TIME TO GETAWAY

I’ve been burning the candle at both ends lately and before I knew it life snuck up a little too quick and I found myself in need of a vacation. Well, actually it was kinda a ‘staycation’ because we didn’t venture too far. We packed up the car and headed to Lake Alexandrina in Milang for a getaway at the beautiful ‘Vintage Oar’ holiday house.

This long weekend wasn’t about ‘doing’ anything in particular, it was more about relaxing because sometimes we just need to take five and head away for a weekend to recharge. Am I right? ?

A few years ago I worked myself into the ground…well almost. I ended up having a burnout. I was exhausted, every cell in my body was exhausted. My brain didn’t function, I couldn’t speak and I cried, all the time.

I quit my job and after a short time out returned to part time work, vowing not to give away my power for the sake of a job.

I did ok, but after six months was hit for six with a cancer diagnosis. Long story short I came out the other side of treatment determined to live a ‘balanced life’.

I created a business (Styling Curvy) which feeds my soul, pays the bills and gives me life balance, winning right?!

I love my little business, I can literally work anywhere. In cafes, the car, on planes, in bed, hospitals…anywhere! I get out of the house every single day for a great cuppa, ocean views and adult conversation…sometimes tasty treats too (oh, ok. more than ‘sometimes’).

Life is pretty fantastic but occasionally I feel it spinning outa control as the work/life balance gets tipped a little in the wrong direction.

These days I recognise the ‘tip’ earlier….

?No energy
?Irritability
?Weight gain
?Tired eyes
?Anxiety
?Feeling overwhelmed by seemingly simple tasks

When these triggers rear their head I know it’s time to pull back a little and create some positive change.

Changes like…

✔️Clearing the crap from my diet
✔️Creating bedtime rituals around skincare
✔️Reaching for my essential oils
✔️Saying no to extra work
✔️Asking for help
✔️Booking a getaway

I’ve been doing all of these things. We order weekly from Hello Fresh to remove the strain of supermarket shopping and thinking about what to cook. My family need to eat every damned night, yours?

I also visit my local Endota spa monthly for some pampering and now religiously look after my skin at home. I even take my makeup off every single night and wear sunscreen every day? very grown up!

My essential oils might have others thinking I’m a bit woo-woo but I freakin swear by them, they help me to sleep, keep germs at bay and lift or calm my mood when needed. I’ve also been cutting some crap from my diet, like grains, and the changes to how my body feels were almost instant.

Oh, and the huz and I recently took off for a getaway with the fur baby for a long weekend. We packed up the car and hightailed it to Vintage Oar, but not before a late brunch in beautiful Stirling followed by some shopping.

A quick visit to 29 Milan for a mat and Pearle boutique where I picked up yet another clutch #addicted

Then finally we were in Milang, enjoying a spa and feasting while watching the glorious sunset. Vintage Oar is a four bedroom, three bathroom holiday home that comfortably sleeps 11 (plus portacot). The home is fully self contained and also boasts a fireplace, air conditioning, bbq, spa, 2 decks for entertaining and plenty of parking. The rear and front yards are separate and fully enclosed, perfect for kids and pets.

Harvey loved it!

The kitchen is huge and when Master 18 and his girl joined us for a night they took advantage of the dishwasher and the laundry amenities, hope that domestic enthusiasm keeps up at home!

Oh, and I loved the decor! Fresh, homey and not too prissy. I felt at home and comfortable enough to kick off my shoes and lounge around. And lounge around we did with long sleep ins, afternoon naps and even a long bath.

There was also daggy kitchen dancing, afternoon walks and visiting nearby towns. There’s plenty of wineries to explore and amazing food to be enjoyed in the nearby areas. On our last night we enjoyed our first BBQ of the season, is there anything better than the smell of a barbie and family chatter under a pink sunset?

Now I’m home and feeling refreshed, having a break has given me permission to slow down a little. The silly season is upon us, make sure you read the signs and take some time for yourself…you’re worth it.

What are your favourite things to implement when life feels unbalanced? Where was your last getaway to?

Til next time

Jen X

The lovely Bree kindly gifted our stay at Vintage Oar. I loved it which is why I share X