Whoa, September flew by like a flash just as my birthday did. I remember turning 14 (ten crazy long years ago) and yearning to pass my learner's test like it was yesterday. This year we are all feeing a little "old" and my birthday sparked a group discussion about just "how old" we all are now. I was baffled with just how much my life has changed in the past ten years (oh, the wisdom I wish I have been privy to as a teenager). Then the conversation got pretty heavy as we debated the following: "if we had the opportunity to go back and give three pieces of advice to our 14 year old selves what would we say?" Immediately I knew that this would have to be preempted with the assumption that I would listen, which lets face it, we all know I wouldn't (cue the song 'Miss Independent'). We all had different bits of guidance, but here were my reflections:
On that note, you all know I am generally more of a science gal than an art gal BUT challenging myself and stepping outside the box I took a paint and sip studio class. It really was quite the experience and I have to say my final product was not too shabby (P.S. the painting is the Brisbane Story Bridge).
- Life was not going to look like I though it would. In fact, it's true, it wasn't what I anticipated BUT rather life is even better than I thought - that whole motherly 'trust the process' phrase kind of thing comes to mind (mothers ALWAYS do know what is best).
- Fall in love with the idea that who you are is wonderful, even if you're a little bit, okay fine, a lot stubborn or a little bit different. In other words... Be yourself - "an original is always worth more than a copy"
- Growing, learning and changing are all very good things. They might be challenging but in the end change is what makes you more flexible, more understanding and prepares you for the future.
On that note, you all know I am generally more of a science gal than an art gal BUT challenging myself and stepping outside the box I took a paint and sip studio class. It really was quite the experience and I have to say my final product was not too shabby (P.S. the painting is the Brisbane Story Bridge).
Then on the day of my birthday I was overwhelmed with all the birthday wishes, texts, calls, cards, flowers and gifts. I felt extremely special and can not thank everyone enough for the kind words and birthday wishes! A special thank you goes out to my amazing friends in Brisbane who helped me celebrate the day! I had a fabulous meal, dessert and bottle of wine (you only turn 24 once right?!?) with great company!
I believe I started 24 off just right and can hardly wait to see what the year brings :)
As September ended, mid-semester break began. I spent the first few days doing uni work and finishing off an assignment. Then, resuming typical Melissa fashion, I travelled North to explore Darwin and the Northern Territory. The photos are surely to knock your socks off so stay tuned for the upcoming girls trip blog post!!!
As September ended, mid-semester break began. I spent the first few days doing uni work and finishing off an assignment. Then, resuming typical Melissa fashion, I travelled North to explore Darwin and the Northern Territory. The photos are surely to knock your socks off so stay tuned for the upcoming girls trip blog post!!!