the weekly review | 25
reflecting on 10 years with a stoma, and having some easter microadventures ✨
hello there gang and happy Easter weekend! It’s officially the bank holiday weekend here in the UK, and it’s the perfect time to get out on adventures.
Whether it’s getting outside on family walks, making most of 4 days off work and going on a little holiday, or finding some ways to have some microadventures at home (getting out in the garden, being creative, living room picnics etc) - it really is the perfect time to start embracing microadventures!
I’d love to know what adventures you’re heading on this weekend!
This week has felt like a big week work-wise, but it’s also a big week because yesterday marked 10 years since I had surgery to have my bowel removed due to Ulcerative Colitis. It’s always an odd few days as I find myself feeling incredibly reflective. I remember so vividly being scared, but also wondering what life might look like post-surgery. I couldn’t imagine not being in pain, not being bed-bound, and not always worrying where the nearest toilet is. I also really remember wondering what life would look like in 10 years time!
the last 10 years have had highs and lows. But I don’t think 18 year old me, sat in a hospital bed wondering if I’d even make it through the surgery, would’ve believed that I’ve got my degree and masters, I’ve become fully self employed, I’ve travelled the world and had some amazing experiences, or that I can eat alll the food.
I remember the first microadventure I had after my surgery vividly. It was with two of my best friends, and we went to play mini golf and have some food. I remember feeling at the time so grateful to have friends who a) made me feel normal even though I didn’t feel it at the time and b) made the effort to come and microadventure with me (even if we didn’t realise that’s what we were doing at the time!).
Microadventures made it possible for me to get through that time, and built the foundations to be able to push myself to bigger adventures as well.
R - I’ve just started reading The Incredible Machines of Thinkery: Future’s End by
and already hooked! This is the sequel to her book Outpost 9, and if you live a sci-fi style book, this is for you! Once I’ve finished it, I’ll share the full review with you!E - I’m very good at getting slightly hyperfixated on certain foods/meals and become slightly obsessed. This week, I’ve made myself most days a sweet potato, chorizo and shallot hash with halloumi and it’s the best thing ever. It’s perfect breakfast/brunch/lunch kind of meal and if halloumi isn’t your cup of tea, switch it for an egg!
Just take a sweet potato (chopped into bitesized pieces), some chorizo (diced), and two shallots and pop them in the air fryer with cumin seeds. Place on top three slices of halloumi and airfry at 200 degrees for 12 minutes. I really recommend drizzling some of the Dishoom tomato chutney on top as well!
P - Last night I finally watched The Life List on Netflix, and I get why everyone is raving about it. The premise is that it’s about a woman who is in a bit of a rut in her life. Her mum dies, and in her will leaves her a mission; to complete the life list she wrote when she was a teenager. The film follows her ticking things off her list of things she wants to acheive in life, and it’s just a lovely film.
O - ngl, I think the biggest obsession this week has been Djo’s album, The Crux that I shared last week. I just love it!
I’m also slightly obsessed with Caswton Press at the moment. Earlier this week, they sent me some PR with their new 250ml cans so now my fridge is stocked up for the bank holiday, and they taste oh so good (I think the ginger is my favourite, but I’m very excited to try the rhubarb and custard flavour too!)
R - Whilst we were away last weekend, we went to a cafe called The Fairydust Emporium in Silloth and not only are their full english breakfasts delish, they also do free puppachino’s and sausages for dogs, and Finn had the best time.
T - Sometimes the instagram ads get me, and when I saw P&CO had 3 for two on their graphic tees, I knew I had to get some. I’ve had a few from Vinted, and the quality is incredible, the designs are so fun and they’re so comfy!
On the blog this week…
There’s been a few new blog posts this week, including and AD with actual Disneyland Paris!! As a disney gal whose been going to Disneyland Paris since I was 6 years old (I think we’re at 15 times at the moment!), it’s a real pinch me moment!
I’d love to hear what your highlights have been this week! Have you had any good adventures, read any good books and substacks, tried any cute cafes? Share in the comments!!
See you next week
Katie May xo