meanderingthoughts

[meanderingthoughts]

Self-love and meditation.

So it’s long been known that the ancient practice of meditation helps with calming ones body and mind. It’s possibly been around for approximately 7,000 years according to records. And its an important spiritual practice within Hinduism and later Buddhism. In the 1960s with the rise of alternative lifestyles, this ancient practice started to take hold in Western culture, most importantly for stress reduction and personal growth.  In this fast growing society where jobs, money and status are becoming more important, people are looking for these types of practices again to destress in a stressful society. Everywhere you look you’ll see meditation classes, Yoga classes and books on mindfulness. With mental health on the rise many people are looking to a lifestyle that can help with that. Particularly this year where we don’t know what’s around the corner mindfulness can only be a massive positive. If you’ve read any of my previous blogs you’ll know that I have suffered of GAD (generalised anxiety disorder) for many years. This year I also suffered a breakdown in which I had a brief period of intense depression. Like many people I didn’t seek the help I needed (and it was during the height of the pandemic) but I have come out the other side feeling better but a little worse for wear. Although I’m a massive supporter of medication for mental health I haven’t yet gone down that road. So I have been looking at ways I can help myself. So what can we do to help ourselves? Well there are things that would make my life a lot better right now but those are long term goals including returning to college and finding a career that I enjoy. But recently I have been told a few times that I should practice self-love. I’d been told that it was different to self-care but to me it sounded a bit egotistic. As I looked into practicing self-love I soon realised that I haven’t practiced it at all. During my breakdown I believed I was worthless and I couldn’t seem to do anything I enjoyed. Even going out in nature didn’t make me happy. I blamed myself for everything that happened in my life this year and didn’t like myself at all. Self-love is the complete opposite. It’s about our wellbeing and to accept ourselves. Often we will help others and love others but without actually liking ourselves very much. It can be something as simple as take an hour away from others to read our favourite book, eat and drink healthily or practice mindfulness.  Insight Timer A week a go I decided to download the app Insight timer. It’s one of the biggest free mediation apps. You can pay extra but from what I’ve seen there are a lot of good stuff on the free app. I’ve only previously done a few short guided meditations via free ‘Calm app’ videos. But I have decided to try and use Insight timer regularly to see how meditation can help anxiety. There are short guided meditations, longer ones, calm music, meditation for parents, for sleep and for mornings. I’m yet to do them but there are guided courses on anxiety, stress and gratitude. As a beginner I have been using shorter guided gratitude meditations.  But the question is has it helped me? Ok so I think most people are a little bit dubious about things like meditation or yoga if they have never done it but I honestly think it has helped. So my main physical symptom of anxiety are palpitations and panic attacks. I still have been having palpitations but I think they have lessened particularly in the first 2 days although they have returned. I have been finding that I’ve been able to concentrate less as time has gone on but I have just started a 10 day free course that insight timer has included for beginners in mediation. The teacher said that it’s quite common to feel agitated and have your mind wander when you’re a learner. I’m going to persist as I’ve felt that some of my physical anxiety symptoms have lessened. I would definitely suggest downloading Insight Timer for people learning meditation.  What can you do to practice self-love? Read a book, turn off your phone, meet your friends, hike, photography, meditation, exercise... The Insight Timer website is https://insighttimer.com/ Or search for it at the app store. Remember you can find me on Instagram and twitter. For more on mental health and well-being follow: https://www.instagram.com/positivemeanderings/ For more of my general photography: https://www.instagram.com/_meanderingthoughts_/ And for my meandering tweets: https://twitter.com/_Meanderings_ Vicky//Meandering Thoughts

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Being our real self.

Recently I was watching youtuber Nathaniel Drews latest video and it really resonated with me. Ok so most of his videos resonate with most of us but over the last week I’ve seen a post from well-being queen Fearne Cotton about a similar subject as well as Nathaniel's video. Either everyone is going through the same problem as me or things are just drawn to you when you need them the most. So a little background, Fearne Cotton posted an instagram post (see link) she talks of letting go of how people see you or even who you think you are. I’ve recently been feeling like a lot of people are seeing me in a certain way. To some I’m seen as this helpful and nice person but in the same instance those same people will suddenly see me as a horrible person if I speak up for myself. To some I feel like I’m seen as lazy and uneducated. If those same people asked my background they would know that I have a good education and I am not lazy. I spoke up against my transphobic and homophobic ex friend and to her I was seen as a horrible person. People will always see us in their own way, whether they’re right or not is another matter. We need to let go of who people think are and even who we think we are to become our real selves.                                                                                                                   Almost as a continuation of how I’ve been feeling, Nathaniel Drew posted a video talking about being our most authentic self. He talks about putting out our energy out there to receive the same energy back from people who actually wants to be in our lives. This year I’ve questioned more than ever whether I should change myself to fit other peoples ideas of who I should be. Maybe if I designed myself to become a certain type of person maybe my social circle would expand. Following my breakup this year I was becoming someone I didn’t recognise anymore, for a while I thought maybe I could become the person my ex wanted me to be so they would stay. But like Nathaniel talks about, we shouldn’t try and force people to be in our lives. If we pretend to be someone we’re not or force friendships and relationships to happen then we will just get fake friendships and relationships back.

An example. I recently went on a date, when we met up she seemed like a nice person but equally I could tell we had nothing in common. And I know opposites can attract and I hate to judge, but straight away I felt like I had to be someone I wasn’t. She had said she was ‘raised to speak the queens English’. Her family had clearly come from a good background and she had probably had more opportunities than I had. In some way I felt I that I was being judged too. It didn’t make me less intelligent than her or make me more stupid because of my accent but I felt the entire time that I would have to pretend to be some different than who I was to go on a second date or start a relationship. I don’t want to fake being a different person. I want to meet people who likes me for me. I’m not saying we shouldn’t change at all. I believe we should change, we should learn, expand, progress and evolve but we should never compromise who we are. The things that make us tick. Our passions and hobbies and personalities. I don’t want to be with someone who I have to fake my accent for or pretend I don’t find silly fart jokes funny. I want to find people who understand me and who want to be with me because they actually like me and not because they think they like me and vice versa. If we put our real selves out there, people who are meant to be in our lives will be there. Remember you can find me on Instagram and twitter. For more on mental health and well-being follow: https://www.instagram.com/positivemeanderings/ For more of my general photography: https://www.instagram.com/_meanderingthoughts_/ And for my meandering tweets: https://twitter.com/_Meanderings_ Vicky//Meandering Thoughts

[meanderingthoughts]

Turning a new page.

It’s been a while since my last post. In fact I took a 2 week break from almost all social media platforms which was a week longer than my previous blog post about taking a break. It was a much needed break for my mental health. As my previous blog post about the subject matter, social media has been proven to be addictive and is actually designed to be that way. I don’t want to quote any science I am unsure of but getting a like or a comment or followers will makes us happy for the briefest of moments. Social media is also linked to a decline in mental health, people are more anxious about succeeding in life by seeing posts of their peers doing exciting things (as the young ones say FOMO) Social media has been cause of breakups, arguments and disagreements as I am only too aware of. I have taken a break and have come back in a better frame of mind. I have been working on certain things that has happened in my life this year. Truthfully my mental health is currently in a better place than it has been in the last 7 months of this year. I am feeling much more like myself and for the first time this year is feeling a little more positive about things. I’m enjoying doing hobbies that I haven’t felt like doing for a long time and watching shows I haven’t felt like watching. But I need to be mindful to continue working through things and not letting myself slip so far again. If you feel like social media is becoming too overwhelming and making a negative impact on your life please make sure you take a break away from it whether for the short term or longer term. I have decided to start certain areas afresh which has included deleting my old twitter account that had way too many unwanted memories attached to it and starting a brand new one. And also having a definite theme to write my blogs on which will continue to include LGBT+ subjects, travel and mental health and wellbeing. I’m looking forward to working on my blog, writing and photography again. I have some ideas that I hope you will enjoy reading. Thanks for sticking with me. Remember you can find me on Instagram and twitter. For more on mental health and well-being follow: https://www.instagram.com/positivemeanderings/ For more of my general photography:https://www.instagram.com/_meanderingthoughts_/ And for my meandering tweets: https://twitter.com/_Meanderings_ Vicky//Meandering Thoughts

[meanderingthoughts]

My coming out story...

It’s certainly a little different around the world for pride month this year. Parades have been postponed until next year, glitter is being kept stored away and rainbow flags seem to have a different meaning these days. I have shared some fairly personal stuff through my blogs including about my mental health but I think this is possibly the most personal yet. I wish I could say that my coming out story is one of inspiration but unfortunately it’s probably the most boring coming out story ever! I originally wrote my coming out story for Start the wave website (an organisation created by Dominique provost Chalkley) but it wasn’t chosen to feature so I thought I’d share it with you now. So I guess I’ll start near the beginning... I wasn’t really interested in dating when I was younger. My friends were more interested in dating each other whilst I was more interested in playing computer games and going to gigs. I had “crushes” on some of my fellow classmates or of Charlie from Busted (2000s pop band for all you youngsters) This was pretty much how I felt right up until college age. I was also an incredibly quiet person too so I never wanted to embarrass myself if they said no if I asked them out. Any “crushes” I had at college were more interested in my friends than me. It’s funny how all my crushes seem to be on guys. Maybe this was me trying to fit in or maybe I really just wasn’t interested in dating. Looking back at my teenage years there were lots of signs of how I really felt but being the quiet girl I was I never acted on how I felt.  The moment I realised I like girls too...I think some people that are attracted to the same sex will have that moment where they’re watching a TV show and they suddenly realise they don’t fancy the character they’re supposed to fancy. Well that was me! I remember watching Neighbours when the Sky and Lana storyline came on, I was about 13 and I loved the storyline. And being obsessed with shows and storylines like Sarah and Zoe storyline in Hollyoaks, Hex with Jemima Rooper (who is still awesome) playing a lesbian character and I was completely obsessed with Naomi and Emily in Skins (I was around 18 and as I was still not out at this point, I remember watching it on my TV away from my parents) I was also split between fancying both Edward and Bella (Kristen Stewart all the way now) It’s always funny looking back now. And also how many of you would talk very loudly over a gay scene so your family didn’t think you were very very gay? Yes you over there... Youtube helped me become who I am...In my early 20s I used to go on a lot of nights out, I would sometimes chat to guys at clubs but I would really be more interested with talking and dancing with girls (unfortunately I wasn’t very successful in chatting anyone up. You have to remember that I’m that awkward quiet girl haha) I remember I was ill for the week so I spent the week finding out about youtubers, I fell into the world of lgbt+ youtubers like Rose and Rosie (who I still watch now) Jelly and Day, Ellosteph, Alayna (missFenderr) to name a few. I think this was the point after watching so many inspirational people that I accepted that I was attracted to guys and girls and I started to identify as Bisexual.  The first time I came out...I remember the first time I came out at 23. I dragged my friend along to pride night at the local clubs as I wanted to experience a ‘gay’ club for the first time. I told my friend at the time I was bisexual and it felt great to tell someone. Also my first pride night I felt so happy to be amongst so many people who were comfortable about who they were. The second time I came out...I wasn’t so successful in the dating scene as I’d been happier going out like most young adults than dating so I decided to join the dreaded dating site. I first started looking on the guys side. I met some lovely guys (I may have to do a whole new blog about my experience on dating sites!) but I didn’t really click with many of them. Eventually I decided to delve onto the lady side of the dating site and guess what? It was even harder to meet anyone on that side! I actually went on my first date with a girl when I was about 25. That same year I went to pride with my sister where I got the courage to come out for the second time! (My sister told me that she had wondered if I was gay. Apparently the plaid shirts, Lynn Gunn posters and Tegan and Sara albums must have been a massive giveaway) The third time I came out...Not much really happened between 25 and 27. I was out and proud online and dating sites but dating sites became boring and I was meeting people I just never connected with. I was about to give up, one guy had left about an hour into the date and then ghosted me never to be seen again. I was getting fed up! I logged on after I came back from holiday and went back to the women's side of the site. Just as I was about to give up, I started chatting to a girl. I was still not out to everyone yet so I just told my parents I was seeing a guy from the site. I finally met with this girl and we just clicked and it went really well. I started dating the girl and it really wasn’t fair on anyone to keep it secret anymore. Funnily enough it was around pride time again and I remember leaving a note for my parents to read but they hadn’t found it so when I came home I had to tell them face to face. I’m not sure about anyone else who has come out but it really is like having a weight lifted when this happens, it’s weirdly very emotional too. I wasn’t sure why I was so worried about coming out to them at all. (My dad had also guessed I might have been gay. Everyone apparently knows before you do!) Older, wiser, happier...No one told me that you will have to continuously come out your entire life. From work to new friends to relatives you haven’t seen in a really long time. I have also alternated how I identify myself, from bisexual to pansexual back to bisexual to pansexual to gay and lesbian. But you know what sexuality is fluid and love is love. I don’t think anyone who hasn’t needed to come out realises what it’s actually like and this short blog doesn’t cover half of how I felt or what the LGBT+ community feel. It’s such a personal part of who you are as a person and whether you come out when you’re young or an adult, quickly or over the years or whether you only discover that part of yourself when you’re in your 60s, you are all valid. Remember to never feel forced to come out, especially if it’s not safe and remember that nobody has the right to out you! Last year I walked in the pride parade with my mum. Pride has definitely been an important part of my life and I look forward to going again next year when it’s safe for us to go.  Happy pride month everyone! Vicky // Meandering thoughts Find me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/MeanderingVicky   and Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_meanderingthoughts_/ .

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Things I have learnt whilst in lockdown

Billions of  people over the last few months have been in what has essentially been ‘house arrest’. We’ve been told not to see loved ones, go to shops in fact everything we thought we knew has been turned upside down. So as things are slowly returning to some sort of ‘normal’ I list what I have learnt during the last few months.  Buying cheap doesn’t always mean not buying quality: As we were told the only shops we could go to were essential shops I have found the only place I’ve been able to buy what I need from is the humble supermarket. I have needed to buy toothbrushes, mouthwash and other products. Normally I would buy a little a little dearer and shop around but as we have had limited shops I have purchased supermarket own brand mouthwash and toothbrush. And verdict? Well my teeth haven’t fallen out and I actually think they are better than my more expensive purchases. During shopping trips I have been shopping once a week for all food and also buying in bulk such as larger boxes of cereal etc. I definitely think this is something I will continue doing. Some cheaper products may not be good quality so it’s about trying it out and seeing what works for you. Human contact: I’m an extroverted introvert. I thought I wouldn’t miss talking to people and would be quite comfortable in staying at home but actually I really miss it. I miss not feeling like I have to stand 2 metres away from everyone and worrying if I chat to anyone they could be giving me the virus or I them. Family and friends: I have been lucky (or unlucky) to be able to live with my parents as I know so many people have been living alone. I however haven’t hugged my nan in 3 months and I miss seeing her. I haven’t got many close friends anymore (so lonely, ever so lonely) so that haven’t been too much of a problem but I guess I miss the idea of being able to message some of them and meeting for a drink and catch up. I don’t think I will take seeing people for granted again. Shopping: I love trawling charity shops for clothes, books and entertainment but as they have all shut I have been stuck with what I have. And guess what? My clothes haven’t fallen apart, I’ve only read 2 books in lockdown and haven’t watched much at all. It’s fun to find things we think we need to buy but actually most of what we do buy is unnecessary. Finding new hobbies: Most people seem to have taken up baking banana bread. Well I’m rubbish and baking and I hate banana in food but I have taken up a few different hobbies. I am growing some lavender seeds and I have done some decorating of my bedroom. I have started listening to podcast which is something I’ve never done before. These hobbies also help distract us and help our mental health which leads on to my next one...

Keeping a check on our mental health: I think most people have had an existential crisis at least once or even twice during this period. I have spoken quite a bit about mental health as it’s something close to my heart and something I continue to struggle with. At the start of lockdown I was fine, really reasonably happy. As time went on I went through the process of worrying I was going to die or my family from covid. I then went on to checking continuously the news for the latest about covid. Something more personal to me is that I had a breakup at the start too. For me I took the breakup hard. It was unexpected and something I didn’t want. 2 weeks into lockdown all these fears and anxieties of the pandemic, the breakup and other personal problems hit me like a truck. I fell into a deep pit of depression and anxiety which I was finding hard to climb out of. 2 months since that mental health episode I’m ok. I’m still struggling with my continuous anxiety but I’m ok. I shouldn't have let myself fall so hard and I learnt that keeping our mental health in check is so important. Keeping our physical health in check: The flipside of mental health is physical health. We know that good physical health means a better immune system and better mental health. The stats tell us that most people going to hospital with covid have health problems like diabetes and heart problems. Also other factors that could lower our immunity is our weight and lack of healthy food and vitamins. I have taken the time to do exercise everyday, take vitamins and try to walk as much as possible. I have even lost half a stone since being in lockdown. I do know that some healthier and younger people have been taken ill with covid so that leads onto my next part... Keeping things in perspective: As in a previous blog I spoke about how much I was overwhelmed by information. My fear of getting really ill overtook my need to keep my anxiety in check. But we need perspective. Facts tell us the truth and we need to stick to that.

Ok so those are a few things I have come to realise and learn whilst in lockdown. Although things won’t be completely normal for a little while yet (although it could be sooner than we think if the vaccine news is anything to believe) I think we need to start learning now not to take things for granted. When choices are taken away or family are parted from us, when it feels like the darkest times we’ve gone through, we need to reflect on this time and learn from this and take this with us into the future. Continue staying safe my friends. Vicky // Meandering thoughts  Find me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/MeanderingVicky    and  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_meanderingthoughts_/ 

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How my relationship with social media has changed

Hey, if you’ve only just read this blog then this is a follow up to my last blog which you should check out. Just over a week a go I decided to do a social media ‘detox’. I use quotation marks because it wasn’t a full blanket ban on the internet at all. I chose certain areas of the internet that I often found increased my anxiety. In my case that was twitter and news websites. I found myself scrolling for endless and usually bad news particularly on covid. For someone else their anxiety might be triggered by seeing pictures of people with perhaps what is conceived as a ‘better’ body or house on Instagram or a YouTube video about someone with the ‘ideal’ life.  So since my last blog I haven’t touched twitter or news sites that was triggering my anxiety. I have watched brief news headlines on the tv but that was it. I did however continue to use Facebook, YouTube and Instagram. I can’t say all my anxiety disappeared by stopping using these sites as a previous blog I describe GAD (Generalised anxiety disorder) as something that just moves from one thing to another without any rational reason. So I have experienced anxiety for different reasons but in connection to social media it has definitely decreased. I have found myself feeling almost ‘normal’ in relation to the pandemic situation although obviously maintaining social distancing etc. I’ve been able to concentrate on other tasks that I hadn’t before and I have taken up doing some exercise and have started listening to podcasts in my down time whilst enjoying this lovely weather. The podcast I’ve been listening to has been Fearne Cottons ‘Happy Place’ (https://podfollow.com/happyplace/view) which touches on subjects such as mental health.  I think our relationship with the internet and in particular social media can change for the better. I was becoming so obsessed with checking the news it was making me depressed and anxious, unable to think about anything else. With twitter I know I can use it to make my friends and followers aware of my new blogs and contacting people or even celebrities without overusing it. I have however found it kind of weird how out of touch you become without scrolling through the news. The last week I have briefly seen news bulletins, particularly for my local area but I have been out of touch with some of the bigger news. The recent events in America I’ve had to actually inform myself of what has been happening as I wasn’t really aware of how big the situation has gotten or even what had happened. Usually with my scrolling through twitter I would have normally been aware of things happening immediately.  Usually I would take a detox from the internet whilst on holiday where there isn’t any internet so it has been quite hard to avoid using certain sites when we carry around our phones everywhere. Once I have gotten into the pattern of not scrolling endlessly and only using certain sites I have found it quite easy to continue. I have been informing myself on the news both around the world and locally but not as much as I had been and again only checking the local newspaper once this week and watching the main news headlines once a day as it’s important to know what is happening. I’d definitely recommend cutting down on sites that maybe make you feel angry, jealous or anxious without completely avoiding it. Find out how you can use social media effectively and not negatively. As it is the start of June that means it’s the start of Pride season. Despite most pride events being postponed until next year I will be hopefully be posting some pride inspired post in the next couple of months.  Until then stay safe and remember it’s important to speak out against any prejudice or discrimination. Everyone should want equality. Vicky // Meandering thoughts Find me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/MeanderingVicky    and   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_meanderingthoughts_/ 

[meanderingthoughts]

Our relationship with social media and the internet

Social media is something that has made a huge impact on every single one of us from the days of Myspace to the recent surge of people using platforms like tiktok and Instagram. People have used it for good and have used it for bad. We use it to find out the latest events being held in our towns, to make friends, to reconnect with old friends, to find partners and to learn new skills. We have also used it to belittle other people, to argue, to make underhanded remarks and sometimes just to be nasty because we can. I use ‘we’ as a general we as I know many people that don’t use it for the latter. Perhaps without even knowing it we have made ourselves feel bad, we see someone we once knew posting about their wedding, house, job and new baby (I have been guilty of this) and have the rising jealousy overtake me, I know I should feel happy about my old friend doing so well but I can’t help that little green monster creeping up on me telling me that it’s simply not fair. Perhaps those people may look at my Facebook and think ‘wow look at all the holidays she goes on she has an amazing life’ without ever seeing the story behind it. I for one have lost friends through social media, an argument that escalates (you know the ones) friends take sides and messages are exchanged without ever leaving the living room or seeing each other face to face. I’ve even seen relationships fall apart on social media. On Instagram people are using it to compare lives, bodies, who has the best house, who travels to the best places. On twitter people use it to argue with each other or to troll someone because it’s easy to do that kind of thing behind the computer. Yes social media can be used for good but it can also be used for bad to. There’s a love/ hate relationship we must balance when it comes to our use of the internet and our time spent using it.  I have never balanced the line of using it myself and with the current crisis, more than ever I am using it in a way that is triggering my anxiety. I am continuously checking twitter for updates on covid-19 or news websites. For every positive news I hear about the reducing number of deaths or the news about the vaccine I search for bad news about how many people my age have died or that the vaccine trial has not been successful. Of course comes the curse of unverified news and ‘fake’ news. Only the other day I saw an article stating that the Oxford vaccine trials were unsuccessful or that the first participant had died. In fact neither were true. The participant is still alive and although the trials of the vaccine didn’t prevent the monkeys developing covid it did in fact prevent pneumonia and reduced the worst of the symptoms greatly which is a success in itself. In fact they are now moving onto the next trials and have done a deal with a major pharmaceutical company. Social media and ‘false’ news can greatly damage our mental health. I recently watched a video by youtuber Matt D’Avella about his use of social media. Unlike Matt I haven’t got a problem using sites like Instagram, in fact Instagram reduces my anxiety as I scroll through travel photos and post my own photos. I’ve never had a jealous mentality whilst using it. Another site that has helped me has been YouTube, I don’t think I would have never come out if it wasn’t for lgbt+ youtubers. Facebook is love/hate for me, I have deleted most negative people on there and now mainly uses it to keep in contact with people. Twitter on the other hand have provided countless anxiety from seeing post about the current covid situation to people arguing, I have even been trolled on there. So like Matt I will try for a week to stop using the internet to look for news and scrolling through twitter. I will try and cut time down on Facebook but will keep messenger, Instagram and YouTube as my main source of internet usage. It will be interesting to see if my anxiety gets better or worse. Maybe you can try and cut down on the parts of the internet that make you feel worse.  Why don’t you take the challenge? 1 week without one site or social media that makes you feel worse. Vicky // Meandering thoughts    Find me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/MeanderingVicky   and  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_meanderingthoughts_/ Find Matts video here:

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A worrying time

Everywhere you look at the moment all you see is bad news, deaths, illness and the corona virus. 2019 feels like a long time ago and I really wish that I had enjoyed it a little bit more. Currently we’re looking at least 2-3 months of disruption here in the UK (taking us up until the Summer). The good news is that China has seen a decrease in cases with more coming in from outside and many fewer deaths so at least there really is light at the end of this tunnel.

During this time it seems we’ve seen the best and worst in humanity. We’ve seen panic buying that have seen the vulnerable like babies and elderly go without formula and food. We’ve seen the best like the footage we’ve seen of people in Italy singing from their balconies. 

Facts and figures show that most people WILL be fine and something like 80% of cases will be minor with cold or flu like symptoms. Symptoms usually are a fever, cough and aches and pains. So I can’t stress enough that if you are not in a vulnerable group you will probably be fine. Buuuuutttt there are people around you that are in these high risk groups. I work in a care home so I know the importance of looking after anyone in a high risk group and would hate to think I was the person to take the illness into them and cause deaths.

I’m a sucker for social media and the news even though I know it will increase my anxieties, I think we can all exercise caution in what we believe. Look at official sites to find out the facts, I think this is something I will be doing in the future rather than stressing out about the lies.

So what can you do to help yourself and those around you?

As the new keeps telling you, “wash yo dirty hands”, for real it works. As someone with a slight cleaning ocd, I’ve been using hand gels and soap for years. During an outbreak at work of sickness and diarrhoea I was I think one of the few people that didn’t catch it. I hope this is down to wearing protective equipment and washing my hands. 

Be a pillar of the community:

There are people out there that will suffer at during this time. From people with health problems to elderly to people with businesses.

-If you think there’s an elderly person around your area that may need help, talk to them, give them your number. Remember that elderly people often can’t do online shopping or get out of the house. Loneliness is also a killer so a phone call might be just what they need. Also some people may need to get to the hospital for appointments that can’ t ride public transport for health reasons.

-Don’t panic buy! Ok so maybe we should all be buying an extra pack of paracetamol or tin of beans but leave food for those that might rely on it more than you. That old lady you see might only be able to get out of the house once a week to go shopping. Equally you could buy a little extra to give to someone in need. 

-Some places like care homes and health centres may suffer with this self isolation so ask your local care home what you might be able to do to help. They might call you in if staff are off sick. Some people like people with dementia and learning difficulties will rely on this help.

-Business will suffer during this time and jobs will be lost so do what you can do to help them. Smaller businesses will be hit as people concentrate mainly on big shops rather than casual shopping and so will small restaurants and pubs. The holiday industries future is in question. If you can safely go and support your smaller businesses by eating out maybe once in a while or if your holiday is cancelled maybe think about booking up again for a safer time. Chinese takeaways I heard took a big hit, remember you can’t catch it from food, only if it has been handled with unwashed hands. What to do during this time: Whether you have symptoms or not always follow your government guideline, this includes self isolating if you have symptoms for 7 days or 14 days if you come in contact with someone who has tested for Coronavirus. -If you don’t have symptoms you might want to try to carry on like normal but with a few extra precautions like hand washing, not touching your face and not going into busy places. But remember you can go out and safely and if you do fancy getting away from the large groups of people why don’t you go for a walk at your local beauty spot, you probably won’t come in contact with anyone else. -If you are self isolating get enough non perishable foods in like rice, tins and frozen foods. Unless you plan of having diarrhoea you probably won’t need anymore than 4 for the week. Buy in paracetamols that will lower your temperature and drink plenty. In ways of entertainment you can read, watch those tv box sets you’ve been planning to (watch Gentleman jack for the 1000th time) write a book, draw something, write a blog, do some housework or painting or gardening if you’re not in contact with anyone else. I hope you don’t read the scare mongering media during this time and take those small precautions all whilst living a fairly normal life. Being happy and healthy will mean your immune system works better too. Make sure you keep on top of your mental health during this very stressful time. Stay safe out there and keep others around you safe. Vicky // Meandering thoughts Find me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/MeanderingVicky and Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_meanderingthoughts_/

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Time to talk.

Hello *waves* Long time no see. I can’t believe it’s February already and with January behind us it’s time to get back to normal (except for those few chocolates you still have left over from the holidays.) These cold months can feel like they’re going to drag on forever so it’s no surprise that this time of the year is the time most people feel rundown, tired and often our mental health can get worse. During the winter months you may experience something called SAD (seasonal affective disorder) It is believed that the lack of sunlight in the winters shorter days can lead to a type of depression. And with the lack of seasonal cheer that you have during the holidays it’s not surprising that people can feel rather low. For me January was also very hard for multiple other reasons. So *knock knock* my old friend (or enemy) anxiety is at my front door. I have a type of anxiety called GAD (Generalised anxiety order) which will often mean I will worry more than the average person and can experience physical symptoms too like palpitations and sometimes dizziness. So most of the time I can handle the symptoms but sometimes it can be triggered and can get worse. So with GAD and SAD it’s not surprising that I’m feeling rather BAD. With February rolling around I’ve thought to myself why not start 2020 again! Not that January didn’t exist but I’m trying to learn rather than ruminate. I’m trying to ensure that positivity is at that top of my list, even on those days it doesn’t feel like it. I’m starting to write again, looking at some free online courses, reading more (particularly book that might help with learning new ways to improve my life) Decluttering and creating more clutter free spaces for my mind and body to feel chill in. It’s not a solution that will necessarily help long term or help everyone but it’s things that can help you and your mind feel more positive about life and to get through these cold months of the year. Without realising it as I write this new blog it is currently Minds #timetotalk day. If you feel like you can’t cope or need someone to talk to or feel like you have something beyond SAD then please find out who you can talk to. A start maybe your friend or parent or maybe a doctor. A doctor is a good place to start as they have information on groups and therapies as well as if you need it, medication. Never let anyone make you feel like you're a failure by talking about your mental health. Vicky // Meandering thoughts Find me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/MeanderingVicky and Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_meanderingthoughts_/

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The age of youtube

It feels like youtube has been around forever but it has only been around for around 14 years. It has made a huge impact on how we view things from how things like music charts, the 'ordinary' person becoming celebrities overnight, teaching us all sorts of things and giving people a chance to make money from their own brand. Youtubers with millions of subscribers and views can be little known to the general public but the rise of youtube has become more evident. We now see youtube stars joining the likes of strictly come dancing, having their own talk shows and presenting radio shows.

My taste in youtube has changed with my age. I started out by watching lots of comedy youtube channels and the lgbt+ community of youtube stars when I was younger and which became huge part of my coming out. These days however with the exception of Rose and Rosie (love these girls!) I generally watch  lifestyle and spiritual youtube channels alongside travel vloggers. I thought I'd share with you some of my favourites, some are little known and some are a little more established.

Lets start with Rose and Rosie...

As I have previously mentioned these girls are one of the only channels that I still watch from the first time I discovered 'youtubers' We have watched and followed their relationship from their dates to proposal to their wedding. Most people would agree that they are relationship goals. They cover all areas of youtube including a gaming channel, vlogging, Q & A's and talks about their own mental health. They have been on the up for many years with a book deal, shows and a film. Currently we're in vlogmas season and watching Rose and Rosie is a must, they still make me smile after all these years.

 Main channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/RoseEllenDix/

Vlogging channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/TheRoxetera

Gaming channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgno06EziR-pK7k90W76CHg

One of my favourite film makers has to be Arthur Moore. His videos are more like mini films and cover all matter of things including travel vlogs, videos in which he asks the public questions and videos that make you think about your life. One of my favourites is a video called 'Meeting my Shadow' where he discovers spiritual teacher Teal Swan. The video is beautifully filmed with a story of how Arthur rediscovers himself through Teal Swans shadow work teachings. My favourite part is where he shows Goa coming alive. It really is a video to start the year off with. Find it at ... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3HoE_PKlanc&t=637s

Arthurs main channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/ARTHURMOR777/

Recent find Bernardo Bacalhau easily has become one of my favourite travel vloggers. His videos are beautifully filmed using drones to show the beauty of his location. I would happily watch one of his travel videos over some BBC filmed documentary and he really is underrated with less than 60k subscribers. Discover his adventures at...

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGs1JjiRBEKMlVD4eUxJ2ww/featured?disable_polymer=1

Another recent find has been Skylife. Sky posts videos about wellbeing and health but what has caught my eye has been her documentary style videos on Hippies and witchcraft which I thoroughly enjoyed watching. She has previously worked with Buzzfeed and I think with peoples increasing want for mindful content she is someone to look out for and with only 60k subscribers I think that will soon increase.

Skylife: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCakmCJOK1gJFZS-lUF6xEiQ

These are only a few youtubers I watch, perhaps you might take time to watch some of their videos. What type of videos do you watch? Do you watch any of these youtubers?

Remember to try and support smaller content creators out there!

Vicky // Meandering thoughts

Find me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/MeanderingVicky and Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_meanderingthoughts_/

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Discovering Gentleman Jack

It's no secret that when the series Gentleman Jack made an appearance on our screens earlier this year Suranne Jones and Sophie Rundle carved 'A.L <3 A.W' on my heart. Many months later I found myself standing in Anne Lister's hall with Anne Lister herself looking down from her portrait which hangs high on Shibden. Shibden has become something of a pilgrimage for fans of the show and many LGBT+ people that the series resonated with. I made my very own little pilgrimage last month when me and my partner travelled the lengths of England to find ourselves in a town in Yorkshire that goes by the name of Halifax. I had a comment on ig where I had someone who had already visited Shibden not know that down the road is Anne Lister's final resting place and her famous diaries. I'm going to share a few little tips that made my trip all that more enjoyable.

                                                   Shibden Hall

The home of Anne Lister which features in the BBC series lay on the outskirts of Halifax, a 20 minute-ish walk uphill to the surrounding countryside leads to the famous estate. The estate itself is free to walk around and the price of entry to the museum is currently £8. It's very picturesque and features many of the original historical items. You feel as if you've entered a film set and photos are a must as Anne stares at you. Walk around some of the rooms used in the series as well as rooms such as Anne's bedroom that wasn't featured and walk in the footsteps of Anne and Ann as you walk around the estate.

Tip: We were told entry price includes a free return visit within the year. Take plenty of money for giftshop items (A Anne keychain currently watches me as I type this). Check if the hall is open or not as filming will be taking place for much of next year (currently Jun/July & Sept/Nov)

  http://museums.calderdale.gov.uk/               

                                              Bankfield museum

The Bankfield museum again on the outskirts of town currently holds many of the  costumes from the series. These includes Anne's famous hat and coat, her final episode winter outfit as well as their rings, Ann Walkers dresses and other characters costumes.

Tip: The costumes are currently on display until the 24th December 2019 but this has already been extended from October so keep an eye on the exhibition times. It is free entry but is closed Sunday and Monday. Again there are some Anne inspired gift shop goodies. Look around the rest of the museum too as it's very interesting.

                                               Halifax Minster        

This Minster is very close to the train station and a must but overlooked place to visit. It is the final resting place of Anne Lister and her family although there are disputes about exactly where she rests. The Lister vault, her tombstone and the font where she was baptised are still here.

Tip: Ask the people who work there for some information, the friendly man we had took us to the Lister vault and told us a little bit of information about where Anne is actually buried.

https://www.halifaxminster.org.uk/

                                                  Halifax library

Visit Halifax library to see some of the original diaries by Anne Lister. It's amazing to see some of the diaries she wrote that inspired our fascination with her now. Entry is free but it is closed on a Sunday.

Other places to visit...

As you are on the Gentleman Jack trail take a look at google maps to find street names that have been named after the Lister family including the road to Shibden which is called 'Lister's Road'.

I was lucky enough to see so much but even so there are some other places I didn't get to that you may want to visit...

Outside of Halifax you can also visit the Holy Trinity church in York which is a train ride away from Halifax. This is where Anne and Ann sealed their love for each other by taking holy communion together.

St Matthews churchyard in Lightcliffe is a few miles from Halifax. This is the place of Ann Walkers final resting place, sadly the church was demolished and not much remains of Ann's original resting place. Other names you might recognise who are buried here include the Sowdens. http://www.lightcliffechurchyard.org.uk/what-to-see/tour-1

This trip was very much about Anne Lister but being a fan of the Brontës I couldn't leave without visiting the village of Haworth and the famous parsonage where they wrote their most famous novels including Jane Eyre and Wuthering Heights. We took a mixture of trains and buses via Bradford but it is also only a short drive away for those driving. Haworth is picturesque and the museum is worth seeing for anyone who has ever heard of them. Many of the objects have returned back into the hands of the museum and the collection is extensive. Writing desks, first editions, letters, miniature books, funeral bracelets (made out of their real hair!) glasses, tables and sofas are just a small part of the collection. Tip: As with Shibden, entry price of £9 includes a return visit. The gift shop is extensive so save your pocket money! Also next door is the church where their father was a priest, the family except Ann are also buried in a vault at the right hand corner, the old school house is across the road and the pub where Branwell drank away his time is just down the road.

https://www.bronte.org.uk/

Also we unknowingly stumbled across the little village of Hebden Bridge on our travels which is also dubbed 'lesbian capital of the uk'.

The Bradford national science and media museum which is free is worth a quick look if you have any spare time!

I hope if you're planning a trip you might have got some tips from this blog and if you haven't already been you might be inspired to take a trip to Yorkshire.

Vicky // Meandering thoughts

Find me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/MeanderingVicky and Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_meanderingthoughts_/

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'Twas the night before Halloween...

...when all through the house not a creature was stirring except for a ghost'

It's the time of the year when ghouls and ghost wander the streets along with lots of hungry children dressed in bin bags masquerading as a witch cape (true story of a Halloween outfit I wore)

Have you ever been interested in the paranormal or do you hide behind the cushion at every unoriginal jump scene in a scary movie? In my last blog I described myself as someone who wants to believe but is also very sceptical. I've been lucky to visit a few of the UKs scariest locations, here's my run down of some of my unexplained moments along with some other locations you might want to check out...if you dare.                                       The Tower of London

It's hard to avoid this imposing historical building set alongside the Thames in London. The earliest part of the Tower dates back to 1078 and over the years have seen many an execution and an end to many a life. Some of the most famous ghostly occupants include Anne Boleyn, Lady Jane Grey and the Princes whose tragic tale ends with the supposed murder of two young princes. I've visited the Tower and didn't experience anything unusual but I wouldn't like to be locked up here at night like many of it's past occupants.

                                          Edinburgh Vaults

Edinburgh is one of the most gothic cities I've had the pleasure of visiting, it's history is dark and it is home to several places I would recommend any would be ghost hunter. One of the must do's is the Edinburgh vaults, it is split into several different parts, I took a tour with Mercat tours to explore this dark, damp underworld. It is made up of chambers below the arches of a bridge In the 18th century. It soon became a home to the poor, illegal activities and supposedly a spot for the infamous Burke and Hare, the body snatchers. Ghost walks run regularly and you can understand why when you delve into this dark world with the most famous resident 'Mr Boots'. Whilst I was visiting down there I was part of a large group that stopped for a talk. Whilst everyone was still and engrossed in the talk I heard definite footsteps behind me where there was no one! A few people in front of me turned around at the same time, did we hear the footsteps of Mr Boots?                                             Bodmin jail

Set in the town of Bodmin in Cornwall lies the gothic ruins of the 18th century jail. As you walk around the cold dark building its displays tell of executions and prisoners of the past. The execution pit you can see outside of the jail where over 50 people met their end by hanging after committing some heinous crimes. Whilst in one exhibit I felt something pull my hair not once but twice! I checked for cobwebs and any other evidence but I couldn't find anything. Was this the disturbed spirit of the young prisoner? I wouldn't visit here on my own. Bodmin moor is also close by which provides plenty of myths and legends as well as the famous beast of Bodmin.                                         Other places to visit...

Edinburgh Greyfriars Kirkyard: This most gothic of cemeteries lies in historic Edinburgh. Carvings of skulls and bones scatter the graves and bars prevent the 'resurrectionist' (exhumation of bodies for scientific use) of the past. The most famous spook being the Mackenzie poltergeist. Also Harry Potter fans should check out many of the graves that provided JK Rowling for names. Edinburgh Mary King Close: A very historical but eerie place to visit. This 17th century close is located under Royal mile and is also very close to the vaults. It was covered over during the building of the Royal Exchange above. It's said the a possible 300 were left to die here when it was bricked up during the plague. Tales of hauntings are abound including that of a young girl in which visitors are welcome to leave presents for her. This particular room was very cold. Is she still there?

Ancient Ram Inn: This 12th century Inn resides in Wotton-under-Edge in Gloucestershire. Many a ghost hunter have come here to discover why it is dubbed one of the UK's most haunted locations. It is certainly a creepy and atmospheric building. It is open to ghost hunts and occasionally is opened for open days.

Have you ever had a ghostly experience or visited any of these locations?

Happy Halloween!

Vicky // Meandering thoughts

Find me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/MeanderingVicky and Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_meanderingthoughts_/

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Spooky October

Ok it's no secret that I love this time of the year. What's not to like about crispy golden leaves, a slight chill in the air, hot chocolate and Halloween? Never mind the fact that 90% of my wardrobe is perfect for Autumn (flannel, flannel, beanie hat, flannel, hoodies)

Who else spends Halloween eating candy and watching Hocus pocus? I do! So this time of the year is mainly aimed at scaring you senseless, horror films are released, people willingly go to theme parks and horror mazes to get chased by people dressed as clowns and people dress up as zombies to go to local zombie walks. When it comes to the paranormal I have a love/hate relationship. I'd love to go on a ghost hunt but would be scared senseless if I saw anything. I also believe in some but not all evidence I've seen (a sceptical believer?) I also own a large amount of books on the subject but will equally point out the flaws in a paranormal series. I've had a couple of strange experiences whilst in haunted locations but not anything definite. I felt like I had my hair pulled in a 18th century jail and heard footsteps where there was no one walking in a famous haunted location in Edinburgh. Were these real ghostly experiences? I have no idea but they were certainly strange. Have you ever had a paranormal experience? In my next Halloween inspired blog I will share where I had my ghostly experiences and share some famous haunted locations you can also visit in the UK this Halloween. Vicky // Meandering Thoughts

Find me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/MeanderingVicky and Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_meanderingthoughts_/

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How to bring down the cost of travelling

It's no surprise that like most people I like to travel. Of course as most people know, travelling is not always the cheapest hobby. I've never spent out on some expensive ££££ break away. I've never travelled to a 5* hotel in Mexico or been on a skiing trip In France. On the flipside I've never camped or backpacked either. I like my comforts like a toilet and running water all whilst keeping the cost down as cheap as possible. Here are a few things I do to make my mid comfort breaks as cheap as possible. Go on holiday certain times of the year; ok so you might like your weather el scorchio and would normally book a summer break but simply moving to either side of the summer will significantly make your break away cheaper. The school holidays fall sometime in July/August and the prices basically double so if you can try booking in May or September. Destinations like Spain, parts of Greece and Turkey are all still pretty hot (although you make get some rain) and the price more than halves. Also places like the Canary Islands stay warm all year round. When to book: Everyone knows last minute deals can be some of the cheapest offers but also can booking as early as possible. You are often left with flight times and hotels you don't want when booking last minute but booking as soon as possible may also save you the £'s. Travel agents like TUI (RIP Thomas Cook) will try to give you offers to shift hotels and flights. Also if you book with companies like Easyjet prices fluctuate depending on demand. So if you've been waiting to book and then suddenly there's an event in the city you wanted to visit or a company like Thomas Cook collapses you will find your holiday has more than doubled to meet demand. Also Booking at the busiest times between initial sales and last minute bargains can be an expensive mistake. Holiday companies know most people will start booking after Christmas and in the Winter months! Self catering or All inclusive?; If booking a hotel I will often find self catering, all inclusive or half board the cheapest options. When booking B&B you will often not get the cooking facilities which will mean eating out every day. Going self catering will at least mean you get  some sort of cooker, kettle and fridge at basics. You can go to local markets to pick up fresh produce at a very cheap price and buy drinks in bulk from super markets. Always check out where the locals eat too, often you will get cheaper food that is often better than commercial restaurants. If it's a good price why not go half board or all inclusive? Half board you get breakfast and evening meals and All inclusive you get everything included. People who aren't so adventurous or have lots of people they are travelling with may find this overall the cheapest option as you're not constantly looking for somewhere to eat and some hotels really can provide good food on your budget. If you drink lots of alcohol again AI may work out a cheaper option, its all about looking at your budget. Less stars don't always mean bad service: When booking always check places like trip advisor for reviews as you might get an amazing price on somewhere to stay that might only have 2* More often than not the 2 or 3* hotels are just as clean and comfortable but you may not get a hairdressers or tennis court in your hotel. Go by real travellers experiences and bag yourself a bargain. Stay in your own country: Of course not everyone wants to travel abroad so why not travel around your own country. There are some beautiful locations around (check out my latest blog on Cornwall) and often you will just pay one price for the accommodation than per a person. You can camp, go to a hotel, stay in a Caravan, a chalet or hostel. There are lots of options. Check out big camp sites and agencies like Hoseasons (UK only) will give out offers different times of the year (for over 60s they sometimes offer money off). You can buy rail cards that will save on a 1/3 of travelling and booking coaches early will often make things a little cheaper. There are many ways of travelling on different budgets, I find planning can often cut down some of the costs. But always remember if you're in the UK to check that you're ATOL protected. You will only be protected when buying a package holiday (this means flight and accommodation) this can be with agencies like TUI or online with companies like Easyjet. And remember to always buy insurance when travelling abroad otherwise saving a few pounds on food might be the least of your worries. Travel safe and have fun. Vicky// Meandering Thoughts

Find me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/MeanderingVicky and Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_meanderingthoughts_/

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My adventures in Cornwall.

I've recently come back from visiting Cornwall. Its Britain's very own home of surfing and home to Poldark, Doc Martin, pasties and cream teas (depending on how you put your jam and cream on!) Some of you may have never visited Cornwall, some of you may have never visited England. Well on the far south west coast Cornwall lives. Cornwall has its own language and its own flag. In the hot summer months you could mistake its long stretches of beaches and rugged coastline being somewhere else other than England whilst it still maintains its distinct feel. Whether you're after one of Britain's very own surfing beaches like Newquay and the famous Fistral beach, famous myths and legends like King Arthur at Tintagel, the hip art community of St Ives or quant fishing villages like Doc Martins very own Port Isaac Cornwall has it all.

Beach after beach and cove after cove, you are never overcrowded in Cornwall with miles upon miles of sand and coastal walks (I couldn't even get signal most of the time, so if getting away from it all appeals to you, go to Cornwall!) It's a haven for British wildlife and you'll see seals in the harbours and some of the more exotic marine life migrating in certain months of the year. It's also home to the Cornish pasty (which is actually one of my favourite foods) which is a mixture of vegetables and meats inside of a pastry casing. And of course always check to whether you're in Devon or Cornwall when having your cream tea! Clotted cream is a must on your scone or if you're lucky on your Cornish ice cream.

Of course Cornwall has been gaining in popularity from shows like Doc Martin which is filmed in and around Port Isaac, Poldark which was filmed around Cornwall and most recently the film Fisherman's friends. (You can visit many of the locations dotted around the coast and inland.)

I love Cornwall and I know I will return as I have been for many years to come. If you can but haven't done so yet go and take a holiday there and check out the beauty that Cornwall has to offer. Vicky//Meandering Thoughts. Check out some photos from my recent Cornish adventure and more on my instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_meanderingthoughts_/

And check out more of Meandering thoughts on my twitter:

https://twitter.com/MeanderingVicky

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To all those friends I once had...

Isn't it strange that some people you once were close with are now as good as strangers and there are strangers that don't even know it yet but will play an important part in our lives. Its a fact of life that most people will have had a best friends at school. Those who are lucky still have them as friends whereas the rest of us will watch them post about their lives on Facebook without ever really acknowledging them ever again. We help them with their school work, gossip with them about their first relationships, we get drunk with them (of course when its legal) and they've probably seen you at your best and worst. And then suddenly those best friends just sort drift away. Sometimes its because of disagreements and arguments over something silly and sometimes you just both kind of grow up and grow apart.

Of course its not just school friends that make it onto the list of old friends. We make friends and acquaintances at uni, work and during activities we participate in. I look through old photos from work nights out where we've gossiped and got drunk together yet I'm lucky to get a smile if I see them now. Of course its not all a sort of nostalgia, there are some friends that we have chosen to cut. Some people in our lives are toxic for us and our wellbeing and despite the history we share with them its just sometimes best to drift away from them.

I look at old photos, see those Facebook posts from them about what they get up to now and I smile at a friendship I once had. In a world where its so easy to keep in contact we sadly often don't. But I look forward to meeting all those people that I don't know yet but I'm sure will play just as big part in my life as all those friends I once had. Follow me on instagram : https://www.instagram.com/_meanderingthoughts_/ Follow my meandering thoughts on twitter: https://twitter.com/MeanderingVicky

Vicky// Meandering Thoughts

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Meeting musicians and TV beginnings and endings.

Hey there. It's been a while, I've had a bit of a writing slump but I have rounded up a few things that have happened in the last week. First of all I met one of my favourite singers, Shura. With he release of her sophomore album she undertook an album signings tour, one of which I was able to go to. This was the first time I've seen Shura live as some reason or another I haven't been able to go to a live show so being able to go to an intimate gig like this was pretty amazing. I was able to get a spot at the front with my partner and afterwards we waited in queue to get the new album 'Forevher' signed and meet the lady herself. I was awkward in all sense of the word. I made awkward jokes about the naked ladies on the inside of the album (influenced by the art piece 'the kiss') and almost left my album behind! But Shura herself was lovely and allowed us to have 3 photos taken with her as well as talk to us (which believe me not all artists can be bothered to do). The album by the way is perhaps a little different from the first one (Nothings real) but has its own appeal. Its chilled out and relaxed and I could imagine myself sitting on a beach somewhere every time I listen to it. My favourite tracks are probably 'Skyline, Be mine', 'Princess Leia', 'Religion (U can lay your hands on me)' and 'Flyin'. I'll definitely try and catch her live next time she comes to my city. This week we also saw the end of Poldark and the start of new period drama based on the short unfinished Jane Austen novel, Sanditon. I've been an avid fan of Poldark since the start of the series in 2015. Having never watched the original or read the books I base my whole experience on the BBC series. The biggest surprise for me was George's redemption of being the unlikely hero of the show. It all ended very nicely with for the most part happy endings compared the rest of series 5. I was sad to see the show finish and hope the BBC ups its game on future period dramas whilst we wait for the return of Gentleman Jack. Sanditon was ITV's most recent attempt at a period drama. Having never read the book I have no idea of the storyline in which it is supposed to be based on. Having read some twitter comments following the show I fully agree with some of the comments of it being un Austen like and the music being very Gentleman Jack-esque. I also read that some of the historical facts were also wrong. I however have enjoyed it somewhat and will take it as it is which is something that is only based on a Jane Austen novel. I will continue watching it and see what else the show has up its sleeve. Vicky//Meandering Thoughts