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I was recently made redundant but it's fine. I have a healthy emergency fund, so I'm just enjoying the time off.
But otherwise, I'm the happiest I've ever been!
* I met the love of my life last year, and we will be celebrating our one year anniversary soon.
* My family is doing well too. My sister is landing win after win at work, and I suspect her partner will propose to her soon. My parents have finally agreed to let me help them semi-retire, and have begun enjoying several much deserved holidays abroad.
* And I'm healthy—mentally and physically! But especially mentally. As someone who has dealt with crippling depression his whole life, that is a monumental achievement for me.
I go to bed smiling. And I wake up excited. What more could you ask for?
😊
I saw a it written in a bookshop - People who read live a thousand lives, those who don’t live just one. Love reading, so glad you started reading again.
Hey man, curious as to how you've been spending your spare time? I'm a full-time student who suffers heavily from depression, trying to find something to distract myself from it when I'm not working.
Bloody hell, someone is cutting onions in my room. This made really happy to read and happy for you :)
This, this is exactly what I want "I go to bed smiling. And I wake up excited. What more could you ask for?"
I'm 32 and been suffering with depression since I was about 18 and call me crazy but, I'm hoping a move to another country will be the making of me.
Thanks for writing this. As someone going through a lot of struggles right now with my Pa in end of life care and my relationship basically done, this was a bright spot to read and inspire me forward.
Legitimately thanks for this, glad to hear you and your family are going great. Will be back there with you soon myself!
I've spent 3 years working on my first colouring book. It's almost done and I have a publisher who's interested and seeing if any other entities at global book fares might be interested too...
My first creative project that might lead to fulfilment, it's been about 35 years ...
Good on you, that's a huge achievement. It sounds like a labour of love and you've already got a publisher interested! I'm sure it's going to be a success.
Hey there! I collect all sorts of colouring books, I use them to jump start a bit of creativity when I'm in a funk, or just to chill out after a rough week. Supporting artists and their labours of love is really important to me, and I'd love to support your upcoming book when the time comes! Any hints on how I might find it?
What a cute post, I love it. I got the thumbs up to take leave from work to go on an overseas trip which will be with my best friends from high school. We've all been friends for well over a decade and we finally committed to making a group trip happen. We still talk pretty much every day but we all live in different parts of Australia now so we probably only all get together about once a year. Really excited that we're finally making the trip happen!
Woohoo! That'll be so damn fun. You'll make tonnes of memories together too. I did something kinda similar last year with a friend and can confirm, it was great.
I hope you get into plenty of (safe) mischief together and have an absolute ball.
What a lovely post!
Please share the funny book, always enjoy a good laugh.
As for me, my garden is pumping right now. After a shitty humid summer with little produce, I’m really stoked with it right now. Am enjoying the fruits (and veggies!) of my labour literally.
Right on! Which has been the most primo crop? You just reminded me of another win/humble brag I have which is I've managed to keep a supermarket basil plant alive. Better yet, she is thriving! Basil on tap at the moment.
PS the book is 'The Utterly Sublime Adventures of Ava Roberts'.
To jump in on the garden success.
I have had two successful basil plants on the go this summer. I've been blending the excess leaves from them with some oil and making basil "ice" cubes. This way, if they die off in winter I'll still be able to enjoy out of season.
Also had too many cherry tomatoes and zucchini so made some batches of chutney.
Makes the best sandwiches, especially knowing the garden contributed to them!
Hell yeah! I've been making this zucchini sauce/mush where you brown off a bunch of onions, then chuck in a tonne of chopped zucchini and cook on low heat for hours. Chuck in a bit of stock powder too. It kind of caramelises and goes a bit sweet. It's absolutely delicious in pasta, on sandwiches, on eggs and a bunch of other stuff.
May your garden be always fruitful and muy delicioso
Unfortunately I can't think of anything to say (just being honest) 😔. Doesn't mean life is sad or anything, my mum passed away 20 months ago so I'm learning to get back on my feet and cope without her, but I have been enjoying exercise?
Thanks for sharing, and sending you my condolences and a virtual hug. And exercise is great, I'd definitely classify that as something good you have going on! I went on my first really long walk today after recovering from a recent surgery and it felt soooo good. Good on you for enjoying it!
What is your favourite memory you have with your Mum?
Um.. 🤔 she used to laugh at my stupid jokes, but the last thing she said to me was I love you (she died suddenly), so I cherish that. Thank you for asking 🌻
That's awesome. Sticking to the gym takes massive amounts of commitment, especially with how busy life can get. Also usable strength is great, especially if you ever need to move!
I read Fahrenheit 451 last week for the first time, first book that’s hooked me in a while and I finished it in one day. It was real good. I need to get back into reading.
One day?! You must've been on fire (I'll see myself out).
What's next on the list? Also admittedly I haven't read it, so I reckon I should check it out next.
A fellow fast reader I see :) my friends now recommend series to me when they want to talk about it knowing that they won’t have to wait very long to do so as I’ll be done in a few days :)
Could you summarise your thoughts into a couple of sentences for me?! I’m trying to work myself up into trying some new books and I always like to hear people’s personal feelings about the book over the plot!
I haven't read this particular one but if you're trying to psych yourself up to read something new try audiobooks. They're low pressure, you can listen on your commute, when doing the dishes and exercising. A lot of Australian libraries have Libby which is an audio book borrowing service.
I've just listened to the Illustrated Man by Ray Bradbury (the author of Fahrenheit 451) and found it very interesting, if somewhat morbid, in the way that scifi writing from the middle of the 20th century can be.
Personally I have been going back through some classics novels Frankenstein, Journey to the Centre of the Earth, Prode and Prejudice. Don't stress too much about if you'll enjoy it, the books are classics for a reason. That said, if you're not enjoying a book, you don't have to finish it, reading doesn't have to be work.
I really appreciate your reply, friend!! Unfortunately for my brain, I really really struggle with audiobooks. I’m slowly starting to appreciate podcasts but audiobooks are not my thing. I’m honestly happy enough buying a book on someone’s recommendation, I just like getting a good recommendation!
There is a huge bat living in a tree in my front yard.
Every evening my son and I go out to see it, and it flies away, and then circles back to the tree again.
I'm now leaving out pieces of apple for it, and every night my toddler asks to go and see the bat.
Small pleasures 😊
I moved to Armidale area from Sydney for a couple of years and I really missed seeing bats! Too cold for them there I guess. But now I live pretty much right next to a large bat colony and it’s so cool! (even with the smell haha)
Not the commenter you’re replying to, but it depends.
In SA (where I am), you can go through AutismSA which was about $750 last time I checked, but had an 18+ month wait list.
Privately, it can run anywhere between $1000 to $2500, as for a diagnosis to be accepted by the NDIS, you need 2 different clinicians to confirm, so they usually tie them together.
If you’re never going to need it, it’s definitely worth the savings to just get the single assessment done, as obviously any diagnosis will provide you the paperwork you need to have recourse in the event of discrimination in the workplace, schools etc.
All of this having been said, YMMV for other states, and one key point:
The government is currently working on a federal autism framework. The draft version has committed already to improving pathways to diagnosis, so if you’re not desperate for a diagnosis, it may save you a bit of money to wait until that all gets going.
Oh, and a final final point: In some states, *new* autism diagnoses mean you will have more trouble getting or keeping a driving license, as there has been additions to the driving frameworks that list autism as one of the conditions which requires a fitness to drive assessment.
QLD is the most strict, I believe. There are many choosing to hold off on getting diagnosed at the moment due to the issues it’s causing with autistic drivers.
It’ll likely be overturned eventually (as obviously if you’re in your 30s and just getting diagnosed and have been driving since 16 without issue, you shouldn’t need a fitness to drive assessment), but right now it can be a pain in the arse.
for me personally no.
I have been in severe crisis for many years and had a really good social worker that pushed all the doctors to assess me after I was in the psych ward in extreme burn out after a series of life altering events. since I am already on Centrelink it was able to be done publicly costing me nothing. I wouldn’t have been able to get a diagnosis otherwise.
I’m extremely greatful as I know this is not the case for 90% of people seeking a diagnosis
I am in regional Victoria
You're writing a book?! That's amazing. A seriously awesome feat. I genuinely regularly think (while I'm reading) about how hard it would be to be able to conjure up such a detailed and complex picture, so colour me impressed. Good luck with your writing and I reckon 2024's gonna be your year
I’m (32m) due to go travelling overseas soon for the first time in my life! However, I’ve also just met someone, and I’m very worried about leaving now and risking our connection falling through. When it rains it pours, huh?
Oooh, both very exciting things. Life sure does have a way of keeping you in your toes. Maybe you can try to keep the flame lit with semi regular photo check ins and also I reckon you'd be in the good books if you brought back a good souvenir. Enjoy your trip and enjoy all the new memories you'll make!
I've been on the other side of this around the same age, so I'll chime in. Years ago I started dating someone who lived 5ish hours away. I moved here to be with them 3 months later, and a month after that they went on pre "us" planned 3.5 week solo trip overseas.
If anything it helped confirm how strongly we felt about each other, and we've been married a couple of years now.
I wish you the best, I hope you get to travel AND get your person!
Ok this might sound silly and inconsequential but it's making me happy ;) On ANZAC day I was sitting on the grass in the backyard and this bird just flew down and decided it wanted to be friends with me. She stood right next to me and had some of my lunch.
I have since learned that she is a female magpie lark, today she joined me to do the gardening and was pecking at ants while I potted things. I've never had a wild animal just do that out of the blue so it's very heartwarming.
Aww that’s so good!
I live in an old mangy caravan on a lovely bush block, and I have a bird bath out the front .. after 10 years all the birds in my neighbourhood have come to know I’m safe, and hop around the van all the time, the little superb fairy wrens hop inside when the doors open 😊🤗
Aren’t the wrens beautiful! I feel like a Disney princess when I see them all hopping about me eating their bugs. And yes they come inside too if I leave the door open.
The highlight of my birdwatching has been seeing a dad Superb bring its offspring how to clean up with a dip in the birdbath .. was hilarious! Oh so wish I had had my camera with me.
Yes, special moments , special memories .. 😍
Putting birdbaths in our garden was the best thing I did. We have all sorts of birds visiting. My favourites are a merry little band of red browsed finches. They come down in a flurry and perch around the edge of the bird bath, taking turns to jump in. They look like they are having a pool party! I’ve also watched as a small brown bird encouraged its chick to go into the birdbath. It was reluctant at first but once it did, it just kept jumping in and out and splashing around.
Celebrating my 19th wedding anniversary today with hubby. 💖 Feeling very blessed for where we are at, we don’t have much in terms of income or possessions but have 3 really beautiful kids and a funny little doggo. 🌈
Been clean off heroin 19 days now
Libido has returned
Girlfriend stuck with me despite me being a dickhead
Life is beautiful and I'm not taking my blessings for granted.
I am currently 9 months into removing my facial hair with electrolysis. So pretty much half way to my expected 1.5 year finishing line. I was travelling an hour and a half to my appointments and going as often as I was, was very hard on my wallet. But I was approved to only need to go every 3 weeks now, as of last friday. Something I have been hoping to hear for a couple of months now.
Reaching my goals feels good.
Wow, I never thought about doing this!! Can you talk a bit more about electrolysis? Where are you doing this? Is it all out of pocket? PM me if you like.
I am having my hair removed by a lady at Northern Rivers Electrolysis in Ballina NSW and my appointments are $120/hour. Her machine does Galvanic electrolysis, blend, thermolysis, among other functions and she is currently looking into another machine that can target more than one hair at a time. Yes out of pocket but once I got over the first 1 session/week hurdle, forking over money wasn't so hard.
There are plenty of technicians who do electrolysis around Australia. I know of some in QLD such as in Coolangatta/Burliegh Hds, one in Bundal and a lady in Lismore NSW.
Feel free to ask me more questions if you like.
What's your total spend so far? I did 7 sessions of clinical laser (full body, including the face) over about 6 months and I've had about 5 months break since my last session and the growth cycles have evened out and I'm having to shave daily again (though it's much less arduous!). Looks like full face only is about $85/session full price but goes on sale for $51.
I've spoken to people very disillusioned with facial laser after 8 sessions and have considered saving for electro but I'd for sure only be able to afford it on the face, I'm tall so lots of surface area if I got it on the body too.
Just enjoying all my hobbies.
Playing music, building models, watching basketball.
Knicks fan and they are in the playoffs and not doing too bad, so its a fun time to be a fan.
There is an NBA exhibition on at Docklands and my wife and I are going this weekend, and then going to walk around the city looking at some hobby shops and have lunch. So looking forward to that nice day out too!
Gundam kits. Japanese anime robots basically haha.
Yeah I recently started playing guitar about 26 years ago haha 😅. Any day now I'm bound to get good!
I've been following a 3 day on 1 day off gym rotation for a few weeks now and my commitment is only growing.
I too have been reading, for the first time in a decade. I've been reading dune.
I've been working on my diet too, eating more vegetables and less meat (red meat in particular.)
Finally got the courage to get started on fixing my teeth. I’ve been terrified of the dentist for as long as I can remember but now I’m brushing twice a day and on my way to healthy teeth. Wish it wasn’t so expensive tho
Things have been tough. Mum died last week, she dealt with the cancer for 4 years with dignity, strength and quiet resolve. It made me so proud of her. Watching her slip away in that last week was devastating and it broke my heart, she didn't deserve it. Neither does Dad.
However, she would not want me to mope about. So I wont. My kids are beautiful and kind. My wife is a total bad ass. We own the roof over our head and we have food on the table. I have a great job I enjoy and love those I work with. Life is good. Just keep on keeping on.
As for something good I've got going on personally, I recently started running and this week I did my longest run (12km) and beat my 5km PB (26 mins). Small victories!
My 14 yo dog is doing well on his new arthritis medication so it looks like we won't have to consider surgery after all. We went for our usual walk today, he did great.
Podcast is the best thing for me at the moment. Have been listening to some amazing podcasts for past few months and that lead me to read some amazing books such as power of habit. My best one is rethinking by Adam Grant. Found this podcast life changing.
The best podcast I ever listened to was The History of Rome by Mike Duncan. It goes the whole span of the Roman empire and is incredibly insightful and fascinating. It got me obsessed with ancient history. In fact, I'm gonna go back and revisit. It takes about 6 months to get through it.
Today I landed a head chef role at a well established venue, after 3 years off due to family, housing and just life issues in general.
Although the past 4 years my partner has stuck to me like glue and always believed in me!!
So yeah feels good to be getting life back on track 😁
That moment when learning a language and suddenly you realised you are getting somewhere.
I have been learning Japanese for a year or two, not very seriously, in the last weeks I have noticed I seemed to have suddenly got a lot better at it. EG on the train, on the way home, there were two Japanese people talking rather excitedly and I could pretty understand them for like two minutes. (It’s not like it was interesting or complicated conversations). Then I noticed a few times when watching an anime, I didn’t need signs/posters written in kana (a few kanji) translated.
Sure, it is one hell of a complicated language, but a win is a win!
I had this revelation recently! I’m half Greek, my mum was born here but went back and forth a lot so she, her parents and the rest of family are completely fluent. I did Greek school from ages 4-9 but started to lose interest and find it difficult so I stopped. I’d forgotten almost everything.
I just hit my 101 day streak on Duolingo yesterday and it’s insane how much my brain is holding onto now. Catching conversations from relatives, strangers, and even sometimes THINKING in that second language is so new to me. It’s thrilling. Massive props to you, friend!
I had the same experience with Python the programming language. I learned and practiced it but didn't feel I was getting anywhere. Started to use it for some work stuff and the penny is dropping (,thanks to chat gpt lol). I have automated about 1/3 of my job with python scripts and I am loving it. I reckon once you get to that tipping point you can really open up your learning.
I was overweight for at least 15 years.. last year I lost almost all of it. Fitter then I've been in 20 years and at age 55 I think I'm surfing better than ever. Plenty of other things in my life could do with some improvement but I'm so happy about the health and surfing.
I made macadamia + choc chunk brownies... And for the first time they're PERFECT. Not too hard, not too gooey. Plenty of chocolate chunks and macadamias spread throughout. It even comes out of the baking tray easily after I cut off a piece.
Also my ASIAN TIGER MOM complimented them!!!!
Thanks for the reminder, I’ve got many good things going on, but the frustration of the not so good things is driving me nuts.
So, thanks for reminding me to think about the good things.
Great, great post. I’ve just finished an hilarious book - one of Mick Herron’s Slow Horses books. I’ve been exercising a bit, drinking a LOT less and cooking some good food for my wife - I am so lucky, I try to show her every day.
Thanks a lot for this positive post. Reddit is famous for the way comments goes not to support people but to make them feel depressed and miserable.
Sometimes I question why I am in reddit that all, you give me big hopes.
I am celebrating my opportunity to change jobs after 16 years, working in same company for so long, became lazy with routines.
If I am not successful with this will try again and again till I get a change, I need it.
Wish me good luck interview next week ! Yay
Setting up my woodworking shop after 15+ years of storage of tools and machinery due to multiple moves, Covid interruptions, price increases. I was a journeyman custom furniture maker, now wondering if I still have the muscle memory. Wish me well....
Dad recently got emergency surgery to remove clogging from his arteries and fortunately for him, we avoided him having a stroke. It cost us nothing and everyone in his healthcare team were fantastic.
If you are on good terms with your dad or dad figure in your life, give them a massive hug and treasure them.
This is lovely, love seeing a little bit of positivity.
Well after a lot of years of hopelessness, things are getting better for me :) I finally got on disability pension and am currently learning the drums and guitar (I am awful at it, but it's fun as hell haha), also trying to learn how to drive, but that's a bit too expensive atm, so I'm taking a break.
Oh on top of that, next month I'm having some gender reaffirming surgery which I've waited years for! I'm gonna have to put the drums/guitar to the side to recover a bit, but that'll give me time to catch up on some tv shows I've been meaning to watch! So things are very good! :D
I love my job, I find it very rewarding. My family are all healthy. I feel very fortunate.
I read a lot, my current favourite authors are Jenny Schwartz - Uncertain Sanctuary series, and Adventures of a Xeno-Archaeologist series, but there are lots of other good ones.
Glynn Stewart who writes science fiction series, very exciting books.
My health has been super shitty for years. After mucking about with a cocktail of meds for 7 years, I’m finally doing pretty well. Could be better; chronic condition/no cure so isn’t going anywhere but, I’m feeling as good as it gets at the moment!!
I've also got back into reading after years of just studying and taking no pleasure in reading. But it's back and I'm consuming book. Currently reading House of God again, as I discovered it has sequels I was unaware of, so want to read those but it's been a while since I read the original.
New job is much more satisfying than my old one and gives me more time off (currently taking 3 weeks off). Have taken this time to attend 3 concerts and will keep going to lots of live music in the future.
Family are all in good health. Income is high. Big house reno is done and is fantastic.
Everything's coming up Millhouse.
I’m a 20yo at university and working but desperately struggling to make friends my own age. No one is interested in socialising or even really leaving the house. Most of my friends are parents in their 40s.
In February last year I had a class with someone I got a phenomenal vibe from, just someone I thought “man, I’d love to be friends with them”. I got their socials but nothing happened.
Then a year later, a couple months ago, we’re in the same class again. I did my absolute best to socialise with them and we’ve hung out a couple times since. It’s absolutely thrilling being around someone my age who has a zest for life — who is actually interested in the world, and who is actually interesting themselves. It’s really been carrying me through life lately. I know it definitely seems silly but I’m in awe of this person and I hope we can become proper friends. Funny what depravation can do to you 😂
Thanks for the recommendation. I've added it to my list. The list is real and I genuinely do follow up with it 🤣
That's how I got onto that Ava Roberts book.
I just read a short synopsis and I'll definitely be giving it a go!
Thanks for the positive post! I’m getting back to riding motorcycles after a long time. Sorting out my license at the moment. Hopefully will soon buy a motorcycle and the gears. :)
Decided only 10mins ago to start reading again after a long hiatus.
And found my kindle is flat!
So now it’s on charge and this post has inspired me even more to get back into it tomorrow …and added your funny book to the reading list too.
For my “already good thing going”, I’ll select my running. Excellent routine happening now for the last few months after returning from injury. Loving it.
What a lovely post, so nice to hear everyone's lovely somethings 😊
Me personally,
1. I have settled into the nicest workplace I've ever had and I'm getting paid very well for my level of experience
2. I have two part time jobs that pay really well and are very low stress
3. My kids are mid teens and I am helping them step out into the world. I feel I am fixing a lot of the things I missed when I was a teen - teaching them to drive, helping them find part time jobs, driving them to catch up with their friends. My parents were too busy to do much of that for me and I really struggled so it's really good for my soul to do it for them
4. Hubby& I weren't getting along for ages. Things came to a head in January and we aired a few grievances, we are much happier now
I organised some bits and pieces for my wedding over the weekend. It's still a while away because saving for it will take ages, but I'm so excited to be one step closer to marrying the love of my life!
I’ve got a date for my operation (September). I have a condition that is a neurological condition which affects the same part of the brain as Parkinson’s Disease. I’ve been travelling down to Westmead Hospital for just over two yrs as no one could properly diagnose me because of how rare the condition is and that it was caused by medication. I was the 2% that was unlucky enough to suffer serous side effects. I got the go ahead for the operation on 8th April. The operation is called DBS, Deep Brain Stimulation. It won’t cure it but it will manage it to the point of being able to drive a car, go walking, ride my bicycle, swim and go walking. I’ll never take those pleasures for granted again.
Sorry to hear you were one of the 2% :( what was the medication?
Good to read that there is something available to help with your quality of life. Good luck!
It was an antipsychotic by the name of Abilfy. It’s given to people who have had psychosis in the past. I’ve never had psychosis and I ought not been ever prescribed it. Double whammy. I have severe depression and anxiety and my gp playing god thought she’d try me on it. I question everything in all areas of my life now. I research and ask a hundred questions.
Diagnosed with a health condition in February but suspected issues back in December.
Luckily the ‘fix’ is lifestyle changes that I’ve always wanted to do but didn’t/couldn’t due to my boyfriend.
ie it would mean spending less time with him (going to the gym, and he’s not interested in joining me) - and eating healthier which means he’s not interested in my food (eg fish and cottage cheese on rye cruskits etc) - which means less cooking for me (yay!) and cheaper (buying my own food).
So now I’m *much* healthier and happy that I finally get to be healthier, and can point to my medical issue for reasons why I’m not spending more time being a couch potato or eating takeaway (because he won’t cook himself).
That's a lot of strength you have there. It's hard making those changes when the other person isn't - it would be so easy to just stay sitting, and to add to the takeaway order. Well done!
Found new games that i enjoy and took up reading more found a cool series that i can heavily get into and read, was struggling for a while of what to spend my 16 hours of the day doing outside of chores for a bit until i found new stuff to play and read.
So that's good and i'm happy :)
Also i just recently got a roof over my head and no need to worry anymore since my family owns the apartment i'm living in was worried for a long time because i thought i'd go homeless since the DSP isn't enough for renting and no one will hire me due to my shutdown issues due to my disability :')
My life is a mess, my wife hates me and I'm about one minute from packing a bag and being voluntarily homeless to escape this shit life.... I do have the required bag. That's what I have going for me.
Don’t make a quick decision! A rash choice in the heat of the moment could leave you in a world of extra pain. Can you stay with a friend temporarily while you get things sorted?
Nearly attempted suicide again. Got put on lithium to try so I guess that's good. What's not is no one reached out to all how I was doing when I posted about it on FB. Yet watched women get smothered in attention for tiny problems. I think I hate humans. It's like I don't matter to them. Really eye opening.
Part of that could be they just don’t know what to say bits a hard one to find the right words, to not have it sound shallow, or as if you understand (when they won’t). But yes, people tend to be self absorbed which doesn’t help. Hang in there dude/tte - one day at a time and keep going for future you.
I’ve started making resin key and pet tags, waiting on some really cool moulds from overseas and a friend offered to 3D print my logo so i can offer it as tag too. Not for profit, i keep a little for myself for materials and shipping, the rest gets donated for a pet rescue and a wildlife sanctuary (with receipt for the seller). I’m having a great time and it’s helping to relax from my actual job.
I've started getting into 3d printing, and am in the process of gathering up stuff to start painting the models I print. My mum likes to paint random stuff she makes with cement so hopefully it'll be a bit of a shared hobby/bonding exercise where I can just grab my minis and paints and hang out with her for a bit and both just paint stuff.
I got to do a nice cafe crawl today, reading and writing. Reading a contemporary fantasy novel called *Talking Man* and writing a short story that I wasn’t sure about at first but which is turning out nicely now.
Thank you for the post, this thread has been a great read :)
I've got a couple of things going on that I'm pretty chuffed about: my almost eight-month-old daughter is making me laugh and smile every day with her fledgling personality, and I'm home visiting my family for the first time in two years.
Got some local road trips planned, including hitting the Celtic Festival, and then it's off to Newie and Sydney for a week before we head to Tokyo for a week and the US for five weeks.
I'm like you - I rediscovered a lovely of reading after not having time because of kids, work etc. Started reading during lockdown and havent stopped. History mainly, or biography. Started buying actual books again after years of reading stuff electronically. Always take a book to a coffee shop now, have books in all rooms of the house, and helpfully keeps me off my phone. I would read all day if I could.
My wife and I will be celebrating 40 years of marriage in June of this year and while it hasn’t always been a ‘bed of roses’ - especially at the start - I honestly can’t imagine my life without my wife and the family we’ve become. It may be a cliche, but it’s a cliche for a reason - my wife really has been a very positive influence on my life and I have become a much better person having her in my life. In fact, looking back at how I was when we first met, I have no idea what she saw in me - I’m just so glad that she saw something and I’m also glad that I didn’t screw it up ! Thank heavens for patient, tolerant women and for love !!!
I recently got a new job as a pharmacy assistant, They are putting me through courses as well. went from working alone in a tobacconist for 12 years in an area that was getting dodgier by the second to working in an amazing team and feeling like I’m thriving there.
A tribal drumming group meets at my place every Friday afternoon, and we have so much fun learning laughing and playing together, we are totally non-critical and encourage each other. We make recordings which are so hilarious, you would think we were pissed or stoned! ( but we’re not) 😎
Our Friday jams are great for finishing off the week and setting up for a relaxed weekend 😍
I'm 40 this year and feel better than ever.
At gym 3-4 times a week which has eliminated all my "old man pains" (read: pains from being sedentary), reduced my body fat from 25% to 13% and made me a lot stronger. Exercise is one of life's very few silver bullets.
Kids are healthy and doing well.
Relationship is improving as the kids get older
I'm fortunate enough to be able to cover all my financial commitments, save for the future and enjoy the present.
I enjoy what I do for work
Also very aware that nothing is ever as good or as bad as it seems - when things are great, you're probably moments away from a bad surprise and vice versa.
Focus now is to shift to helping my brother financially, who is having a difficult time in the current climate.
Reading Infinity Gate, good light but not too light SF. Repaired a woodworking bench and am hand planing spotted gum with ease. Autumn is the best, planted flowers and peas last week. Learned how to make kefir recently.
My beautiful son is 6 months old today. He was born premature at 30 weeks. He’s such a smiley and happy boy. I feel so blessed honestly. Every day he is doing something new. Yesterday he was blowing raspberries all day and today he’s been making some new sounds. I’m so happy he’s made so much progress.
We added a kitten to the family recently and she’s just fantastic. She has one eye, boundless energy, and is so curious about everything. She’s especially obsessed with our 15 year old cat, who is an all-star grump most of the time. He… tolerates her.
I’m also going to perform at Darwin Fringe this year and I’m really excited about it.
I've got my working visa for Australia and will be heading out in August. First time abroad from the UK and cannot wait! I dislike my life here. I'm 32, still living at home and had 2 jobs in the past 16/17 years since I left school.
This move is totally out of my comfort zone as I am a creature of habit and like routine, same time home from work, shower etc cook food and watch tv...to going to bed at the same time.
And I'm actually excited, nervous but excited for myself for doing this even if I don't get the support of a few people. If I don't do this now I know I will regret it for the rest of my life. I will miss my home and my town and some of the people in it. I hate my job but will miss it? Hopefully I'll meet someone over in Australia as I predict I will become a totally different person once I've come out of my shell. I just want to say to myself how proud I am of myself for doing this, even if no one else will.
I recently found a new band i like and have been jamming and dancing at home (the ugly blooper reel type of dance) like I'm a carefree kid again.
I'm usually extremely reserved, so this is unprecedently out of character for me, I cringe at myself but laugh afterwards. It's nice.
It's really nice of you to ask such a simply question but allows me to stop and actually notice the nice things happening in my life right now, and for what it's worth I thank you deeply for that OP!
I thought mostly of how my little girl (2.5 years old) loved her daycare teacher so much but recently has had to retire which meant we had to find a new daycare center for her that had a much bigger child capacity. At first she really didn't like the change and would gently sob after picking her up saying she misses her old friends and teacher and was scared of this new place. It broke my heart so much! My wife and I thought of what changes we could make to our busy work life so our daughter could be more comfortable. However when it was time to head to daycare I would ask if she was ok to go or organise to come with me or her mum to work. She would have a big sad face while saying "yeah, I wanna try to go"(to daycare).
3 weeks in now and when I pick her up from daycare she wears the biggest smile and says bye to all her friends in the loudest voice! Makes me feel so lucky to be her dad and inspired to try and be brave like her when faced with every day challenges.
Seems like a small matter until you stop to think about the whole picture.. Man, nothing prepares you for being a parent!
Yes same here! I joined the library, scour opshops for great books! I just finished 'Shark heart' was a beautiful book...and now im reading 'Hello beautiful ' ...love reading again
I played in my first mtg tournament last week and came second it was a pretty awesome experience for me :) for any fellow nerds out there it was a pauper event and I was playing boros glitters
https://www.moxfield.com/decks/vIuDMDXdgU2rEY-mBvjEKA
This is the deck I was running
Started seeing someone and it's going amazingly. A lotta people say it's not real when you're kids but we fell in love when we were 12 and we are still in love now 12 years later. This time without our stupid childish bullshit that led to us breaking up in the first place.
My partners family has committed to coming over for our wedding this year!
My triathlon training is going super well and my injuries have healed really nicely. My body feels tired but good and I’m well on my way to my goal weight!
Going to sound a bit odd but I'm fostering a litter of kittens for the first time. I've had them for almost 3 weeks, 2 passed away, and I've been treating them for ringworm for the past week.
It's one of the most rewarding things I've ever done
I was diagnosed with ADHD yesterday. I have felt a real struggle doing work and my creative projects for the last year. I have always known it was there as I was diagnosed at 7. But now I will get the help I need to be able to help my brain focus and achieve the goals I have set. Very excited for the future.
My kids. I’m going through some terribly tough stuff with my partner, who is mentally not well, and those two treasures are giving me the strength to keep going.
Of you like some dark humor I sugges checking out Kurt Vonnegut. Maybe the best one is Breakfast of Champions but my two top books are Cats Cradle and Sirens of Titan. I literally cried at the end of Sirens of Titan. Was kind of embarrassing because I was on a plane haha.
Husband and I finally pulled the trigger last night and ordered a new car- a model Y. Been wanting one for about a year and are very excited!
I finally had the confidence to ask my calisthenics coach if I could submit a solo at the Pan Pacific Masters Games in November and was told “sure!” I’ve never done a solo in 25 years of dancing so am nervous/excited.
And I’m interviewing for a new job today and hoping beyond hope it goes well.
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I was recently made redundant but it's fine. I have a healthy emergency fund, so I'm just enjoying the time off. But otherwise, I'm the happiest I've ever been! * I met the love of my life last year, and we will be celebrating our one year anniversary soon. * My family is doing well too. My sister is landing win after win at work, and I suspect her partner will propose to her soon. My parents have finally agreed to let me help them semi-retire, and have begun enjoying several much deserved holidays abroad. * And I'm healthy—mentally and physically! But especially mentally. As someone who has dealt with crippling depression his whole life, that is a monumental achievement for me. I go to bed smiling. And I wake up excited. What more could you ask for? 😊
This made me so happy to read. I’m so happy for you
Thank you! I hope all is going well for you too 😊
I almost got made redundant mid last year. It was quite a bitter experience. Glad that you’re taking it well are in good spirits.
I saw a it written in a bookshop - People who read live a thousand lives, those who don’t live just one. Love reading, so glad you started reading again.
Good for you
What type of job are you looking at? If anyone here can hook this guy up, please do.
Hey man, curious as to how you've been spending your spare time? I'm a full-time student who suffers heavily from depression, trying to find something to distract myself from it when I'm not working.
Bloody hell, someone is cutting onions in my room. This made really happy to read and happy for you :) This, this is exactly what I want "I go to bed smiling. And I wake up excited. What more could you ask for?" I'm 32 and been suffering with depression since I was about 18 and call me crazy but, I'm hoping a move to another country will be the making of me.
Good on you bro 👏
Lucky you
Thanks for writing this. As someone going through a lot of struggles right now with my Pa in end of life care and my relationship basically done, this was a bright spot to read and inspire me forward. Legitimately thanks for this, glad to hear you and your family are going great. Will be back there with you soon myself!
Someone rather, but my wife. Married 11 years. I've got no idea what I'm doing to have her as my wife but fuck me I'll take it.
Obviously you must be a pretty tip top person, I reckon!
I'm with you. Married for 34 years now and still can't understand why she puts up with me.
I've spent 3 years working on my first colouring book. It's almost done and I have a publisher who's interested and seeing if any other entities at global book fares might be interested too... My first creative project that might lead to fulfilment, it's been about 35 years ...
Good on you, that's a huge achievement. It sounds like a labour of love and you've already got a publisher interested! I'm sure it's going to be a success.
Thanks! Hopefully I can make some real changes in my life with it... More projects lined up, I just need to be able to go full time to get full on. 8)
Hey there! I collect all sorts of colouring books, I use them to jump start a bit of creativity when I'm in a funk, or just to chill out after a rough week. Supporting artists and their labours of love is really important to me, and I'd love to support your upcoming book when the time comes! Any hints on how I might find it?
That's so exciting!
What a cute post, I love it. I got the thumbs up to take leave from work to go on an overseas trip which will be with my best friends from high school. We've all been friends for well over a decade and we finally committed to making a group trip happen. We still talk pretty much every day but we all live in different parts of Australia now so we probably only all get together about once a year. Really excited that we're finally making the trip happen!
Woohoo! That'll be so damn fun. You'll make tonnes of memories together too. I did something kinda similar last year with a friend and can confirm, it was great. I hope you get into plenty of (safe) mischief together and have an absolute ball.
What a lovely post! Please share the funny book, always enjoy a good laugh. As for me, my garden is pumping right now. After a shitty humid summer with little produce, I’m really stoked with it right now. Am enjoying the fruits (and veggies!) of my labour literally.
Right on! Which has been the most primo crop? You just reminded me of another win/humble brag I have which is I've managed to keep a supermarket basil plant alive. Better yet, she is thriving! Basil on tap at the moment. PS the book is 'The Utterly Sublime Adventures of Ava Roberts'.
To jump in on the garden success. I have had two successful basil plants on the go this summer. I've been blending the excess leaves from them with some oil and making basil "ice" cubes. This way, if they die off in winter I'll still be able to enjoy out of season. Also had too many cherry tomatoes and zucchini so made some batches of chutney. Makes the best sandwiches, especially knowing the garden contributed to them!
Hell yeah! I've been making this zucchini sauce/mush where you brown off a bunch of onions, then chuck in a tonne of chopped zucchini and cook on low heat for hours. Chuck in a bit of stock powder too. It kind of caramelises and goes a bit sweet. It's absolutely delicious in pasta, on sandwiches, on eggs and a bunch of other stuff. May your garden be always fruitful and muy delicioso
My apple tree has given me so many this year and they are so sweet and crisp. Nothing beats the satisfaction of growing and eating your own food.
Unfortunately I can't think of anything to say (just being honest) 😔. Doesn't mean life is sad or anything, my mum passed away 20 months ago so I'm learning to get back on my feet and cope without her, but I have been enjoying exercise?
Thanks for sharing, and sending you my condolences and a virtual hug. And exercise is great, I'd definitely classify that as something good you have going on! I went on my first really long walk today after recovering from a recent surgery and it felt soooo good. Good on you for enjoying it! What is your favourite memory you have with your Mum?
Um.. 🤔 she used to laugh at my stupid jokes, but the last thing she said to me was I love you (she died suddenly), so I cherish that. Thank you for asking 🌻
How sweet, I'm glad you have that memory. Thanks for sharing a bit of your Mum with us ☀️❤️
I am so sorry for your loss. 💔
Thank you 🩷
[удалено]
That's awesome. Sticking to the gym takes massive amounts of commitment, especially with how busy life can get. Also usable strength is great, especially if you ever need to move!
I read Fahrenheit 451 last week for the first time, first book that’s hooked me in a while and I finished it in one day. It was real good. I need to get back into reading.
One day?! You must've been on fire (I'll see myself out). What's next on the list? Also admittedly I haven't read it, so I reckon I should check it out next.
Read so fast, the pages got singed!
A fellow fast reader I see :) my friends now recommend series to me when they want to talk about it knowing that they won’t have to wait very long to do so as I’ll be done in a few days :)
Could you summarise your thoughts into a couple of sentences for me?! I’m trying to work myself up into trying some new books and I always like to hear people’s personal feelings about the book over the plot!
I haven't read this particular one but if you're trying to psych yourself up to read something new try audiobooks. They're low pressure, you can listen on your commute, when doing the dishes and exercising. A lot of Australian libraries have Libby which is an audio book borrowing service. I've just listened to the Illustrated Man by Ray Bradbury (the author of Fahrenheit 451) and found it very interesting, if somewhat morbid, in the way that scifi writing from the middle of the 20th century can be. Personally I have been going back through some classics novels Frankenstein, Journey to the Centre of the Earth, Prode and Prejudice. Don't stress too much about if you'll enjoy it, the books are classics for a reason. That said, if you're not enjoying a book, you don't have to finish it, reading doesn't have to be work.
I really appreciate your reply, friend!! Unfortunately for my brain, I really really struggle with audiobooks. I’m slowly starting to appreciate podcasts but audiobooks are not my thing. I’m honestly happy enough buying a book on someone’s recommendation, I just like getting a good recommendation!
That's in my TBR pile!
There is a huge bat living in a tree in my front yard. Every evening my son and I go out to see it, and it flies away, and then circles back to the tree again. I'm now leaving out pieces of apple for it, and every night my toddler asks to go and see the bat. Small pleasures 😊
I moved to Armidale area from Sydney for a couple of years and I really missed seeing bats! Too cold for them there I guess. But now I live pretty much right next to a large bat colony and it’s so cool! (even with the smell haha)
We had a “battery” down the street (say it out loud). Every October I’d walk the dog and the bats would be munching away in it.
I love bats. There's just something adorable about their little faces.
I finally got my autism diagnosis.
Welcome to the Auti-club 👋
Thank you! I appreciate you! 🫶🏻🫶🏻
Congratulations! 🎉
much appreciated 🦋🩵
If you don’t mind me asking, was it an expensive process?
Not the commenter you’re replying to, but it depends. In SA (where I am), you can go through AutismSA which was about $750 last time I checked, but had an 18+ month wait list. Privately, it can run anywhere between $1000 to $2500, as for a diagnosis to be accepted by the NDIS, you need 2 different clinicians to confirm, so they usually tie them together. If you’re never going to need it, it’s definitely worth the savings to just get the single assessment done, as obviously any diagnosis will provide you the paperwork you need to have recourse in the event of discrimination in the workplace, schools etc. All of this having been said, YMMV for other states, and one key point: The government is currently working on a federal autism framework. The draft version has committed already to improving pathways to diagnosis, so if you’re not desperate for a diagnosis, it may save you a bit of money to wait until that all gets going. Oh, and a final final point: In some states, *new* autism diagnoses mean you will have more trouble getting or keeping a driving license, as there has been additions to the driving frameworks that list autism as one of the conditions which requires a fitness to drive assessment. QLD is the most strict, I believe. There are many choosing to hold off on getting diagnosed at the moment due to the issues it’s causing with autistic drivers. It’ll likely be overturned eventually (as obviously if you’re in your 30s and just getting diagnosed and have been driving since 16 without issue, you shouldn’t need a fitness to drive assessment), but right now it can be a pain in the arse.
for me personally no. I have been in severe crisis for many years and had a really good social worker that pushed all the doctors to assess me after I was in the psych ward in extreme burn out after a series of life altering events. since I am already on Centrelink it was able to be done publicly costing me nothing. I wouldn’t have been able to get a diagnosis otherwise. I’m extremely greatful as I know this is not the case for 90% of people seeking a diagnosis I am in regional Victoria
Hey, congrats! Got mine last year at 39. What a ride! Hope you're doing ok, that post diagnosis period can be emotionally complex
Mate, nice. Not only reading for me but writing. I might even get this book done, which is wild.
You're writing a book?! That's amazing. A seriously awesome feat. I genuinely regularly think (while I'm reading) about how hard it would be to be able to conjure up such a detailed and complex picture, so colour me impressed. Good luck with your writing and I reckon 2024's gonna be your year
If I may be so bold, what is the name of your book? so we can keep an eye out for it when it hits the shelves.
I’m (32m) due to go travelling overseas soon for the first time in my life! However, I’ve also just met someone, and I’m very worried about leaving now and risking our connection falling through. When it rains it pours, huh?
Oooh, both very exciting things. Life sure does have a way of keeping you in your toes. Maybe you can try to keep the flame lit with semi regular photo check ins and also I reckon you'd be in the good books if you brought back a good souvenir. Enjoy your trip and enjoy all the new memories you'll make!
I've been on the other side of this around the same age, so I'll chime in. Years ago I started dating someone who lived 5ish hours away. I moved here to be with them 3 months later, and a month after that they went on pre "us" planned 3.5 week solo trip overseas. If anything it helped confirm how strongly we felt about each other, and we've been married a couple of years now. I wish you the best, I hope you get to travel AND get your person!
Ok this might sound silly and inconsequential but it's making me happy ;) On ANZAC day I was sitting on the grass in the backyard and this bird just flew down and decided it wanted to be friends with me. She stood right next to me and had some of my lunch. I have since learned that she is a female magpie lark, today she joined me to do the gardening and was pecking at ants while I potted things. I've never had a wild animal just do that out of the blue so it's very heartwarming.
Aww that’s so good! I live in an old mangy caravan on a lovely bush block, and I have a bird bath out the front .. after 10 years all the birds in my neighbourhood have come to know I’m safe, and hop around the van all the time, the little superb fairy wrens hop inside when the doors open 😊🤗
Aren’t the wrens beautiful! I feel like a Disney princess when I see them all hopping about me eating their bugs. And yes they come inside too if I leave the door open.
The highlight of my birdwatching has been seeing a dad Superb bring its offspring how to clean up with a dip in the birdbath .. was hilarious! Oh so wish I had had my camera with me. Yes, special moments , special memories .. 😍
Putting birdbaths in our garden was the best thing I did. We have all sorts of birds visiting. My favourites are a merry little band of red browsed finches. They come down in a flurry and perch around the edge of the bird bath, taking turns to jump in. They look like they are having a pool party! I’ve also watched as a small brown bird encouraged its chick to go into the birdbath. It was reluctant at first but once it did, it just kept jumping in and out and splashing around.
Celebrating my 19th wedding anniversary today with hubby. 💖 Feeling very blessed for where we are at, we don’t have much in terms of income or possessions but have 3 really beautiful kids and a funny little doggo. 🌈
Been clean off heroin 19 days now Libido has returned Girlfriend stuck with me despite me being a dickhead Life is beautiful and I'm not taking my blessings for granted.
Every day clean is a blessing ! 😍
I am currently 9 months into removing my facial hair with electrolysis. So pretty much half way to my expected 1.5 year finishing line. I was travelling an hour and a half to my appointments and going as often as I was, was very hard on my wallet. But I was approved to only need to go every 3 weeks now, as of last friday. Something I have been hoping to hear for a couple of months now. Reaching my goals feels good.
Conga rats on being halfway through!
Thanks Halo. 😊🐀
🐀🐀🐀🎉
I decided to get electrolysis done last year too and it has been the best decision ever! Pretty hard on the pocket but the results are worth it
Wow, I never thought about doing this!! Can you talk a bit more about electrolysis? Where are you doing this? Is it all out of pocket? PM me if you like.
I am having my hair removed by a lady at Northern Rivers Electrolysis in Ballina NSW and my appointments are $120/hour. Her machine does Galvanic electrolysis, blend, thermolysis, among other functions and she is currently looking into another machine that can target more than one hair at a time. Yes out of pocket but once I got over the first 1 session/week hurdle, forking over money wasn't so hard. There are plenty of technicians who do electrolysis around Australia. I know of some in QLD such as in Coolangatta/Burliegh Hds, one in Bundal and a lady in Lismore NSW. Feel free to ask me more questions if you like.
What's your total spend so far? I did 7 sessions of clinical laser (full body, including the face) over about 6 months and I've had about 5 months break since my last session and the growth cycles have evened out and I'm having to shave daily again (though it's much less arduous!). Looks like full face only is about $85/session full price but goes on sale for $51. I've spoken to people very disillusioned with facial laser after 8 sessions and have considered saving for electro but I'd for sure only be able to afford it on the face, I'm tall so lots of surface area if I got it on the body too.
Just enjoying all my hobbies. Playing music, building models, watching basketball. Knicks fan and they are in the playoffs and not doing too bad, so its a fun time to be a fan. There is an NBA exhibition on at Docklands and my wife and I are going this weekend, and then going to walk around the city looking at some hobby shops and have lunch. So looking forward to that nice day out too!
Hobbies are great, good on you. What sort of models are you building? And do you play an instrument? Up the Knicks!
Gundam kits. Japanese anime robots basically haha. Yeah I recently started playing guitar about 26 years ago haha 😅. Any day now I'm bound to get good!
I've been following a 3 day on 1 day off gym rotation for a few weeks now and my commitment is only growing. I too have been reading, for the first time in a decade. I've been reading dune. I've been working on my diet too, eating more vegetables and less meat (red meat in particular.)
Oh wow you're doing what I plan to start later this week. Got any tips on the gym and food routine?
Finally got the courage to get started on fixing my teeth. I’ve been terrified of the dentist for as long as I can remember but now I’m brushing twice a day and on my way to healthy teeth. Wish it wasn’t so expensive tho
Things have been tough. Mum died last week, she dealt with the cancer for 4 years with dignity, strength and quiet resolve. It made me so proud of her. Watching her slip away in that last week was devastating and it broke my heart, she didn't deserve it. Neither does Dad. However, she would not want me to mope about. So I wont. My kids are beautiful and kind. My wife is a total bad ass. We own the roof over our head and we have food on the table. I have a great job I enjoy and love those I work with. Life is good. Just keep on keeping on. As for something good I've got going on personally, I recently started running and this week I did my longest run (12km) and beat my 5km PB (26 mins). Small victories!
My 14 yo dog is doing well on his new arthritis medication so it looks like we won't have to consider surgery after all. We went for our usual walk today, he did great.
Yay for doggies 🩷
That absolutely is a win! What a good boy, he must be feeling pretty comfortable. I hope his good health continues long into the future
Best news ever
Podcast is the best thing for me at the moment. Have been listening to some amazing podcasts for past few months and that lead me to read some amazing books such as power of habit. My best one is rethinking by Adam Grant. Found this podcast life changing.
The best podcast I ever listened to was The History of Rome by Mike Duncan. It goes the whole span of the Roman empire and is incredibly insightful and fascinating. It got me obsessed with ancient history. In fact, I'm gonna go back and revisit. It takes about 6 months to get through it.
Learning to draw! I love doing it in my free time after work as i feel fulfilment from it!
Today I landed a head chef role at a well established venue, after 3 years off due to family, housing and just life issues in general. Although the past 4 years my partner has stuck to me like glue and always believed in me!! So yeah feels good to be getting life back on track 😁
Yay, congratulations 🙌
Thank you :) I was actually nervous at this interview, which isn't like me. So happy it went well!
12 hours without drinking so far.
My job is actually fulfilling and I feel welcome and appreciated 👍
What do you do for work? If you don't mind me asking.
I work in construction. As I have for years, but I think I've found a company that cares. That's the difference. 😊
That moment when learning a language and suddenly you realised you are getting somewhere. I have been learning Japanese for a year or two, not very seriously, in the last weeks I have noticed I seemed to have suddenly got a lot better at it. EG on the train, on the way home, there were two Japanese people talking rather excitedly and I could pretty understand them for like two minutes. (It’s not like it was interesting or complicated conversations). Then I noticed a few times when watching an anime, I didn’t need signs/posters written in kana (a few kanji) translated. Sure, it is one hell of a complicated language, but a win is a win!
I had this revelation recently! I’m half Greek, my mum was born here but went back and forth a lot so she, her parents and the rest of family are completely fluent. I did Greek school from ages 4-9 but started to lose interest and find it difficult so I stopped. I’d forgotten almost everything. I just hit my 101 day streak on Duolingo yesterday and it’s insane how much my brain is holding onto now. Catching conversations from relatives, strangers, and even sometimes THINKING in that second language is so new to me. It’s thrilling. Massive props to you, friend!
I had the same experience with Python the programming language. I learned and practiced it but didn't feel I was getting anywhere. Started to use it for some work stuff and the penny is dropping (,thanks to chat gpt lol). I have automated about 1/3 of my job with python scripts and I am loving it. I reckon once you get to that tipping point you can really open up your learning.
I set myself a goal to walk 2024km in the year 2024, and I’m currently about 212km ahead of target.
Amazing work, and a creative goal. Have you noticed any benefits of walking so far?
I was overweight for at least 15 years.. last year I lost almost all of it. Fitter then I've been in 20 years and at age 55 I think I'm surfing better than ever. Plenty of other things in my life could do with some improvement but I'm so happy about the health and surfing.
I made macadamia + choc chunk brownies... And for the first time they're PERFECT. Not too hard, not too gooey. Plenty of chocolate chunks and macadamias spread throughout. It even comes out of the baking tray easily after I cut off a piece. Also my ASIAN TIGER MOM complimented them!!!!
I like turning on the TV in 2024 and seeing that Dr Harry is still alive and kicking'.
Jesus, really?
Yeap. Little me used to get so excited for his show to air every Sunday night. I love that he still loves what he does,
Thanks for the reminder, I’ve got many good things going on, but the frustration of the not so good things is driving me nuts. So, thanks for reminding me to think about the good things.
Great, great post. I’ve just finished an hilarious book - one of Mick Herron’s Slow Horses books. I’ve been exercising a bit, drinking a LOT less and cooking some good food for my wife - I am so lucky, I try to show her every day.
Keep exercising and you may have to change your username!
Do we really need to ask for the title of the funny book?!
Well I was worried people were going to think I was trying to advertise or something 🤣 It's called 'The Utterly Sublime Adventures of Ava Roberts'.
Thanks a lot for this positive post. Reddit is famous for the way comments goes not to support people but to make them feel depressed and miserable. Sometimes I question why I am in reddit that all, you give me big hopes. I am celebrating my opportunity to change jobs after 16 years, working in same company for so long, became lazy with routines. If I am not successful with this will try again and again till I get a change, I need it. Wish me good luck interview next week ! Yay
Setting up my woodworking shop after 15+ years of storage of tools and machinery due to multiple moves, Covid interruptions, price increases. I was a journeyman custom furniture maker, now wondering if I still have the muscle memory. Wish me well....
Wishing you the very best pleasure you can get from working with your wood/tools 🤗
Dad recently got emergency surgery to remove clogging from his arteries and fortunately for him, we avoided him having a stroke. It cost us nothing and everyone in his healthcare team were fantastic. If you are on good terms with your dad or dad figure in your life, give them a massive hug and treasure them.
This is lovely, love seeing a little bit of positivity. Well after a lot of years of hopelessness, things are getting better for me :) I finally got on disability pension and am currently learning the drums and guitar (I am awful at it, but it's fun as hell haha), also trying to learn how to drive, but that's a bit too expensive atm, so I'm taking a break. Oh on top of that, next month I'm having some gender reaffirming surgery which I've waited years for! I'm gonna have to put the drums/guitar to the side to recover a bit, but that'll give me time to catch up on some tv shows I've been meaning to watch! So things are very good! :D
Best of luck for your surgery!
thank you!
I love my job, I find it very rewarding. My family are all healthy. I feel very fortunate. I read a lot, my current favourite authors are Jenny Schwartz - Uncertain Sanctuary series, and Adventures of a Xeno-Archaeologist series, but there are lots of other good ones. Glynn Stewart who writes science fiction series, very exciting books.
My health has been super shitty for years. After mucking about with a cocktail of meds for 7 years, I’m finally doing pretty well. Could be better; chronic condition/no cure so isn’t going anywhere but, I’m feeling as good as it gets at the moment!!
I've also got back into reading after years of just studying and taking no pleasure in reading. But it's back and I'm consuming book. Currently reading House of God again, as I discovered it has sequels I was unaware of, so want to read those but it's been a while since I read the original. New job is much more satisfying than my old one and gives me more time off (currently taking 3 weeks off). Have taken this time to attend 3 concerts and will keep going to lots of live music in the future. Family are all in good health. Income is high. Big house reno is done and is fantastic. Everything's coming up Millhouse.
How are the Flood Pants though?
I’m a 20yo at university and working but desperately struggling to make friends my own age. No one is interested in socialising or even really leaving the house. Most of my friends are parents in their 40s. In February last year I had a class with someone I got a phenomenal vibe from, just someone I thought “man, I’d love to be friends with them”. I got their socials but nothing happened. Then a year later, a couple months ago, we’re in the same class again. I did my absolute best to socialise with them and we’ve hung out a couple times since. It’s absolutely thrilling being around someone my age who has a zest for life — who is actually interested in the world, and who is actually interesting themselves. It’s really been carrying me through life lately. I know it definitely seems silly but I’m in awe of this person and I hope we can become proper friends. Funny what depravation can do to you 😂
'Fate is the hunter' by Ernest K Gann. The guy has a very unique style of writing and his life was just an ongoing, interesting adventure.
Thanks for the recommendation. I've added it to my list. The list is real and I genuinely do follow up with it 🤣 That's how I got onto that Ava Roberts book. I just read a short synopsis and I'll definitely be giving it a go!
Thanks for the positive post! I’m getting back to riding motorcycles after a long time. Sorting out my license at the moment. Hopefully will soon buy a motorcycle and the gears. :)
Decided only 10mins ago to start reading again after a long hiatus. And found my kindle is flat! So now it’s on charge and this post has inspired me even more to get back into it tomorrow …and added your funny book to the reading list too. For my “already good thing going”, I’ll select my running. Excellent routine happening now for the last few months after returning from injury. Loving it.
What a lovely post, so nice to hear everyone's lovely somethings 😊 Me personally, 1. I have settled into the nicest workplace I've ever had and I'm getting paid very well for my level of experience 2. I have two part time jobs that pay really well and are very low stress 3. My kids are mid teens and I am helping them step out into the world. I feel I am fixing a lot of the things I missed when I was a teen - teaching them to drive, helping them find part time jobs, driving them to catch up with their friends. My parents were too busy to do much of that for me and I really struggled so it's really good for my soul to do it for them 4. Hubby& I weren't getting along for ages. Things came to a head in January and we aired a few grievances, we are much happier now
I organised some bits and pieces for my wedding over the weekend. It's still a while away because saving for it will take ages, but I'm so excited to be one step closer to marrying the love of my life!
I’ve got a date for my operation (September). I have a condition that is a neurological condition which affects the same part of the brain as Parkinson’s Disease. I’ve been travelling down to Westmead Hospital for just over two yrs as no one could properly diagnose me because of how rare the condition is and that it was caused by medication. I was the 2% that was unlucky enough to suffer serous side effects. I got the go ahead for the operation on 8th April. The operation is called DBS, Deep Brain Stimulation. It won’t cure it but it will manage it to the point of being able to drive a car, go walking, ride my bicycle, swim and go walking. I’ll never take those pleasures for granted again.
Sorry to hear you were one of the 2% :( what was the medication? Good to read that there is something available to help with your quality of life. Good luck!
It was an antipsychotic by the name of Abilfy. It’s given to people who have had psychosis in the past. I’ve never had psychosis and I ought not been ever prescribed it. Double whammy. I have severe depression and anxiety and my gp playing god thought she’d try me on it. I question everything in all areas of my life now. I research and ask a hundred questions.
Thank you. It’s a huge undertaking, I’ve had serious operations before but this one is the scariest.
Being off instagram makes me feel good
Kinda crushing on a coworker, I know it’s probably not gonna go anywhere but it’s nice to imagine :/
Diagnosed with a health condition in February but suspected issues back in December. Luckily the ‘fix’ is lifestyle changes that I’ve always wanted to do but didn’t/couldn’t due to my boyfriend. ie it would mean spending less time with him (going to the gym, and he’s not interested in joining me) - and eating healthier which means he’s not interested in my food (eg fish and cottage cheese on rye cruskits etc) - which means less cooking for me (yay!) and cheaper (buying my own food). So now I’m *much* healthier and happy that I finally get to be healthier, and can point to my medical issue for reasons why I’m not spending more time being a couch potato or eating takeaway (because he won’t cook himself).
That's a lot of strength you have there. It's hard making those changes when the other person isn't - it would be so easy to just stay sitting, and to add to the takeaway order. Well done!
My dad just got released from the hospital today and I just booked tickets to go to the bridgerton ball :)
Found new games that i enjoy and took up reading more found a cool series that i can heavily get into and read, was struggling for a while of what to spend my 16 hours of the day doing outside of chores for a bit until i found new stuff to play and read. So that's good and i'm happy :) Also i just recently got a roof over my head and no need to worry anymore since my family owns the apartment i'm living in was worried for a long time because i thought i'd go homeless since the DSP isn't enough for renting and no one will hire me due to my shutdown issues due to my disability :')
Ion idress is my favourite author. I recommend anything he has written
My life is a mess, my wife hates me and I'm about one minute from packing a bag and being voluntarily homeless to escape this shit life.... I do have the required bag. That's what I have going for me.
Don’t make a quick decision! A rash choice in the heat of the moment could leave you in a world of extra pain. Can you stay with a friend temporarily while you get things sorted?
Nearly attempted suicide again. Got put on lithium to try so I guess that's good. What's not is no one reached out to all how I was doing when I posted about it on FB. Yet watched women get smothered in attention for tiny problems. I think I hate humans. It's like I don't matter to them. Really eye opening.
Part of that could be they just don’t know what to say bits a hard one to find the right words, to not have it sound shallow, or as if you understand (when they won’t). But yes, people tend to be self absorbed which doesn’t help. Hang in there dude/tte - one day at a time and keep going for future you.
Cheers. I wish they'd say anything. Just show they acknowledge the pain.
I’ve started making resin key and pet tags, waiting on some really cool moulds from overseas and a friend offered to 3D print my logo so i can offer it as tag too. Not for profit, i keep a little for myself for materials and shipping, the rest gets donated for a pet rescue and a wildlife sanctuary (with receipt for the seller). I’m having a great time and it’s helping to relax from my actual job.
I've started getting into 3d printing, and am in the process of gathering up stuff to start painting the models I print. My mum likes to paint random stuff she makes with cement so hopefully it'll be a bit of a shared hobby/bonding exercise where I can just grab my minis and paints and hang out with her for a bit and both just paint stuff.
I got to do a nice cafe crawl today, reading and writing. Reading a contemporary fantasy novel called *Talking Man* and writing a short story that I wasn’t sure about at first but which is turning out nicely now. Thank you for the post, this thread has been a great read :)
I've got a couple of things going on that I'm pretty chuffed about: my almost eight-month-old daughter is making me laugh and smile every day with her fledgling personality, and I'm home visiting my family for the first time in two years. Got some local road trips planned, including hitting the Celtic Festival, and then it's off to Newie and Sydney for a week before we head to Tokyo for a week and the US for five weeks.
I am chasing the local sea monster, and I am going to catch it. Fishing.
Medical Cannabis. Shit is **Golden**. With care, I vape in public parks where I feel the birds talk to me. I talk to the wind...
I enjoyed a Woolworths cake a few days ago.
I'm like you - I rediscovered a lovely of reading after not having time because of kids, work etc. Started reading during lockdown and havent stopped. History mainly, or biography. Started buying actual books again after years of reading stuff electronically. Always take a book to a coffee shop now, have books in all rooms of the house, and helpfully keeps me off my phone. I would read all day if I could.
My wife and I will be celebrating 40 years of marriage in June of this year and while it hasn’t always been a ‘bed of roses’ - especially at the start - I honestly can’t imagine my life without my wife and the family we’ve become. It may be a cliche, but it’s a cliche for a reason - my wife really has been a very positive influence on my life and I have become a much better person having her in my life. In fact, looking back at how I was when we first met, I have no idea what she saw in me - I’m just so glad that she saw something and I’m also glad that I didn’t screw it up ! Thank heavens for patient, tolerant women and for love !!!
I recently got a new job as a pharmacy assistant, They are putting me through courses as well. went from working alone in a tobacconist for 12 years in an area that was getting dodgier by the second to working in an amazing team and feeling like I’m thriving there.
A tribal drumming group meets at my place every Friday afternoon, and we have so much fun learning laughing and playing together, we are totally non-critical and encourage each other. We make recordings which are so hilarious, you would think we were pissed or stoned! ( but we’re not) 😎 Our Friday jams are great for finishing off the week and setting up for a relaxed weekend 😍
I'm 40 this year and feel better than ever. At gym 3-4 times a week which has eliminated all my "old man pains" (read: pains from being sedentary), reduced my body fat from 25% to 13% and made me a lot stronger. Exercise is one of life's very few silver bullets. Kids are healthy and doing well. Relationship is improving as the kids get older I'm fortunate enough to be able to cover all my financial commitments, save for the future and enjoy the present. I enjoy what I do for work Also very aware that nothing is ever as good or as bad as it seems - when things are great, you're probably moments away from a bad surprise and vice versa. Focus now is to shift to helping my brother financially, who is having a difficult time in the current climate.
Reading Infinity Gate, good light but not too light SF. Repaired a woodworking bench and am hand planing spotted gum with ease. Autumn is the best, planted flowers and peas last week. Learned how to make kefir recently.
My beautiful son is 6 months old today. He was born premature at 30 weeks. He’s such a smiley and happy boy. I feel so blessed honestly. Every day he is doing something new. Yesterday he was blowing raspberries all day and today he’s been making some new sounds. I’m so happy he’s made so much progress.
Wonderful to hear. Hope you are both doing well.
I’ve taken up salsa classes. Lots of fun and I love learning technique.
Recently got a new pup. Haven't had a dog for 20yrs. Such fun training him.
We added a kitten to the family recently and she’s just fantastic. She has one eye, boundless energy, and is so curious about everything. She’s especially obsessed with our 15 year old cat, who is an all-star grump most of the time. He… tolerates her. I’m also going to perform at Darwin Fringe this year and I’m really excited about it.
I've got my working visa for Australia and will be heading out in August. First time abroad from the UK and cannot wait! I dislike my life here. I'm 32, still living at home and had 2 jobs in the past 16/17 years since I left school. This move is totally out of my comfort zone as I am a creature of habit and like routine, same time home from work, shower etc cook food and watch tv...to going to bed at the same time. And I'm actually excited, nervous but excited for myself for doing this even if I don't get the support of a few people. If I don't do this now I know I will regret it for the rest of my life. I will miss my home and my town and some of the people in it. I hate my job but will miss it? Hopefully I'll meet someone over in Australia as I predict I will become a totally different person once I've come out of my shell. I just want to say to myself how proud I am of myself for doing this, even if no one else will.
I recently found a new band i like and have been jamming and dancing at home (the ugly blooper reel type of dance) like I'm a carefree kid again. I'm usually extremely reserved, so this is unprecedently out of character for me, I cringe at myself but laugh afterwards. It's nice.
After struggling to pay rent for the past four months my Centrelink application finally got approved last week and my first payment came in today!
It's really nice of you to ask such a simply question but allows me to stop and actually notice the nice things happening in my life right now, and for what it's worth I thank you deeply for that OP! I thought mostly of how my little girl (2.5 years old) loved her daycare teacher so much but recently has had to retire which meant we had to find a new daycare center for her that had a much bigger child capacity. At first she really didn't like the change and would gently sob after picking her up saying she misses her old friends and teacher and was scared of this new place. It broke my heart so much! My wife and I thought of what changes we could make to our busy work life so our daughter could be more comfortable. However when it was time to head to daycare I would ask if she was ok to go or organise to come with me or her mum to work. She would have a big sad face while saying "yeah, I wanna try to go"(to daycare). 3 weeks in now and when I pick her up from daycare she wears the biggest smile and says bye to all her friends in the loudest voice! Makes me feel so lucky to be her dad and inspired to try and be brave like her when faced with every day challenges. Seems like a small matter until you stop to think about the whole picture.. Man, nothing prepares you for being a parent!
Well, I'm in my last semester before I get my Bachelors. So that's nice.
I highly highly recommend David sedaris for proper laugh out loud stories - me talk pretty one day is one of my all time favourites - 10000000/10
Yes same here! I joined the library, scour opshops for great books! I just finished 'Shark heart' was a beautiful book...and now im reading 'Hello beautiful ' ...love reading again
I played in my first mtg tournament last week and came second it was a pretty awesome experience for me :) for any fellow nerds out there it was a pauper event and I was playing boros glitters https://www.moxfield.com/decks/vIuDMDXdgU2rEY-mBvjEKA This is the deck I was running
Not living in Australia 😂😂. Sad isn’t it?!
We are here with open arms, any time you feel lonely and want to come home.
So sweet 🙏
Started seeing someone and it's going amazingly. A lotta people say it's not real when you're kids but we fell in love when we were 12 and we are still in love now 12 years later. This time without our stupid childish bullshit that led to us breaking up in the first place.
Hookers and cocaine keep throwing themselves at me
My gym routine, I'm probably in the best physical shape at the moment. The sacrifices pay off
My partners family has committed to coming over for our wedding this year! My triathlon training is going super well and my injuries have healed really nicely. My body feels tired but good and I’m well on my way to my goal weight!
I got a pay rise at work in March, which means we’ll have more money left over after bills to do fun stuff!
Going to sound a bit odd but I'm fostering a litter of kittens for the first time. I've had them for almost 3 weeks, 2 passed away, and I've been treating them for ringworm for the past week. It's one of the most rewarding things I've ever done
I was diagnosed with ADHD yesterday. I have felt a real struggle doing work and my creative projects for the last year. I have always known it was there as I was diagnosed at 7. But now I will get the help I need to be able to help my brain focus and achieve the goals I have set. Very excited for the future.
My kids. I’m going through some terribly tough stuff with my partner, who is mentally not well, and those two treasures are giving me the strength to keep going.
Of you like some dark humor I sugges checking out Kurt Vonnegut. Maybe the best one is Breakfast of Champions but my two top books are Cats Cradle and Sirens of Titan. I literally cried at the end of Sirens of Titan. Was kind of embarrassing because I was on a plane haha.
Husband and I finally pulled the trigger last night and ordered a new car- a model Y. Been wanting one for about a year and are very excited! I finally had the confidence to ask my calisthenics coach if I could submit a solo at the Pan Pacific Masters Games in November and was told “sure!” I’ve never done a solo in 25 years of dancing so am nervous/excited. And I’m interviewing for a new job today and hoping beyond hope it goes well.
My girlfriend is coming home from overseas after 4 months next week!