Wanderlust & shutter bliss

The Qualities I Value Most in a Friend

May 30th, 2025

Friendship is one of the most beautiful parts of life. It’s not about having a huge group of people around you, but about having the right people. The kind of friend who brings peace, laughter, and support into your life. Over the years, I’ve come to realize that there are a few key qualities that really matter to me in a friend — things that go deeper than surface-level fun or casual conversations.

1. Honesty – Even When It’s Hard
I don’t need someone who tells me what I want to hear all the time. I value honesty — the kind that’s kind and constructive. A real friend is someone who can tell me the truth, even when it’s uncomfortable, because they care enough to want what’s best for me. Whether it’s giving honest feedback, owning up to a mistake, or being real about how they’re feeling, honesty builds trust — and trust is everything.

2. Caring – The Little Things Matter
A good friend shows they care. It’s not about grand gestures (though those are lovely too), but the small, consistent actions — checking in when they know you’re down, remembering little details about your life, or simply asking how your day really went. It’s that quiet, steady presence that reminds you: you matter.

3. Always There – Rain or Shine
Life has its ups and downs, and I appreciate friends who don’t disappear when things get tough. The ones who stick around during the awkward, messy, or emotional moments — those are the gems. You don’t have to talk every day, but knowing that someone will show up when it counts? That’s gold.

4. A Good Listener – Not Just Waiting to Talk
We all need to be heard. A friend who listens without interrupting, without trying to fix everything right away, or turning the conversation back to themselves — that kind of friend is rare and so deeply appreciated. Sometimes, the best thing someone can do is just be there and listen.

5. Doesn’t Take Themselves Too Seriously – Let’s Just Be Real
Life’s too short to always be polished and perfect. I love friends who can laugh at themselves, who aren’t afraid to be silly, weird, or goofy. There’s something freeing about being around someone who’s genuine, down-to-earth, and not trying to impress anyone. It makes space for real connection.

At the end of the day, I think the best friendships are the ones where you can be your full self — honest, vulnerable, imperfect — and still feel loved. That kind of connection isn’t always easy to find, but when you do, it’s worth holding onto.

What qualities matter most to you in a friend? I’d love to hear your thoughts. 💬

Daily writing prompt
What quality do you value most in a friend?
View all responses
A Miracle for Dog Walks: The Anti-Pull Lead That Changed Everything

May 29th, 2025

I just have to share this with you—we recently bought an anti-pull dog lead with a padded noseband for our cockapoo, and I can honestly say it’s been a total game changer.

To be completely honest, I was skeptical at first. We’ve tried different leads and harnesses in the past, and nothing has ever really worked. Walking her used to be a battle—she would pull constantly, making it stressful and far from enjoyable. I dreaded taking her out some days because it just wasn’t fun anymore.

But this lead? It’s like a miracle. The padded noseband is gentle but effective, and for the first time ever, she walks calmly beside me. No pulling, no straining—just a peaceful, pleasant walk. I couldn’t believe the difference the first time we used it. Walking her is now a breeze, and I actually look forward to it.

If you have a dog that pulls, especially one as determined as a cockapoo, I’d definitely recommend giving this kind of lead a try. It’s made such a positive impact—not just for her, but for me too. No more feeling frustrated or stressed, just enjoying being out and about together.

It might not be the solution for every dog, but for us, it’s been a little miracle. I wish we’d found it sooner!
Finding My Way: A Working Life of Ups, Downs & New Beginnings

May 29th, 2025

Over the years, I’ve worn many hats in the working world. Some jobs shaped me, some challenged me, and others simply helped me get from one chapter of life to the next. But each one has played a part in the journey—and I’ve learned a lot along the way.

The role that still stands out as my favourite was the one I had for 14 years. I worked as a PA for a property company, and I absolutely loved it. The work suited me perfectly—I enjoyed being organised, staying on top of things, and supporting the team. Even more importantly, I made real friendships during that time. It was the kind of job where you felt part of something and looked forward to going in each day.

Unfortunately, like many good things, it came to an end. I was made redundant, and that hit hard. After being in one place for so long, it felt like the ground had been pulled from under me. I suddenly found myself in a sea of temporary jobs—none of them particularly fulfilling. They helped pay the bills, but that spark I’d once felt was missing.

Eventually, I landed a role in the NHS. I stayed there for three years, and although it seemed like a secure, meaningful job on paper, the reality was very different. It was high-pressure, emotionally draining, and there was very little support. Over time, the stress started to impact my health. I began to experience anxiety and panic attacks—something I had never dealt with before. I tried to push through, but my body and mind were telling me it was too much. In the end, I made the difficult but necessary decision to leave for the sake of my wellbeing.

That decision wasn’t easy, but it was right.

Now, I’m in a new role—working part-time in reception. It’s a much quieter environment, and most importantly, it’s not stressful. For the first time in a long while, I feel like I can breathe. I’m not constantly on edge or overwhelmed, and that has made such a difference to my mental health. It may not be as fast-paced or high-profile as some of my past jobs, but it gives me balance, and right now, that’s exactly what I need.

Sometimes life takes you in directions you never expected. The job that once defined you might disappear. The new one might not be what you hoped. But with time, patience, and a bit of courage, things do settle—and even improve.

I’m still figuring things out, but I’m grateful to be in a better place. And who knows what’s next? For now, I’m just taking it one step at a time—and that feels like progress.

Daily writing prompt
What jobs have you had?
View all responses
Do I Remember Life Before the Internet?

May 27th, 2025

It’s funny when I stop and think about it — do I actually remember life before the internet? Honestly, the internet has always been there in some shape or form for as long as I can remember. Maybe not in the way we know it now, but it’s always been part of the backdrop of my life. That said, it has come such a long way. The internet I first knew was slow, limited, and mostly used on shared family computers with dial-up connections that screamed whenever they connected (and blocked the house phone at the same time!). Today, it’s advanced beyond anything I could have imagined — lightning fast, available in our pockets, and woven into every part of daily life.

But if we shift the focus slightly, I do remember something quite clearly — life before social media.

And for me, that was a blessing.

Growing up without social media meant I didn’t have the added pressure of likes, followers, filters, or online personas. I lived in a bit of a bubble, and looking back, I’m grateful for it. I wasn’t comparing myself constantly to others. I wasn’t scrolling late into the night or worrying about how I looked online. My friendships were formed in person, my memories were captured in photo albums — not in highlight reels.

There was more space to just be. To be a kid. To be present. To make mistakes without them being broadcast or remembered forever online.

While I appreciate all the ways the internet and social media have connected the world, offered opportunities, and sparked creativity, I’m thankful that my younger years were spent without that particular spotlight. It feels rare now — almost like a forgotten way of growing up.

So while I may not have lived completely without the internet, I did live without the constant buzz of social media. And for that little pocket of peace, I’m incredibly thankful.

Daily writing prompt
Do you remember life before the internet?
View all responses
A Wake-Up Call: Health, Healing & Taking the Next Step

May 16th, 2025

Recently, my mum was admitted to hospital. She’s been living with angina and a few other health issues for the past three years, but something about this latest episode really shook me. It’s not easy seeing someone you love go through something like that — no matter how strong you try to be on the outside.

It’s made me reflect a lot — about her health, yes, but also about my own.

I’ve been saying for a while that I want to get healthier, to lose a bit of weight, to take better care of myself. But like so many people, I’ve found it hard to stay consistent. Life gets in the way. Stress creeps in. Good intentions get put on hold.

But watching my mum go through this has reminded me how important our wellbeing really is. It’s not about perfection — it’s about doing better, even in small ways. Choosing to walk a little more. Eating things that nourish rather than just comfort. Taking that moment to slow down and breathe.

It’s also made me think more deeply about emotional health.

When my dad passed away, therapy was something that truly helped me. It gave me space to process, to grieve, to speak freely — even though opening up has never come easily to me. Honestly, I still struggle with it. I think it runs in the family — we’re not great at talking about our feelings. We hold things in, carry on, pretend we’re fine.

But I’m starting to realize that staying quiet doesn’t make the pain go away. It just buries it deeper. And maybe it’s time I went back to therapy. Not because I’m falling apart — but because I want to keep myself together. I want to grow, to cope better, and to make peace with the things I’m still holding on to.

So this is my gentle promise to myself: to take small steps forward. To be kinder to my body. To check in with my mind. And to remember that asking for help isn’t weakness — it’s strength.

If you’ve been putting your own health or healing on the back burner, maybe this is your reminder too.

You’re allowed to start again.
Friday Thoughts: Health, Epilepsy & Getting Prepared

May 16th, 2025

Morning all!
Hope everyone’s doing well and enjoying this Friday — we’ve made it to the end of the week!

Lately, I’ve been reflecting a bit more on my health. I live with myoclonic epilepsy, and although it’s something I’ve managed for a while now, it still finds ways to catch me off guard sometimes.

Last month, I had a bit of a moment — I suddenly felt shaky all over my body and just couldn’t concentrate. It was a strange, unsettling feeling. Thankfully, it doesn’t happen often, but when it does, it really makes me pause and think.

One thing that came to mind during all of this was the fact that I don’t currently wear any form of medical ID. Years ago, back in my twenties, I used to wear a medical alert bracelet — but like so many things, over time it just stopped being part of my routine.

Now, I’m starting to think it’s time to bring that back.

While browsing online, I came across a medical ID bracelet that really stood out — modern, stylish, and best of all, it connects to your phone. All your important medical information can be accessed quickly if needed. It gave me peace of mind just looking at it.

Living with epilepsy means being prepared — not in fear, but with quiet confidence. And sometimes, it’s the little things like a simple bracelet that can make all the difference if the unexpected happens.

So, that’s my little reminder to myself (and maybe to you, too): take a moment to check in with your health, think about what you might need, and don’t hesitate to take small steps that could have a big impact.

Wishing you all a calm, happy Friday. Be kind to yourselves.
The Oldest Thing I am Wearing today

May 16th, 2025

I was recently thinking about whether I own or wear anything old — like really old. You know the kind of thing: a favorite hoodie from your teens, vintage jewellery passed down from family, or a pair of boots that have seen more seasons than you can count. But honestly? When I looked through my wardrobe, I realized… I don’t think I have anything old at all.

My clothes cycle pretty regularly. Some outgrow me (not always physically), some wear out, and others just stop feeling like “me.” I tend to pass things on, donate, or refresh my wardrobe bit by bit over time. So nothing I wear really has that long, lived-in history.

Except — and here’s the twist — my insoles.

They’re not glamorous. They’re not on display. But they are the oldest thing I wear, and they’ve been through a lot with me. These insoles have quietly supported me (literally!) for years. Through long days on my feet, anxious commutes, walks that turned into wanders, and those rare-but-special moments of peace when I remember to slow down and breathe.

They’re a bit worn. They squeak sometimes. And honestly, I should probably replace them. But they’ve molded to the shape of my life in a way that no fast-fashion top or trendy pair of shoes ever could.

It made me reflect — maybe we think “old” has to mean sentimental or stylish or storied in a way that’s visible. But maybe it’s also the small, practical things. The things that show up for us daily. Quietly dependable, even when no one else notices.

So yes, the oldest thing I wear is a pair of insoles.

And they’ve earned their place.
My Favourite Holiday (Well, One of Many!)

Apr 30th, 2025

When people ask me about my favourite holiday, I always pause—not because I don’t have one, but because I have so many. Each trip I’ve taken has had its own magic, its own special moments, but one place always springs to mind first: Sorrento.

Sorrento was a dream. Two whole weeks of calm and quiet—something you don’t often get when you live in a city. I remember waking up to silence, not sirens or traffic, but the soft hum of nature, surrounded by majestic mountains. It felt like the world had slowed down just for me and my family. We were all together, enjoying simple things: morning coffee with a view, slow walks through town, long dinners full of laughter. It really was bliss.

But then, Sardinia competes for the top spot too. We stayed in a beautifully quiet area—no crowds, no rush, just peace. There’s something special about waking up and only hearing the breeze and the occasional bird. It felt like life at its best: simple, calm, and full of little joys. We were truly just loving life.

And I can’t leave out Cornwall! It might not be as exotic, but it’s full of character and charm. One of my favourite memories ever was swimming in the sea while it was raining. It sounds odd, but it was exhilarating—cold drops falling from above, waves rolling in from below. It’s something I’ll never forget. There’s something wild and freeing about embracing the weather instead of hiding from it.

So yes, I’ve had many favourite holidays. But Sorrento, Sardinia, and Cornwall each hold a piece of my heart. Each place gave me something different—stillness, joy, connection—and I’m forever grateful for the memories.

Daily writing prompt
What is your favorite holiday? Why is it your favorite?
View all responses
The Language of My Favorite Emojis

Apr 27th, 2025

I’ll admit it: I’m a huge emoji person. If you’ve ever gotten a message from me, chances are it ended with a kiss emoji or a big hug. They’re just my go-to way of adding a little extra love and warmth into every conversation.

The kiss emoji is like my signature. Whether I’m saying goodnight, checking in with a friend, or just sending a quick “thinking of you,” it’s my little stamp of affection. It’s simple, sweet, and makes every message feel a bit more personal. Honestly, I can’t imagine texting without it.

Then there’s the hug emoji (🤗) — another one I can’t live without. Sometimes words just aren’t enough. When someone’s having a rough day or even when I’m just feeling grateful for them, sending a virtual hug says everything I need it to. Plus, it feels like sending a little piece of comfort right through the screen.

And of course, I love the wink emoji (😉). Depending on the conversation, it can mean a million different things — playful, teasing, a little inside joke… you name it. It’s like a secret language all by itself. I especially love dropping a wink when I’m being a little cheeky — it keeps the mood light and fun.

At the end of the day, emojis aren’t just little icons — they’re how I add heart, humor, and a little bit of sparkle to everyday conversations.

Daily writing prompt
What are your favorite emojis?
View all responses
Nourishing Body and Soul: My Journey with Healthy Living, Exercise, and Cooking

Apr 26th, 2025

There’s something so deeply powerful about the way we care for our bodies — and, in turn, how it nourishes our soul. I’ve always loved talking about eating healthier, moving my body, and finding little rituals that help me feel grounded, especially when life gets overwhelming. It’s not just about looking a certain way or following a trend — for me, it’s about feeling good inside and out.

Eating healthy has been a huge part of my personal growth. I’m not perfect (who is?), but I genuinely believe in choosing foods that fuel my body and make me feel alive. Fresh vegetables, fruits, whole grains, good proteins — it’s like giving your body a little love note with every bite. And honestly, healthy eating is not just physical; it’s spiritual too. When I’m feeding myself well, I feel more connected to myself, more in tune with what I need — body and mind.

Exercise is another essential part of my mental health routine. Moving my body, whether it’s a long walk, a good stretch, or a sweaty workout, is so much more than burning calories. It’s my therapy. It clears the noise in my mind, helps me manage anxiety, and reminds me that I am strong, capable, and resilient. Exercise gives me the mental space I need when things start to feel heavy — it’s like hitting a “reset” button.

Anxiety has been a real part of my story, and it’s something I’ve learned (and am still learning) to manage day by day. For me, it helps to pause, breathe, and remind myself that feelings are not permanent. They come and go like waves. Sometimes I write things down, sometimes I move my body, sometimes I just sit with it and let the feelings exist without judgment. The important thing is: I don’t have to fight it alone, and neither do you.

And then… there’s cooking. Cooking is my sanctuary. There’s something almost magical about it — the chopping, the stirring, the aromas filling the kitchen. It’s my meditation. When I’m cooking, I’m fully present. I’m not worrying about tomorrow or overthinking yesterday. I’m just there, with my senses awake, creating something beautiful and nourishing. Cooking is therapy for me in the most joyful way.

I truly believe that taking care of ourselves isn’t selfish — it’s necessary. Whether it’s eating nourishing foods, moving your body, finding ways to calm your mind, or getting lost in a new recipe, it’s all part of honoring the beautiful, complicated, amazing person you are.

You deserve to feel good. You deserve to be well. And it starts with small, loving choices every day.

Daily writing prompt
What topics do you like to discuss?
View all responses