It's The End of the Year, But Seriously, What The Bleepin Heck Was 2018?

Hi y’all. It’s been a gosh darn minute and for some reason I now have a Southern twang. 

I’m going to be honest and say that 2018 was absolute trash. I don’t think I’ve had a year where I just needed it to end and be wiped from my memory. Permanently. I tossed up whether it was even necessary to write some kind of 2018 wrap up but ultimately, I wanted to step into the New Year with a brighter and more positive outlook on life. There were things I was grateful for in 2018 (the entire year wasn’t terrible) and rather than focusing on all the bad I want to recognise the good to remind myself that being thankful is necessary in life. 

I am grateful for the privilege to travel

In May this year I jetted off to Europe alone and had a blast. Honestly, it was the highlight of my year! I was blogging about it until I disappeared, but I promise I’m going to finish it off in the new year. Read the first post here! 

To me, travelling is a privilege. I recognise that I am in a very fortunate situation to be able to afford to and have the ability to visit so many different places in the world. Travelling has rapidly become one of my passions, being able to see the beauty in various countries and experiencing their cultures. However, I quickly became aware of how lucky I am, in that my parents never had this luxury when they were young and even now there are people in poorer countries that struggle to even survive let alone see the wonders of the world. 

I am grateful for the people in my life

I’m the type of person that places a lot of importance in relationships with friends and family. My overambitious ass tries to stay in contact with every single individual that I’ve come across and has somehow made an impact in my life. Which was why it was incredible that during my travels to Europe I got to catch up with the friends I made during my exchange trip in South Korea, 2015. Three years on and it was so nice just to reminisce, have a laugh and make new memories. Along my adventures through Europe I also made some new friendships, which I find is always the best part in travelling solo. In 2018 I also learnt to surround myself with people who make my life better, will lift me up and support me and be honest. The phrase ‘quality over quantity’ is insanely accurate when you apply it to the relationships in your life. You could have 500 different people you call friends but not one of them is honest or loyal to you, or you could have a handful of friends who know you better than you do. It’s your life, you get to choose. 

I am grateful for the basic necessities I have

Don’t mistake this as me trying to scrape the bottom of the barrel for things I’m grateful for this year. I know there wasn’t much, but truly, being able to enjoy great tasting food, have access to technology such as the laptop I’m using right now and internet connection and overall cleanliness and health is something we should all be grateful for. Every day of our lives. It’s easy to take it all for granted. I mean we were born into it, we never had to witness the struggles and hard work that granted us all this. But I am thankful that I have a roof over my head, a car to travel to and from, and clothes - even though I do find myself constantly complaining about not having anything to wear. It’s worth reminding yourself to be thankful for having a comfortable and enjoyable life. 

I think when I do ever look back on 2018, the rollercoaster ride that it was, is still a ride that is probably what I needed. It gave me a jolt. I do feel as though I was just coasting along and although yes, I did have goals and plans, I have never implemented anything and followed through. Throwing me into the deep end has now geared me up to drive towards my aspirations. I am so incredibly happy, or maybe it’s relieved, to say goodbye to 2018. It’s done, it’s over. Onwards and upwards, they say.

How Was 2018 For You?

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A Year of Reading In 2017

I am well aware it’s already midway through January, but it doesn’t feel right to not post a recap of the previous year as the first post of 2018. 

In 2017, I didn’t set yearly resolutions as I usually do. Instead, I decided to implement steps to build towards habits and goals I want to achieve in the long run. I found that every year I tried to set New Years Resolutions, I didn’t plan the appropriate steps to achieve them and so they were left forgotten by April or May. 

What I wanted to focus on was how I felt whilst reading and blogging, amongst other things in my personal life. I mentioned in my 2017 goals video that I didn’t want reading and blogging to become a chore because I felt like I had to read the most books or feel like I’ve failed as a reader. Likewise, I didn’t want to overcommit to blogging and produce content I wasn't happy with just for the numbers. With that in mind, let’s jump into 2017 and how it panned out for me!

A Year of Reading

Book Count: 17 

Immensely lower than any of my other years, but what I wanted was to read memorable books that left an impression, which I can confidently say has been the case. Alongside that I did make a conscience effort to expand my reading genre and read books that were thought-provoking.

Favourites

Reviews

The Strange and Beautiful Sorrows of Ava Lavender by Lesyle Walton

All The Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr

Looking For Alibrandi by Melina Marchetta

Empire of Storms (Throne of Glass #5) by Sarah J. Maas

This House of Grief by Helen Garner 

Crash and Burn by Michael Hassan

Three Dark Crowns (Three Dark Crowns #1) by Kendare Blake

The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood

Strange The Dreamer (Strange the Dreamer #1) by Laini Taylor 

Cooper Bartholomew is Dead by Rebecca James

Nevermoor (The Trials of Morrigan Crow #1) by Jessica Townsend

Overall, I'm pleasantly surprised with how satisfying majority of the reads I went through for 2017. Here's hoping 2018 is the same. I'm not too sure I'll write a full post on my goals for 2018 because I feel like that's kind of too late as well, but we'll see!

How Was 2017 For You? Let Me Know What Your Favourite Read Was!

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Recapping The Movies I've Watched In 2017 So Far

I feel like 2017 has been the year of movies for me. Not in the sense that every movie I’ve watched has been outstanding but rather, I’ve watched an immense amount, for someone who only watched She’s The Man in 2012 and have not seen a single Lord of the Rings or Star Wars movie. Basically, I’m not a huge movie buff - I don’t rush to watch movies unless I feel like it’s necessary and I’m not fussed on whether I do get around to it or not. I guess the biggest difference this year is that the friends that I’ve been hanging out with all love watching movies, and it’s become a social thing for me. Almost like a movie club! 

So without further ado let’s get into the first half of the year recap. 

Movies that I’ve watched

Most, if not all of these, are pretty mainstream movies with heaps of hype around them. 

Best Movies

Logan

I’m going to admit it, I’ve barely seen any of the other Wolverine movies, but Logan was amazing in that I didn’t have to know much about the other two to watch this one. It was such an emotional journey, played out spectacularly by Hugh Jackman and Dafne Keen. The plot was detailed enough, without dragging out moments, and I loved that it conveyed themes around equality, discrimination, love and family. 

Beauty and the Beast

I’m a Disney fan and this pretty much exceeded my expectations of it. I always go into adaptations quite apprehensive, but I throughly enjoyed this. Full review here. 

Worst Movie

The Great Wall 

Don’t even ask me why I watched it. From the plot to the script, it was all so cheesy and barely made any sense. Do not waste your time. 

Most Surprising

Passengers

I watched this at the beginning of the year, after looking at what was on and not seeing anything else my friends and I would’ve liked to see. Surprise, surprise, I enjoyed it more than I thought I would. Maybe it’s because I didn’t expect too much, but I loved the design of the spaceship and the world building, the flawed characters and yes, even the sappy plot line. It was an enjoyable movie and would be great for a night in. 

Most Disappointing

Split

Okay, let’s just get this straight. “Split” was one of those movies that I pictured what would happen in my mind and hope it would blow my mind. Instead, it left me confused and unsatisfied, veering from psychological thriller to having supernatural elements. I was hoping for darker elements that would leave me questioning the entire plot but really, all I'm questioning is why they decided to do what they did. 

Transformers: The Last Night

Let’s be real, I expected this to be a disappointed. I don’t even know why I thought this would be better than it was. I mean I liked the transformation of the cars. I liked the humour. I liked the fighting. But everything else was way, waaaaay too cheesy. Optimus Prime had so many monologue moments, I thought I was watching a Shakespearean play. 

Thoughts on other movies

Wonder Woman

Gal Gadot was badass and beautiful. I’m not a huge DC fan nor do I know much about the history around Wonder Woman, so I felt like the context was strange. Nevertheless, it was an amazing movie celebrating a female superhero so I’m all about it. 

Spider Man: Homecoming

Can you tell I really like superhero movies? I really appreciated this re-make of Spider Man, because it explored Peter’s younger years and how he struggles to balance his teen years with his secret missions. It’s so realistic and relatable, from the peer pressure to thinking that he can tackle everything in the world because he has powers. It was definitely different to other superhero movies, but once I got past the lack of action - there is action, just not the same amount as per usual - I found I really enjoyed it for the message it portrayed. 

Kong: Skull Island 

I'm in two minds about this. I liked it. It had a good back story to Kong, his demeanour and personality and how, as humans, we tend to take things for granted and assume that every land is ours for the taking. The island was incredible and so rich in creativity, and I loved that they filmed part of it in Ha Long Bay. On the other hand, it wasn't as engaging or captivating as I wanted it to be, so there were times I zoned out or felt like it was dragged on.

Bottom Line - go see Logan, Spiderman, Beauty and the Beast and Wonder Woman because they were all incredible and had so much to take away from. 

What Movies Have You Guys Seen This Year?

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Mid Year Review: Best of The Year So Far

We've reached the mid year mark so I'd thought it'd be fun to revisit the first half and see what I've enjoyed sharing with you guys and reflecting on some goal progression. It's been a super fast year already and hopefully the last half will be even more exciting!

Posts To Check Out

Top Ten Tuesday 

Celebrating Valentines Day - I list my favourite love related quotes 

Ten Bookstagrammers to Check Out 

Books to read if you're in a thriller mood

Let's Talk 

I discuss if I'm losing focus on blogging 

Why I find writing reviews hard 

How I fit in time to read

Reviews

I rave on about "Zootopia" as being a sure favourite!

Three reasons to read "The Winner's Trilogy"

Favourite Reads

Goal Progress

I said I wasn't going to have specific goals this year but to focus on myself. That we can chat about later. I do think that I am trying to be more consistent with the number of times I post and the timing around it as well. I've gone from posting twice a week to committing to three times a week, so fingers crossed it happens. Also a tentative schedule of every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday. New videos on Thursdays as well!!

How Has The Year Been For You?

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Goodbye 2015. Hello 2016!

A Year In Books

Here is my recap of 2015 as a reading year! I am a little disappointment at my progress but do think I did managed to read a few great books, so that's a plus.

Total: 39

Average Rating: 4/5

I also added my top 5 as well as the biggest disappointment for the year in the video!

For a general update on my life in 2015 I've written a few "Talking Personal" posts that you guys can check out (here, here and here),  including a very recent one explaining why I constantly disappear from here.

A short recap though includes a few highlights such as my amazing trip to South Korea for exchange, being hired at an incredible company and meeting some fabulous people who I hope to be long life friends with. A milestone for me would be that I feel like I've grown as a person and have gained some level of independence.

Resolution Reflections

That sad moment when resolutions end up out of the door 3 months into the year. I did not hit any of my reading resolutions this year, but there's no harm in trying right? It just means I have to try again this year. Blogging wise I aimed to write at least twice a week. That worked out well for the last 4-5 months of the year so I'll take that as a win.

I did also set up some resolutions for life in general and I managed to complete one, which I'm happy about. I'm always a resolution setter but never a completer - kind of sad but I know how I am. However, in 2015 I wanted to be able to get out of my comfort zone and do things that would challenge me. I found that exchange gave me that chance and the biggest challenge was adapting to a new culture and making new friends, all in a foreign country. It was both nerve-wracking but also exhilarating! Other than that I also went bungee jumping, which really tested my physical limits. I still can't believe I did that.

This year I am not going to be overly ambitious, as I have been each year. Instead I have some basic goals/resolutions I wish to work towards and hopefully achieve.

Reading

2016 Reading Challenge

Tracey has read 3 books toward her goal of 50 books.

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3 of 50 (6%)

view books

I've set myself a goal of 50 books again this year, but I have a little more faith in myself for 2016. Fingers crossed!! I also still want to tackle my TBR pile of books on my shelf, so if I get through at least 1/4 of it I will be very satisfied.

Blogging

Yet again, at least twice a week is my benchmark, meaning I have to be on top of my scheduled posts and organisational skills. Eeepp, now that's a hard one!

General Resolutions

I think this year I just want to focus on myself and how I feel about life. I definitely want to work on how I see myself and how I view social issues etc etc. But also, my overview on life in general. Health is a big part for me this year and I want to be able to really appreciate my surroundings, not just be stuck in my room or on the web staring at nothing. Graduation is also on the horizon, which is a little terrifying but very much a relief as well.

What Are Your Goals For 2016?

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January Wrap Up

I definitely haven't been the best blogger these past few months, but I have managed to show you guys what January was like for me!

On The Blog

Yearly Wrap

2014 was a whirlwind so to narrow it down I created a short snapshot of the year! 

"Top Ten Tuesday"
2014 New Release I Didn't Get To Read

Reading Time

Usually I do a wrap up video but if it hasn't been obvious, I've been absent from very corner of the book blog/booktube world since last year. Don't worry guys I will have an update post up soon explaining everything, but until then, this is a short recap of what I read! 

        

I was on a massive fantasy kick in January, and I enjoyed every one of these - especially Daughter of Smoke and Bone. I didn't read as much as I wanted to but I read books that were worth it, so I'm happy (sorta). 

Reviews

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2014: The Year That Was

This is such a late post, but it doesn't feel right to head into the new year without looking back at how the previous year turned out.

A Year In Books

Twenty fourteen really was a good reading year for me - at least compared to 2013 that is. I read a total of 105 books. I never expected that to happen and it kind of blows my mind. Of course that does include re-reads, but majority of them would be first reads. Instead of getting you guys to read chunks of info about what I've read though, I did a quick summary that you can watch! 

I added some random facts and all, but I thoroughly enjoyed most of what I read this year and I do think that it has been a feat for me to get to that number of books. Kind of crazy, really.

A Year In Life

I found that 2014 really opened up some great opportunities for me, and I got to experience so many different things. 

I really settled into university better than I did in my first year, and I actually enjoyed my time there. I met a few new people, but what excites me most is that I solidified some really great friendships with people I've known for awhile. I think that's one of the most positive things from this year - the fact that I managed to build and maintain strong relationships. 

Another positive was exploring who I am and who I want to be. I discovered things about myself I never really thought about and it surprised me in both good and bad ways. I can probably confidently say I know what I want out of life and everything else that comes with it, and what I want to give back in return.

Some of the exciting things I did this year included - 

• re-vamping "PrintedWordsAnd" and focusing on blogging
• connecting with other bloggers, especially fellow Aussie readers
• seeing Wicked on stage 
• attending my first concert
• seeing The Fault In Our Stars a month before release
• attending PTA Live
• going to the Australian Open

Twenty fourteen was a fulfilling year albeit some hip cups here and there. It went by so fast though, that I feel like I didn't spend everyday how I wanted to. That's something I have yet to learn. 

I hope you guys had a great year though!

Tell Me How 2014 Went For You!

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Brownlown 2014: Standouts and Burn Outs

Definitely very off topic to my usual blog posts, but Brownlow Night is always one of the most exciting things to watch for me.

If you guys don't know, the Brownlow Medal Night is basically the most prestigious award night for the AFL - Australian Football League. It awards the best player of the season based on the umpires votes after every round. Except, the Night has extended from the award to the Red Carpet arrivals. These days it's about the WAGs (Wives and Girlfriends) as much as it is about the footballers.

I've picked out a few of my best dressed, personal favourite, and those I think missed the mark by a bit.

Standouts

Rebecca Judd is regarded as Queen of the Brownlow Red Carpet, ever since her infamous red dress in 2004. This year she stunned in a gorgeous muted grey/dull white J'Aton Couture gown with a slim fitted torso and voluminous skirt, creating a fuller bottom half. I especially loved the Victorian-like detailing on the chest.

Nadia Bartel is another WAG who constantly shines on the Red Carpet, and whilst this piece is a little different to what she wears, I think she pulls it off exceptionally well. The One Day Bridal design is actually leather, and contains studs and straps.

Contrary to the more adventurous looks on the night though, Candice Quinlan appeared in a classic full-length gown. It's elegant, and the colour choice is refreshing and fun. I actually really like the yellow, because that colour can definitely be very disastrous.

 

Full points to Jessica Holtman for looking absolutely adorable. She looks like she's just stepped out of a fairytale, and whilst the dress does have a more bridal cut, the muted grey makes it more appropriate.

Jesinta Campbell is an absolute babe! I love that she's gone for a more conservative look, with the grey and long sleeve, but she's kept it interesting with the shoulder cut. Elegant and tasteful. She just resonates beauty in this Steven Khalil piece.

Abbie Noonan is a surprising addition, but this lilac dress (Georgia Young Couture) is so unique and eye-catching. She looks absolutely gorgeous in it as well.

Personal Favourite

Alex Davis would definitely have to be my favourite though. I'm all for classic and elegant looks, and this beautiful blue number by Julie Simonelli is exactly that. I feel like Alexis does veer towards this colour quite a lot - remember her Versace gown in 2011 - but it is a perfect colour for her. It's sexy in a subtle way, pulling in the places needed to show off her curves, whilst being modest with the floor length train and long sleeves.

Burn Outs

There's always the ones who just seem to not get it, or maybe they think they do, and then it doesn't work out like how they want it to. This is definitely my personal opinion though, so I do understand that we do all have very err .. different taste.

I just couldn't agree with any of these, and I really have to question what they were thinking. 

Gabo Greko deserves a category of her own. The self-designed dress just yells out confusion to me, and I actually don't want to know what's going on. The metal poking thing on her hands just gives me an Edward Scissorhand's vibe. She definitely took over Brynne's position, practically overshadowed her. 

Thanks to my friends, Kim and Hang for working through this with me. 

Who were your favourites?
(Photo Sources: AFL Media & Getty Images via DailyMailUK)

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#PTALive Melbourne Recap

I'm not sure where I've been, but this was the first PTALive event I've ever been to. Hosted by Penguin Teen Australia, the event is basically an excuse for all Young Adult fans to get together and squeal (literally) over well-loved books, new releases and YA movie adaptations.

I decided to just talk about it, because I didn't get a chance to VLOG about it. There's some great titles mentioned, along with new releases to come!

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