2024 year in review
This is a bit of a recap of 2024. I will be doing a YouTube video as well, so keep an eye out. This will just be the main highlights, the YouTube video will have a more comprehensive wrap up of 2024.
Don’t forget to check out my YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@rediscoverloz.
In January we had lunch with the family for Mum and Dad’s 70th Birthdays. It was also my birthday later in the month, and we had High Tea at the Camellia Gardens.
February I got my first tooth filling and a friend drew a picture of Nala, which was framed in March.
Nala framed
March was Easter. Although I did work, I got to have Easter Day lunch with my parents and sisters.
In May I went to Fiji for 5 nights. We had an absolute ball…. swimming and relaxing. Had cocktails by the pool, and read some books! There is a video on my YouTube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y759tBaIzuo&t=2s
I also went to Canberra for 3 nights, where I caught up with some friends, and went to a Christmas shop!
Fiji and the Australian War Memorial
In June, I went to the women’s soccer-Australia v China. I went with my sister and her family, and had a great time. I completed my Doula Course!
July was the month I finally relaunched my blog-the same one you are reading today! I also got my Death Doula Certificate.
In August, I did my 30 day blog challenge. We also celebrated the Horses’ Birthday, and I discovered Scaremail. Check out the link to my YouTube video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kA7f0eZUA00
The horses birthday and the soccer
In September, it was Nala’s 8th Birthday. The Nurses went on strike for better pay and conditions. We had a rally outside the NSW Premiers office! It was heaps of fun! I also went to a PINK AFTERNOON TEA to raise funds for breast cancer research. A friend of mine hosted and we had heaps of fun.
In October, I had a few medical things done, including an iron transfusion.
Pink afternoon tea and Nurses Strike
In November, I went on holidays to Mollymook for 4 nights. I went to Mogo Zoo, and a wine tasting at the local winery. I also spent the afternoon watching some live music at the winery.
In December, I saw the Wicked again-TWICE! I loved it both times! And both times was in Gold Class! In Gold Class you get reclining seats, and can order food and drink to come to your seat during the movie! I am not sure I will go back to a regular cinema!
We also had our Christmas Party at The Brass Monkey listening to a band-The Distractions. A couple of my workmates are in the band. It was a great night of fun and dancing. We even had dinner before the band.
We even had a Secret Santa at work-I got a kitten calendar, eye mask and some smelly stuff for my wardrobe!
I took my parents to see Wicked after Christmas as their Christmas Present. We were going to go to Gold Class but there was nothing available, so we had to “slum it” in a regular cinema!!! We did have lunch afterward at The Camellia Gardens. It was lovely!
So…. HAPPY NEW YEAR to everyone! I hope you have enjoyed the review of my year.
This is the link to my YouTube video
Christmas is coming
Christmas is less than a week away! I have Christmas Day and Boxing Day off.
I am pretty well sorted for my presents. I have wrapped the presents for my nieces and nephews. I just need to get something for my parents. They want to see the Wicked Movie, so I will buy them Gold Class tickets. We just need tp work out a day when we can all go.
I have Christmas Day and Boxing Day off. I am working most other days over the Christmas period. I don’t mind working!
I am going to my parents’ place on Christmas Day for lunch. My 2 sisters are coming with their kids. Hopefully it will be a good day. I bought my nieces and nephews books! I believe you can’t have too many books!
I have booked movie tickets for Boxing Day. I am going with 2 friends to see Wicked. This will be the 3rd time I have seen the movie! I am also going to get tickets for my parents for Christmas in Gold Class!
We had a SECRET SANTA at work! We drew name out of a hat, with a $20 limit. It was funny because the person I got to buy for also had me! I got an eye mask, a kitten calendar and a smelly thing for my wardrobe. It was so lovely.
I gifted her a tea cup and saucer and some tea. She loves tea!
my secret Santa presents
work christmas party
On Friday night, my work had our Christmas party.
It was dinner and a band at The Brass Monkey. It is an intimate venue where you can have dinner and watch live music. A couple of colleagues are actually in the band that played on Friday night…. The Distractions. They are a super cool band, covers from the 80’s/90’s era.
We all had a great time….dancing the night away. Dinner was an antipasto plate to share. For mains I had salmon, quinoa tabouli and garlic yoghurt tabouli. It was so delicious.
We had a great time dancing, and drinking! I was only drinking wine.
I had a great night. It was actually good to get out, as I am a bit of a home body!
why having a pet can transform your fitness, mood and health
This was written by Susan Peterson, her website is easytolovepets.com.
The benefits of having a pet extend far beyond companionship, touching multiple aspects of physical, mental, and emotional health. Owning a pet can positively impact everyday routines, encouraging an active lifestyle and fostering a sense of calm and connection. From improving mood to promoting healthier habits, pets play an invaluable role in enhancing the lives of their owners. Embracing the responsibility of pet ownership provides a pathway to a healthier, more balanced life. Here are some tips to get you started, courtesy of Rediscover Loz.
Image via Pexels
How Dogs Motivate Us to Move
When you own a dog, your daily routine likely includes several walks – actions that not only keep your pet happy but significantly enhance your physical fitness. The necessity to keep a dog active ensures that you, too, are engaging in regular exercise, which can improve cardiovascular health, aid in weight management, and boost overall energy levels. This routine creates a fitness habit that is both enjoyable and easy to stick to because it revolves around the well-being of your beloved pet. Furthermore, walking a dog can help you reach and maintain recommended physical activity levels effortlessly.
Social Encounters on Leash
Walking your pet does more than just exercise its legs; it also opens the door to new social interactions. As you frequent parks and walking trails, you naturally meet other pet owners. These interactions, while casual, can build a community and foster friendships centered around shared experiences and interests in pets, significantly enriching your social life. Pets can act as social catalysts, creating bonds between people who might not have otherwise met.
Serenity Through a Soft Touch
Spending time with pets has a measurable impact on reducing cortisol levels, easing tension and promoting relaxation. However, stress can also be felt by pets, especially if they sense unease in their environment. To maintain a peaceful atmosphere for both, consider establishing routines that support mutual calm, including quiet time and regular outdoor breaks. For pets that show signs of anxiety, consider working from home periodically or scheduling visits from a trusted pet sitter to provide added comfort.
Lower Blood Pressure, Happier Heart
The simple act of petting your dog or cat can have immediate health benefits, such as lowering blood pressure. This physical connection with a pet not only provides emotional satisfaction but also triggers calmness in the body, which can translate to better heart health over time. Regularly engaging in quiet moments with your pet can lead to long-term cardiovascular benefits. In addition, consistent engagement with pets can help you manage stress-related blood pressure spikes.
Companionship that Calms
Pets provide a unique form of emotional support that can dissipate feelings of loneliness and isolation. By offering unconditional love, pets become trusted confidants and companions. This emotional bond not only fills a gap in social interactions but also enhances psychological stability, offering comfort during times of stress or sadness. Their consistent presence serves as a source of resilience in challenging moments.
Mood Boosters at Home
The presence of pets in your life can increase levels of serotonin and dopamine – neurotransmitters that play a role in feeling calm and content. This chemical boost can significantly improve your mood, making everyday activities more enjoyable and life’s challenges more manageable. Pets inherently bring joy and laughter into your home, making them natural mood enhancers. Their lively energy often makes every day a bit brighter and more fulfilling.
Building Responsibility
Taking care of a pet instills a sense of responsibility and routine – especially for children! Regular feeding, healthcare, grooming, and exercise schedules for your pet require organization and commitment. This responsibility leads to a structured daily routine for you, promoting mental sharpness and emotional satisfaction in knowing you are caring for another living being. A strong sense of duty toward your pet fosters personal growth and self-discipline.
Integrating a pet into your life can lead to meaningful improvements in health, supporting a lifestyle that prioritizes fitness, emotional resilience, and happiness. The joys and responsibilities of caring for a pet encourage both stability and growth, enriching daily life in countless ways. As you continue to care for your pet, you’ll find that the bond between you fosters not just their well-being but yours as well, creating a shared journey toward a healthier life together.
Rediscover Loz is here to share tips and stories on wellness and weight loss. Feel free to reach out if you have any questions!
the wicked movie
On Saturday, I went going to see Wicked part 1 at the movies! I have booked GOLD CLASS at my local cinema. I went with a great friend.
I have seen the musical Wicked 5 times, it is my favorite! I was debating whether to see the movie…. but I was so excited I had to book tickets.
It was such a great movie, I loved it. I think I will see it again. It was great in Gold Class having reclining seats, and you can order food and drinks to come to to your seat at anytime in the movie. We just had some popcorn, and I had a glass of wine.
my hair ties, sorry the top one is upside down.
These are some hair ties I bought to wear. I wore the bottom one, and I gave my niece the top one, as she was going to the session after us with my sister.
I am for sure going again. I do think I have been doing the movies wrong though. Gold Class is the way to go! Only about 50 in the cinema, with reclining chairs. The only thing I wish I had was a blanket because I got a little bit cold. I guess with a movie at 2 hours 40 minutes that is expected!
I am trying to drag my parents to come and see the movie!
I am a Wicked freak…. It is my favourite musical!
holidays are ending
I have had 2 weeks off from work, and am back to work on tomorrow.
I went to Mollymook on the NSW South Coast for 4 nights. I otherwise relaxed at home. I went to Mogo Zoo, Cupitt’s Winery for a wine tasting and listening to music. A contemporary blues band called The Stayers were playing. They were fantastic!
I also went to Mogo Zoo which I wrote about in my last blog. The Airbnb I stayed at was great. I have linked the place I stayed at below.
I also have a room tour video on my YouTube channel if you want to check that out.….
Wallace Lane Mollymook
pictures of my holiday
Nala went to Caringbah Cat Hotel. I missed her while I was away, but happy to have her home!
So now it’s back to work! I have put in for holidays again in May 2025, but no plans have been made yet!
mogo wildlife park
So today I went on a trip to Mogo Zoo. It’s about a 45 minute drive (depending on traffic), or 64km. It’s not a huge place, and the animals have space to roam.
I have been there once before, but a fair while ago.
They have heaps of animals… giraffes, emu’s, kangaroos, lions, dingoes and meercats- plus a heap more! I loved all the animals!
I walked around to see all the animals, and listened yo a talk on the Lions they have there. A Mum and Dad, and 2 male cubs who are about 1 year old!
It was actually a nice day, I had a coffee while I was there and watched the silvery gibbons have a “fight”. This is a photo of what they look like.
I have some pictures which I will add below! I had a great day… and I will post some videos on my YouTube Channel in the next few days.
i have arrived at my destination
Yay, I have arrived in Mollymook! It tool almost 3 hours to get here! But I made it safe and sound.
The place I am staying at is fantastic. It’s an Airbnb-a studio apartment. I am so relaxed….. I can hear the waves from the beach where I am staying.
I have had a great time so far.
Please check out mu YouTube video of a tour of where I am staying!
my holidays have been good!
I am so excited to get away to Mollymook! I am spending 4 nights there. I have booked an Airbnb, with a pool! It’s about a 2 and a half hour drive from where I live. I go tomorrow (Friday).
I am hopefully catching up with a friend on Saturday. And have booked a wine tasting on Sunday, plus some time listening to some live music at Cupitt’s Estate! It’s a local winery. I have transport booked to and from!
I was also given a recommendation for a local coffee shop from a friend. I believe it’s the best coffee shop in Ulludulla!
I had coffee yesterday with a few work colleagues. It was great to catch up as there is 1 person we don’t work with anymore. There was also a pet food shop there….. and I got a sample as Nala can be fussy with what she eats. I was given a sample of chicken treats, and Nala actually loved it. So I will be back to buy some in the next week.
Nala is off to the Caringbah Cat Hotel this afternoon. She is there for a week while I am away! Hopefully she will enjoy herself, but I am doubtful! She is an “only child” who does not mix well with others!
Nala being crazy!
i am on holidays!
I am now officially on holidays! I have 2.5 weeks off work!
I am going to spend 4 nights at Mollymook in an Airbnb. I am super excited as it has a pool that I can use! And has a garden where I can pick organically grown vegetables and herbs! I will wait till I arrive at the property before deciding on what to cook!
It’s about a 2.5 hour drive from where I live. It is on the New South Wales South Coast in Australia.
I have booked a wine tasting at Cupitt’s Estate Winery. And there will be a live band in the afternoon. A blues band called The Stayers. I am so excited. I have booked a table for the afternoon, and have organized transport to and from the winery!
I was also given the name of a good local coffee shop in Ulludulla which I will have to check out.
Nala is going to Caringbah Cat Hotel! She is an only child, and doesn’t like socializing with other cats! But the Cat Ladies are lovely and take good care of her.
Nala at the Caringbah Cat Hotel.
I have a few appointments while I am off, so hopefully can get my life in order! I have a coffee catch up with an old work mate. But basically relaxing and doing some life admin.
And hopefully recording some YouTube Videos!
7 days in a row
I have just finished 7 days in a row at work! Well, I finished the 7 days on Sunday October 20. I had 3 days off and have been back a work for only Thursday and Friday.
I was so tired after the 7 days that I basically rested Monday and Tuesday. I was due to have some scans but rescheduled them.
On Wednesday I had an iron transfusion. I think I told you my iron was really low. There was a clinic close to home that I went to. The staff were great. I had to have an appointment with the doctor first to get the script for the iron, and the nurses did the transfusion. I actually knew the nurses from working in the hospital, so it was a great chance to catch up after many years! It actually made the hour go very quickly! They say it can take up to a few weeks for the iron to “kick in”. So will wait and see. No change at the moment but it has been 2 days.
I only did 2 days this week at work, and I have the weekend off.
I only have 3 days next week, then I am on holidays for 2 and a half weeks! I am happy for the rest, as haven’t had a break since May! I am away for 4 nights, but more about that in another blog.
I also want to try and do a few YouTube videos while I am off.
it’s time for an update
So, mt GP wanted to send me to see a cardiologist. When I called a week ago, the 1st available appointment was February 2025! But I actually got a call on Wednesday as they had a cancellation the same day! Of course I took the appointment! I had to have a cardiac echo and stress test. Everything came back normal which is reassuring.
The naturopath has given me some supplements to help with my liver, vitamin D and iron levels, and general wellbeing. Also, try to get some walking in as well.
I have to have a bone density scan as my vitamin D levels are really low! I am going to try the keto diet to help with my glucose and insulin levels. If anyone has any recipe or suggestions on what they eat let me know!
I only have another 12 working days before I go on holidays! My last day at work is October 30th, and I don’t go back until November 18th! I am going away for a few night, but also catching up omn some medical appointments!
going back to the naturopath
With everything that’s going on with my blood tests, I decided to go back and see my naturopath.
She now has some membership options for 12 months. With the membership you get
2x Standard Naturopathic Consults every 12 months (45mins)
2x Short Naturopathic Consults every 12 months (15-20mins)
10% off all natural medicines
Additional bonuses, including:
Monthly "Ask the Naturopath" info for all members to benefit
Special offers from local businesses
PLUS Invoice for Private Health rebates
I thought I would go for the membership because it will force me to have follow up with her (because I have already paid), and I feel there is a fair bit going on with my health it will be worth the money. I am still going to follow GP recommendations, but thought seeing the naturopath would be a good addition!
I have my first consult on Thursday after work. She wants all my recent blood tests, and a 4 day food diary. I will also have to update her on all my recent medical history!
I will let you know how it all goes!
medical update & other news
So, things have just got interesting.
I had a follow up with my GP to get my blood results. My iron levels are REALLY low, which would explain me being breathless. My Vitamin D levels are also REALLY low. So it looks like iron deficiency anemia. It was recommended supplements for both-an iron supplement and vitamin D supplement.
As my iron levels were really low (4umol/L, normal 10-30), serum ferritin low (20ug/L, normal 30-165), and transferrin saturation 4% (normal 13-45) I have started taking iron and vitamin D supplements. It seems to have helped as I am not as breathless.
She wants to send me for a few more tests, so will wait and see how everything pans out.
I need to follow up with a cardiologist-my ECG showed some minor changes. I also need to have a bone density scan, and a liver ultrasound.
I will keep you updated
weekly update
What a week! I have just done 7 days in a row at work! And I am tired.
We had a really busy week, seeing lots of clients! So today (Monday) I have been resting! I did get an eyebrow wax this morning in preparation for a photo shoot on Wednesday, but more about that in another blog.
Nala turned 8 this week, so according to my research she is anywhere between 48 and 51 in human years.
I am in the process of setting up my new GoPro…. am waiting for it to charge. There are heaps of YouTube videos to watch which is great.
Am off to the doctor tomorrow to get my blood test results! I will keep you updated!
so i needed a new gopro
I have had my GoPro Hero 9 for a few years. It was great and worked really well. I bought it in June 2022.
It has served me well so far. But I was charging the battery on my computer for a few days. The battery expanded and when I tried to remove it started smoking. So now it is dead! I learnt my lesson! I did call the Fire Brigade who advised what to do…I really didn’t want to start a fire!
I went online and found a GoPro Hero 10 from BigW. JB Hi-Fi did a price match so I saved $30. I did a click and collect so I could get the price matched.
I haven’t set it up yet as I am watching videos to check out the right settings. And I want to do it on a day off from work to spend some time! I will get onto this on Monday as I am working the weekend!
I’m lucky all the accessories I have bought are compatible with the new GoPro.
I know it is not the latest model (I think they are up to Hero 13), but I am not bothered. I mainly use it to take photos and video for my YouTube Channel.
I am planning to use it for some videos next week for my channel, so stay tuned.
pink afternoon tea
Last weekend, a good friend of mine hosted a Pink Party to raise money for Breast Cancer Network and The Milton Hospital, a little Hospital on the South Coast of NSW Australia.
She has had breast cancer and wanted to give back in support of 2 places that have supported her.
She had heaps of donations for prizes which was great. And there were heaps of people there which was a great testament to how lovely Ingrid is. And there was heaps of food and pink champagne. Of course on theme with pink.
There were lucky door prizes, raffles and a guessing competition. There was also a lucky dip! We were told to bring all our loose coins. Everybody was super generous which was great, over $1000 in coins alone!
We all had a great afternoon. I actually brought my Mum as she really likes Ingrid! It was such a lovely afternoon. I was able to catch up with a few people I used to work with. I reckon it has been at least 16 years since we have seen each other. But it was like no time had passed!
Please make sure you all do your regular breast checks as women!
nala is 8
Nala’s birthday is September 16. This year she turns 8.
I rescued Nala when she was 3 or 4 months old. It was the week before Christmas, and she was so tiny! I was finally working regular hours and not shift work. I always wanted a pet, and a cat seemed a safe option as I work full-time and live in a unit.
Nala’s mother had an owner who was elderly. The mother got pregnant and had 2 kittens, Nala and Willis. The owner couldn’t care for them all, so they were surrendered. Nala’s Mum got desexed. So, the 2 kittens were up for adoption. I had always wanted a black cat, but it had to be a female. Although her brother was black, I didn’t want a boy. So, Nala it was. I occasionally chat with the owners of her brother.
Nala as a kitten
I had never owned a pet before on my own, and Pat had given me all the questions I needed to ask before I took her home.
If you want to read, I posted a blog as part of my blog challenge about Nala.
https://www.rediscoverloz.online/my-blog/pets-of-my-life
I could not imagine life without her! She is not a cuddly cat but will enjoy a pat. And she lets me know when she is done! And she hates having her flea/worming treatment. She always gives the EVIL EYE after she has it. She is mad at me for a good half day!
I bought her a present. It’s a box I ordered from Etsy. I will open it with her probably tomorrow! Usually contains some treats, some toys plus maybe 1 or 2 other things.
Nala's 7th Birthday
i have some holidays!
In November I have 2 weeks off from work! I am so excited!
I wasn’t quite sure what I wanted to do, so did some research. My original plan was to got to the Narrawallee Pool House where I had stayed before. They unfortunately are not taking bookings for the Pool House.
So I went on Airbnb, and found a new place… It’s also in Narrawallee. I have added the link of the property. They have a pool, so hopefully it will be warm enough to swim!
https://www.airbnb.com.au/rooms/16859262?source_impression_id=p3_1726127169_P3CxrEKDiwe23DfH
I have a few plans. I want to go to Cupitt’s Winery on Sunday. There is a band playing-THE STAYERS. They are a contemporary Blues band. I am waiting to hear back from the winery as I want to do a wine tasting beforehand.
I also want to go to the Bogey Hole. It’s a tidal rock pool at Mollymook, not far from where I am staying. There are no waves, which suits me fine. Hopefully the water is not too cold!
Nala will be going to the Caringbah Cat Hotel while I am away.
But otherwise I will be relaxing. I am just excited to have some time off from work to relax and recuperate.
happy strike day!
TODAY WE STRIKE.
TOGETHER WE FIGHT.
So today as Nurses and Midwives in N.S.W. Australia had a 12 hour strike.
We are striking for better pay-a 15% increase over 12 months. This will keep us in line with other states in Australia. And better conditions, better nurse to patient ratios. Plus a lot of other things. We were promised things in the last State election…….
There were many sites across the state that had a rally. My local rally was outside the Premier’s office in Kogarah, who conveniently was not in his office today! We were able to catch a bus from work organised by the Union. There were some many people there… lots of signs, chanting and dancing! I am actually surprised I still have a voice!
Everyone was so enthusiastic for the cause!
I actually caught a bus to work this morning. There is a bus across the road from me that drops me at the hospital!
