The last one of these was the start of 2022, so it’s definitely becoming something of a tradition to write every two years. I’d just returned from Thailand and was looking forward to a year with less of an impact from covid, featuring plenty of travel.

I definitely delivered on the travel front – in 2022 I went skiing with my family in Austria, my sister moved to Edinburgh so I visited her there twice, and I also went sailing in Greece with friends. 2023 was no different! I skied with friends in France (my first time going with friends, we rented a chalet and I loved it!), I visited Paris with my sister and another Edinburgh trip for the Fringe. I spent a weekend in Berlin with my boyfriend, and finally I spent an amazing two weeks in the Philippines with a friend!

Edinburgh

France

As you may have guessed, travel is really important to me, and I’d always rather spend money on exploring a new country and creating memories, than buying new clothes or possessions. It’s invaluable for gaining new perspectives and broadening your mind. As well as simply switching off from your normal day-to-day life!  

Throughout the past two years I’ve continued to enjoy supporting Bristol’s independent restaurants, and have loved watching the mass ascents at the Bristol Balloon Fiesta each summer. I’ve continued with plenty of dancing and performances, and I also discovered Urban Sketching – more on that another time. As I’ve reached my late twenties I’ve hit that age where people start getting married and 2023 was the busiest yet with 4 weddings in 4 months! It’s a pleasure to be part of such joyful occasions and I love seeing all the different ways that people express their own personalities.

Bristol Balloon Fiesta

Urban Sketchers Bristol

2023 was also the year I bought my first home! This was obviously a huge deal, and required a lot of time and effort, which has thankfully paid off. I acknowledge how fortunate I am to have been able to do this. I’ve truly loved decorating every room, curating furniture and artwork, and sourcing unique second hand or vintage items. It’s something I’d dreamed about doing for a long time. Another big development was that my parents got a puppy! A gorgeous golden cocker spaniel girl. We never had pets growing up so it’s been quite a change but she’s brought so much joy.

Workwise things still aren’t quite right, I’ve yet to work in a team where I truly feel valued and fulfilled. I have enjoyed the work-life balance I’ve had the last couple of years though – since the pandemic I now work mostly from home and have plenty of time for everything I want to fit in outside of work such as dance and travel. My aim for 2024 is to find something interesting and exciting to work on. And to see if I can make it to 30 countries before I turn 30 in the Autumn! I’m currently on 28 so I reckon I’ve got a good chance.

Alexa

P.S. If you enjoyed reading this, you may like to read my 2024 Book Recommendations and My 5 Favourite Baking Recipes.