So, how have you been?

Oh hi there!

For someone who self-identifies as a writer, I've not been very good at tapping the keys in the direction of this here blog. My apologies. It's been something of a whirlwind since last we spoke. I left my previous job, which was a yuge deal. My friends gave me the most wonderful send-off, and it would be remiss of me not to acknowledge them here. So, thank you Casswinder, Sarwah, Dixsitta, C-Ry, my Obs homies, and everyone who dropped in or sent lovely messages. It was a beautiful day that warmed my heart more than I can adequately express. It's been less than two months, but it feels like a lifetime ago since I left; and whilst I certainly miss the people, I don't miss the job. It was the right decision in March, and remains the same now.

I've also been on holiday, ain't I? The fam took a trip to Florida, which was beaut as always. Classic Calamity Jen occurred though, obviously; there was a heatwave (in an already sweltering destination, I know), in which temperatures sailed far beyond the mid-30s (plus humidity), and your jolly pale narrator developed heatstroke. Outstanding effort. I was fine for the first week, then became a bit over-confident and sat out for too long on a blisteringly hot afternoon. When I eventually decided to go inside for a reprieve, there was a lady being treated for heatstroke en route (she was OK though!), and I thought wow good decision Jenwah, you have been saved from the fate of Icarus. Unfortunately, the following morning it hit me. I've been to Florida nine times; almost every time I've been sunburnt, had a couple of dodgy tums, but I've never had heatstroke. And I've been in July. So I think there is some truth to the idea that after your first proper heatstroke, you're a bit more susceptible to it. Thanks for that, Frisco. Actually, it was my own fault. Sitting on an open-top bus for a couple of hours in (another) unexpected heatwave wasn't the best choice. Learn from my mistake, lads. Respect the sun and stay hydrated innit. And forgive me if I don't fancy events that involve heat and/or sun; I'm not being a brat, I'm just a bit tired of feeling faint for a couple of weeks afterwards. Icy bants? I am THERE. Anyway, aside from the heatstroke, I had a lovely time! I was apprehensive about visiting Trump's America, but I didn't notice much of a change. Saw a couple of Trump/Pence signs, that was about it. I had a brilliant conversation with a skycap just before we flew home; he assured me that there were less than four years to go, and everything would be put right. I hope for his sake that his prediction comes true.

As well as all of that excitement, I turned THIRTY at the end of May. When I turned twenty, I was thoroughly disgruntled with the apparent loss of my youth. At this milestone, I feel completely different. It has restored my hope, given me new focus, and re-affirmed the faith I have in myself to implement the changes that I want in my life. I'm also trialling the command to 'respect your elders', to limited success. I will persevere. I had a fabulous celebration with my close family and best friends on the day, and I've been thoroughly spoiled with presents and bougie dinners ever since. I am very grateful for all of the time and effort that has been showered upon me.

Since leaving my previous job, I have found my way into freelance writing. It was almost by chance; I'd joined a freelance platform and secured my first job, a small data entry task. The person who hired me checked my profile and found that I am a writer, then offered me a regular writing gig. In the words of Terry Tibbs, I couldn't fackin' believe it. I'm just starting out, so I have to be realistic about my hourly rate, but I'm being paid to build a portfolio, which is a hard thing to come by, so I am bare haps. The people I work with are also really kind and give great feedback; for example, on Friday I was told I am a 'copy wizard', which was a lovely boost, and got me thinking about whether I can deduct a wizard costume as a business expense. I'll keep you posted.

Aside from all of that, I am trying to get to grips with the healthy vibes. My mind is starting to feel rested, and sincere happiness on a regular basis is beginning to creep in. I haven't done a great deal of exercise since I came back from Florida, and if I'm completely honest, I've been a bit apprehensive about overheating and taking steps backward in terms of heat tolerance. But I have to try to get past it. One thing at a time. Right now, I'm re-focusing on getting my eating right. During the weekdays, I'm doing much better. It's in the evening, whilst I'm waiting for my parents to come home so I can serve dinner, that Mr Snack and the Snackettes start calling out to me with their siren song. I'm finding the Instagram account to be helpful in terms of accountability, however, and I'll be uploading my second vlog this week. The first one can be found here.

So, that's me! Very nice to be back. Jah bless!

Peace x