LOVE IN A CONSOL BOTTLE

It feels so good to finally have something tangible to show for my hard work—my first certificate in a long time! I’m genuinely proud of this one. It’s been a journey, but now I’m holding it in my hands and it’s a reminder of the persistence and dedication it took to get here. To make it even more special, I bought a frame that perfectly matches the vibe of my study/gym space. It’s the little things, right? Reflecting on this achievement, I realize that finishing the degree wasn’t as daunting as I thought it would be. It’s funny how time and patience can change your perspective. I’m not saying it was a walk in the park, but now that I’ve reached this milestone, it feels like the kind of task that’s manageable when you break it down, and take it one step at a time. I now have the time to really focus on the next steps for my personal growth, especially since I’ll be home for the next few months. This is my time to study for personal goals—goals that go beyond just completing a degree. I...

 It’s 3 a.m. and I'm already awake. My dog needs to use the toilet outside, and I find myself dragging myself out of bed, still barely conscious. Then, it’s 5 a.m., and she’s hungry, so it’s back up to feed her. Being a dog mom really is no joke. But I guess that’s what being a mom is all about—constant care, constant attention, and the unspoken moments of responsibility. Even when you’re exhausted, you show up. Today’s no different. I had to print some things for my husband—exam stuff, as usual. And here I am, sitting in the quiet, contemplating everything before the sun is even fully up. Trey Songz is playing in my head, his song I Need a Girl somehow finding its way into my mind as I slowly start to wake. It’s one of those mornings where everything feels a bit surreal, almost like I’m living in a half-dream state. And speaking of dreams, I had one that’s lingering in my mind—one that definitely feels worth noting. My CEO, of all people, was standing in the middle of flames. Not...

Ever had one of those days where everything feels off, but you can’t quite pinpoint why? You push through, doing the tasks you need to do, but it’s like you're on autopilot—going through the motions, even when it doesn’t feel like enough. Today was one of those days. I came home, inexplicably sad, with no clear reason. The work phone, once mine, is now handed over, and I sent out goodbye messages—just to be met with confusion from others. Some didn’t even acknowledge it, and some had to be reminded to say something. Maybe it’s silly, but I expected a bigger fuss and a bit more recognition for the change. Instead, I got nothing. And it stings. I guess I’m just not that popular. Never have been. But still, I pressed on. I fixed the curtain in the bedroom, something I’d been putting off for ages. It had too many hooks and no runners, but I tackled it anyway. I took something out for supper, which forced me to sit down with paperwork, do some cleaning, and even vacuum. The toilet, by t...

 Yes or No question time. So my tarot's are out and they are nicely warmed from the sun. Time to energize my thoughts, and get my feelings in order. And yours probably. So we are playing yes or no answers today and if you have a question, you can comment and I will respond. I asked many questions and yes and no came out with a bit of twist in between. So here we go, ask and I will respond. Tarot 101, lets get the hopes up and the feelings in tune. Ready when you are! Think of a question and write your name in the comment section. I will answer you, at no charge what so ever. It's my gift, and using it to gift you! Happy questions.

Have you ever come across those big pasta shells that look so cute, and yet you can’t quite remember their name? That’s conchiglioni for you! I’m not sure why it took me so long to cook them, but I recently had a little adventure in the kitchen, and I’m here to share it with you. These pasta shells are much bigger than your regular ones—think of them as the oversized version of your usual pasta—perfect for stuffing. I’ve filled them with a savory mince, garlic, and loads of flavors. The best part? Smother them in pasta tomato sauce, add a generous amount of cheese (of course), and top it off with some creamy cottage cheese before tossing them under the grill. Yum ! Sounds divine, doesn’t it? Now, while I’m all about food right now, I’ve found myself shifting gears and thinking about the sweet stuff. Yes, it’s a bit of a twist because I’m all about managing the ups and downs of a diabetic body (it has its own rhythm, doesn't it?). I've been back in the gym after taking a breath...

Well, I’m officially back at the gym after a solid 5 weeks away. No, I didn’t escape to some dreamy beach party or retreat to a castle on the hill. I simply needed a break to reclaim some dignity (and, let’s be honest, I may have indulged in a bit too much ice cream and festive food during the holidays). January, with all its temptations, definitely tested my willpower, but now it's time to hit the reset button. This evening, I found myself laying on the bed, munching on some birthday cake testers (because you can’t make a cake without trying it, right?), and trying to ignore the bloated feeling in my stomach. I had just finished a bath with Epsom salts, thinking it would ease the discomfort, but instead, I felt worse—heavily bloated and just off. I started wondering if it was the cake testers or maybe just my body crying out for the gym. My body is my sanctuary, I reminded myself, and it was clear that my mind needed to get back on track too. So, after a bit of self-reflection (...

Tomorrow is my husband’s birthday, and as usual, I gifted him something meaningful: money to help him fulfill his dreams. I’m so grateful to be able to support him in this way. But as much as I wish to make this day as special as possible, there’s a bit of bittersweet news—he’s on the night shift! The downside is that I won’t get to celebrate with him in the traditional sense, but the upside is I’ll get to see him bright and early tomorrow morning before I leave for work. I’ve put together a little surprise for him to kick off his day. I baked a chocolate cake (because what’s a birthday without cake, right?), and added a sparkler candle for extra flair. I also made some fresh mini pies and prepared a KFC-style deep-fried chicken—just his favorite comfort food! I can already picture the look on his face when he walks in at 5 a.m. to coffee and birthday cake, with Lana and me singing to him. It’s not much, but I know it will bring a smile to his face. As much as I’m a big fan of celebrat...

Today, I experienced what can only be described as a quantum leap in my life—a profound shift in my reality that felt so real, so tangible, that I couldn’t help but reflect on how much has changed. Years ago, my husband and I discussed the possibility of starting our own security company, a dream that felt like it was always just on the horizon. Today, that dream took a giant step forward as we signed the papers confirming his qualifications, making it all the more official. I joined him as a partner in the company, taking my own place in this journey we’ve been working toward for so long. But the day didn’t stop there. As we were driving, we saw several airplanes—some flying and landing, others taking off or grounded. It was a sign, a symbol that spoke to me directly. Among them, Air France stood out the most, soaring across the sky as we drove by. My first thought? "This is Paris. This is the journey I’ve been dreaming of." Could it be that we are on the brink of something...

 There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of chocolate ice cream. It’s simple, sweet, and always seems to soothe whatever chaos is brewing in the mind. Right now, it’s just me, my ice cream, and my gym/study, trying to regain some sense of balance. The laptop is humming away as my manicure taps away at the keys—thankful, even for this device, despite not being able to splurge on a new one at the moment. My hair is a mess, but it’ll be done soon. The house is full, and I’m mentally tuned out, taking a break from the noise. I’ve been spending a lot of time contemplating my next steps, trying to figure out what I truly want from life. Manifestation videos tell you to write down exactly what you desire. So I sat in front of a blank page, staring at it, and realized—I don’t know what I want. Perhaps the time I need most right now is simply to pause and reflect, to allow myself the space to truly discover what comes next. Running errands? Easy. There’s a list, it’s tangible, ...

 Some days feel like everything goes wrong, and I’ve certainly had my fair share of those. Yesterday was one of those days—a perfect storm of mishaps, but somehow, love still managed to shine through. Here’s how it all unfolded. It started at the store. I was casually walking down the aisle, minding my business, when suddenly— pop ! A Coke can exploded in my face. The sticky soda drenched my clothes, my hair, my face—everywhere. I was flustered, wiping soda from my eyes while trying to maintain some shred of dignity. If that wasn’t enough, I was on my way to a much-needed pedicure. Let’s just say… it didn’t go as planned. The result was more ‘botched’ than ‘beautiful,’ but I chalked that one up to a lesson learned. As if the universe wasn’t done with me yet, I decided to grab a quick snack and went for an Egg McMuffin. It looked so delicious—until I dropped it on the floor. I couldn’t believe it. It felt like everything was slipping out of my hands, literally and figuratively. And ...

Wow, what a whirlwind of a morning! I managed to tick off so many tasks that have been on my to-do list for ages. First, the dentist and doctor appointments are done and dusted. It feels so good to get those out of the way. Medical insurance is all sorted for us, and Lana's medical aid is paid up. That’s one less thing to worry about. Plus, I’ve already submitted my prescriptions at the pharmacy and canceled a bunch of unnecessary policies. Phew! It’s amazing how much smoother the day feels when you tackle the little (and not so little) things that can pile up. But, as always, there's more to do. Tomorrow’s agenda looks just as packed, if not more. The car needs new brakes, which I’ve been putting off but can’t any longer. Then there’s shopping for the rest of January—stocking up for the month ahead. I’ve also got to get my hair done and take care of Lana's nails. I’m treating myself to a little spoil-me moment too; a new laptop is on the shopping list. Oh, and lunch with m...

Absolutely, let's dive into it! It’s crazy how stories can impact our sense of self and make us feel exposed in ways we never saw coming. People can sometimes craft narratives or spread stories about others, and before we know it, those stories become something we feel like we can’t escape from. The thing is, when others talk about you behind your back, or worse, spread false narratives, it can really shake your confidence and make you feel like you're not in control anymore. But here's the thing — those stories, whether true or false, often reveal more about the storyteller than they do about you. People have their own biases, insecurities, and perspectives, and sometimes, they project that onto others. It's easy to forget that we don’t owe anyone an explanation about our lives or our actions, yet it’s all too easy to feel the sting when we hear about the narratives others have woven about us. The vulnerability comes from the fact that people are unpredictable. They ha...

Nine days into January, and it already feels like a whole new chapter. The year is off to an incredible start, and I’m feeling the momentum building. I’ve started a long-awaited routine of meditating and hitting the gym—and yes, the dentist appointment is looming too close for comfort, but it’s still on the horizon! (I really do hate the dentist, but it’s something that needs to be done.) So far, these nine days have been spot on . I told myself I had 365 days ahead of me, and if the first nine are any indication, I’m in for an amazing ride. My meditating journey has been phenomenal, helping me find clarity and inner peace, while my commitment to the gym is getting stronger each day. I’m starting the year in a way that truly feels aligned with my goals. I’m also learning the importance of slowing down and giving myself the time and space I’ve longed for. I’m sticking to my commitments, and I’m proud of that. I know there are more challenges and milestones ahead, but every day brings wi...

Lately, I’ve been starting to find my feet again. It's not because I chose to step away from work, but because I've finally given myself the time to focus on the things I’ve been yearning to do. I didn’t expect it, but my energy has reappeared, almost like a spark igniting out of nowhere. It feels like the weight has lifted, and my journey is starting to feel lighter. One of the first steps I took in this new phase was to begin meditating again. It’s been nothing short of invigorating. The stillness, the peace, the connection to myself—it’s been grounding. In a way, it’s like returning to my Reiki days, where everything felt aligned and my energy was balanced. It’s amazing how simply sitting with my thoughts, tuning into my breath, can restore so much of the energy I thought was lost. Along with meditation, I’ve started diving into online courses. I’ve always loved learning, and it’s fulfilling my need for intellectual stimulation. I feel like I’m exercising my brain in long ov...

I remember the first smell of toast—though I can't recall the exact age, I must have been knee-high to a grasshopper. That memory of warm, crispy bread is seared in my mind. Today, it struck me again as I made a batch of homemade pea soup, toasting some bread to go with it. The smell of fresh toast—crisped just right—was as comforting as it ever was. There's something inherently satisfying about it, a smell that feels almost like home. It reminded me why I fell in love with breakfast, both as a chef and as a vital moment in my day. For me, breakfast has always been more than just a meal; it’s a ritual. The smell of toast, the sizzle of a frying pan, and the fresh scent of brewed coffee fill the morning air, setting the tone for the day ahead. It’s a deeply satisfying experience, one that goes beyond taste. It’s the scent of comfort and warmth, a familiar ritual that somehow brings a sense of grounding. Next on my list of favorite smells is cinnamon. There's something about ...

Gyming is my meditation. I’ve always said this, and it’s something I hold close. On days like today, when the gloominess of the world feels heavy, I find my escape in the rhythm of movement. Today, I woke up feeling not so good—had a restful sleep, baked and cooked as usual—and from there, I decided to hit the gym. I jumped on the bicycle, cranked up the cardio, and suddenly, the energy shifted. I was psyched. It felt like the perfect preparation for the entire year ahead. I heard it in my head: “Welcome back!” And I couldn't agree more. Sure, I indulged a little during the festive season, but who can blame me? Still, I didn’t let that deter me. Instead, I thought, Why not go back to what I love? To what feeds both my body and mind. The gym gives me clarity, a sense of control, and, honestly, makes me feel like I can take on the world. It inspires me to move forward with confidence. I’m ready for this new chance to focus on my health and fitness this year. With a bit more time on...

It’s one of those days, isn’t it? The kind where the clouds hang heavy over Gauteng, and the rain doesn’t seem to let up. As much as I love the idea of having clean laundry, I find myself in a bit of a bind. The washing piles up, and while the fan hums in the background, trying its best to dry everything, I’m stuck here waiting for the rain to stop. It’s a cycle I’ve grown too familiar with – and one that reminds me of the times when I relied on my Dry Buddy in the winter months. It broke down, and well, life happened. I never replaced it, and now here I am, considering whether a tumble dryer would be worth the investment – or if I should finally get that deep freezer I’ve been meaning to buy. And then, of course, there’s the buffering. Oh, the buffering. The internet keeps stuttering, and it seems like an apt metaphor for how I’m feeling. Nothing is moving smoothly, everything is just... stuck. In moments like these, I wonder if I’m trying to force productivity in the wrong weather, b...

There’s something about evenings like this—when you feel caught in a decision-making limbo, where every possibility seems both appealing and overwhelming. I’m sitting here, unsure whether I should retreat to my cozy kitchen to whip up a simple meal or finally dive into the painting on my canvas that’s been waiting for me. The piece has been on my mind for a while now, and I know it’s the right time to finish it, but tonight… tonight I’m not so sure. It’s a rainy evening, and with January’s usual wetness comes an intense craving for comfort. But here’s the thing: I’ve been feeling heavy from too many rich meals lately, and my body is just begging for something lighter, something that won’t weigh me down. I had thought about pasta—nothing fancy, just something simple with a light sauce, maybe a little garlic, maybe some fresh herbs. But my creativity seems to be hiding behind the hot chocolate on my left, my diary on my right, and the endless ping of WhatsApp messages flooding in. I can’...

 I’ve decided to start a personal diary, a space where I can truly express myself without filters, away from the telepathic connections I’ve relied on for so long. It feels like the right time to shift my focus, to set intentions, and to actively manifest the life I desire. For a long time, I’ve carried so many emotions—some of them connected to someone who has been a constant part of my journey: my non-contact twin flame. But now, it's clear to me that it's time to create a new chapter, one where I focus solely on myself and my growth. There’s something incredibly powerful about this decision. Manifestation is no longer just a thought or a fleeting wish—it's a call to action. I’m beginning to feel the energy shift, and I know deep down that now is the moment to actively pursue my desires. It's time to believe in my own power to shape my reality, to step out of the old patterns and into a future that I can truly call my own. My twin flame has been a significant part of ...

Ever googled your symptoms? You know, just to see what might be wrong with you? It's funny (and a little scary) how the simplest muscle spasm can lead you down a rabbit hole of Google searches, only to find out you might have cancer or something far more dramatic than a sore muscle. Today was one of those days. I had a shoulder muscle spasm at work, and before I knew it, the pain had radiated into my left breast. My goodness, it was so sore. In my mind, I was already preparing for the worst diagnosis, but deep down, I knew it was just a muscle thing. It made me realize something important: it's time for me to leave this job sooner than I thought. I have three shifts left, and while I’m not being overly dramatic, the pressure and the energy around me are more than I can bear. It’s not just the workload—it's the eyes that are always on me, the jealousy, the subtle negativity. I’m proud of who I am: I carry myself well, I maintain my health, I drive my car, and I’m independent...

As I work through my resignation period, it hits me that I'm just a few weeks away from something that I've longed for: freedom from the nine-to-five grind. I know it may sound strange, but despite not being financially independent just yet, there's a quiet confidence within me that I'll be blessed in everything I touch. My heart is full of optimism, especially now that I have a clearer vision and a renewed sense of purpose. The excitement is mixed with a little nervousness. For years, I’ve been longing to express myself fully—whether in my work, my life, or my passions. Now, it feels like the moment is finally coming, and I can’t help but feel the weight of the unknown. But that's the thing about change: it's scary, but it's also necessary for growth. Right now, I’m in a space of resetting. I'm finishing what I need to, tying up loose ends, and preparing for the next chapter. The clarity I have now is unmatched. I know I have the strength to pull my lif...