One Year Older!

30 seconds to mars, Sydney

Hello everyone, I am so behind on posting everything about my travels, I have posted nothing...!

I sincerely apologise.

So here it all is while in Australia I went to see 30 Seconds to Mars.

I was literally screaming when I booked the tickets the girls that I was sharing the dorm with thought I was mental!

I went on my own just like I do everything else on my own. and I am very proud of that.

30 Seconds to Mars

My Favourite Song.

Are your friends really, you're friends?

Thoughts and feelings.

Travelling around I have come to realise that the people I thought where my friends really are not.

You see the whole reason I came to Australia is to spend some time with my friends and ever since getting here I am just a big inconvenience in their lives.

None of them wanted to spend time with me, none of them wanted to put me up after saying they would and in the end, I ended up at one of the parents' houses in the spare room no one came to visit me, no one got in touch unless I messaged first.

Not quite the start I was expecting.

Last year they all encouraged me to get a working holiday visa and said I could stay with them then when I got here it was a different tune, they were singing.

I am very upset about it all and a little pissed off to be honest.

Getting here was expensive and bloody hard work if I knew they would be like this I would have stayed in Thailand and visited another part of it but no I trusted them.

Now I'm sat in the middle of a park somewhere in the Gold Coast waiting to check into my hostel (which was an added cost along with the train to get here) I didn't account for that 400 AUD because I was supposed to be staying with them.

If I knew this was going to happen, I wouldn't have gotten my visa and just used the money for continuous travelling.

My feelings are valid

I am allowed to be angry I am assuming it will pass eventually but right now I am angry.

Updated: it did pass but it took a few months.

I have now officially left Australia my working holiday visa is up and I am now living in Cambodia.

Leaving party and new friends

Realities of living in Australia

1. YOU CAN'T JUST DROP EVERYTHING AND GO BACK.

Many assume that once you're abroad, it's a life of luxury and ease, but the reality is far more complex. It’s not just about the cost of a ticket home. Commitments pile up—work, finances, and the life you’re building away. The heart longs for home, but responsibilities keep you grounded. You can’t just leave; your life is now split between two worlds.

2. RESILIENCE ISN'T OPTIONAL—IT'S A NECESSITY.

Every day is a challenge, and sometimes exhaustion is overwhelming. But you learn to show up, to smile, to be the strong one for others. Vulnerability is often hidden behind the mask of perseverance because you don’t want loved ones to worry. "Keep going" isn’t advice—it's the only choice. You have to become your own motivator, even when motivation is nowhere to be found.

3. FIND YOUR PEOPLE BUT BE SELECTIVE.

Not everyone you meet is meant to stay in your life. It’s not about shutting people out but about knowing who truly understands your journey. Genuine connections are rare gems—when you find them, they become your family. Trust slowly and protect your peace. Sometimes, it’s the ones you least expect who stand by you when times get tough.

4. LONELINESS IS A COMPANION YOU LEARN TO EMBRACE.

There are nights when homesickness hits hard, and doubts keep you awake. You question your choices, wonder if you’re doing enough, and worry about those you left behind. It’s okay to feel that way; it’s part of the journey. You get stronger, not because it’s easy, but because you must. The quiet, lonely moments teach you who you really are.

5. SILENT PRAYERS ARE YOUR CONSTANT REFUGE.

Whether you consider yourself religious or not, there’s always that quiet moment of hope—praying that things will be okay, that sacrifices will be worth it, and that your loved ones are safe. It’s a whisper to the universe, a small comfort that keeps you going, day after day. Those silent moments of faith are what keep you steady when everything else feels uncertain.

6. YOU LEARN TO BE YOUR OWN BIGGEST SUPPORTER.

Sometimes, you're the only one who truly understands what you're going through. In a new country, far from everything familiar, you become your own cheerleader. You celebrate your small wins, push yourself to keep going when it feels impossible, and pick yourself up when you fall. You have to be your own encouragement because there won't always be someone there to remind you of your worth.

7. YOU DISCOVER STRENGTHS, YOU NEVER KNEW YOU HAD.

Living abroad is a crash course in resilience, adaptability, and self-discovery. You’ll be tested in ways you never imagined, facing moments that force you to grow. You’ll surprise yourself—finding strength in setbacks, creativity in challenges, and courage in the face of uncertainty. The experience shapes you, and when you look back, you realize you’ve become someone you never thought you could be: stronger, wiser, and braver than you ever imagined.

Let's Play a Game of Swaps

A Game of Swaps

Single use Reusable

Plastic Bags Reusable bags/ bamboo/ Hemp
Cling Film Beeswax Wraps
Food plastic bags Reusable Silicone food bag
Plastic Toothbrush Bamboo toothbrush
Plastic scrubby /dish brush Bamboo dish brush
Plastic Toothbrush Bamboo toothbrush
Disposable Plastic razors Safety Razor
Disposable pads and tampons Washable Pads and Menstrual Cups
Disposable Cotton Rounds Reusable Cotton Pads
Bottle shampoo and conditioner Shampoo and conditioner Bars
Plastic Packaged Soap Package free soap
Single use cosmetics Refillable Cosmetics
Plastic water bottles Reusable metal water bottle
Plastic cutlery Travel cutlery/ Take a set from your own kitchen.
Disposable coffee cups Reusable coffee cups

Embracing zero waste swaps is a powerful way to make a positive impact on the environment and lead a more sustainable lifestyle. As individuals adopt these eco-friendly alternatives, they will not only reduce waste and conserve resources but also enjoy personal benefits such as cost savings and improved well-being.
The journey towards a zero-waste lifestyle doesn’t have to be perfect or happen overnight; every small step counts and contributes to a greener, healthier planet. We encourage everyone to explore the world of zero waste swaps and join the growing movement of individuals committed to safeguarding our environment for future generations.

Do You Have Old Socks and Underwear??

What To Do with Used Socks and Underwear

Why is it important to care about where to donate used socks and underwear?

Clothing production and consumption have significant sustainability concerns due to their environmental, social, and economic impacts. The fast fashion industry has accelerated these concerns as it promotes a culture of disposability and rapid turnover of clothing items.

The production of clothing requires substantial amounts of water, energy, and raw materials. It takes about 2,700 litres of water to produce one cotton shirt, equivalent to the amount of water an average person drinks in 2.5 years.

As we strive to minimize our environmental impact and live more sustainably, it is essential to address the issue of clothing waste. A significant way to contribute to this cause is by finding practical solutions for old or used items like socks and underwear.

1: Textile Recycling for Aid and International Development (TRAID)

TRAID recycles textiles and helps fund international development projects, promoting sustainability and social welfare. Textile Recycling for Aid and International Development (TRAID) is a UK-based charity organization that plays a vital role in promoting sustainability and supporting global development initiatives.

TRAID focuses on reducing the environmental and social impacts of the textile industry by recycling and repurposing unwanted clothing, including items like old socks and underwear. The organization’s relevance lies in its multifaceted approach to address both environmental and social concerns through its various initiatives.

2: Council for Textile Recycling (CTR)

The CTR aims to divert textiles from landfills by promoting recycling and providing resources for finding local recycling centres. The Council for Textile Recycling (CTR) is a non-profit organization that focuses on promoting sustainable practices within the textile industry, including recycling, and reducing waste.

They aim to create awareness about the importance of textile recycling and its environmental benefits, working towards a zero-textile-waste future.

Local recycling centres

Contact your local recycling centres to inquire about their textile recycling programs and procedures for dropping off old socks and underwear.

Crafting and DIY Projects

Creative repurposing of old socks and underwear can turn them into useful or decorative items, reducing waste and fostering a sustainable lifestyle.

Cleaning cloths

Cut up old socks and underwear to create reusable cleaning cloths, reducing the need for disposable paper towels and lowering your carbon footprint.

Pet toys

Craft simple pet toys from old socks and underwear, providing your furry friends with hours of entertainment while giving new life to otherwise discarded items.

Upcycled clothing items.

Transform old socks and underwear into accessories or other garments, displaying your creativity and commitment to sustainability.

The Ending:

Donating and repurposing old socks and underwear can have a meaningful impact on our efforts to live sustainably and reduce our carbon footprint. By taking action and making conscious choices, we contribute to a greener and more responsible future.

Remember, every small step counts when it comes to sustainability. So, the next time you find yourself with old socks and underwear, consider these donation and repurposing options to make a positive difference for both the environment and those in need.