Ah 2020. The good thing is, I don’t think it can get much worse. Between a huge restructure at work, losing work, the end of a relationship and working out living arrangements, it’s been a challenging month. I’m ok and I’m at peace with the direction everything is moving. It’s always the straw that breaks the camels back so it’s been the tiniest things that set me over the edge, but all in all, I’m doing ok. Despite the challenges and setbacks, I’ve been really lucky to have the support of friends and family to guide me through.
Earlier in the year, when things were a bit out of control, I started thinking ‘ok, just one day at a time,’ but now it’s suddenly July? While it’s important to focus on the now and work on what’s in front of you, sometimes you need to look ahead to take control of what you want in life. Whether it’s booking a weekend away, going to visit a friend or going for a long walk on the beach, balancing now and the future can be difficult but when you get it right, things start to feel normal again.
Working from ‘home’ home
After a big shake up at work, and after working from home for several months, something had to change. So I went ‘home’ home, up to Port Stephens to work for a week up there. It did me the world of good! Being able to finally separate work from my living space, be around family and catch up with old friends, it was just what I needed. Plus, with Mum living somewhere so beautiful, the motivation was certainly running high!
Adventures at home
Elizabeth then came down to Wollongong for a weekend and we were determined to make the most of the gorgeous weather and get out and about. We did the Kiama – Gerringong coastal walk, which is absolutely gorgeous but far out it’s a long walk!
The next day we headed on a little adventure to Bowral. We were lucky enough to find a spot for lunch because damn it was busy. I guess that’s what happens after people have been locked up for a few months, they jump at the first opportunity to get out and about!
I then had a visit from Dad before he moved off to start a new job, and was also paid a visit by the lovely Chloe. Of course, there were a few sunrise walks, swims and coffees in there with friends around the good old lighthouse which in all honesty, is the best start to the day anyone could ask for. Soph and I also conquered Sublime (which I haven’t done in a while) and my calves are still killing me from it! I’m glad I had her there to keep me going.
A surprise
So my friend Steph had a brilliant plan to go and surprise Chantelle down in her gorgeous home in Broulee! So Steph, Jas and I hopped in the car and road tripped down the south coast to surprise lil Chantelle. I think we got her pretty good! The whole weekend was simply gorgeous! We walked along the beach and explored her area, we got coffee and watched pelicans, spotted whales and attempted to ride rip sticks, and then cuddled up by the fire with wine and snacks. We even braved it and jumped in the water for a quick dip! To top it all off, we got a delicious meat pie in Mogo before we came back to Wollongong. It was a much needed getaway and I was so stoked to spend a night away with beautiful people.
Books
A Long Petal Of The Sea, by Isabel Allende
I really wanted to commit to reading books from around the world to learn more about the lived experiences – especially of women- in all corners of the globe. So when I cam across this book, telling the story about the Spanish refugees that boarded a ship commissioned by Pablo Neruda to Chile, I knew I had to learn about this fascinating part of history.
Three Women, by Lisa Taddeo
Yes, yes, YES! A book about women’s sexuality and desire. Enough said. As the name implies, it tells the story of three women and explores their journey to find love, confidence and truth.
How We Disappeared, by Jing-Jing Lee
This is a heartbreaking story of a woman’s experience in Japanese occupied Singapore and the horrendous abuse she endured as a comfort girl. Again, this was a part of history that I didn’t know much about and I was seriously captivated by her story. It’s an incredible book about war, trauma, family and healing and would absolutely recommend it.
Flicks
The Farewell
This is a must see-film and is a movie I’ve been thinking about for weeks since seeing it. It tells a story of a young woman who returns to her family roots in China who must comply in keeping a secret from her Grandma about her Grandma’s health. It’s a beautiful exploration of culture, tradition, philosophy and family, and it is simply stunning. My question for you is…. would you tell?
Bloggers, Vloggers and Podders
Kara and Nate
I’ve been following these guys for a long time now and I have been loving their vlogs from their trip to Antarctica! It’s been a great way to escape and follow their journey from earlier in the year to the incredible world of the Antarctic.
Quotes
So 2020 has basically been summed up by uncertainty. And as someone who usually prides themselves on being spontaneous, adventurous and willing to dive into the unknown, the encroachment of uncertainty in my ‘normal’ everyday life has been pretty intense. I love this little reminder that uncertainty and challenges bring with it growth and strength.
So, the remainder of 2020 – listen up! It will be better, I will be stronger, I will connect with myself and people around me, I will set goals and push myself, I will go slow and take time to do things that are important to me. Deep breath, let’s do this.
A Worldly Addiction 