Good Morning Lovelies, 

Turning 30 last year really didn’t bother me in the way that it did others. I had no worries about reaching my 30th decade on this planet. In fact, it filled me with a lot of joy, as it showed how hard I had worked to get to that place. At the age of 25th, I feel into a really bad place and I didn’t think I would get out of it. 

Yet, over the years since then, I have worked hard to try and see the good in each day. Even if it is only a fleeting moment, there is always something to be grateful for. Whether it be the fact that you got out of bed or you achieved a big goal, they all matter. During the last year, this is something I have really embraced. 

Therefore, I thought I would share with you some moments that really made my 30th year on this planet so special to me. The following have definitely become core memories…

Going To Dublin To Celebrate My Birthday: I was desperate to get back to Dublin, so to spend my 30th birthday there was incredible. I will never forget the kindness of strangers, who made the trip so amazing. To me, there is no better place on earth that Ireland and I hope to spend the next few years exploring more of it, as it makes my soul jump with joy being on the emerald island. 

Surprising My Mum On Christmas Day: I made a vow when I was younger that I would one day take my mum to see Take That. We had so many moments where we could have done so but life got in the way. Last year though, upon hearing that they were bringing The Circus Tour back, I knew it was my chance to surprise her. Seeing her reaction on Christmas Day still brings a tear to my eye. I will never forget (no pun intended) the smile on her face when she saw Gary, Howard and Mark in London. It was worth every single penny and more!

Conquering A Cruise: We had always said that we wanted to do a cruise, so when we found a cheap two night festive break we booked up. I knew it was going to be really hard for me, as it meant breaking the routines and ways that my AuDHD and eating disorder had built. Although we didn’t actually love the cruise life personally, I was proud of my mum and I for trying something new and for the way that I managed the changes. I won’t lie, I did have a few wavy moments, but ultimately, I did it and for that I am proud of myself. 

Finding Out My Best Friend Is Pregnant: My best friend Dee and I have known each other since we were five and had caravans next door to one another. We grew up together, becoming sisters in many ways, as we never left each other's sides. We don’t live close now but when you put us in a room together it is like we’ve never been apart. I don’t think there is a day where we don’t reach out to each other in one way or another. Therefore, I was beyond happy for her when she announced to me that she was having a little baby, after struggling to conceive. The baby is due on my birthday in fact, so I am patiently and excitedly awaiting the news of their arrival, as it will make our little friendship circle stronger. Plus, I know how amazing Dee and her husband Mark are going to be as parents and I just can’t wait to see this journey they are about to go on unfold.

Staying Brave During The Hard Times: The last year hasn’t been without some hardships and tough times. From my health to family matters, there has been a lot happening behind the scenes that my mum and I have had to deal with. Some that I wish never took place and others that still shock me. Yet, by them happening, I have learnt that I am a lot stronger than I thought I was. I am able to hold my head up high. I know my truth. I know the ones who care and love me for me. I am proud and happy to have finally been able to see this and look forward to going into the future now knowing who really cares for us. 

I am certain that I have probably missed a lot of things off this but right now these are the memories that really stand out for me. I hope that in the next year, I can continue to make some more like this, as they warm my heart so much when I think about them! What have been some of your favourite memories from the last year lovelies? Let me know! 

Joey X