Couch Potato to World Getter

From health reset to world adventure

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  • Mon – Cooking
  • Wed – Health
  • Fri -Travel

  • 🎉 Four Nations, Four Celebrations — Festivals That Bring the UK to Life

    The UK might not be the biggest country in the world, but we certainly know how to celebrate. Yes, we have the famous ones like Guy Fawkes Night, Glastonbury Festival, and Chelsea in Bloom, but there are also unique traditions tucked into every corner of the country — some well-known, some wonderfully surprising.

    Each festival has its own story, its own history, and its own way of bringing people together.
    Here are four celebrations I’d love to experience one day — and ones I know Erika would enjoy too.

    🔬 England – Cheltenham Science Festival

    It may be young compared to the others (first held in 2002), but the Cheltenham Science Festival brings a brilliant sense of curiosity to the summer. Over six days, the town becomes a playground for scientists, inventors, engineers, and anyone who simply enjoys learning how the world works.

    There are:

    • Hands-on experiments
    • Live demonstrations
    • Interactive installations
    • Talks from academics, astronauts, authors, and innovators

    There’s even FameLab, a global science communication competition where people explain complex ideas in just three minutes — clearly, creatively, and sometimes hilariously.

    I can already picture Erika gravitating towards robot demos, especially if there are cat-like ones! And I’d definitely pull us both into any talks about autism in girls and women, so she can see herself reflected in the world and feel proud of who she is.

    🔥 Scotland – Up Helly Aa, Shetland

    Every January, the dark winter skies in Shetland explode into fire and celebration. Up Helly Aa marks the end of the Yule season with a torchlit procession through Lerwick, led by locals dressed as Vikings. At the end, a wooden longship is set dramatically alight.

    The tradition began in the late 1800s and has only paused a few times — during major world events.
    Today, there are several smaller versions across the islands between January and March, some more intimate, some more dramatic, all full of warmth, music, and community.

    Whether we watch the grand procession or the quieter celebrations, I know this is one that would imprint itself on the memory — firelight reflected in the cold night air, drums, laughter, and the roar of the flames.

    🎭 Wales – The Eisteddfod

    Wales brings creativity to the table.
    The National Eisteddfod, first recorded in 1176, is a celebration of poetry, music, storytelling, and Welsh identity. The tradition nearly faded in the 18th century — but Wales brought it back, bigger and brighter than ever.

    Today, the festival:

    • Moves to a different town each summer
    • Turns fields into colourful tented villages
    • Holds competitions in music, dance, literature, art, and more
    • Crowns its best poet with a ceremonial chair (yes, a real one — just like the medieval prize!)

    I’d love to wander the stalls, listen to Welsh being spoken and sung, and try a still-warm Welsh cake while soaking in the atmosphere. I’m sure Erika would too — especially if we can pick up a few Welsh phrases along the way.

    🔥 Northern Ireland – The Eleventh Night & The Twelfth

    In Northern Ireland, the 11th and 12th of July commemorate the Battle of the Boyne (1690), when William III defeated James II — a defining moment in the region’s history.

    On the Eleventh Night, huge bonfires are lit across communities — sometimes just after sunset, sometimes at midnight.
    The next day, The Twelfth brings parades through towns and cities, led by marching bands and members of the Orange Order wearing their distinctive sashes.

    These celebrations are deeply rooted in heritage, identity, and community pride.
    To attend, for me, would mean going with respect and curiosity — to listen, learn, and understand the traditions that continue to shape Northern Irish life today.

    ✨ Final Thoughts

    From science fairs and Viking fire festivals to poetic traditions and bonfire nights, the UK’s celebrations are as diverse as its landscapes and accents. Each one tells a story — not just of history, but of creativity, resilience, identity, and belonging.

    Maybe one day, Erika and I really will plan our UK travels around them — joining in where we can, watching from a safe distance when needed, and soaking up every lesson, laugh, and moment along the way.

  • 🌿 How I Plan on Staying Healthy on the Road

    I know it’s a while before I take off to explore the world, but with my Monday food blog, I’ve been thinking — how am I actually going to keep the body I worked so hard for during the prologue of this adventure?

    I want to be as fit and healthy as possible so I can explore for years to come. I’ll be starting my big adventure in my late 40s, so I’m not exactly a spring chicken — but I’ll do my best to keep up with my then-18-year-old daughter! I want to enjoy the sights, meet new people, and just live the experience to the fullest.

    💧 Hydration: My Constant Travel Companion

    Water, water, and more water. It makes up around 45–70% of our bodies — roughly 60% for men and 55% for women. Morbidly obese people like me can dip as low as 45%, so once I get mine back up, I’m keeping it there!

    My plan is simple: a reusable water bottle filled up wherever I go, recycling other bottles we collect, or just having a glass in the hotel room. Hydration helps in two big ways:
    1️⃣ Keeps calories down — always a win.
    2️⃣ Keeps energy levels steady and my body happy, especially when it’s hot or I’ve been walking a lot.

    ☕ One Special Drink a Day

    Now, I’m not sticking to just water — that would be impossible! I love a good Dr Pepper, vanilla latte, or perfect cup of tea. But just drinking those around the world would get dull fast.

    So, I’ll be trying new drinks as we travel — unique juices, unusual teas, and maybe even a mocktail now and then (since I don’t drink alcohol). It’s a fun way to experience local flavours without turning every day into a calorie marathon.

    🍛 Eating Like the Locals

    It’s no secret that I love food. Food tells a story — every corner of the world has unique dishes with a history behind them. My plan is to eat like the locals: fresh, regional food that’s naturally balanced and full of flavour.

    But I’m also realistic — Erika will want comfort food sometimes, and I’m sure we’ll find cafés with irresistible cake or a “must-try” dish that’s not exactly diet-friendly. That’s fine! Balance is 80% mindful eating, 20% joy.

    🚶‍♀️ Movement That Feels Natural

    Ah, exercise — my current nemesis! But before I start the first chapter of this journey, I’ll be in better shape than I am now.

    Travel will naturally include walking, stairs, and exploring, but I also plan to fit in gentle routines — yoga, light cardio, or even using hotel and cruise ship gyms when I can. The goal isn’t perfection, it’s consistency — finding movement that feels good and sustainable.

    😴 Rest & Recovery

    Sleep… my eternal struggle! I average about six hours a night if I’m lucky, though I sleep great on travel days — maybe that’s a good sign!

    I’ll make sure to listen to my body and schedule rest weeks where Erika and I can just chill — PJs, Netflix, and snacks. We both need downtime to recharge and be ready for the next adventure.

    ✨ Final Thoughts

    Health isn’t about having perfect days. I’ll slip up — we all do. It’s about showing up for myself and dragging Erika along with me (it’s my parental duty, after all!).

    Will it be easy to resist ordering everything off the menu or skipping the gym before breakfast? Absolutely not. But the effort will be worth it — more castle stairs to climb, more ferries to ride, and of course… more food to enjoy!

    I know it’s a while before I take off to explore the world, but with my Monday food blog, I’ve been thinking — how am I actually going to keep the body I worked so hard for during the prologue of this adventure?

    I want to be as fit and healthy as possible so I can explore for years to come. I’ll be starting my big adventure in my late 40s, so I’m not exactly a spring chicken — but I’ll do my best to keep up with my then-18-year-old daughter! I want to enjoy the sights, meet new people, and just live the experience to the fullest.

  • 🌍 Food Monday: Four Corners, Four Flavors — The UK’s Most Unique Dishes

    When most people think of British food, they imagine roast dinners, fish and chips, or a full English breakfast. But beyond the pub classics and afternoon tea, the UK has a treasure trove of lesser-known traditional dishes — each with its own history, charm, and a dash of quirkiness.

    This week’s Food Monday celebrates the flavours that make each nation unique — from the creamy to the comforting, the legendary to the downright curious.

    🐟 England – Stargazy Pie (Cornwall)

    This one takes some planning, as it’s only served on 23rd December at The Ship Inn in the Cornish village of Mousehole. The story goes that local fisherman Tom Bawcock braved stormy seas one winter to bring home fish when the village was starving. His heroic catch of pilchards and sardines was baked into a pie with eggs, potatoes, and leeks — fish heads poking out of the crust to “gaze at the stars.”

    It’s definitely a dish that makes you pause before digging in — I’m not quite used to my dinner looking back at me! Still, the story and the celebration that continues to this day make it one I’d love to experience firsthand.

    🥣 Scotland – Cullen Skink (Moray Coast)

    Scotland really does love a cooking competition! Just like the Scotch pie, Cullen Skink even has its own annual contest to crown the best bowl. Originating in the coastal town of Cullen, this thick, creamy soup of smoked haddock, potatoes, and onions dates back to the 1890s.

    It was originally a way to stretch ingredients during hard times — the word “skink” actually comes from Old Scots for “shin of beef” or “broth.” When beef became too costly, locals used smoked haddock instead, creating a hearty, flavourful alternative.

    You can even buy it tinned in Scottish supermarkets, though I’d prefer to enjoy it the old-fashioned way — freshly made on a cold, misty afternoon in a coastal café.

    🧀 Wales – Welsh Rarebit

    Despite visiting Wales many times, I’ve somehow never tried Welsh Rarebit — or as it was once known, caws pobi. Essentially it’s “fancy cheese on toast,” but with a rich, savoury sauce of melted cheese, mustard, and ale (or milk).

    In the 1700s, the name “Welsh Rabbit” became popular — likely a joke by the English implying the Welsh couldn’t afford meat. Eventually, it evolved into “rarebit.” Today, it’s considered a national treasure with its own day of celebration — September 3rd, when restaurants across Wales showcase their best versions.

    Simple as it sounds, I’m curious to see how this comforting dish compares to the quick cheese toasties I make at home!

    🥔 Northern Ireland – Champ

    A true comfort classic, champ is mashed potatoes mixed with spring onions, butter, and milk — often served with sausages, bacon, or a fried egg. It’s a humble dish that dates back to times when ingredients were scarce but resourcefulness ran high.

    Some older recipes even replaced the onions with stinging nettles! You don’t see that version much now, though if Erika and I take a foraging course someday, I might just give it a go. Add a perfectly runny egg on top, and I can already picture the result — rustic and comforting in every bite.

    ✨ The Final Bite

    Each of these dishes tells a story of creativity born from necessity — how everyday people turned simple ingredients into food that nourished both body and soul. From Cornwall to the Highlands, from the Welsh hills to the fields of Ulster, these meals remind me why food is one of the best ways to explore culture.

    Next time I’m tempted to order my usual comfort food, I’ll try to be brave enough to taste something new — even if it’s looking back at me!

  • Getting Around the UK: From Trains to Hovercrafts

    As a small island nation, you might be surprised by just how many ways there actually are to get around. From classic scenic train rides and speedy hovercrafts to good old-fashioned road trips, there’s always a way to reach your next adventure.

    As I plan my future travels across the UK, I’ve been exploring all the different ways we can experience the journey — because sometimes, the journey really is half the fun.

    🚄 Trains — The Classic Choice

    The UK’s rail network connects almost every corner of the country, from busy cities like London and Bristol to the remote Scottish Highlands and unpronounceable Welsh villages. (Not that I can pronounce all the English ones correctly either!)

    Trains can be pricey at times, and yes, occasionally late, but they remain a relaxing and scenic way to travel. I love sitting back with a coffee and watching the countryside roll by.

    Some routes are special in themselves — like the North Wales Coast Line, which offers incredible views of the Irish Sea and Mount Snowdon. I often wonder how the sheep get up there… I bet they could give mountain goats a run for their money!

    Other iconic routes include:

    • The Caledonian Sleeper, which lets you drift off in London and wake up in the Scottish Highlands.
    • The Night Riviera Sleeper, a coastal journey from London to Cornwall — perfect for exploring the South West.

    🚋 Trams — A Touch of Nostalgia

    Yes, the UK still has trams! Once common before the 1950s, they’ve made a modern comeback in cities like Manchester, Blackpool, Edinburgh, and Sheffield.

    Though they’ve been upgraded with Wi-Fi and contactless payment, trams still hold a charming old-world feel. I can’t remember ever riding one, so when Erika and I hop aboard for the first time, it’ll definitely feel like stepping back in time.

    🚂 Steam Trains — All Aboard the Heritage Line

    The classic choo choo! There’s something magical about steam trains — the sound, the smell, the nostalgia.

    The UK has plenty of heritage lines worth exploring:

    • Snowdon Mountain Railway in Wales
    • North Yorkshire Moors Railway
    • The Jacobite Steam Train in Scotland (aka the Harry Potter train!)

    You can even enjoy afternoon tea aboard some of them, watching the world roll by at a gentler pace.

    🚌 Buses & Coaches — The Scenic Budget Option

    Cheap and cheerful, buses connect bustling cities with hidden countryside gems. Sure, they’re slower, but sometimes that’s the best part — you notice things you’d otherwise miss.

    You can reach remote villages, stumble across quirky little museums, or find yourself at a village fete in summer.

    For longer journeys, National Express and Megabus can take you all the way from Penzance to John O’Groats. It might take longer than the train, but it’s a wallet-friendly adventure.

    🚗 Cars — Freedom on Four Wheels

    Road trip, road trip! Sometimes the best plan is no plan. Just jump in the car and go — stopping for tea, cute cafés, or unexpected roadside attractions along the way.

    Of course, parking fees, narrow country lanes, and endless roadworks can test anyone’s patience, but the freedom to explore wherever and whenever you like is unbeatable.

    ⛴️ Ferries — Sailing the Isles

    As an island nation, it’s no surprise we rely on ferries — the UK has over 6,000 islands, though only a fraction are inhabited.

    Ferries connect us to those faraway spots or even just across rivers, like the Torpoint Ferry from Plymouth to Saltash. Whether it’s a quick hop to the Isle of Wight or an overnight voyage to the Shetlands or Northern Ireland, there’s something soothing about travelling by sea.

    I’m already looking forward to standing on deck, watching the waves with Erika by my side, both of us scanning the horizon for land.

    🛳️ Hovercrafts — The Quirky Survivor

    Now here’s one I have to try! The UK runs the only commercial hovercraft service in the world — between Portsmouth and Ryde on the Isle of Wight.

    It’s just a 10-minute trip, but a truly unique experience. You can even take luggage (though not cars). In summer, it’s both a transport link and a tourist attraction. It’s short, quirky, and completely one-of-a-kind — right up my alley!

    Fun Fact: The Portsmouth–Ryde route has been running since 1965, and still glides over the Solent daily.

    🚠 Cable Cars — Views with a Lift

    If you’d rather see the UK from above, there are several scenic cable cars worth trying:

    • IFS Cloud Cable Car, London – gliding over the Thames (day and night views!)
    • Great Orme Cable Car, Llandudno – with stunning North Wales coastline views
    • Cairngorm Mountain Funicular, Scotland – up into the majestic Highlands

    Even though heights aren’t my favourite thing, the views from these make it all worthwhile.

    ✈️ Domestic Flights — The Quick Hop

    Sometimes speed wins. With some domestic flights costing the same (or less!) than train fares, it’s often the best option for far-flung corners of the UK — like the Hebrides or Orkney Islands.

    It’ll also be Erika’s first time flying, so starting small — say, a quick hop from Glasgow to Barra — will be the perfect way to test the skies before tackling longer routes abroad.

    ✨ Closing Thoughts

    The UK has an incredible mix of transport options — from modern innovations to charming old classics. Whether it’s trains, trams, hovercrafts, or ferries, there’s an adventure waiting in every journey.

    When we start travelling full-time, I plan to try them all — trains and buses for everyday trips, ferries and planes for island hopping, and of course, that quirky hovercraft ride.

    After all, this is our story — and the journey is just part of it.

  • Mid-Month Check-In 💪 

    The month got off to a rocky start on my end, but a lot more stability and routine are now becoming permanent features in my life, making this month so much better than the last.

    Progress So Far

    • Current Weight: 34st 4lbs / 217.7kg / 480lbs
    • Total Lost So Far: 3st 6lbs / 21.8kg / 48lbs

    Wins

    • I lost twice as much weight in two weeks as I had from when I started the blog up until the beginning of this month.
    • I’ve been much more consistent sticking to my packs — not perfect, but definitely better.
    • I managed to get a seatbelt on in a car for the first time in I don’t know how long! That one made me tear up a bit.

    Challenges

    • Shopping (even online) is still hard. I still get the urge to buy what I want instead of what I need, which can lead to an off-plan day.
    • Even with more energy, I still haven’t built up the courage or stamina for real exercise yet.
    • I’ve yet to venture outside beyond doctor visits — a mix of fear, exhaustion, and self-consciousness about judgment from others.

    Adjustments for the Rest of the Month

    • Climb the stairs all in one go. I’ve gotten into the habit of resting on the last two steps — time to break it!
    • Drink more. I’m rarely hitting my 2-litre goal, so I’ll start using a water bottle to track my intake better.

    Closing Thoughts

    Honestly, I’m doing fantastic — not perfect, but progress isn’t about perfection, it’s about continuing.

    There were so many points this month where I could have given up — on my health plan, this blog, even on myself. But writing here gives me accountability and purpose, and even if no one ever reads this, it’s still helping me move forward.

    So if you are reading this — thank you. Even silently cheering me on from the other side of the screen means more than you know.

    The month isn’t over yet, and my next mini goal is to see that 33-stone number before November rolls around.

    So here’s my note to future me: You’ve got this, Amy. You’re finally seeing results — so keep going! 🌻

  • 🇬🇧 The UK’s National Dish: Fish & Chips vs. Chicken Tikka Masala

    There seems to be a bit of confusion over the UK’s national dish — and that might be because, well, we don’t actually have one!
    What we do have are two strong contenders: the classic fish and chips, and the ever-popular chicken tikka masala.

    Fish and chips can be found in every corner of the country, best enjoyed by the seaside, sat on a bench looking out at the waves — though you might have to fend off a few daring seagulls trying to steal a chip or two.

    Meanwhile, a national poll crowned chicken tikka masala as Britain’s favourite dish. A curry with roots in South Asia, it’s become one of the UK

    🇬🇧 A Tale of Two Fishes

    Fish and chips has been part of British culture since the mid-1800s — simple, affordable, and delicious. Although it’s no longer wrapped in traditional newspaper (that stopped in the 1980s and 90s due to health and safety concerns), some shops still use paper printed with a newspaper pattern for nostalgia’s sake.

    There are two main claims to its creation.

    The first comes from London, where Joseph Malin opened what’s believed to be the world’s first fish and chip shop in East London around 1860. Malin, a Jewish immigrant, combined fried fish — already popular in London’s Jewish community — with fried potatoes. His shop became a hit and was passed down through generations until it finally closed in the 1970s. The site is now housing, but the legacy remains.

    The northern claim comes from Lancashire. In Mossley, John Lees began selling fried fish and potatoes from a wooden hut around 1863. The combination became a working-class staple in the industrial towns of the North. Lees later opened a permanent shop on Stamford Road — now Man’s Wok, serving both Chinese food and fish and chips — making it the longest continually operating chippy location in the UK. I’d love to try it someday, though knowing me, I might end up ordering the Chinese and stealing a chip or two from Erika!

    🍛 Chicken Tikka Masala

    Chicken tikka masala tells a very different story. A young boy from what was then British India — now Pakistan — immigrated to the UK at age six. That boy, Ali Ahmed Aslam, went on to open a restaurant called Shish Mahal in Glasgow at just eighteen.

    In the 1970s, a customer reportedly complained that his chicken was too dry, so Aslam created a sauce using yoghurt, cream, and spices — thus inventing chicken tikka masala. He even petitioned for Glasgow to receive EU Protected Designation of Origin status for the curry, though the claim was dismissed because several regions argued the same origin story.

    Shish Mahal is still open today, proudly serving the dish that made it famous — and it’s firmly on my “must eat” list for when we reach Scotland.

    🥩 Local Pride Across the Nations

    While there isn’t an official UK-wide national dish, each country within the union has its own culinary icon:

    • England: Roast beef and Yorkshire pudding — classic comfort food I’m definitely looking forward to.
    • Scotland: Haggis — they really do love their hearty food! Another contender might be the Scotch pie, and there’s even an annual competition to find the best one.
    • Wales: Cawl — a warming lamb and leek stew, perfect for cold, wet days.
    • Northern Ireland: The Ulster Fry, already on my list, often includes both black and white pudding. (Black pudding contains blood; white doesn’t — and I’d love to compare the two.)

    It’s no wonder we can’t decide on just one dish when each region brings something unique to the table!

    ✨ My Thoughts

    If I had to choose a national dish, I’d vote for fish and chips — though I’ll admit, I’m more of a korma girl myself (or maybe a dry chicken tikka). Growing up, fish and chips was always the easier option, especially since my grandparents lived close to the sea.

    I also love that Britain’s food reflects its diversity. Our history of immigration means dishes like chicken tikka masala and doner kebabs are now as much a part of our national identity as roast dinners and Sunday teas.

    Maybe the truth is, we don’t need a single national dish — because our food tells our story: from the seaside to the curry house, and everything in between.

  • Erika’s UK Travel Picks 🐾

    As we continue exploring what makes the UK so special, I wanted to hand things over (a little bit!) to Erika this week.

    This might change by the time we start our journey, but she already has firm favourites in what she enjoys — animals, colours, whimsy, and experiences that feel alive.

    So this week, I’ve picked one place from each country in the UK that I think she’ll absolutely love.

    England – Torquay Coastal Seafari 🐬

    Erika adores animals — land, air, or sea — so combining both the ocean (which will play a big part in our travels) and wildlife felt like a no-brainer.

    The Torquay Coastal Seafari offers a chance to spot dolphins, seals, and seabirds along the English Riviera while learning about the local marine life.

    I can just picture her face lighting up as a dolphin pops up beside the boat — pointing excitedly and telling me to look. It’s fun, educational, and a little adventurous… just perfect for her.

    Scotland – Camera Obscura & World of Illusions, Edinburgh 🪄

    Hands-on and quirky is our thing, and the Camera Obscura fits that perfectly.

    This interactive museum is full of optical illusions, mirrors, and mind-bending rooms that make you laugh, stare, or scratch your head in confusion.

    Housed in a 17th-century building, it looks pretty ordinary from the outside — so I know Erika will think it’s just “another museum” until we step inside and her face turns from curiosity to wonder. And let’s not forget the stunning rooftop views of Edinburgh!

    Wales – Folly Farm Adventure Park & Zoo, Pembrokeshire 🦁

    Folly Farm might sound a little childish at first, but it’s really a mix of zoo, fairground, and countryside adventure in one.

    From feeding the lions (which she’ll be thrilled and nervous about!) to petting goats and rabbits in the barn, it’s packed with things she’ll love.

    Add in the vintage rides and old-school games she’ll want to try, and it sounds like the perfect day out for her playful spirit.

    Northern Ireland – Titanic Belfast 🛳️

    Erika enjoys museums and loves learning how things work — so the Titanic Belfast is a must.

    It’s an immersive experience that takes visitors through the ship’s construction, recreated cabins, and even the story of its sinking with detailed exhibits and interactive displays.

    I can already imagine her excitement as she shares every fact she’s discovered — followed, of course, by a mini movie night with popcorn and Titanic playing in the background.

    Closing Thoughts 💛

    The UK is full of amazing places for all ages, but these are the ones I think Erika will enjoy most. They combine her love of animals, hands-on fun, and interactive learning — all with a touch of adventure.

    Whether it’s watching dolphins dance beside the boat, solving illusions in Edinburgh, or walking the decks of the Titanic exhibit, these experiences will show her how much wonder our own home islands hold.

    ✨ What’s your favourite kind of place to explore?

  • Building Routine When Life Feels a Bit Messy 🧘‍♀️

    If there’s one thing I’ve realised lately, it’s that building a routine isn’t about perfection — it’s about If there’s one thing I’ve realised lately, it’s that building a routine isn’t about perfection — it’s about consistency. After being unwell recently, I found myself falling out of rhythm with my health plan, my blog, and even everyday habits. Getting back into that routine hasn’t been easy, but I’m learning that slow and steady truly does win the race.

    Why Routine Matters 🕒

    For me, having a routine gives structure to the day. In fact, we often go around in life following pre-programmed routines, and it isn’t until we need to change them that we realise how hard that can be.

    When life is unpredictable — from my energy levels and leg pain to something unexpected happening with Erika — it’s easy to slip back into the old default settings. Doing this once in a while is fine, but if I want to see change, I need to make change.

    Whether that’s having my first product around the same time each day or remembering to do meditation as I fall asleep, every small act helps me build a new rhythm.

    How I’m Rebuilding 🌱

    Right now, I’m focusing on just a few things:

    • Planning my meals each morning. Picking out my five New You packs sets the tone for the day.
    • Drinking. Making sure I get at least 2L of fluid in me — whether that’s water or squash.
    • Setting gentle goals. I’m trying to avoid the “all or nothing” mindset. Progress doesn’t need to be perfect; it just needs to exist.

    Each small action adds up, and soon enough those actions turn into habits that happen almost naturally.

    What I’ve Learned 💭

    I can’t stick to a perfect routine — and honestly, I think very few people can. We try our best, but life changes, illness, and growing bodies all throw us off sometimes.

    And you know what? That’s okay. Even if it takes me a while to get back into my routine, that’s fine. I’m showing up for myself as often as I can, and when I slip up, I’m not starting from the beginning — I’m continuing from experience.

    Closing Thoughts ✨

    If you’re struggling with routine too, start small. Pick one thing and do it every day for a month, then see how you feel. It takes roughly two months for something to become a habit — although for some people, it can take up to eight and a half months!

    So keep working at it.

    I’m nowhere near where I want to be yet, but I’m definitely not where I started — and that’s what matters most.

  • Breakfast Around the UK — The Full English and Its Tasty Cousins 🍳🥓

    Every country has its own breakfast, and the UK is no different. But did you know each country in the UK has its own variant of the classic Full English Breakfast? I’m no stranger to an English breakfast — be it morning or brunch — but as we travel across the UK, I’m looking forward to discovering how the Welsh, Scottish, and Northern Irish fare in their versions too.

    The Classic Full English 🇬🇧

    The English breakfast comes with a wide range of food: sausages, bacon, eggs, beans, mushrooms, tomatoes, and toast — all washed down with a cup of tea! Some include black pudding, hash browns, or fried bread. I once even had chips on a fry-up, and even to me, that was weird!
    My favourite combination would be sausages, bacon, a double serving of mushrooms, fried bread, and black pudding. Honestly, I dislike cooked tomato on its own, so that’s one I’ll happily skip.

    The Welsh Breakfast 🐉

    The one I’m probably most looking forward to — mainly because of laverbread! It’s made from seaweed, and I love seaweed. They also have cockles, which I like too, though I’m not sure about them for breakfast. It’s paired with the usual suspects of sausage and bacon, and some include eggs, mushrooms, and black pudding, just like the English version.

    The Scottish Breakfast 🏴

    Scotland puts their iconic haggis, which I already love, right on the breakfast plate. They also include tattie scones and square sausage (called Lorne sausage). Then they add the traditional items, making it sound like the perfect breakfast for a cold morning in the Highlands.

    The Ulster Fry 🇮🇪

    The Ulster Fry is Northern Ireland’s version of the fry-up. It swaps traditional toast for soda bread and includes potato farls — which I’ll admit I’ve never tried, but I won’t shy away from anything potato! Everything is golden, crispy, and just a little indulgent. Definitely one I’d love to try with a hot cup of tea on the side.

    My Thoughts ✨

    What I love about these variations is that they all celebrate local ingredients — it’s the same comforting idea, but each region adds its own twist. I think trying all four will be a delicious way to explore the UK through food.

    So maybe one day soon, Erika and I will have our own “Great British Breakfast Tour”, tasting each version in its home country. I’ll be sure to report back with our favourites.

  • Exploring the UK — A New Chapter at Home 🇬🇧

    You might have noticed we’ve expanded from England to the whole of the United Kingdom — and honestly, I couldn’t be more excited! Now that I’m feeling a little more like myself again, it feels like the perfect time to start this new chapter.

    Although the UK isn’t exactly far-flung travel, it’s full of hidden gems, quirky traditions, and so much variety that I could happily spend months just exploring my own backyard. From rugged Scottish highlands to cosy Welsh villages and the dramatic coastline of Northern Ireland — there’s a lot more to this island than meets the eye.

    What I’m Most Excited About 🌿

    There are so many things I can’t wait to experience around the UK:

    • Castles and History: I’ve always loved the idea of walking through old ruins and learning the stories behind them — there’s something magical about standing where history happened.
    • Quirky Spots and Local Legends: I’m especially drawn to those odd little places you don’t often hear about — like the Shell Grotto, cheese rolling in Gloucester, or puffin watching off the Northumberland coast.
    • Tasty Traditions: Of course, food will always have a place in our adventures! From Welsh cakes and Cornish pasties to tattie scones and Irish soda bread — there’s a whole lot of comfort food waiting to be rediscovered.

    And Pompi will have plenty of distant potato cousins to meet along the way 🥔💛

    The Plan

    Since this is still part of our pre-travel chapter, we’ll be taking things slow and steady — exploring when we can and sharing the journey as it unfolds. Each part of the UK has its own charm, so I’ll be picking a few fun spots from each country before we move on to our next big destination.

    I’ll also be focusing more on smaller, meaningful moments — things that make travel feel personal rather than rushed.

    Closing Thoughts ✨

    The UK might be small, but it’s packed with character, charm, and adventure. There’s still so much of it I haven’t seen, and I can’t wait to share what we discover along the way.

    Sometimes the best place to start your travels is right where you are — and for me, that’s here in the UK.