Live life 🙌🏼
List your top 5 grocery store items.
There are a few item that we do purchase daily and I would imagine they could be similar for many others.
1 – Milk
2 – Bananas
3 – Bread
4 – Protein – normally chicken or mince
5 – Spinach (we’ve been eating this a lot recently, in sandwiches and in our pasta bakes)
I would say these are our top 5 grocery items at present. Definitely fruit and vegetables are up there. We eat a lot of berries, apples and the Mediterranean vegetables.
Is your life today what you pictured a year ago?
Yes. No plot twists!
Life didn’t suddenly veer left or right, it carried on straight ahead and maybe that’s underrated. I’m just happy nothing fell apart and nothing too bad happened. It means consistency, resilience, and learning to be okay with taking things at a slow pace. I take each day as it comes and make the best of my time. As we have seen at Bondi Beach, tomorrow is not guaranteed for anyone.
Tell us one thing you hope people say about you.
I have been thinking about this for a few minutes, and honestly, I don’t really know.
I have to admit, I am a people pleaser. I like harmony and I want people to feel comfortable around me. I want them to enjoy my company, not because I’m the loudest in the room or the most interesting, but because being together feels easy and comfortable.
Maybe I hope they say I was kind, or that I listened, or that I showed up.
I don’t need to be unforgettable and I really don’t need glowing praise. I just hope that when I leave a room, people felt a little happier for having shared it with me.
Tell us about your first day at something — school, work, as a parent, etc.
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 DAFT.
Daft is a word we use a lot back home in Northern Ireland, it’s not cruel or cutting, it’s just a gentle way of saying that something is a bit silly.
I had one of those moments on my very first day working as a care assistant in an aged care home.
I turned up proudly dressed in a shirt and tie, thinking I looked very professional. What I hadn’t quite realised was that this job involved washing residents, helping with personal care, and getting properly stuck in.
I must have looked daft, I certainly felt that way!
Nevertheless, there was no time to overthink it. Off came the tie, my sleeves rolled up, and I got on with the job at hand, and thankfully I loved it. That was the beginning of my nursing journey.
Looking back, it still makes me smile. A daft start maybe but not a bad one. Feeling daft from time to time doesn’t define you. It just means you’re learning, adapting, and willing to get stuck in, and more often than not, those daft moments end up being the ones that teach us the most.
Have you ever performed on stage or given a speech?
Funny enough, yes I had to give a speech a few months ago for my good friend at his wedding in the Philippines. I was truly honoured to be asked and I am delighted to say it was a success. I’m not the most confident person out there and I do tend to be nervous with public speaking so I was delighted to have successfully carried it out but it was also such a relief when it was over.
I will be doing the same thing again for my best friend’s wedding in a couple of weeks. The speech is written and now I just need to say it a few times to make sure the flow will be good. Again, I feel honoured but will be nervous on the day. Pray for me!!!
I often think of this quote by Molière – “The greater the obstacle, the greater the glory in overcoming it.”
I will keep you all posted with how it goes…
What’s your favorite cartoon?
To be honest, I don’t really have one these days but as a kid, I was OBSESSED with eighties cartoons. Pretty much any of them. He-Man, She-Ra, Thundercats, Gummi Bears, DuckTales…if it had bright colours, dramatic theme music and a slightly chaotic storyline, I was sold…hook, line and sinker.
There’s something about that era of animation that just hits different. Maybe it was the Saturday-morning excitement, perhaps it was the toy commercials disguised as plots, or maybe it was just the fact that everything felt new and magical back then.
Although, even now, I absolutely love and appreciate a Disney animated movie. There’s a real nostalgia that washes over me when I watch them today, that cosy, childhood feeling you can’t quite recreate as an adult. It’s comfort viewing at its finest.
So while I might not have a single favourite cartoon today, those classic eighties shows and Disney films still have a special place in my past and in my heart.
What could you do less of?
I could do less worrying about my retirement.
For some reason my brain loves to jump years into the future and stress about something that isn’t even here yet. I think about it often, like it’s a problem I can solve just by overthinking it. However, honestly…what is the point? Life is too short. I’m doing what I can now, and that is enough. The rest will work itself out, and I don’t need to sacrifice today by panicking about a tomorrow that hasn’t even arrived yet.
Happy Monday everyone!!!
What positive events have taken place in your life over the past year?
Today’s prompt ties in nicely with a post that I normally create every year since 2019 thanks to Tanya from Theredphoneboxtravels, where you post one photo that highlights something significant for that month. It’s been a big year for me with travelling and trying to see as much of Australia as possible. With not travelling home to Northern Ireland this year, we had more time (and money) to travel more locally. A few positive events have also happened with me gaining another beautiful little nephew and being made permanent full time in my job as a teacher of nursing. I would also like to acknowledge my blog as it has grown significantly this year and I am really proud of its journey and the amazing bloggers I have met along the way, so thank you to each and everyone of you who interact and make this a really fun space for exploring and learning more about the world and each other.
Do you have a favorite place you have visited? Where is it?
I have many, many favourite places to visit but I will pick a local one that we visited today for breakfast, it is the Camellia Gardens in the Sutherland Shire. Beautiful gardens, with lots of flowers, native animals and a tea room! What’s not to love…and it’s just a 20 minute walk from our home. I have done a post previously if you care to check it out https://wrookieschu.com/2021/10/24/e-g-waterhouse-national-camellia-gardens/.
What is one thing you would change about yourself?
If I could change one thing about myself, it could be how certain small things have a habit of sticking in my mind. I’m not the world’s worst overthinker, but every now and then a little situation, usually something from work, can replay in my head far more than it needs to. The annoying part is that it creeps into my nights too, sitting in my unconscious and messing with my sleep. I’d love to be able to switch off a bit easier and not let those tiny moments take up so much space.
Are you more of a night or morning person?
When it comes to picking a side, I am definitely a morning person. There is just something about waking up early, feeling fresh, and getting a head start on the day that suits me to the ground. I am so much more productive in the mornings, the classic saying “early bird catches the worm” really does apply to me. I love the quiet calm before everything starts up, when the world hasn’t quite woken up yet. Nights are great too, but mornings…that’s where I thrive!!!
What are your feelings about eating meat?
I have always had mixed feelings about eating meat. I grew up with it and it has always been part of my culture, so enjoying meat feels completely normal and familiar to me, also I do think it can be part of a healthy balanced diet. However, I care a lot about how animals are treated and I hate knowing the environmental impact that large-scale farming has on our ecosystems and planet. So I often find myself caught between the comfort of the way I was raised and the guilt of knowing the bigger picture, especially around animal welfare and the planet.
What are your two favorite things to wear?
My two favourite things to wear are definitely shorts and a T-shirt. The moment I can put them on, it feels like instant freedom, like winter has finally released its freezing hold. There is something so simple and joyful about warm weather clothing, no layers, no fuss, just comfort, sunshine, and that little lift in your mood that comes with knowing summer is here.
If you didn’t need sleep, what would you do with all the extra time?
I can’t think of anything profound that I would do, read more, learn a language? I would probably do more of what I enjoy doing, walking along the beach and eating more food for half of the time and the other half I could be catching up on chores that I like to put off. I could even catch up with friends that I never seem to have time to see, get more uni work done and maybe even squeeze in an extra gym session. However, I’m not sure I could afford the lifestyle of never sleeping, at least when I’m sleeping I’m not spending any money!
Name your top three pet peeves.
1 – People not saying thank you when you hold open a door or step out of the way for them.
2 – People being passive aggressive.
3 – People taking trolleys from supermarkets and leaving them on the streets – a real problem where I live.
I think people are a common theme! Happy Tuesday!
Who are your current most favorite people?
When I think about my favourite people, the answer is pretty straightforward. At the very top of that list is always my partner. He’s my favourite person, full stop. I love being with him, and he’s the person I’d choose to spend my time with any day of the week.
After him, my favourite people are my family and my friends, the people who know me best and who I can always rely on. My nieces and nephews are my most favourite little people!
I would also include some of my work colleagues in the mix. Everyone has those coworkers who make a shift instantly better. You know the day will run smoother or be a lot more enjoyable when they’re on with you. They’re the people you look forward to seeing on the roster.
Your favourite people don’t have to be a huge list, they’re simply the ones who make life better, whether that’s every day or just when your paths cross.
What are your favorite animals?
Dogs, dogs, dogs!
One of my goals in life is simple – to have a couple of old, scruffy dogs who need rehoming. The kind with grey muzzles, wonky ears, and hearts full of love just waiting for someone to notice them. There’s something special about giving an older dog a soft landing, a warm bed, a gentle routine, and the feeling that they’re safe and adored after whatever life has thrown at them. While everyone rushes to the cute puppies, I have always been drawn to the seniors, the overlooked ones. One day, I hope my home is their final, happiest stop.
However, I really do love all animals…well, all except the truly scary ones. Meerkats, dolphins, birds, turtles, elephants, cows… the list could go on and on. There’s something fascinating about each of them. I love watching how they move, interact, and live in their own little worlds. However, I also appreciate that many of them are wild creatures, and part of loving them is respecting that distance. I’m happy admiring them from afar rather than getting too close.
At the end of the day, sometimes animals are better than humans! They love without judgement, live without complications, and bring out the softest parts of us without even trying. Whether it’s an old scruffy dog who just wants a safe place to rest or a wild creature I admire from afar, animals remind me of the kind of gentle, honest world I wish we all lived in. Maybe that’s why I will always be an animal person at heart.
Beach or mountains? Which do you prefer? Why?
Beach or mountains? That’s a really tough question!
Honestly, can I say both!? I can never fully commit to one because they each give me something that I love.
There’s something calming about walking along a beach, the sound of the waves, the wide-open horizon, that sea salt smell. Beaches feel freeing and awakening, like the world suddenly gets quieter in the best way.
However, mountains? They have their own kind of magic. I love the challenge of walking up a mountain, the sense of progress with every step, and that moment when you reach the top and everything stretches out below you. It’s grounding and energising all at once, the freshest air and quietest of spaces is hard to beat.
Furthermore, the ultimate dream!!?? A beach WITH a mountain view. There’s nothing more scenic or more satisfying than seeing those two worlds meet. One of my favourite places captures that perfectly: Murlough National Nature Reserve near Newcastle, Northern Ireland. It offers the best of both worlds, a beautiful beach with the Mourne Mountains rising in the background. There’s nothing more scenic than strolling along the sand while those mountains sweep down to the sea. STUNNING!
Do you trust your instincts?
I have learned that my instinct usually shows up before the logic does, a quick sense of yes or no that I can’t always explain straight away. Over time, I have realised I am a pretty good judge of character (in my opinion). When I meet someone and something just feels “off,” I feel that I am often right. It isn’t drama or paranoia; it’s pattern-spotting. My brain notices things before I have had time to put words to them.
That’s why I trust my instinct. It’s not loud or panicky, it’s a quiet nudge that says pay attention. When I ignore it, I usually regret it. When I follow it, I avoid situations or people that don’t sit well with me.
So yes, I do trust my instinct because, at the end of the day, it’s really just me trusting myself and I want to avoid people or situations that could potentially cause stress for whatever the reason.
What’s your favorite month of the year? Why?
My favourite month has always been December. Christmas season arrives, and with it comes office parties, mulled wine, decorations, and everyone generally being in good spirits.
Growing up in the Northern Hemisphere, December meant cold weather, dark evenings, and a cosy atmosphere that made Christmas feel extra special. That’s the version of the holiday that’s still in my head.
Living in Australia now, December looks completely different. It’s the middle of summer, and instead of coats and gloves, it’s all about heat, swims, and barbecues. I actually love the warm weather and getting outside as much as possible.
However, Christmas just doesn’t feel the same when you’re wearing shorts and a T-shirt and hearing festive music in the sun. It’s nice in its own way, but it’s not what I am used to.
Even with the changes, December is still my favourite month, just for very different reasons depending on which side of the world I’m on.
What is your favorite place to go in your city?
In Sydney, it has to be the Opera Bar! Drinks by the water, seeing the most famous landmarks, the Sydney Opera House and the Harbour Bridge. Being here is just magical, day or night! It reminds me that I live in Australia, my journey to get here and why I live here, for this amazing beauty and lifestyle. It’s not just for the amazing landmarks, it means so much more. I have umpteen photos of being at this exact spot and have selected a few to show you.
What’s the first impression you want to give people?
The first impression I want to give people is that I am approachable, someone you can walk up to, talk to, and feel at ease with. In both my roles as a teacher and a nurse, trust is everything. I want people to feel that I am reliable, kind, and genuinely there to help. Whether it is a student needing guidance or a patient needing reassurance, I hope my presence communicates safety, openness, and support from the very first hello.
A Rascal Todd Mystery with Brody Thompson
What book are you reading right now?
I actually started Poetic Justice by an Dan Antion and Willow Willers a couple of months ago, but I’m still working my way through it, mostly because I can be a slow reader and only get the chance to read on my daily commute (which isn’t every day). Even so, it is a gripping story that keeps pulling me back in. The book is a mystery about a man re-investigating his father’s death with the help of a retired police officer. Their search takes them back to Pittsburgh, where a mysterious figure known as “the Poet” leaves haunting clues and verses that unravel long-buried secrets. The mix of mystery, poetry, and hidden secrets makes it one I’m genuinely looking forward to finishing! I actually look forward to my commutes so I can see what’s going to happen next and I plan to leave a review when I have finished. Ps. You may even know the authors! 😉
If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be?
For me, it would have to be Northern Ireland, close to family and friends, surrounded by stunning scenery, and just a hop away from Europe. More specifically I would say a little town called Hillsborough. We absolutely loved living here in 2023 for almost a year. It has the most beautiful forest park, cosy pubs and close to the capital city of Belfast, however, it is super unaffordable to buy property here, for me at least.
That being said, to live in Northern Ireland, a few things would need to change…higher wages, a lower cost of living, and maybe a little more sunshine wouldn’t go astray!
What is good about having a pet?
I have so many points to say about having a pet and you can probably tell that I am a huge advocate for having one. Having grown up with dogs all my life, I feel I am warranted to say these points. My dream is to have a couple of dogs in the next couple of years for all these reasons!
1 – Companionship – they’re simply there
2 – Comfort in emotional times
3 – Great for exercise and getting you outdoors.
4 – Builds confidence for children
5 – Good for mental health
6 – They release feel-good hormones
7 – Pets (more-so dogs) love you unconditionally
8 – They bring pure joy
9 – Provide people with a purpose in life
10 – They become your confidante
11 – They help create routine
12 – They can lower stress and blood pressure
13 – They can make you laugh
14 – They can help relieve loneliness, especially for people who live alone
15 – They create community (dog parks, pet cafés, online pet groups) and can bring strangers together
In the end, people think we rescue pets but I think they rescue us more…plus they become an integral part of our families!!! Jeez I need a dog!!
What historical event fascinates you the most?
There are so many moments in history that fascinate me, some because of their scale, others because of what they reveal about human nature. An obvious one for me is The Troubles, growing up in Northern Ireland and seeing how conflict can divide communities so deeply. I’ve always been intrigued by World War II, and how ordinary people could turn on others and somehow convince themselves that genocide was acceptable.
Other events stand out too, the AIDS pandemic, COVID-19, Brexit, Trump gaining power (not once, but twice), and of course September 11. Each of these moments changed the world in ways we’re still processing.
However, the one that has occupied most of my thoughts in recent years is Palestine. It’s devastating to see history repeating itself, another genocide unfolding before our eyes while the world watches. It makes me wonder how we, as humans, never seem to learn. Greed, power, and fear drive the same cycles of suffering again and again.
One day, we will look back on this time and ask ourselves, what on earth were we doing?
What’s something you believe everyone should know.
I believe everyone should know how to read an analog clock. In an age where digital devices tell us everything instantly, many young people have never learned to read a traditional clock face and that’s a shame. I always assumed everyone could read a clock, but I have since realised that many young people cannot. It’s such a simple skill, yet it connects us to the rhythm of time in a way that screens never can. There’s something satisfying about watching the hands move, a quiet reminder that time is always ticking on, even when we’re too busy scrolling to notice.
What does it mean to be a kid at heart?
For me, it’s about being carefree, innocent, and full of joy. It’s about holding onto that spark of wonder, the belief that good things can still happen, even when life can be very serious. I remember my parents always saying I was like Peter Pan, not wanting to grow up. Who knows, but I think I have always been a bit of a kid at heart, the eternal optimist, clinging to hope when others might give up. Maybe it’s because I don’t have children of my own and still see the world through a youthful lens, or maybe it’s just who I am, my age in numbers, but not in spirit.
You have three magic genie wishes, what are you asking for?
1 – World Peace.
2 – Equal rights for ALL.
3 – For me and my family to have good health.
Cheesy but true!
What is your favorite form of physical exercise?
Walking, walking and more walking!
I have always loved walking. There’s something so simple yet powerful about it. Here is why I love it so much:
– It clears my head. Walking helps me unwind after a busy day and process my thoughts.
– It lifts my mood. Even a short walk can completely change how I feel. It gives me space to just be.
– I love being outdoors. The sound of nature and the fresh air is food for the soul.
– It’s good for my health. Gentle movement that keeps me active without feeling like hard work.
– It’s versatile. I can walk with music, chat with someone, or enjoy peaceful solitude.
– It feels like freedom. Just putting one foot in front of the other gives me a sense of control and release.
How much would you pay to go to the moon?
Personally, I wouldn’t pay anything. I don’t really have any desire to see the moon up close. There is something about being in space that completely terrifies me, the same kind of fear I get thinking about being at the bottom of the ocean. I think it’s the idea of being so far from everything familiar, so utterly alone.
I also can’t help but feel like a trip like that would be a bit over the top, especially with everything happening in the world right now. I remember when Katy Perry and a few other celebrities went into orbit, I wasn’t sure what I felt watching it unfold. Maybe embarrassment, maybe shame. The backlash was huge, and I understood why. The sheer amount of money spent on a few minutes in space could have done so much good back here on Earth.
So no, I’m happy right where I am, firmly grounded. The moon can stay exactly where it is, beautiful, mysterious, and very, very far away.
What alternative career paths have you considered or are interested in?
I have considered a few different career paths throughout the years. At one point, I wanted to be a marine biologist because I’ve always loved animals and the ocean. I also thought about becoming an interpreter, since I had a real passion for languages, or a tour guide, as travelling and sharing new experiences with others really appealed to me. For a while, I even fancied being a weatherman, I loved geography and was fascinated by how the world works. Furthermore, later down the path, I thought I might be a teacher, though I was probably a bit too young then to know what that really meant. I had worked as a teacher in Newark, NJ and absolutely loved it but it was full on and I thought then that it wasn’t for me.
Funny enough, nursing was never on my original agenda. However, looking back, I can see how all those interests are connected, curiosity about people, places, and the planet all led me, in some way, to caring for others. Funnily enough, here I am now, a teacher of nursing, living on the other side of the world. So maybe I got the best of both worlds: teaching, caring, and still exploring!
What’s the biggest risk you’d like to take — but haven’t been able to?
Sometimes the biggest risks aren’t about thrill-seeking, they’re about change. For me, one risk I have thought about a couple of times is packing up and moving to Perth. After my recent trip, I can really see the appeal. The lifestyle, the beaches, the slower pace, it all just felt right.
However, big moves come with big unknowns, new routines, new jobs, new friends. Maybe that’s what makes it feel risky. Still, part of me wonders, what if that risk is actually the reward waiting to happen? Who knows?!
What are you most proud of in your life?
I don’t mean to sound corny but if I had to choose one thing I am most proud of, it would be my get up and go attitude. Like everyone one in this world, I have had my fair share of knocks in life, times when I have had to step back, take cover, and reflect. However, what truly matters is picking yourself up and moving forward.
You can’t always do it alone. Friends and family make a world of difference, and finding things that help you escape the everyday, whether it’s exercise, music, or something else you love, can really lift you up.
It is that resilience, that quiet strength to keep going, that I am most proud of.
What have you been working on?
For me, the answer is simple – my blog. I’ve been showing up every day, writing, reflecting, and sharing and today marks my 105th day in a row. I wanted to challenge myself to see if I could show up every day here and I’ve done it! It has honestly not been that difficult and actually very enjoyable. It’s hard to believe how quickly the days have added up, but it’s become part of my daily rhythm now.
What started as a small creative habit has turned into something bigger, a space to think, grow, and connect.
Do lazy days make you feel rested or unproductive?
I find it very difficult to have a lazy day. As much as I know rest is important, I usually end up feeling unproductive instead. There are always so many things I want to do or get done that I can’t quite switch off.
Unless I am really sick, I don’t know how to be lazy. In fact, I can’t even remember the last time I was bored at home, there is always something to plan, clean, watch, play, create. Maybe that’s just how I’m wired.
Also being from Northern Ireland, where we don’t have much sunlight, as soon as the sun comes out, we feel that we have to be out doing something outdoors.
What could you try for the first time?
There are so many things I could try for the first time but if I haven’t done them by this stage, maybe there’s a reason for that. Some things I’m happy not to ever try such as a bungee jump or swimming with sharks!
One thing I’d still like to try is owning a house. It’s one of those milestones that seems both exciting and intimidating, the dream of having a space that’s truly your own, but also the reality that it’s not all it’s cracked up to be. Responsibility, maintenance, mortgage payments, they all come bundled with the keys. Still, the idea of putting roots down somewhere has its pull, having my own garden for a couple of dogs is my ultimate goal.
Trying something new doesn’t always have to be big, though. It could be something as small (and yet surprisingly hard) as spending a day offline. I would absolutely love to give this a go, just not today!
What principles define how you live?
We all have a set of principles that guide us, not rules per se, but quiet reminders of the kind of person we want to be. For me, integrity sits at the top, especially being a nurse. It’s about doing the right thing, even when no one is looking, and being able to look myself in the mirror at the end of the day with a clear conscience.
Honesty follows closely behind. I have learned that being truthful isn’t always easy, but it builds trust and peace of mind, two things worth holding onto.
Kindness is another. It costs nothing, yet it can completely change someone’s day. I try to lead with kindness, even in small ways, because you never really know what someone else is going through.
And finally, perseverance. Life doesn’t always go to plan, but sticking with it, keeping a steady heart when things get tough is what makes progress possible.
What have you been putting off doing? Why?
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 PROCRASTINATION.
Procrastination – the art of putting things off, even when you know you shouldn’t.
There is something strangely familiar about it, that quiet resistance before starting my uni work. I tell myself I will just check my messages first, or make another cup of coffee, as if those tiny detours will somehow make the study load lighter. I find other things to do, hoover the house, put a wash on, anything to keep me from starting to essays to write!
Deep down, I know it’s not about laziness; it’s about knowing the work will take time and effort, and not quite being ready to give it yet.
However, procrastination has a way of following you around, a quiet reminder that the task isn’t going anywhere. Eventually, I will have to sit down, start typing, and wonder why I waited so long in the first place.
What’s something you would attempt if you were guaranteed not to fail.
If I knew I couldn’t fail, I would probably try something big, like maybe run a marathon. The idea of guaranteed success sounds comforting, but I wonder if it would feel as satisfying without the struggle.
Part of what makes reaching a goal so special is knowing how much effort went into it, the early mornings, the setbacks, the persistence. If it all came so easily, would the victory still mean as much?
I think it’s the effort, not just the outcome, that gives success its real value.
What was the hardest personal goal you’ve set for yourself?
It took many years, sweat and tears but I got there in the end. I became a citizen of Australia after 12 years! That’s a really long time but I didn’t focus on the big picture every day. I took little steps towards small wins, whilst keeping my end goal in the back of my mind. You have to be able to live life and enjoy every day, remembering not to wish your life away. This was a hard goal to set myself but it was all worth it and the reward was that I get to live in a country where dreams can come true. Even if I leave, it’s a comfort to know that the door will always be open.
I have a few big goals in my life and I am still currently working towards them, however, I like to keep my progress quiet until the goal has been reached. That being said, a main goal in my life that I can share is to be happy, healthy and enjoy as much of life as we possibly can 🙂.
What is your favorite hobby or pastime?
Many of you will know this already but exercising is my favourite hobby / pastime. From 2017 I was taken over by the fitness bug after having the most amazing personal trainer. She provided me with such an amazing experience and it was the first time I had ever since results. From that point on the gym has become more than just a place to work out, it is my happy place. There is something addictive about that rush of endorphins after a good session, the feeling of strength and energy that lingers long after I leave.
I love seeing my progress, lifting a little heavier, running a little faster, becoming fitter and feeling more confident in my body. It is not just about looking good (though that is a nice bonus I have to admit when you see changes), it is all about feeling good.
The gym also clears my mind. No matter what is going on outside, once the headphones go in or the gym class starts, everything else fades. Plus, it is a great way to meet new people who share that same drive to better themselves. I have met many of my good friends and even had positive changes to my life direction all from going to the gym.
For me, fitness is not just a hobby, it is a lifestyle that keeps me grounded, focused, and happy.
What would you do if you lost all your possessions?
If I lost all my possessions, honestly, I would probably cry at first. Our things hold memories, meaning, and comfort. However, after the initial shock, I think I would realise that most of what I own isn’t truly necessary.
Have you ever heard of the five stages of grief first described by psychiatrist Elisabeth Kübler-Ross? I think I would be going through these stages, grieving what I once had, and not necessarily in this order. We talk about these stages a lot in nursing.
Denial – Shock or disbelief that the loss has happened (“This can’t be real”).
Anger – Frustration, blame, or resentment (“Why me?” or “It’s not fair”).
Bargaining – Trying to regain control or make deals (“If only I had…”).
Depression – Sadness and withdrawal as reality sinks in.
Acceptance – Coming to terms with the loss and finding a way forward.
Having moved multiple times across the globe, I have learned that possessions come and go. I have had to sacrifice furniture, books, clothes, items I once thought I could not live without, but life goes on, lighter somehow. Most items can be replaced, but what cannot be replaced are the precious ones, those sentimental things, the reminders of people and moments that shaped who I am.
Losing everything would be painful, but maybe it would also be freeing. A reminder that who we are is not defined by what we own, but by what we carry within.
What’s a topic or issue about which you’ve changed your mind?
I once believed the world was moving forward, towards more democracy, tolerance, and equality. However, I have learned that progress is not permanent. Tragically we are witnessing genocide in Palestine, an attempt to takeover Ukraine, the rollback of gay and trans rights, racism rising back into the mainstream, and hatred towards refugees spreading globally. These are not distant problems, they are warnings. When we grow complacent, oppression flourishes. Progress only survives when we defend it.
Tell us about a time when you felt out of place.
Last night we wandered into a restaurant near our accommodation, not realising it was “locals night.” The place was buzzing with familiar faces, everyone seemed to know each other, and most were at least double my age. I have to admit, I felt a little out of place at first, like I had accidentally walked into someone else’s party. However, any awkwardness disappeared quickly, because the staff were super warm and welcoming. They seemed genuinely delighted to have a couple of new faces among the regulars, which made the whole experience feel less intimidating and more like being invited into a community. The local prices were greatly appreciated also, $5 for a glass of local wine which was delicious being in the local wine region. If you know Australia, that is extremely well priced. All in all, what started out as feeling out of place, ended up being a really special evening.
What details of your life could you pay more attention to?
One of the hardest balances in life, especially for me, is weighing the importance of money against the pull of family. Unfortunately, finances do matter, they give us stability, freedom, and security for the future. Saving now can mean choices later, providing the ability to travel, to retire comfortably, or to grab opportunities when they come.
However, when you live extremely far away from family, the numbers on a screen can feel empty compared to the laughter around a dinner table, seeing your nieces and nephews grow up or a beer with your dad. Being apart means missing milestones, daily chats, and those ordinary moments that become treasured memories.
So where does that leave me? The answer is to see money not as the end goal, but as a tool. A tool to bridge the distance, to fund visits, to welcome family across oceans, or even to build the option of moving closer one day.
It’s not an either/or. It’s a constant balancing act, being wise with finances, enjoying your life, while staying rooted in what truly matters, the people we love.
In what ways does hard work make you feel fulfilled?
Hard work in nursing brings a unique kind of fulfilment. When the job is done well, you know people are cared for and safe and that brings happiness, satisfaction, and a deep sense of contentment. Of course, it can leave you shattered at times, but that tiredness is balanced by a feeling of accomplishment, knowing you have made a real difference in people’s lives. Even just making someone smile when they’re going through hard times, makes it worth the while.
What’s the trait you value most about yourself?
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 RESILIENCE.
The trait I value most about myself is resilience. Life doesn’t always go as planned, but I’ve learned how to bend without breaking, to keep moving forward even when things get tough. Resilience isn’t about not struggling, it is about finding the strength to get back up again and keep on moving, even if not forward, just keep moving. Sometimes life can feel like 1 step forward, 2 steps back but you will get there in the end.
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!
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.
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.
WrookieSchU 