Tag: life

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?
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The Risk That Changed Everything

Apr 25th, 2025

The last time I took a real risk? It wasn’t skydiving or quitting my job on a whim. It was something far more personal.

It was deciding to finally put up this blog.

For years, I let fear and self-doubt keep me quiet. I’d write in private—scraps of thoughts, stories half-finished, feelings too tangled for spoken words. Writing was always my safe place, but sharing it? That felt impossible. Too raw. Too exposing. What if no one read it? Or worse—what if they did?

Then came the idea of uploading my photos to Shutterstock. Again, it sounds small, maybe even insignificant to some. But for me, it was another layer of vulnerability. I’d never put myself—or my creative work—out there. I was scared people would judge, that it wouldn’t be “good enough.” That I wouldn’t be.

But something shifted when my partner sat across from me one evening and said, “What’s the worst that could happen? You love this. So do it.”

So I did.

Slowly. Awkwardly. Nervously. I launched the blog. Chose the name. Uploaded the photos. Hit “publish” with shaking hands and a heart pounding louder than a drum. And you know what?

It was a big risk. Maybe not in the traditional sense, but for me, it was huge.

It was me saying: I’m here. This is my voice. This is what I love.

And that’s powerful.

Sometimes, the scariest things are the ones that ask us to show up as our true selves. But I’ve learned that putting yourself out there doesn’t mean you have to be fearless—it just means you have to be willing.

So here I am, showing up.

And if you’re reading this, maybe it’s time for you to take that risk, too. Whatever it is. However small it might seem. If it matters to you, it matters.

And you’re not alone.
The Most Positive Thing My Family Ever Did for Me

Apr 15th, 2025

I’ve been incredibly lucky in life. I don’t say that lightly—I truly mean it. There have been countless moments where my family has shown me love, support, and kindness in ways that many only dream of. From surprise trips and birthdays made extra special to those quiet, everyday moments that showed me I was loved and appreciated, I’ve always felt cared for.

But if I had to choose the most positive and impactful thing my family has ever done for me, it wouldn’t be a gift or a gesture. It would be their unwavering presence.

When I was diagnosed with epilepsy at just 10 years old, my world changed. How does a child deal with that? I was shy, unsure of myself, and I carried a fear of being a burden to others. I didn’t want to speak about how I was feeling—sometimes it felt like the words just wouldn’t come out, no matter how badly I wanted to say them.

But my mum… she never gave up on me. She was my rock. Always there, gently encouraging me, helping me break down those walls I’d built around myself. Even when I resisted, even when I went quiet, she stood by me. We got through it together. Her voice, her calm, her strength—it helped me believe that everything would be okay. That I wasn’t alone. The biggest gift she gave me? Confidence. The courage to speak out, and eventually, never shut up (in the best possible way!).

My dad, on the other hand, wasn’t much of a talker. But his support came through in a different way. He taught me to be strong, to stand tall, and most importantly, to not care what people think. He showed me that being unapologetically myself was more than enough—and that belief has stuck with me ever since.

Together, they shaped who I am today. I look back now and I’m filled with gratitude. For their love, for their patience, and for the strength they passed on to me. Whatever life throws my way, I know I’ve got that foundation—and for that, I’ll always be thankful.
My Daily Rituals: Weekdays vs. Weekends

Apr 1st, 2025

We all have our little routines that bring structure to our days. For me, weekdays and weekends follow their own distinct rhythms, each offering its own comfort and familiarity.

Weekday Mornings: The Hustle Begins

The alarm goes off, and the day begins. My husband is always up first, heading downstairs to prepare breakfast while I get ready for work. It’s a little ritual that makes my mornings smoother—knowing I don’t have to worry about making breakfast is such a relief.

Meanwhile, he also takes our cockapoo, Molly, out for her morning walk. She’s full of energy, and while she can be a handful on walks, she absolutely loves her little outings. By the time I come downstairs, breakfast is ready, and I get a few minutes to enjoy it before heading off to work. Then, it’s time to face the day ahead.

Weekends: A Slower Pace

Weekends are for slowing down and enjoying the little things. There’s no rush to be anywhere, and I take my time getting up. One of my favorite Saturday traditions is heading out for food shopping, but not before indulging in a delicious breakfast. A bacon sandwich and a hot chocolate are my go-to choices—because let’s be honest, there’s nothing better than the warmth of a rich, chocolatey drink to start the day. My husband, on the other hand, sticks to his usual latte.

Weekends also mean catching up with family. Whether it’s a quick visit or a relaxed gathering, spending time with loved ones is something I always look forward to.

Finding Comfort in Routine

There’s something reassuring about these little rituals. They give a sense of normalcy and stability in the midst of life’s ups and downs. Whether it’s the structured rush of a weekday morning or the laid-back start to a weekend, these routines make each day feel just a little more special.

Daily writing prompt
What are your morning rituals? What does the first hour of your day look like?
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Why I’ll Never Get a Tattoo (And That’s Okay)

Mar 20th, 2025

I’ve always admired tattoos—from a distance. The intricate designs, the deep personal meanings, the artistry that goes into them—it’s all fascinating. But here’s the thing: I will never, ever get one. Not because I don’t appreciate them, but because I am, without a doubt, the worst possible candidate for a tattoo.

First, let’s talk about the obvious: I hate needles. Not in a casual, “Oh, I don’t like getting shots” kind of way. No, I mean full-blown, anxiety-inducing dread at the mere thought of a needle puncturing my skin. I avoid vaccines longer than I should, I close my eyes during blood tests, and if a doctor even hints at the word “injection,” I need a moment to breathe. So, the idea of voluntarily sitting in a chair while a needle repeatedly jabs into my skin for hours? Absolutely not.

Beyond the needle fear, I’m just not a tattoo person. Some people love the idea of permanent art on their bodies, but for me, the commitment is too much. What if I change my mind? What if I get tired of it? What if, years down the road, the design doesn’t feel like me anymore? I change my phone wallpaper every few weeks because I get bored—how could I possibly trust myself to choose a design that will be on my body forever?

I also respect the pain tolerance of those who do get tattoos because, from everything I’ve heard, it’s no walk in the park. People say, “Oh, it’s not that bad,” but let’s be honest—pain is pain. If I can barely handle a paper cut, I don’t think I’d last ten minutes under a tattoo gun.

That being said, I have nothing against tattoos. I love seeing them on other people and hearing the stories behind them. But for me? No thanks. I’ll stick to admiring from afar, safe in my needle-free, commitment-free comfort zone.

And honestly? I’m perfectly okay with that.

Daily writing prompt
What tattoo do you want and where would you put it?
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The Strength in Patience: A Reflection on Selflessness

Mar 19th, 2025

Patience is often seen as a quiet virtue, something passive, a mere waiting game. But true patience—deep, unwavering patience—is anything but passive. It is strength in disguise, a quiet resilience that allows us to carry burdens without complaint, to give without expecting, and to love without limits.

If I had to describe myself in one word, it would be patient. But patience alone does not define me. I am kind-hearted, always caring, always putting others before myself. And that, perhaps, is where the real challenge lies—not just in waiting, but in giving, endlessly, without hesitation.

Putting others first is not a habit but a way of life. It’s the moment you listen when you’re exhausted, the times you step back so someone else can step forward, the countless unseen sacrifices that no one acknowledges. People assume kindness is easy, but those who live it know otherwise. It takes strength to be gentle, to offer warmth in a world that often feels cold.

Yet, there’s a fine line between selflessness and self-neglect. In giving so much, we sometimes forget to give to ourselves. The patience we show others—the grace, the understanding—should also be given inward. Because patience is not just about waiting for others to change, to appreciate, or to reciprocate. It is also about waiting for ourselves to recognize our own worth, to learn that it’s okay to receive, and to understand that self-care is not selfish.

To be patient is to trust that kindness is never wasted, that even if no one sees the sacrifices, they still matter. That in a world rushing to take, the one who gives is the one who truly understands what it means to love.

So, if I am patient, I am also strong. Not in a loud, forceful way, but in the quiet endurance of someone who continues to care, even when no one is watching. And that, I believe, is a strength worth holding onto.

Daily writing prompt
What is one word that describes you?
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The Best Compliment I Ever Received (Even Though I Hate Them)

Mar 18th, 2025

Compliments have always made me uncomfortable. I love giving them, making people feel good about themselves, and pointing out the things they might not even realize are special. But when the tables are turned, and someone compliments me? I get awkward. I change the subject. I brush it off.

But there was one compliment that stuck with me—maybe because it wasn’t just about something superficial like my outfit or my hair. It was about who I am and how much I’ve grown.

“You’ve come a long way. Your confidence has grown so much. You used to be shy, especially dealing with epilepsy as a teenager. But now, if something isn’t right, you speak your mind.”

Hearing that stopped me in my tracks. It made me reflect on how much I have changed. As a teenager, epilepsy was something that made me feel different. It made me cautious, self-conscious, and often quiet. I hated drawing attention to myself, and I would rarely stand up for what I believed in.

But over time, I found my voice. I learned that my feelings and opinions mattered. I stopped worrying so much about how people would react and started speaking up when I needed to. That didn’t happen overnight—it was a slow process, one that I didn’t even fully notice until someone pointed it out to me.

And even though I still squirm when I get a compliment, this one meant something. It reminded me that growth isn’t always loud or obvious. Sometimes, it’s in the small moments when you say what’s on your mind instead of staying silent. It’s in realizing that the things you once struggled with don’t define you.

So, while I may always prefer giving compliments over receiving them, I’ll hold onto this one. Because sometimes, the words we resist the most are the ones we need to hear.

Daily writing prompt
What was the best compliment you’ve received?
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Why I’d Take the Train for a Cross-Country Trip

Mar 17th, 2025

There’s something special about traveling by train. If I were to take a cross-country trip, the train would be my first choice—without a doubt. There’s a certain magic in sitting by the window, watching the landscape change as the miles roll by. It’s a feeling of movement without rush, a journey where the experience itself is just as important as the destination.

I’ve always loved train travel, and one of my favorite experiences was taking the Eurostar to Paris. It was smooth, comfortable, and just exciting enough to make the journey feel like an adventure. Watching the countryside blur past, then emerging into a brand-new city—it was unforgettable. Unlike flying, where everything feels hurried and a bit stressful, train travel has a way of making me feel relaxed and happy.

I used to love flying, but not as much these days. Airports are chaotic, security lines are long, and being crammed into a small seat in the sky just doesn’t have the same charm. On a train, I can stretch out, walk around, and enjoy the view without worrying about turbulence or delays.

For a long-distance trip, I can imagine winding through mountains, passing by lakes, and rolling through small towns—all at a pace that lets me appreciate them. Maybe I’d bring a book, maybe just some music, but mostly, I’d sit by the window and watch the world go by. That’s the beauty of train travel—it’s not just about getting somewhere; it’s about the journey itself.

If I ever do take that cross-country trip, you’ll find me on a train, window seat, watching the world unfold.

Daily writing prompt
You’re going on a cross-country trip. Airplane, train, bus, car, or bike?
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Losing Myself in Creativity: Photography, Writing, and Reading

Mar 14th, 2025

There are certain activities in life that make time disappear. You start, and before you know it, hours have passed. For me, those activities are photography, writing, and reading. Each one brings me a different kind of joy, but they all have the same effect: they pull me in completely, freeing my mind from everything else.

The Magic of Photography

I love taking photos, capturing moments that might otherwise go unnoticed. Sometimes, I look at my work and think, That’s not so great. Other times, I see an image and feel a sense of pride, knowing I’ve captured something special. I upload my photos to Shutterstock, hoping they’ll find a home with someone who appreciates them as much as I do. Photography is more than just snapping pictures—it’s about seeing the world differently, noticing the details, the light, the mood. It’s a way of telling a story without words.

The Power of Writing

Writing is another way I lose myself. There’s something incredible about putting thoughts into words, shaping them into something meaningful. Whether I’m journaling, writing a story, or just scribbling down ideas, it feels like an escape. Writing lets me express emotions I might not say out loud, turning feelings into something tangible.

The Escape of Reading

And then there’s reading—my ultimate retreat. When I find a book I love, I get lost in its world. The stress of the day fades, replaced by the adventures of characters who feel like friends. Reading brings me peace in a way few other things can. It’s like a door to another reality, a chance to experience something beyond my own life.

Each of these passions gives me something different, but together, they make up a big part of who I am. Photography lets me capture beauty, writing helps me express myself, and reading allows me to escape into another world. These are the things that bring me joy, and I love every moment I spend lost in them.

Daily writing prompt
What activities do you lose yourself in?
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Embracing the Spirit of a Dolphin: A Life of Freedom and Ocean Serenity

Mar 11th, 2025

Even though a dolphin is not an animal, I would compare myself to a dolphin.

Imagine soaring above the water’s surface, diving deep into the endless blue, with no one telling you to stop. There are no barriers, no rules—just the unrestrained joy of movement and the soothing embrace of the ocean. The thought of being surrounded by the vastness of the sea, feeling its cool touch against my skin, and hearing the rhythmic crash of the waves fills me with an indescribable sense of peace.

The ocean has always been a place of solace for me. Its vastness is humbling, yet comforting. The salty breeze, the endless horizon, and the symphony of rolling tides all create a sense of serenity that is hard to find anywhere else. Much like a dolphin, I crave that connection to the water—a place where worries fade, and only the present moment matters.

Dolphins are not only free-spirited but also deeply connected to those around them. They move together, support one another, and communicate in ways that go beyond words. Their world is one of companionship and trust, a reminder that even in freedom, we thrive best when we have others to share the journey with.

To live like a dolphin would be to embrace life with a sense of adventure, to find joy in every leap, and to never be afraid of the unknown. Though I may not have fins or the ability to ride the waves at will, I can still carry the dolphin’s spirit within me—seeking moments of freedom, chasing dreams with fearless energy, and always listening to the call of the ocean.

Because somewhere in the deep blue, a dolphin leaps for the sheer joy of it. And how wonderful it would be to do the same.

Daily writing prompt
Which animal would you compare yourself to and why?
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