute beauties. These doors POP with colour and are sure to bring a smile to your face. They were discovered in Paddington, Sydney that I have showcased on numerous occasions. I swear this suburb in Sydney has thee absolute best doors around and I am pretty sure I am close to having photographed every single door there!!! Let me know if you have a favourite this week and have a great day.
I love them all but number three is my stand out for this week. I mean, the colour is exquisite and quite unusual I would say for a door. I also love how the window matches the door and the colour of the house blends so well with the colours of the door / window. The little canopy over the door adds to the aesthetic also.
WrookieSchU 