Weeks 4 - 7

Wow... it’s truly incredible how quickly four weeks can fly by!

The last time I wrote was 10th December, and since then so much has happened. I’ve turned 38, travelled to a different country, indulged in countless local delicacies, celebrated Christmas, and embarked on another lap around the Sun on this amazing rock we call Earth.

So, where do I even begin? I feel like there’s so much to share, but figuring out where to start is always the hardest part.

My Birthday

Let’s start with my birthday! I was lucky enough to avoid working that day and spent it doing all the things I love—albeit mostly by myself, but that’s okay. It was a day for me, and I made the most of it.

I began the day with a great cup of coffee (a simple pleasure that never fails), played some video games, and hit the gym. Later, I got to spend the evening with my favourite people. My eldest, Jaia, even came up from university to join us for dinner, which made the day even more special.

There’s something so heartwarming about being in a cosy home, surrounded by the people you love, with a full belly and plenty of laughter. To me, that’s the definition of wealth. I went to bed that night with a big smile on my face, feeling incredibly loved and grateful.

Vienna Adventures

Not long after my birthday, Lyndsey and I jetted off to Austria for a much-needed getaway—just the two of us. Vienna is, without a doubt, one of the most stunning cities I’ve ever visited. The architecture is so ornate and detailed, and the whole city has this charm that’s hard to put into words.

One thing that really stood out was how clean and welcoming it was. I’ve never felt so safe in a city before. Even with the hustle and bustle of the Christmas markets, the streets were spotless. Of course, there was the odd bit of graffiti here and there, but I’ve always appreciated graffiti as an art form and a means of expression, so I didn’t mind that at all.

During our three-and-a-half days there (four if you count travelling), we explored so much of the city, soaking in the culture, the history, and, of course, the food and drink. We even ticked off a couple of “TikTok must-tries,” which didn’t disappoint! One of my favourite memories was whizzing around Vienna on electric scooters, feeling like kids again. It was such a laugh and a brilliant way to see the city.

Christmas Cheer

Then came Christmas. Unfortunately, I had to work on Christmas Day, but I’m lucky to work with such a fantastic team. We made the absolute best of it, turning our Christmas Day night shift into something cheerful and festive.

Before heading to work, though, I still got to enjoy Christmas morning at home. I woke up with my son and eldest daughter, opened presents, visited family, ate delicious food, and shared plenty of laughs. It was a lovely day—exactly what Christmas should be.

Ringing in the New Year

New Year’s Eve was another highlight. We spent it at my gym buddy Joe’s house with his wife and kids. It was a proper family-friendly celebration filled with games, food, drinks, and lots of laughter. We rang in the New Year with smiles all around, enjoying each other’s company in their beautiful home.

New Year’s Day was just as relaxed. We spent a bit more time with Joe and his family, playing Wii Bowling (a classic!) before heading home to unwind with some quality time in front of the TV. It was the perfect way to ease into 2025.

Getting Back to Routine

Now, as the festive period winds down, life is starting to feel a little more “normal” again. That in-between time filled with cheese, crackers, and mince pies has come to an end, and I’m ready to get back into a productive routine. That includes these weekly updates, which I’ve missed writing!

A Message for the Year Ahead

Before I wrap up this (much-needed) update, I just want to wish you all the very best for the year ahead. Whatever your goals, dreams, or challenges may be, go out there and give it everything you’ve got. Spread positivity wherever you can because I truly believe it always comes back to you in ways you don’t expect.

Until next time—thank you for reading, and I’ll see you again next week!

Always,
Sean