First month post ACL surgery

I feel like I've progressed so little yet so much since I had my knee reconstruction and was fitted with a brand new ACL one month ago. Since I'm going back to work on Monday, it seems like the perfect time to list what I've learnt and how one might expect to progress after having their bones drilled into, a tendon cut from their hammy and inserted into their knee, held together with small screws and the hopes of a girl dreaming to play netball again (dramatic, I know).

How to cope with anxiety

The twist and turns of life are mostly breathtaking and sometimes cruel. You may think you are on the road to having it all figured out when out of nowhere, you're blindsided by something you thought was in your control.

This year, my resolution was to be more mindful - to live in the moment and take each day anew. I started out okay but the last few months have proven to be the most challenging of my life and I have been feeling more anxious than ever. Anxiety is basically the opposite of mindfulness and rears it's ugly head in the form of constant over thinking, stressing and worrying over the daily grind to every possible future outcome. It's exhausting, but at the same time it's manageable. In the hope that this can be a comfort to other people going through similar problems, or even just having a bad day, I've listed a few things below that help me remain mindful and reduce my anxiety.

Friday Fancies #2

I was sick last weekend so I spent the majority of my time in between naps watching TV, reading blog posts and feeling sorry for myself. Here's a few things that took my fancy and kept me going. 

Before the flu struck me down, we went to The Standard for dinner. You should definitely try the pork croquettes, chicken grill and lamb belly for some seriously scrumptious food. The sweet and sour eggplant was probably the favourite though. 

Love Notes

Every so often I feel a rush of gratitude wash over me. It's a feeling that comes with the knowledge that the people around me and the love I am surrounded with is unique. Not everyone is lucky enough to spend time with such beautiful people once a year, let alone on a daily basis. I am damn lucky. #blessed #thankful #littleprayerhands and all that jazz.

BUT in saying that it’s so ridiculously easy to forget this on the bad days. The days everyone has, unless you’re a robot of some kind and if you are, perhaps get yourself checked out because it’s not normal to be reading blogs as a bot. Anyway, you know the ones I’m talking about, right? When you feel flat and all you want to do is go home, crash on the couch and not speak to a single soul (I really will feel silly if it’s just me). On occasion there’s a reason for these stormy days and on those more worrisome days, there’s not.

#StopThinkRespect

Anyone who knows me is well aware I cannot tolerate racism or any type of discrimination. I see this as general human decency but I know many people think I'm over the top or too politically correct when I pull them up on small comments they make. Unfortunately for them, I have reached the point that I no longer care if I come across uptight. Racism is never okay. Ever. 

Racism is defined as "the belief that all members of each race possess characteristics, abilities, or qualities specific to that race, especially so as to distinguish it as inferior or superior to another race or races." It seems that many Australians either don't know or don't care that many of their comments and actions are subtly racist. Personally, I have witnessed this time and time again, from whispers on the train to outwardly racist jokes being told at a party.

The new campaign by Beyond Blue is incredibly thought provoking in the way it shows the casual racism Indigenous Australians face everyday.

Below is also a behind the scenes video with real life experiences of the actors depicted above.

This touched me because these are actions I regularly witness in such casual settings that at times it's so easy to gloss over and I'm ashamed to say that there are many times when I have just let it go. Hopefully this moves you as much as it did me and reminds you that when it comes down to it, everyone is an individual and should be treated as such. 

xx Luce

Happy Birthday Harms!

Even with an eight year age gap, Harms and I have always been close. Growing up she was the perfect older sister and I was the typical little sister, bugging her incessantly. I stole her clothes, made her late EVERYWHERE and was her constant shadow. She never fobbed me off though, instead helping me choreograph daring dance routines and taking me on regular weekend outings. As we grew older, she continued to involve me in her life, having me stay for weeks on end at her place and cooking my favourite meals. I grew up wanting to be just like her.

2014

2013 was a great year for me. There were many amazing, big moments: I did my first triathlon and welcomed a new niece and nephew into the world, as well as some pretty cute babies close friends popped out. My parents relocated to the country, I moved out and graduated from uni. I went to my first ever interview for a job in my field and attended some beautiful weddings.

        

This year I was not keen on making a new years resolution because I believe that every day is a new day  and you can enrich your life any time that you decide. Naturally though, because it is me after all, I changed my mind about the 'no resolutions' resolution.

So my new years resolution isn't the usual lose weight, get fit type, although that's also needed! Instead, I am going to have a Year of Firsts (à la The Londoner). To try something new as often as possible and to not let fear or complacency back me into my comfort zone that I seem to love so much. These firsts can be as small as trying a new food or as huge as going skydiving. I just have to do it!

First firsts on my list? Abseiling, donating blood and laughter yoga. Anyone want to join?
I'll let you know how I go!

xx Luce

I'm a twentysomething and I'll keep being me

My friend posted this link on her Facebook page the other day. For those too lazy to actually go check out the article, it's The 20 Mistakes You Don't Want to Make In Your 20s and it is pretty self explanatory. Obviously I was drawn to it because:

1. I adore lists; and

2. I am currently in my early 20s - WHAT!

Whilst I agree with many of the points the author makes (Hello 'Blaming anyone else but yourself for anything in life' and 'Forgetting about the piggy bank and spending every dollar you have' - I still have eight years to figure that one out, right?), I had a weird feeling after reading it.

It took me a while to pinpoint what it was, but then I realised. I was angry! I was actually fuming that this author decided he was the one and only twenty something who had ever lived and he alone dictated the way it should be, no babies, relationships or mistakes allowed.

So of course, me being me, I analysed the shiz out of my feelings - was I just feeling inadequate, did I just tick too many of the boxes for my own liking? The answer is no. Yes, I do tick some of the boxes ('Getting comfortable like you actually deserve down time' and 'Thinking that this is the right time to fall in love' - I'm in a relationship BUT I did make that decision in my teenage years so technically...). Yes, there are times where I compare myself with others through the joys of 'social media stalking' and seem to fall really short, but the dislike I had for this overall article was something different.

The author hadn't taken into account the myriad of different twenty somethings out there. The twenty somethings who are happy being young mummies or the ones who don't figure out what they want to do until they're in their 30s. I'm not saying it's for everyone but by publishing these kind of articles that cast judgement upon people who live their lives, it's actually being a bit hypocritical. It's saying "look to challenge yourself and build your own dream"...as long as that dream aligns with MY idea of a worthwhile dream.

There are times when I've been guilty of just that. Anyone who knows me knows I can think of nothing worse than having a baby right now but two of my close friends have had babies in the last year AND THEY'RE BOTH UNDER 25! Shock horror. I remember when I found out, I was slightly thrown and had to pull myself up and realise that dreams, wishes, wants and needs come in all shapes and sizes.

This is something we all have to understand and be a lot more open minded about. As long as you're living as true to yourself as possible, why should you be concerned what someone else is doing. I mean, if they're wrong, according to the handbook of life, isn't your twenties the time to make mistakes anyway?

xx Luce

Reboot

The last couple of months have been odd for me – I finished uni and began the dreaded search for employment. I managed to land back into the world of law, returning to my legal secretary position to tie me over until I found a career-starting job. Although it’s been great being with all my old colleagues and I've enjoyed having time away from study, I think I have become comfortable just getting by, that I lost momentum and motivation.

Two weekends ago, I went to Melbourne for a hen’s weekend away for a lovely friend of mine. it was a long weekend of food, cocktails, massages and shopping and it was amazing. Spending time with friends and changing my scenery really revitalised me (or was that the freeeeeezing Melbourne air?!) and made me realise the goals that I had allowed to fall by the wayside.

I am now ready to get back on track because I know when I am working towards something, whether that be a fitness goal or long term career shiz, I am at my happiest.

So, here’s to getting out of my comfort zone: I’m going to run my ass off (literally!), revamp my CV and start scheduling those blog posts like people will die without my writing. I mean, you never know! 

xx Luce

A bruised mind, darkest of days

So, this might seem a bit contradictory because my last post was about happiness but this is a topic I feel very strongly about. Mental illness affects many people in our society and for them, happiness is hard to come by.

Last week I went to a mental health public forum for an article I was writing for uni (last article for uni EVER, how exciting!). It's been done and it's handed in now but somehow I can't stop thinking about some of the things that were discussed.

Did you know that on average, people with severe mental illnesses live 25 years less than the rest of the population? I didn't. Apparently 75% of these deaths are caused by physical illnesses rather than the mental problems. Pretty sad hey?

These are shocking statistics but I find it more shocking that I wasn't aware of this and wonder how many other people would be surprised too. Mental illness still has a huge stigma attached to it. As Australians, we don't really make it easy for each other to get out how we're feeling without being labelled 'emo' or an 'oversharer' or in some cases 'un-Australian'!

I understand this perception. Even though I'm a stress head, I'm a massive believer in positive thinking. For a while, I had a hard time wrapping my head around a close family member's condition, thinking they were just a bit depressed...or ashamed to say, putting it on for show. I would be confused as to why they could not get up before 1pm and frustrated at their lack of drive.

Now I realise these problems go so much deeper than just your mindset on life, but there are a ton of other factors involved, such as genetics and biological make up. For people with mental illnesses, every day is a battle and the truth is, the majority of these people have to deal with it for the rest of their lives so they really don't need us telling them to 'get over it'!

Image Source

I just thought I'd write this post to encourage you not to dismiss mental health issues, and to try and have some compassion (something I am still learning, trust me) for those who deal with these problems on a daily basis.

xx Luce

If you want to be happy, be.

Ten things that make me happy:

1// A winter morning. Or any morning that is spent in bed with a yummy breakfast and a book that cannot be put down.

2// Besties/Family/Boyfriend. Being with people that know me so well that no pretenses exist and small talk isn't needed. Perfect.

3// My three year old nephew. Sometimes he casually calls me Luce when we're having a chat, like I'm his best friend, and it is way too beautiful.

4// Morning runs. They clear my head and wake me up for the day ahead. It's always hard getting out of bed but worth it when I get in a rhythm.

5// Sudden bursts of laughter that turns into hysterical laughter. Especially if it's me making other people laugh. That makes me think I'm a little hilarious...or funny looking. Or both?

6// Spontaneous outings. They usually turn into the most memorable of times and require no itinerary - win win!

7// Seeing my family and friends truly happy. Especially if it's about something they think is stupid but amazing and they tell me with massive grins on their faces.

8// Reading. I read anything and everything, novels, picture books, blogs, newspapers, online articles. I love it! That feeling you get after reading a perfect book is indescribable.

9// Being active, fit and healthy. When I'm exercising regularly and eating healthy (most of the time...) I feel my best.

10// Op shopping - best kind of retail therapy! I love op shopping with my friend Ninny poo. Her excitement and enthusiasm for a bargain is contagious, she really should've been one of the crazy cats in the Thriftshop music video.

My happy list was incredibly hard to narrow down because there's so many things that make me happy: chocolate, helping people, hugs, tea, being motivated, blasting my favourite songs in the car, writing lists, guiltless decision making, giving presents, receiving presents and movies that make me think.

The ones that made it to the list came to me first and encompass most parts of my life.

By the way, this post was inspired by Story of My Life's challenge. I'm a little slow on the uptake but better late than never!

What's on your happy list?

xx Luce

Dinner for Mumma Bear

Yep, the belated Mother's Day post.

My mum is definitely one in a million. She's completely bonkers, ridiculously caring and a bit of a psycho. We argue occasionally and she annoys me sometimes, especially when I have to show her how to change the TV settings for the MILLIONTH TIME. Mostly though, we are the best of friends and you will generally find us laughing manically about something nobody else gets. I love her to bits. 

Crazy mumma! 

To show my love, I decided to cook a Mother's Day dinner.

I like to think of myself as a bit of a champion in the kitchen, but in all honesty, I would be eliminated well before the croquembouche stage on Masterchef. So I pulled out Jamie Oliver's 15 Minute Meals cookbook to trawl through the colourful pages in search of a tasty meal. I was cooking for seven: myself, mum, dad, brother, sister, brother in law and my three year old nephew. My 12 week old nephew slept right through dinner, how rude! 

In the end, I decided on Jamie's ultimate pork tacos. I made them with kidney beans instead of black beans (black beans are hell to find!) and an avocado green salad.

I was so concerned in actually locating the pork belly (first time cooking pork belly and all) that I missed one small but important requirement. The recipe quite clearly says 'skinless' pork belly is required, for obvious reasons. I honestly thought I could outplay Jamie Oliver - rookie mistake. 

Utilising my sister's knife skills, and ignoring her vegetarian gag reflexes, we then removed the skin from poor Babe whilst trying to keep the fatty parts that make pork belly so scrumptious. This definitely reaffirmed Harmony's belief in vegetarianism, I mean, the skin still had little piggy hairs on it! Please forgive me for reminding you of this again Harms. 

Prepping my ingredients, like Jamie says.

Jamie is obviously a god with this 15 minute cooking nonsense, but the whole meal took me about 40 minutes, including cooking chicken for my skeptical brother in law. The only thing affected was the cooking time of the pork, which might need to be pulled off early if you're a slow poke like me to prevent overcooking.

The flavours were incredible though, and I developed a love affair with coriander - seriously, who knew coriander in a salad could be that amazing?!

For dessert, I made Salted Caramel Pots de Creme out of Curtis Stone's cookbook What's for Dinner?. Pots de Creme are basically baked custards and melt in the mouth divine. Salted caramel is my absolutely favourite so this was the number one pick!

What was lacking in presentation made up in flavour, promise! 

In typical Lucy style, I ran into a bit of a hurdle with this one too when I realised we didn't have enough ramekins in the house. After having a mini meltdown, I proceeded to make one giant Pot de Creme instead and increased the cooking time to ensure it wasn't a runny mess.

They were the perfect balance of salt and caramel, with a hint of vanilla and I added chocolate wafer sticks for some crunch. I scored 9 out of 10 according to my darling brother, so I'm guessing the meal was a hit!  

Happy Mother's Day Mum!

xx Luce 

Smell the rain

Winter is finally coming to Perth!

I've always associated rain with safety, like a liquid shield. That is until my darling mum told the story of how we were robbed on a stormy night when I was younger. The burglar crept right past my sleeping sister and took my dad's wallet. They also traipsed mud right through the house, which I think is what annoyed mum the most.

To be honest, her attempt to change my romantic view of winter weather hasn't worked. I still feel that when I have my flannelette pajamas on, a hot cup of tea in hand and the covers pulled up to my chin, all is good in the world.

Tea of choice: love from pukka 

PJs of choice: ducks from Peter Alexander

Book of choice: Tell the wolves I'm home by Carol Rifka Brunt

xx Luce

Why, hello there!

Starting my own little blog - how ridiculously exciting! 

I've finally jumped right into the blogosphere for many reasons, but mainly, I want to revisit my creative side. It's so easy to get caught up in the mundane and hardships of every day that you gloss over the beautiful things. With my uni degree and life in general, I sometimes find myself engulfed by stress. Hopefully my blog will be a little oasis away from this crazy, wonderful life.

I'm Lucy by the way. I'm a 20 something Perthite with a love of op shopping, food and fitness. I'm nearly finished with my PR and journalism degree and am equally scared and excited about what life has in store for me. 

This blog will most likely be a little crazy and full of my thoughts, inspirations and every day musings. 

Please enjoy! 

xx Luce