I’ve had a lovely week this week. I had 6 days off and I have to tell you that this new part time roster is the best thing I have done for a long time. Every second week I get 6 days off. I can work more if I choose – there is always someone on sick leave, but I don’t have to; and that’s a really nice feeling!

I’ve been able to tick a whole bunch of stuff off my ‘life admin’ list, and feel much more in control of that stuff. My anxiety has settled right down too, and I’m just happier in myself in a whole lot of ways. It’s a good feeling and I’m just rolling with it for now.

My very favourite thing that I have done recently is to buy a mattress for the back of my car. It’s just a piece of foam that squishes into the back when my seats are down. I call it my ‘Adventure bed’ – mostly because it drives the kids insane when I say it, but it has been sooo much fun!

The other day I took myself to my favourite place to catch up with a couple of friends, and when they left I parked on the headland, hopped in the back and snoozed while watching the waves, whales and a couple of brave guys who were para-sailing off the cliff… it was magic! I’m so excited that I can now do that every second week if I want to, and I’m excited to see what else I find myself doing. I’m not sure the set up works for more than a night or two, but hello adventures, here I come! – and if you want to come along with me, just let me know x

The other thing that I have done, is to put in for a big chunk of annual leave for August/September next year. I’m a bit nervous about this one, it feels big, but am pushing myself to be brave because I know it will be worth it. I’m planning to go back to Germany and Europe and see more of the world. Last time I went to Germany was with Claytie and we had the best time. I have family there who I know will be happy to have me visit, but this time it will be on my own and that’s sad and kind of scary..

I’m not entirely sure yet where I want to go, but I know I want to see everything! I have a friend who will be heading to Greece around that time, so there is a bit of a plan to catch up with her over there and she can show me the places that she loves. Another friend has said he is thinking of doing a bike ride along the Danube, so maybe we can catch up too. I know someone else who is heading home to England soon which is another possibility, and all of those things take some of the scary out of it for me.

Claytie and I had so many plans to travel and have adventures. It feels really hard with out him, but it also feels wrong not to try. I know that he would absolutely be cheering me on with this, so I am doing it; and if you’re also planning a big trip, let me know where you’re going and when and maybe we can share some of the adventure!