Lately: Autumn 2023 Edition

I was inspired by Olivia to do another Lately post. They are always enjoyable to write, and I am home from work with a cold right now, and feel like being distracted by pleasantries.

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Note: please overlook the fact this is an autumn edition, even though we are a few days off winter here in Australia, as I write... ;) 

WATCHING...

• Gilmore Girls Season 5 (I know, I know, I said no more, and then I found season 5 at the Bookfest for a few dollars and missed it so much I caved in.)
• Julia & Julie (because I just finished "My Life in France"... I wanted MORE - it was too short lived :'()
• The Batman trilogy (one of my friends who is crazy passionate about film hosted them all in a cinema (which he used to work at) so we could watch it all together on the big screen
• Dirty Rotten Scoundrels (I've heard of the musical and wanted to see what the movie was all about... aside from seeing Michael Caine before he had gray hair, I apparently hadn't been missing out on too much)

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READING...

• "My Life in France" by Julia Child (delicious to read, even though I've never done French cooking)
• "It Ends with Us" by Colleen Hoover (one of my work colleagues leant it to me saying I must read it... definitely not the style I usually prefer. That one paired with "A Thousand Boys Kisses"... I don't think I need any more romance for the rest of the year)
• "Ben-Hur" by Lew Wallace (wish me luck. There's a reason the list ends here.)

CONSUMING...

• Chai lattes and chai tea (one of the few teas I ENJOY)
• Coffee, always 
• Pumpkin soup (my mum makes a mean pumpkin soup, and it's quite often the highlight of my winter - that and minestrone)
• Cinnamon rolls (a lady from our home group made them for us last week and I have decided I have a new favourite food)

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SINGING...

• The Tuck Everlasting musical (because, rehearsals, and also outside of rehearsals they are just permanently engraved into my brain)
• "Mister Snow" from Carousel and "Who Needs Love" from Ever After the musical (both of which I'm prepping for an upcoming audition... also please tell me you HAVE listened to the delightful entertainment that is Ever After the musical?!)
• "I Can Do Better Than That" from The Last 5 Years because it's FUN (and yeah I did rewrite some lyrics ;))

ENJOYING...

• Learning to swing dance! I went to a 1940s costume swing dance party and it was a blast. An absolute blast, I tell you. I want to go back to that chaotic era of red lipstick and swishy skirts and energetic dancing. 
• Cuddling our pet hare, who was adopted into our family just before Christmas, last year. He is much like a cat in personality, and can often be seen in someone's lap or hiding behind our couch, snoozing.
• Leading worship for my local church. I only recently started this year, and have only been able to do it a couple times, but it's honestly been such a blessing. I'm often just backing or singing harmony, but I have lead a few times as well. Singing worship songs with a small band and leading a room full of people in praising the name of Jesus... it gives me many thrills.

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LISTENING TO...

• That Sounds Fun podcast (it never fails to brighten my day)
• Tuck Everlasting soundtrack... over and over (and now trying to avoid it as much as possible)
• Michael Buble & Frank Sinatra radio on Spotify (I choose this as our waiting room music at work because I love it and it makes me happy)
• Caity Gyorgy (I've just discovered her! I love how she makes up lyrics to otherwise instrumental jazz songs, it's so clever. I am in awe.) 

WORKING ON...

• Running our new head office at work (eeekk I feel like I'm now a combination of sales rep and manager and real estate agent and HR)
• My mix belt. Always. *sigh*
• Getting off-book with my understudy lines (it's way harder as an understudy... :/)

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DAYDREAMING OF...

• Travelling internationally... especially to Italy.
• All the different careers I could pursue, while simultaneously staying in my current job (I've always done this; I'm so indecisive - some days I'm like, "I was made to be a counsellor", or "I should definitely pursue paramedicine", or "I could be a support worker" or "maybe I should do retail?")
• The day when I get to play a lead role in a musical... someday, some day. :D

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What have you been up to, lately?

10 Things That Make Me Instantly Want to Read a Book

I recently read Hamlette's post with this Top Ten Tuesday tag (which I'm posting on a Wednesday, hush) and decided I wanted to do it, too. After all, sometimes talking about books it just as much fun as reading them. ;) 

Also, the obvious answer to this question would be if it's written by an author I love, but for the sake of originality, I'll leave that as a given.

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1. Themes of cooking, food and hospitality. This is a recent discovery of mine, but I'm becoming slowly obsessed. I love non-fiction books that are peppered with descriptions of food and why it's important or sentimental to the person, and slow, soothing undertones of the dinner table and pottering around in the kitchen. (Case in point: "Bread and Wine" by Shauna Niequist.)

2. Written in a quirky style. I love a bit of quirk, and it will always catch my eye if it's something out of the ordinary. Some examples would be letters between characters (hello, Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society) or diary style entries.

3. Set around World War II. What can I say? It's almost sentimental of me. I'm not sure why, but I've always been drawn to that period - even in my own writing.

4. Books about peace and purpose. This is oddly specific, I know, but it's true. I read a lot of non-fiction, especially faith-based books, and at the moment anything that talks about peace or purpose - especially from a Christian view point - is sure to grab my attention. (A notable read from this category would be: "Rhythms of Renewal" by Rebekah Lyons or "My Jesus" by Anne Wilson.)

5. Set in France/Italy. Yep. That should probably be at the top of the list, really. (Although these are in no particular order.) My obsession with France and Italy continues. I just finished devouring "My Life in France" by Julia Child. Somehow, this seems to go hand in hand with the food part. (So please, any recommendations of books about France/Italy with food as a theme - THROW 'EM AT ME!)

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6. It's a classic. Ain't that a fact. I've grown up reading classics as my go-to pick and I believe I will live and breath and die a classics girl.

7. It's mysterious. Give me a solid book blurb about someone missing or why they can never go back to the island and I am sold. Here. Take my money.

8. The heroine is around my age or is particularly relatable. This almost seems a little egotistical, but if the story sounds like something I could imagine myself at the centre of, I will be more attracted to it. On the flip side, if it states on the back of the book that the heroine hates music, is disastrously shy, and wears mismatched socks every day, I will most likely re-shelve it immediately. ;)

9. It's a story I've heard referred to within ANOTHER story. Maybe it's because I hate to feel uncultured, but understanding the context within the context of a story makes me ~ delighted ~. What greater feeling than hearing a reference to a classic book in a modern TV show and knowing exactly what they're talking about?

10. Several people have mentioned it/recommended it - especially if those people are unconnected and it's a SIGN that you need to read it. Even if it doesn't sound like something I'd usually read, if it's popped up in conversation multiple times, then I will give in to the peer pressure just to try it out. (Curiousity, and all that.)

Do we have any in common? Have you lost all faith in my book recommendations now? xD

Sunny Summer Day Aesthetics

I wrote a post about Rainy Day Aesthetics awhile back (which was quite fun!), so I decided to do one to match today... which is technically now autumn, but it's 37 degrees here (98.6 Fahrenheit for all my northern hemisphere friends). 

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• The intense pleasure of a cool drink after coming in from the searing sun
• Being permanently coated with a thin, sticky layer of sweat
• Your eyes having to adjust to the darkness of the inside versus the intense glare of the outside
• Finishing your work for the day and making a beeline for the air con. Feeling your body sink into the chair with a sense of relief

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• The intense stillness of the outside, except for a few birds crowing occasionally
• Watching the horizon simmer and blur
• The air con blowing and chugging along, a constant hum in the background
• Planning your entire day around the cooler times of early morning and late afternoon

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• Finding the coolest, most breathable outfit in your closet to get you through the day without suffocating
• Refilling your water bottle for the third time, and feeling proud of yourself for drinking enough water for once
• Shouts and groans about visiting a beach or going to the pool
• The DEEP appreciation for ice cream or gelato

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• Some obnoxiously positive person wanting to go on a picnic
• Sunscreen somehow never leaving your fingers and smearing grease over every surface you touch
• When you're so hot, the touch of cold water making your leg actually tingle a little

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• Icy water, complete with as many ice cubes as will fit
• Sunbaking, until the warmth becomes sizzling
• Having minimal hunger but devouring cold salads and fruit (and cold watermelon!)
• Your playlist with the loud, energetic music to match your energy
• The sense of accomplishment upon finding a cool, shady spot to take a breather
  
  

  

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Sunshine Blogger Award (Again :))

Hey friends!

I was tagged by Hamlette with the Sunshine Blogger Award way back in... *checks date* Oh, goodness... *hides in shame*... January?

And then, (decidedly more recently), Olivia also tagged me with the same award back in September (which makes me feel a little better about myself?). Today seems like a perfectly good day to participate in the tag, for two reasons:

1. It is a rainy day outside, and I need some sunshine in my life.
2. I have a head cold and feel rather miserable, so any distraction at present is welcome. (I'm quite literally the picture of Kathleen Kelly in the end scenes of "You've Got Mail" where she's all nasal-sounding and surrounded by tissues.)

Ze Rules:

1. Thank the blogger who nominated you in the blog post and link back to their blog.

2. Answer the 11 questions the blogger asked you.

3. Nominate 11 new bloggers the award and write them 11 new questions.

4. List the award rules and display the Sunshine Blogger Award Logo in your post and/or on your blog.

Without further ado, I present to you my answers! First up, is Hamlette's questions:

1. Fantasy or sci-fi?

I tend to be quite "choosy" with both, but fantasy definitely surpasses sci-fi. (The imaginative worlds in fantasy are so much more aesthetically pleasing, you know.)

2. Tragedy or comedy?

Oohh, that's a difficult one because I appreciate both. And both really have to be well-done. But I do believe I prefer a good comedy - I can enjoy many more of them, and at this stage in my life, I much prefer uplifting content.

3. Fiction or nonfiction?

This is one of those things that I swear changes based on what season of life I'm in at the moment. Currently, I'm very much enjoying fiction and losing myself in worlds outside that of my own. (I'm re-reading "Pride and Prejudice" at the moment, and ahh, I love it so much. <3)

4. Snow or rain?

That's hard! I've never even seen snow, so I feel very tempted to pick that! However, I hear it's not very pleasant in a practical sense, with driving, the aftermath and whatnot. So, I think I will have to pick rain, as I do enjoy both the tranquility and chaos it brings.

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5. Orange juice or apple juice?

Oh, by far apple juice! Unless the orange has mango or passionfruit in it, then it wins. But if just straight, it's rather too acidic for my liking. Especially the one with the pulp. *shivers*

6. Christmas or Easter?

For the celebration side of things, Christmas by far. I love the coziness and excitement and good wishes at that time of year. And I'd be lying if I said I haven't started the Christmas music already.

7. Middle-earth or Narnia?

Middle-earth, I think. There seems to be more to discover and explore there, and more cultures to experience. Narnia was more my childhood dream destination. ;)

just leaving these cuties here

8. Marvel or DC?

Ugh, do I have to pick either? Fine; DC, expressly because Batman (the Christian Bale Batman, I might add) exists. But I could live perfectly happily if neither existed. :P

9. Star Wars or Star Trek?

I've never seen Star Trek, nor do I have a great deal of interest in doing so. I do enjoy Star Wars, although I certainly have to be in *the mood*. (I feel as though my tastes are a lot more mood-related now than they ever used to be. Oh dear.) Star Wars it is.

10. Old movies or new movies?

In general, new movies. I appreciate the acting styles in more modern movies, and I also enjoy the cinematography much more, as well. Old movies have their charm, though, and I'm definitely not a snob about it. ;)

11. Old books or new books?

OLD BOOKS! I enjoy some new books, but old classics have my heart. I love the idea that so many other people have enjoyed the book before me, and loved the characters as much as I. I'm sentimental like that, I guess.

And now onto Olivia's questions! :) 

1. Summer or winter?

With beach days, sunshine, summer storms and blue skies, ice cream dates, school holidays, cute summery dresses, and watermelon... is that even a question? ;)

Does this not scream summer?

2. Spring or autumn?

Spring!! I'm as wild about spring as I am about summer, and still can't make up my mind which out of the two I prefer.

3. Desert or tundra?

Ehh, how about a relaxing beach? No? Well, I'll pick the tundra then, for the sake of variation.

4. City or country?

I have learned to appreciate both, but the country has my heart. <3 I can breathe more deeply there.

5. Neutrals or pastels?

Ohh, pastels! I love me some cute pastels. Especially ones with summery/spring vibes. ;) 

I mean, don't pictures like this just give you a thrill?!

6. Solids or patterns?

Hmm, depends what for... I like the traditional spots and stripes, but I don't go for really complex patterns. I like simple. So if it's more sophisticated than spots or stripes, I'll go with solids, haha.

7. Film or television?

Film, although when it's an average "just-got-home-from-work-and-don't-have-the-energy-for-a-2-hour-movie" day, I'm guilty of sitting down and watching some television with the family. I like the real-life medical shows, specifically "Ambulance" or "Paramedics". And I do have a soft spot for "The Voice", no matter how staged things are.

8. Fiction or non-fiction?

See my answer above to Hamlette's same question.

9. Action or musical?

Ahh, don't do that to my heart! xD In general, MUSICALS all the way! But if it's a film, I do enjoy a good action movie, if it has a backbone of a plot to it. Recently, I'm beginning to realize how much more I appreciate musicals live as opposed to filmed or stage versions. (Guys, live theatre is just so underrated! Seriously! If you haven't seen a live show, go find one playing near you with a story you might like and GO SEE IT! And then tell me all about it so we can squeal together. :D)

Look! Here is proof that theatre is magical!

10. Romance or fantasy?

Ooohh, that's hard. Maybe romance? But if it's a romance, it has to have some sort of story going for it as well, not simply Henry + Sally = Henry & Sally. You know?

11. Blog or Instagram?

*cough* It's seems rather cutthroat to acknowledge this on my own blog, but I must admit, Instagram has definitely been more convenient of late. When you only have a few minutes to kill, it's way easier to pull it up on your phone than log into blogger and read a lengthy blog post. Still, I do love to read my friends' writing, and I get excited when people write long captions to their Instagram photos, so maybe I'm just obliging my lazy side? 

because is a post complete without
 a picture of flowers?

So now that I feel so bad about my delayed response to these tags, I'm going to droop my head and waddle out. If anyone wants to steal these questions or consider themselves tagged, by all means go ahead! For the sake of conversation, tell me, is it raining or sunny where you are at the moment? And what are your thoughts on social media? Is blogging better than Instagram? And have you started listening to Christmas music yet?!

My Top 7 Podcasts

Hey friends!

Did anyone else out there discover podcasts just recently? Nope? Just me? Ok. Well, during the months of isolation that we had last year, I discovered the wonderful world of podcasts and lemme tell you, I am not going back. I love listening to them on long drives by myself (especially to work) - it's like I have a friend in the car and they're sharing some super interesting information. A lot of these have given me spiritual help, comfort and encouragement during some tough times, and I am going to share my top seven podcasts with you all, in case you're like me and on the look out for some good shows. ;)

1. WHOA That's Good!

Hosted by Sadie Robertson Huff (and often co-hosted by her husband Christian), this podcast is full of life and energy and great encouragement. I love how they approach deep topics with such openness and still keep it uplifting and bringing you back to God at the end of the day. Also, the entire podcast is centred around asking different people "what is the greatest piece of advice you've ever been given?" and I personally love getting advice, so. ;D

2. SHE

If you know Jordan Lee Dooley at all, you know she is SUCH a go-getter and she is always learning new things and in this podcast, she takes you along for the ride! Her episodes have great variety - anything from finances to mental health to business to wellbeing and back again! - and she always leaves you with more than one idea to chew on. I never get tired of hearing what she has to say.

3. Love and the Outcome

I love the music this band put out (also, they're a husband and wife band with two adorable little boys! What's not to love!!), and their podcast is just somethin' extra. I love how soothing it is - it's as if I'm sitting at Jodi & Chris's dining room table, sipping coffee and talking about God things. This is one I'll listen to if I need calming, peaceful words.

4. That Sounds Fun

Obviously - this one is SO. MUCH. FUN.! Annie F. Downs is one of the most enthusiastic, energetic people I've heard on a podcast and I love the vibes in this one! I particularly LOVE the EnneaSummer series on her podcast - highly, highly recommend. She also has other fantastic episodes too, such as "100 Days to Brave". So much great material to check out!

5. Dream Big

Ok, maybe Bob Goff is neck in neck with Annie for enthusiasm and energy levels?! Still can't get over Bob's attitude towards life in general, but it's definitely very inspiring and challenging. He has such a strong spark of fire and passion, and it's truly contagious. If you need a quick boost, pick-me-up of positivity and inspiration, definitely try this podcast! I listened to an episode just recently with his wife Sweet Maria and it was so wonderful. <3

6. Rhythms for Life

I don't know as much about Gabe & Rebekah Lyons' material as I do with the others, but what I have read or listened to I have really loved. I have read Rebekah's book "Rhythms of Renewal" which I loved, and this podcast is basically a broken down way of how to put it into practice with your day-to-day life; tackling the stress and anxiety of the world and replacing it with peace and purpose. Definitely another soothing one to listen to. 

7. The Good Life

This one is more just a ball of fun! Stevie & Sazan are well-known YouTubers and their podcast, which I only semi-recently discovered, can be very fun to have playing on a boring car drive... it's a lot like you're hanging out with some good friends in the car, and you're guaranteed to laugh a bit, and maybe also learn a little, too. I will warn you that sometimes they aren't afraid to discuss topics that may make some people uncomfortable, so listen at your own risk. ;) But they are a Christian couple and keep God at the heart of a lot of what they talk about.

And there you have it! 7 podcasts that I love, and I only just noticed that all of them are actually hosted by Christian people. However, I do believe anyone could take something from them, and they all are great content creators in their own right. 

Do tell me - are any of your favourites on this list? If not, what am I missing? I am always up for some more recommendations!

New Years Tag {2020}

Hello friends!

This tag has been going around for years, and I for one have always loved reading them. Ever since 2017, I've filled out this tag and enjoyed going back and comparing my answers and seeing how far I've come! 2020 being the year it was, I did try to get creative and keep the answers interesting as far as possible, since I obviously wasn't able to get up to as much as I'd hoped. I also cut out some questions for privacy reasons, in case you're wondering why some are missing. Enjoy! :)

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What did you do in 2020 that you've never done before?

I took tap dance lessons, I bought my own car, and I started working full time hours.

Did you keep your New Year Resolutions and will you make a new one?

In a manner of speaking, yes, but it was not how I envisioned it to be. My resolution for 2020 was to be brave and do all the things that I had previously been too scared/unable to do. I did do a few things that fit that bill (drive in the city, get a new job, be more independent), but I definitely did not get some of the opportunities I'd hoped for. My new resolution for 2021 is to just be more intentional with my time, especially in boundaries and making time for rest. (If I were to pick a word for the year, it'd be peace.)

Did anyone close to you give birth?

No one specifically close to me, no.

Did anyone close to you die?

A sweet friend of mine passed away from a freak accident. I was not particularly close to her, but it was a dreadful shock and I will miss her dearly.

What countries/states did you visit?

Haha. Ha. Alas, only New South Wales (Australia), but we can be thankful I even got that far. ;)

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What would you like in 2021 that you lacked in 2020?

A chance to join the community theatre, seeing musicals live, and way better decision making skills.

What date will remained etched upon your memory?

Um... maybe 02/09/2020 - the day I started my new job?

Did you move house?

Heck no. Didn't even rearrange my room. :P

Which was the best month?

Well, I can tell you which is WASN'T, ha! January and February were both lighthearted and lovely, and December also never disappoints (and I got more sleep, so that's a plus.)

What was your biggest achievement?

I guess getting my new job (and sticking at it while it was hard-going)? Also, honestly just making it through this year and still being able to smile because at one stage there I thought that was impossible to do either.

What was your biggest failure?

Falling into very negative thoughts during lockdown, not trusting God when I couldn't see a way, and terrible methods of handling conflict.

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Did you experience any illness of injury?

I bypassed most illnesses and injuries, but I also came a long way in my gut health and discovered I was lactose intolerant and also had silent reflux. What fun (but good to know). 

What was the best thing you bought?

Dance lessons! No regrets. Also my car, I guess.

Where did most of your money go?

Into savings! But also to my car and dance lessons.

What did you get really, really excited about?

Seeing Wicked live. (What did I get really, really sad about? Not being able to see Wicked live. Thanks, Covid.) I was REALLY excited for Christmas this year, because I was dying for some positivity and familiarity to lift my spirits.

What was the best concert you went to?

 *cries* I didn't get to go to any. But out of the virtual ones I attended - "The Hang (NY)'s Christmas concert" (which I found through Instagram... Corey Cott was a guest singer, and Laura Osnes gave a little speech too :)). Also, the play/musical  called "Robbery Gone Wrong" my little siblings and I put on (that I wrote) was pretty good too. ;D

Look at 'em cuties.
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What is a song/album the reminds you of 2020?

Hmm... maybe "Blessings" by Laura Story? It seemed to really fit with what I was going through during 2020. 

Are you happier or sadder?

I'd be lying if I said I was happier. There was a part of my crazy, carefree self that got lost when the harder times hit and it never came back. But God is still good, and there is still joy to be found.

Are you thinner or fatter?

Ahem. :P My, these questions don't hold back. I honestly think I'm exactly the same, although perhaps musclier, haha.

Richer or poorer?

Probably slightly richer, but the car took a nice chunk out, haha. ;)

What do you wish you had done more of?

Telling people I needed help, taking for photos of people for the memories, and encouraging others.

What do you wish you'd done less of?

Stressing, over-thinking, and wasting time on my phone. (Some days I want to chuck that thing.)

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What was your greatest musical discovery?

"For King and Country", "Lauren Daigle" and "Sleeping at Last". Also, the musical "Love Never Dies". I didn't listen to much new music, though, which is something I need to rectify!

How did you spend your Christmas?

First at home with immediate family, exchanging gifts, then at my great aunt's with the extended family, playing games, swimming in the neighbours' pool (or in my case, swinging in the hammock), eating lots of food, playing carols and at night, watching "White Christmas" while eating dinner.

How did you spend New Years?

On New Year's Eve I went to a friend's house with another friend and my sisters for a relaxed night of games and food, and on New Years Day I did Laserforce with a big group of friends and then went back to their house to chill and learn some modern Jive dancing!

Who did you spend the most time on the phone with?

Centrelink, when I was on hold for 14 hours. Grr.

What was the best book you read?

"Love Does" by Bob Goff, "Heartless" by Marissa Meyer, "Rhythms of Renewal" by Rebekah Lyons, "Live" by Sadie Robertson Huff and "Bread and Wine" by Shauna Niequist... to name a few. :D

Did you fall in love?

Let's just say my answer would disappoint all the romantics out there.

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What was your favourite TV show?

Still "Gilmore Girls" and "White Collar", but you can also add "Ambulance" and "Paramedics" to the list. "The Mandalorian" was pretty good, too.

What did you want and get?

Did I mention dance lessons? ;) Tap dance, specifically. Also a new job outside of Hospitality, more savings, more independence (too much, at times) and a strong desire and dedication for reading the Bible.

What did you want and not get?

An opportunity to be part of a theatre production other than my own, mainly. Also, to see a show or musical live, and to travel.

What was your favourite film?

"Jumunji" (2017), "Love Never Dies" (filmed on stage for the Melbourne cast with Anna O'Bryne), "Hamilton" (2020), "Mamma Mia", "Mamma Mia: Here We Go Again", "Tenet", "Enchanted", "The Grinch" (2018)... again, really need better decision making skills. ;)

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What did you do for your birthday and how old were you?

I turned twenty, and, like the mature adult that I am, I played games with my family and ate pizza and cheesecake and watched "Newsies: the Musical" (filmed on stage).

Describe your personal fashion concept?

Ehh? Practical, pretty and probably three years behind the current fashion trend.

What kept you sane?

Prayer and surrendering everything to God over and over. Endless podcasts, and talking to people about my worries and having them listen.

Which celebrity/public figure did you fancy the most?

Um... maybe Jonathon Crombie as Gilbert Blythe? ;)

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Which political issue stirred you the most?

DON'T GET ME STARTED ON POLITICS FOR 2020. To keep it national, the state elections and handling of our Covid restrictions by our premier.

Who did you miss?

Basically everyone during isolation. I missed seeing my family when working really long days.

What was a valuable life lesson you learnt?

No matter what you will walk through in life, God is ALWAYS there beside you and He is enough and He will always be enough.

Quote a song lyric that sums up your year:

I would point you back to Laura Story's "Blessings":

"What if Your blessings come through raindrops

What if Your healing comes through tears

What if a thousand sleepless nights are what it takes to know You're near

And what if trials in this life are Your mercies in disguise"

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What were 5 personally significant events of 2020?

1. Working with my cousin for his accountancy business as his personal assistant for a few days. It meant a lot that he asked me, we had quality time together, and having it on my resume was part of what got me a job!
2. The whole Covid ordeal - I did a LOT of heartwork during some of the loneliest, darkest months of my life. It really changed a lot of things for me.
3. Performing "Robbery Gone Wrong" and also completing a 30 Day Singing Challenge on my Instagram, back in March, where I publicly shared my singing online and got so much kind feedback!
4. Getting my new job was very significant as it was something I've been working towards for years and I couldn't believe I actually got the position! Also, getting my own car was pretty cool.
5. Seeing my three other cousins all get married this year was significant to me as I won't see them as much and it also made me feel how very... single... I am. :P

What are 5 things that you want to do in 2020?

1. Be part of my community theatre! Whether that be as part of the cast or even working backstage.
2. See more shows/productions live!
3. Become better at saying no and creating boundaries for myself, even if it means letting opportunities go by in order to take up another.
4. Hold a handstand and do the splits.
5. Take great care of my health, including physical and mental wellbeing.

Who are some people you'd like to know better in 2021?

I'd like to know other theatre fanatics in my local area so that we can have that in common. I'd like to know whoever it is that God puts in my path to know. But above all, Abba, Father, I want to know you in deeper, richer, more intimate ways.

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Let's dive into this year with peace that God is in control of our today and bright hope for tomorrow! 

Rating Every Book I Read in 2020

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The title pretty much says it all, but today I thought I'd do something a bit different and write a list of every book I read in 2020, and then rate it out of 10. (And I'm not one of those awe-inspiring folks that reads hundreds of books every year, so don't worry - it's not an intimidating list.) 

Also, before I go on, I will mention that I have a tradition of writing out the new year tag in a notebook annually, so if anyone would like to read my new years tag for 2020, let me know and I'll type it up. ;)

Alright, let's get to it!

• "Unglued" by Lysa Terkeurst - 8/10
• "Jane Eyre" by Charlotte Bronte - 7/10
• "Love Does" by Bob Goff - 10/10
• "Little Women" by Louisa May Alcott - 10/10 [re-read]
• "The ABC Murders" by Agatha Christie - 8/10 
• "Digital Minimalism" by Cal Newport - 8/10
• "The Four Tendencies" by Gretchen Rubin - 7/10
• "Heartless" by Marissa Meyer - 9/10
• "Rhythms of Renewal" by Rebekah Lyons - 10/10
• "LIVE" by Sadie Roberson Huff - 10/10
• "Les Miserables" by Victor Hugo - 9/10
• "Bread and Wine" by Shauna Niequist - 10/10
• "Romanov" by Nadine Brandes - 9/10
• "Girl, Wash Your Face" by Rachel Hollis - 7/10
• "Don't Waste Your Life" by John Piper - 9/10
• "To Hell With the Hustle" by Jefferson Bethke - 9/10
• "Good Wives" by Louisa May Alcott - 10/10 [re-read]
• "The Barefoot Investor" by Scott Pape - 9/10
• "Go Set a Watchman" by Harper Lee - 5/10
• "Live Fearless" by Sadie Robertson - 10/10 [re-read]
• "Show Your Work" by Austin Kleon - 7/10
• "Little Men" by Louisa May Alcott - 10/10 [re-read]
• "Don't Give Up, Don't Give in" by Louis Zamperini - 10/10 [re-read]
• "The Road Back to You" by Ian Morgan Cron and Suzanne Stabile - 9/10
• "Relaxing With God" by Andrew Farley - 8/10 [re-read]
• "Dream Big" by Bob Goff - 8/10

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It honestly felt like I read a lot more than 26 books this year, haha, but hey, Les Miserables should really count as 10, right? ;)

Do you have any favourites on this list? Are you surprised by some of my ratings? I'd be eager to discuss it in the comments section below! 

Spring Bucket List Check-off + Life Update

Hello all my lovely friends! 

Here I am, as promised, to check in and review how well I did with my spring bucket list! I must say, I surprised myself with how much I DID get done, but as you will see, it wasn't all of them. ;) 

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 - Learn "All of Me" by Jon Schimdt on the piano   I worked quite hard on this one, and can definitely play it fluently, but I'm still perfecting it, which will be a long process, I think. ;)

- Give flowers to a friend (didn't have the opportunity for this one, although I still want to anyhow!)

- Have all/most of my Christmas shopping finished by the time summer/December rolls around  I basically just have a couple little last-minute presents to get and I'm done! I'm so proud of myself, haha.

- Freeze fruit (such as grapes and bananas)  I froze a banana and loved it so much I did it three times! When grapes come into season I'll definitely try them, too. 

- Go for a long bike ride (it was genuinely too hot for this... it's been over 40 degrees the past couple weeks.)

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- Draw something spring-inspired  I didn't get to actually draw a proper picture for this one, but I did some intricate designs in my bullet journal that were definitely spring-inspired. :) 

- Cloud gaze (I literally tried so hard to do this one but we've literally just had clear blue skies for weeks xD)

- Drink coffee on the patio  This was no doubt the easiest, hehe.

- Dry some flowers (yeah, didn't have time and was also lacking flowers)

- Make ice cream (I did buy gelato twice on our beach trips though, hehe)

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- Freshen up my blog look  I completed this very early on in spring, and am quite happy with how it is right now. And frankly I don't have the time to re-do it again anyway. *cough*

- Add more cute summery dresses to my wardrobe  Definitely didn't get as many as I'd hoped, but I do have some lovely new things in my summer wardrobe!

- Photograph nature  One afternoon I whipped my camera out in the setting sun and took some snaps. It reminded me of how I would like to get a proper camera someday.

I could have uploaded a pretty flower picture I took, but instead,
to keep it real, here is my little sister's pet goat eating said flowers.

- Learn to braid my hair properly (let's be honest, this will take me at least 10 years)

- Make and decorate cupcakes  I completed this one with my little siblings! :)

- Listen to "The Light in the Piaza" (musical)  I listened to the entire thing over 2 days, and enjoyed it! It wasn't quite as enthralling as I'd anticipated but it was sweet. 

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And now let's address the elephant in the room... my lack of consistency and presence in the blogosphere of late. I'm sure I'm not the only one, but let's just say, switching from a 16 hour working week to a 38 hour working week has not been a walk in the park for me. And also, I'm silly enough to think I can still keep up with everything else I do (dance lessons, singing lessons, Bible studies, social events etc). I can't begin to explain how much I miss reading and playing the piano and having time to read and write blog posts, but they were just the activities that were left behind in the dust.

December is already here, though, (whaaat) so I will be getting some time off work, which I am Most Excited About. I do hope to catch up on some blog posts then (hopefully even create a little pile of drafts I can publish when life picks up its speed again?) and be less of a Ghost of Christmas Past phantom in the shadows. (Ok, can you tell I'm working on some Phantom songs with my singing teacher and I'm currently still in the operatic mood? ;)) 

So, to sum up my messy 'life update': I am excited to spend a bit more time on here during my Christmas break (in between Christmas baking, playing games with family, wrapping presents and dancing to Mariah Carey's "All I Want for Christmas", naturally) and we'll see how it goes from there. I have SO many plans and dreams and ideas for 2021, but I genuinely have no idea which of those shall become a reality or which shall remain my favourite daydreams to ponder while I'm trying to go to sleep at night. If I had my way, I would fulfill all of my aspirations for the new year and would get so busy and burnt out that I would probably delete all social media accounts and hibernate under my pillow for a week, so I'm currently still tweaking what I want to prioritize (which is proving devastatingly difficult). I make no promises as to what will happen with my dear little blog next year, but I always hope for the best, and I have no wish to neglect it so poorly as I have done. But if I have learnt anything this year, it is that my plans do not mean anything if they are not in line with God's. 

It's so lovely to be back and I can't wait to talk to you all again soon! *blows kisses*

7 Reasons Why I Love SOLO

In celebration of Eva and Katie's Everything Star Wars Blogathon, I am bringing you a Star Wars themed post today! After a mini brainstorm, I decided to do a post defending Solo: A Star Wars Story, since it's seemed to cop a lot of criticism, and it's personally one of my top favourites.

So without further ado, here are 7 reasons why I love this movie!

1. Backstories

Everyone loves a good backstory, right?! (*raises hand*) I love movies that plumb the depths of a well-known, beloved story. I love all the tie-ins, the quirky ways friendships started, and the inside jokes or hidden meanings that form as a result. Admittedly, you can easily get caught in plot holes when treading this path, but sometimes I will turn a blind eye to small irritations if it gives me a greater appreciation for the overall story, which this movie definitely did.

2. Alden Ehrenreich's Awesomeness

I was very impressed with this guy! Han Solo is a huge role, and Harrison Ford has some big shoes to fill, but I personally think Alden nailed it. His attention to detail in everything - the mannerisms, the smirks, the way he walked - tiny things, yet they made a strong impression. I really appreciated all the little quirks that Alden slipped in which synchronized his younger role with Harrison's older role.

3. Emilia Clarke// Qi'ra

I've never seen Emilia Clarke in anything else, but honestly, she's such a sweetie. I enjoyed watching all of her scenes (and also, her wardrobe! 😍). She brought a lot of class and precision into her role, and I found her character fascinating. I felt very drawn to her story and character throughout the film. (And also, when do I get to find out the rest of her story?!) 

4. Interweaving Stories

Although it's a little iffy sometimes with plot holes, I do love it when we have stories that are interwoven amongst other favourites. "Rogue One" did a superb job with this, but Solo still had some exciting twists when you realized where it lines up in the Star Wars history books. ;) Figuring out when this story took place added a new exciting challenge the first time seeing this!

5. A Strong Villain

Okay, so it might ruin the doctor from Master and Commander for forever, but you can't say that Solo was lacking in a good villain. This guy took creep and power and ran with it, and I genuinely shivered in my boots at the idea of some of my precious characters having to face him down. He was disgustingly evil, and I approved.

cuties

6. Lando

The suave, the swagger, the smoothness! Ooohh! This guy KILLED this role! Wow, still not over it. I was so amazed at how well he played young Lando. I loved his sass and his coolness, and even his naive ways. Sometimes I forgot he was a different actor to the original Lando - I was so convinced of it being the same character, haha.

 7. Good Pacing

This movie covered a lot of ground, but I was never once bored by it. It had twists at good points, but never swerved so far off the main storyline that you couldn't follow it. (Ok, maybe I'm just appreciative of any movie that isn't as confusing as the movie "Tenet".) I thought the general pacing of this film was great, and I was definitely hooked the whole way through.

Here ends my post, but if this puts you in a Star Wars mood, go check out the party going on here and here!

And of course,

May the Force be with you.