Last first day

My beautiful girl,

Today is so much more than just the first day of school — it’s the beginning of the final chapter of a dream you’ve been chasing since you were little. Your very last first day. I can still see that little girl, backpack almost bigger than her, lining up at the classroom door with excitement in her eyes. And now, here you are, stepping into your education degree, ready to become the teacher you always said you’d be.

I am so proud of you — not just for the hard work that got you here, but for the heart you carry into everything you do. You have such a gift, a way of making people feel seen and valued, and I know your future students are going to be so lucky to have you.

This year will be full of challenges, late nights, and long days, but also so many beautiful moments. Soak it all in. Celebrate the small wins. Learn from the hard days. And never forget — you were made for this.

Watching you grow into this incredible woman has been one of the greatest blessings of my life. I can’t wait to see the magic you’ll bring into the world, one classroom, one child, one lesson at a time.

I love you more than words will ever be enough. Go shine, baby girl. The world is waiting for you. ❤️

Love,

Mom

Summer 2025

This summer has been one for the memory books, filled with moments that I’ll carry with me for a long time. 🌞

It started with an unforgettable trip to Colorado. There’s something about the mountains that just calms the soul — the crisp air, the endless views, and that sense of wonder you get when you’re surrounded by nature’s beauty. It was the perfect reset, a chance to step away from the everyday routine and just be.

Not long after that, I got to celebrate my nephew’s graduation. Watching him walk across that stage was such a proud moment — one of those days where you feel the love and excitement in the air. It’s incredible to see the young man he’s becoming and to think about all the opportunities waiting for him ahead.

Then came one of the most beautiful days of the summer: David and Lina’s wedding. Everything about it was magical — from the heartfelt vows to the laughter shared with friends and family as we celebrated their new journey together. It was one of those days where love just filled the room and reminded me how special it is to witness someone’s happily ever after beginning.

All of this was done while finding ways to honour my sister. I visited her grave, spending quiet moments there reflecting on her life and the memories we shared. I also helped pack away her belongings — a bittersweet task filled with both tears and gratitude, as each item held a piece of her story and a reminder of the love we’ll always carry for her.

On our way home, my husband and I stole a few days just for ourselves — days to reconnect, to laugh, to wander, and to fall in love with each other all over again. We set out on little adventures, chasing sunsets, trying new foods, and discovering hidden gems along the way. Every moment felt like a reminder that no matter where life takes us, the greatest adventure will always be being together.

Another highlight was a visit from Mom, and that time together meant so much. Having her here, sharing quiet mornings over coffee, catching up on life, and just enjoying her company made my summer feel even more complete.

Since June 18, I’ve been on leave from work, which has been a blessing in disguise. The slower pace has given me space to rest, recharge, and really take care of myself — something I didn’t even realize how much I needed. My days have been filled with little routines that bring me peace: quiet mornings, reading, long walks, and plenty of time to reflect. I have since resigned from my job as it just wasn't bringing joy anymore.  

Looking back, this summer was such a beautiful mix of adventure, love, family, and stillness. It reminded me how important it is to celebrate the big milestones but also to embrace the quiet, simple moments that make life meaningful. As we head into a new season, I’m carrying with me so much gratitude — for the memories made, the lessons learned, and the reminder that sometimes slowing down is exactly what our hearts need. ✨

Tips To Taking Care Of Your Health As You Age

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Getting older may not always be fun, but it is inevitable. Instead of worrying too much about it, be proactive and put your needs and well-being first. This way, you can set yourself up for a bright and healthy future.

There are many actions you can take that will have a positive impact on how you look and feel. It’s all about paying close attention to your habits and committing to living a healthy lifestyle overall. Here you can review some tips that will help you take good care of yourself as you age.

Get Regular Check-Ups

Preventive care can go a long way in helping you to stay healthy and well. You want to make sure you address any concerns right away and stay on top of seeing your doctors. Get regular check-ups so that you can ask questions you have and come up with suitable treatment plans for anything that does arise related to your health. It’s not just about seeing your primary care doctor, but also getting your eyes and ears checked. Now is a good time to schedule a hearing test to see where you are at and confirm if you’re experiencing any hearing loss. 

Exercise & Move Daily

You should also make a point to move more and get daily exercise as you age. It’s important to maintain bone density and flexibility. Find activities that you enjoy doing and are easy on your body. For example, you can take a yoga class or do some cardio workouts and light weight lifting at the gym. Walking at a steady pace is also very beneficial and can boost your mood. There are many health benefits of regular exercise, and you’ll find that you have more natural energy. Staying active during the daytime will also help you sleep better at night. 

Eat A Well-Balanced Diet

It’s wise to monitor what you are putting in your body for fuel as well. Eat a well-balanced diet so you get all the right nutrients. If you are unable to cook for yourself at home, then you can use a food delivery service that will provide you with healthy prepared meals. Do your best to cut back on or limit processed foods and sugar. It’s also a good idea to drink plenty of water to keep hydrated. Water replenishes your skin and removes toxins from your body. 

Find Ways to Boost Your Mental Health

An important part of your overall well-being as you age is your mental health. Your goal is to keep your mind sharp and mood stable. You may want to begin your day doing a crossword puzzle or word search, which can be fun and mind-stimulating. Find hobbies that are enjoyable or spend more time in nature instead of being connected to technology. It may help to meditate regularly or write in a journal. Keep a gratitude list and review daily what you are most thankful for in your life. Be sure to surround yourself with positive and uplifting people so that you can avoid feeling lonely and isolated. 

Simple Daily Practices to Support Long-Term Hearing Health

 

Hearing loss often starts gradually. You might notice voices sounding unclear or have trouble following conversations in noisy places. These changes may feel small at first, but they can have a lasting impact on your daily life.

Good hearing supports how you work, socialise, and stay safe. It also helps your brain stay active. Research links untreated hearing loss to isolation and cognitive decline. The best way to protect your hearing is to build small habits into your day. These steps don’t require major effort but can make a big difference over time.

Photo by Photo By: Kaboompics.com:

Here are five practical ways to keep your hearing strong.

Limit Exposure to Loud Sounds

Loud noise is one of the biggest causes of hearing loss. The damage builds up over time.

Keep volume low on headphones and speakers. A good rule is the 60/60 rule: 60 percent volume for no more than 60 minutes at a time. Use over-ear headphones rather than earbuds, which sit closer to your ear canal.

At concerts, sports games, or even in loud workplaces, wear hearing protection. Reusable earplugs are more comfortable and more effective than foam ones.

At home, avoid layering noise. If the TV is on, don’t run the blender or vacuum at the same time. Your ears work harder in environments with competing sound.

Give your ears breaks. Step away from noisy spaces, and enjoy quiet time each day.

Make Hearing Part of Your Health Checkups

Many people get regular eye or dental checks but skip hearing tests. Your ears deserve the same attention.

Get your hearing checked at least once a year, especially if you’re over 50 or work in noisy environments. Even younger adults can experience hearing loss from noise, illness, or medication side effects.

Some signs to watch for: turning up the volume more than others prefer, asking people to repeat things often, or struggling to follow conversations with background noise.

If you notice any of these, book a test with an audiologist. Early treatment can reduce the risk of further loss.

In cases where hearing support is needed, consider solutions like hearing aids or assistive listening devices. These tools can improve clarity, especially in group settings or public places.

Keep Your Ears Clean and Healthy

Avoid cleaning your ears with cotton buds. They can push wax deeper and damage the ear canal. Instead, clean the outer ear with a damp cloth.

If you feel blocked or experience discomfort, see a professional. Impacted earwax is common and easy to treat safely.

Let your ears dry after swimming or bathing. Moisture in the ear can lead to infections, which may affect your hearing over time.

Stay aware of your hearing after illness. Conditions like ear infections, flu, or even COVID-19 can cause temporary or permanent changes in hearing. Don’t wait to get checked if something feels different.

Support Hearing With a Healthy Lifestyle

What you eat and how you move can affect your hearing.

Exercise improves circulation, including blood flow to the inner ear. Even walking for 30 minutes a few times a week helps.

A diet rich in vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and omega-3s supports overall health and may slow age-related hearing decline. Some studies suggest antioxidants like vitamins C and E also play a role.

Keep your blood pressure and blood sugar in check. Conditions like diabetes and hypertension can damage the delicate structures in your ears.

Avoid smoking. It reduces oxygen in the bloodstream and increases the risk of hearing loss.

Taking care of your body helps protect your hearing too.

Pay Attention to Early Changes

Most people delay action because hearing loss feels minor at first. But early changes matter.

Do you often ask others to repeat themselves? Do you feel tired after conversations? These can be early signs that your ears are working harder than they should.

Modern hearing support options are better than ever. Some are invisible or connect to your phone. Others are designed for specific situations, like lectures or group discussions.

If you’re not ready for hearing aids, start with assistive listening devices. These amplify specific sounds and can improve communication without full-time use.

Don’t wait until it affects your confidence or quality of life.

Start Small and Stay Consistent

Hearing health isn’t about making big changes all at once. It’s about building a few smart habits into your routine.

Keep volumes down. Take breaks from noisy environments. Protect your ears when needed. Check your hearing regularly. And stay alert to any signs of change.

The earlier you act, the more options you have. Hearing support isn’t one-size-fits-all. From professional tools to personal devices, help is available.

Make your hearing part of your daily self-care. The steps you take now will pay off for years to come.