When writing the story of your life, don’t let anyone else hold the pen. Rebel Thriver
Those of you who have been following me for awhile know a bit about my story.
Over the past three years, since I’ve been blogging, I’ve shared much of what I love. I’ve shared parts of my homeland Australia, both in far away outback destinations and closer to home in my own backyard.
I’ve shared my deepest loss when my dear mum died. I’ve shared my periods of hopelessness, my struggles and disappointments.
Mostly though I’ve shared my hopes, dreams and joys, through my travels and through my words and pictures. And more recently through my music.
Life’s taught me that where there’s darkness there’s always light.
Last Saturday I was fortunate enough to see Ed Sheeran in concert, as part of a crowd of 60,000 people lighting Etihad Stadium. He’s an amazing artist who had us in the palm of his hand as he told his stories through beautiful lyrics and song.
Imagine the energy of 60,000 people, each with their individual hopes and dreams, all gathered together in a celebration of music, love and light.
We all have a story to tell in our own small part of the blogosphere and today I want to send you a more personal message.
So the short video below is for you, the first of many as I branch out and share more of my story, through my travels, my inspirations and my journey.
Now it’s your turn. Drop me a line and share a snippet of your own story. This storybook called life is constantly being rewritten and every day, no matter what’s gone before, is a blank page for something wonderful to appear.
It’s challenging, unpredictable and forever changing and we’re all a part of it, rewriting our own chapter at every turn.
Let’s make our collective story a beautiful one, written and spoken from the heart.
If you want your story to be magnificent, begin by realising that you are the author and every day is a new page. Mark Houlahan
Sending you light and love as we keep enjoying the journey.
In response to WPC: My story
Stay in touch and connect with me on Facebook.
Come check out my new group for like minded travelers
Outanabout YOLO “You only live once”
These days most of my story is about travel. I love being ‘on the road’ and I love being home too. I like to think I’m at home wherever I am.
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That’s a great way to live Peggy. Happy travelling wherever you are. 🙂
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That concert must have been incredible. He does know how to make a big venue seem really small.
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He absolutely does Tony. He has a touch of the magic about him.
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Isn’t it amazing that we not only tell our own stories to the world but also listen to the stories of others at the same time?
They all knit up nicely in such a wonderful way.I feel very glad whenever you share your stories with us, Miriam 🙂
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Thanks Hammad. That’s a nice way of looking at it. We’re all a part of something pretty special aren’t we?
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Yes indeed we are 🙂
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thank you for inspiring me to remember to write my own story, beautifully. I enjoyed the video and look forward to more.
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Thanks so much Michele. Happy writing.
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Nice little introduction video. Looking forward to hearing your story 🙂
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Thanks Trent. Hope you enjoy them. 🙂
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Being among 60,000 Ed Sheeran fans that night, was a real experience I will never forget. Such a talented performer.
Love the vlog Miriam, keep em’ coming. Xx
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Thanks so much Lorelle. And yes, how special that we both got to experience that amazing concert. He’s incredibly talented. xo
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For sure. Xx
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Miriam, I just LOVE the video and to see and hear you in your ‘backyard’! A lovely welcoming message for us all in the midst of the tropical bird sanctuary, it seemed! They were clamouring, wonderfully so, for attention and I’m so taken with your surroundings. A very special post and full of light – particularly the spectacular Ed Sheeran concert … wow!!! My own most recent story is doing something I always said I never could do – hold a talk in front of strangers! I felt I was putting myself and my book out there on a recent school visit – and it couldn’t have been a more positive experience. It gave me so much confidence – never say never!! hugs, my friend xxxx
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I’m so glad you had such a positive experience Annika. What a thrill it must have been to put yourself (and your book) so out there. I bet it’s given you a massive dose of confidence which is simply wonderful. All the best to you and thank you for your lovely words here too. Never say never indeed. Love it!! Big hugs back xx
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Being ex motorhomers and lovers of getting out of the way places to stay for a while, I am enjoying your stories. You are right Miriam we are the writers of our own stories or life as you put it. Keep writing a good story 🙂
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I absolutely will keep writing Suzanne. Thanks so much for your lovely comment here. 🙂
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I will continue to come along with you, Miriam
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Wonderful, Derrick. Thank you!
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It looks like the concert was great!
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It was awesome Si! 🙂
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Cool! 🙂
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Beautiful and enjoyed story of your travel
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Thank you!
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Beautiful Miriam!
The pictures look magical 🙂
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Thanks so much!
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Beautiful post, Miriam! That concert gave me goosebumps just thinking about the collective energy there. Wow! I too believe in sharing stories of my life through my writing and my photography. When we share out stories we learn from another and we connect on a Heart level, creating in turn a truly beautiful Canvas of Love. Thank you so much for sharing this post and it was lovely to hear your voice and to see you on your video. All the best on those videos. I was amazed by the way, by the birdsong in your video. You are probably so used to those birds you don’t even hear them sometimes. You live in a gorgeous part of this world!! Much Love to you! 💖💖💖
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Thanks so much for your lovely words Amy. You’re right, sharing our stories does connect us on a heart level. As for those birds, although I’m used to them they still amaze me with their intensity of chorus, especially in the early mornings when they fly over. I do love it here. Warmest wishes and love to you my friend 💖
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Talking on camera is a bit scarey, Miriam, but you come across very naturally. 🙂 🙂 As does Ed- I’d love to see him! Story? Well, today’s was a walk over on our Headland. The statue of Andy Capp (heard of him? He’s from ‘oop north’, like me 🙂 ) was wearing a big, woolly muffler, expecting more inclement weather, I expect. He looked fed up! The other half wheedled me into fish and chips, so I’m feeling full and contented, if a little too round. 🙂
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Your ‘story’ made me smile Jo. Content is good! I’ll have to go pay you a visit and catch up on your walks. I’m a bit behind having been in the city for the last few days. It’s good to be home again. Have a great week. 🙂xx
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I am glad you had such a great time at the concert Miriam. It is hard to beat live music. Loved your video and seeing the fabulous view from your back yard. 🌼
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Thanks Brigid. You’re right, live music is simply the best!
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My current storyline revolves around snowbirding. We spend half the summer months in our home in Redmond, Washington, which is where are family lives. And then we are spending the winter months in our new home in Tucson, Arizona. This is truly and adventure! We moved here quite spontaneously because of the beautiful weather and spectacular scenery. We are trying to find our footing with a new friend base and new activities. We have so much exploring to do! This has been the best way to invigorate and navigate our midlife transition 💕
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Sounds like your midlife transition is a new beginning for you, how wonderful. Enjoy it all and have fun exploring and making new friends. Sounds as though you’re in for an adventure of a lifetime. 🙂
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Hope so! 😉
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lovely to hear your beautiful voice!
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Aww, thanks Jodi. 😊
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Great idea, Miriam. The birds must be amazing at your place. They were all joining in.
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Thanks Carol. Yeah, they’re a rowdy bunch! They’re always the loudest in the morning and the evening.
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Well done. I love that you keep evolving and try new things. 👏
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Thanks Glenys. I’m having fun!
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lovely to see and hear you in person again Miriam … Ed what a blast, he is amazing!
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He sure is! Looking forward to our catch up next month.
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yes, me too 🙂
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I like how you branch out, will try a different medium to share your stories – good for you!
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Thanks PC. Lots of plans ahead but just taking it slow. Hope all’s well with you.
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It was just like being there, lovely video Miriam.
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Aw, thanks so much Maverick.
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Love your video Miriam, it is raw and real which are the kind of videos I like to watch.
I am really enjoying sharing our story because it has allowed us to meet wonderful people like you and so many other like minded people.
Looking forward to the next video
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Thanks so much Catherine, I really appreciate that. Keep enjoying your journey, I’m loving following all your travels on Insta.
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It has been wonderful to follow your story for the last 1 3/4 years I blog. Yes, every day is a blank new page. I enjoy my new chapter as a grandma!
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That’s wonderful to hear Miriam. I’m sure becoming a new grandma is such a precious and very special chapter in your life. Enjoy it all. 💕
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Thank you, Miriam. So far I fly to Portland, Oregon from southern California once a month to visit my daughter and Autumn. I have chances to babysit, Mercy and Will can go on their outings. 🙂
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Perfect. Sounds like a win win for everyone. 🙂
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Yes, that’s right. I’m getting to like it. 🙂
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Wow you got to watch Ed Sheeran! Lucky you, Miriam. It was impossible to get tickets here in Singapore for his concert last year. It that your backyard in your video? It looks like a place where you can relax and think, and write. My storyline now? Hmm a stay-at-home mum and housewife who’s in pursuit of healthier food choices for my dear family. 🙂
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You’re obviously a keen snowboarder too, I just watched your video, how wonderful!
Ed Sheeran was amazing, maybe you’ll get to see him next time. And yes, that was my backyard, a very noisy one at that with all those birds making themselves heard! Thanks for dropping by. 🙂
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I would want that kind of noise of any day 🙂 Yeah hopefully one day I can watch his concert.
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HI Miriam, thanks for this inspiring post and video. Nice to hear from you.
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Thanks so much Arlene.
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Hi Miriam, Lovely post. Ed Sheeren does seem a very special artist. Well done on the video and putting yourself out there. Looking forward to seeing where you go with that. Louise
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Thanks Louise. It’s all new for me and a lot of unknown territory ahead but I’m excited at what’s to come. x
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You obviously have a plan.
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A sketchy one but yes, ultimately I know what I want to do.
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Thank you for sharing this beautiful part of your story and for the inspiring messages!
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You’re very welcome
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Hello Miriam, a beautiful and exciting post!
How wonderful that Ed spurred you on to move into an area that I’m sure, has been playing over in your mind. Sometimes it takes someone else just grabbing life on their own terms to create the impetus for our growth.
I loved seeing you in your video, and as I know you in person, you were as authentic as can be. We will be in for a treat.
All the best and…’you go, girl’.
Much love from me 🙋🏻💐🌈💜
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Thank you my dear friend. This has been brewing for awhile and now seems to be the right time to branch out. Sometimes when you get the signs you just have to follow them. It feels right so we’ll see where the road leads. I so appreciate your support Di. Big hugs to you xo
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You’re very welcome dear Miriam.
You’ve started your new journey now and set your intentions to us.
Enjoy your journey and I’m on your side wherever this road takes you…
Big hugs too, lovely 🙋🏻😘💜
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Oh Di, you warm me and wrap me in a big hug with your beautiful comment. Thank you so much. xo 💜
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That’s so lovely…I’m glad, and thank you for letting me know that, my friend. It means a lot 🙏🏼🌈💞
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As always such a beautiful post. So lovely to hear your voice Miriam. Looking forward to your future adventures 🙂
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Thank you so much Lynne. Exciting times are ahead I feel and I look forward to sharing them. Hope you’re well. xo
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It’s been wonderful watching you branch out into new things in the past year, Miriam! And I especially appreciate your message: we all do have a story to tell, and we just need to find the courage to tell it. Thanks for setting such an inspiring example by being so open with your own life and encouraging us to do the same. It is enormously helpful for those of us who are a bit hesitant to jump into new things!
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Thanks Ann, I really appreciate your support and your kind words. I’m so looking forward to venturing into new paths, won’t deny I’m nervous and a bit scared but always on the other side of fear is excitement. We’ll see what happens. xo
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Love your way of thinking Miriam. Everyday is a blank page. Enjoyed the video too
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Thanks so much Andrew. I really appreciate that. 💕
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I’m excited you have a Youtube channel! Just followed 🙂 And oh, I love Ed Sheeran’s music, that must’ve been wonderful! Take care Miriam! xx
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Well, you’ve just made my morning Jenny! Thank you so much. I’m excited too, I must admit. Hugs to you my friend xo
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Aww, it’s my pleasure!💜hugs to you too!
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Wow, I throw up my window every morning here in Florida to hear the mockingbirds and their ever-changing melodies. I would be in Heaven at your place! A new journey ahead for us indeed. We turn 60 and heading to Ecuador to live. Selling the house and everything in it, well except for the Pug, he’s working hard on his Spanish. We just started Youtube also, oh boy another learning experience for “older brain cells”, anyhoo looking forward to your journey, love your video! Thanks!
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What a wonderful comment! Sounds like you’re in for new adventures as well. Seems we’re kindred spirits if we both love birds, dogs and travelling. Happy travels and good luck with your YouTube channel as well. Have fun 🙂
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I love, love, love this post!!! Your video is magnificent — so authentic, so caring and so YOU.
This line went right into my heart: Let’s make our collective story a beautiful one, written and spoken from the heart.
I plan to highlight your post as a contribution for #ForgivingFridays, Miriam. I hope that’s ok. If you like, please feel free to link back to my “You are so beautiful.” post. Lord knows, this topic of your blog fits the bill.
What a blessed invitation this is for each of us to speak our true voice. I love you, Miriam.
Hugs, Debbie
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Aww Debbie, thank you so much as always for your beautiful and very kind words here. You’re very welcome to use this post as part of your Forgiving Friday’s, in fact I’d be truly honoured. Big hugs back to you my friend 💕
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I used it! Have a visit when you get a chance. 🙂 Miriam, you are so beautiful. Love, Debbie
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I’ve just read the post Debbie and it’s beautiful, as are you. Thank you xo ❤️
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You sound really good – nice and clear speaking, excitement in your face – well done Miriam.
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Thanks Claudette, starting off always feels a bit daunting but I genuinely am excited.
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Thanks for having shared your ups and downs in life for all those years. It’s been a inspiring travel to follow. My story right now is preparing to get back to my love one after having been separated for about one and a half month. 🙂
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Lovely first video. Well done. From a cold windy Scotland on the other side of the world!! Anita
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Thanks very much Anita 🙂
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Its always a blessing listening to other people’s story…yours is such an inspiration Miriam and i am fortunate and priveledged to have been following you for long time now…while i struggle to make the most out of life in my ow little world; i enjoy the stories and poetry of the wonderful bloggers like you here at wordpress..
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Oh Mich, I’m sorry to hear that. Just remind yourself that your struggles will pass. I’ve had my share too but you’ll get through them, you really will. Sending love and hugs xo
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Thanks Mirriam..☺
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Media star now. What next? 😉
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Working on it 😏
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Loved that video.
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Thanks Bojana. It was such an awesome waterfall. 🙂
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How exciting Miriam!! I loved your video! It’s amazing how when we embrace this journey of life and of growth we find so many next and exciting things to pursue. xx
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Absolutely true! Thanks so much Amy. xo
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Just lovely Miriam, you’re right we all have a story to tell and I love hearing your inspiring words! Keep on shining your special light 🙂
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Thanks so much Debbie. I most certainly will. 🙂
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My story is that I’ve discovered that I can write songs and music and want to much more of both. I love creating them with you and hope to continue to do so. I’m so excited for you as you embark on this new journey and remember that no path is a wrong path…I look forward to seeing more of your YouTube videos and wishing you amazing success as you branch out to new endeavors, may your tree limbs always be flexible and sway easily in the direction of the flow!! I’ve been busy off the net and have missed you…only a few more weeks and then it’s over for the extra work I am currently doing…then we have lots to catch up on!! Miss you…big hugs and lotsa love xo ❤
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Oh, I know that you can write songs and music Deb and beautiful ones too. I’m so grateful for our friendship and collaboration and so looking forward to creating many more wonderful ones together. I miss you heaps too!!! Thank you for your beautiful uplifting words here. You’re always so supportive. Good luck with all of your work deadlines, can’t wait to catch up again, we’ll have so much to talk about. Till then big hugs and keep smiling my lovely lady. xo ❤️
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I adored this, Miriam!!! Oh my goodness, thank you for sharing! You are the cutest.. and I’m a bit obsessed with your accent. Also, that Ed Sheeran concert looks magical. I saw him before he was a huge artist in a small venue in Indiana (My best friend was in love with him from day one). At one point he even sang without a microphone to give you an idea of the size. It’s so cool to see all he has done now! Sending so much love!
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Oh wow Mack, how fantastic that you were able to see him before all his huge success, he’s such an amazing and talented artist. And aren’t you the sweetest! Thanks for your gorgeous words here, I really appreciate them. Hope all’s well in your world.Sending big hugs and love back. 💕🙂
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❤ ❤
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This is my first time seeing your blog and I love how inspirational the quotes you’ve put. I’m a young writer and I always wanted to write about my life but I see my life as nothing fascinating. What’s your advice for young writers?
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Hi Emma, thanks for dropping by. I’ve just been across to your blog. We all have something to say, doesn’t matter who we are or how old we are. We all have a story, just reach within and find yours. And then share it. You’ll find you’re not so alone. All the best to you.
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You sound exactly as I imagined you would! 😀 You inspire a soap in me, lol.
Love you, beautiful lady! xoxox ❤
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Aren’t you gorgeous, thanks Ness. What scent soap, lol?
Love you too. xo ❤️
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I’m thinking a nice, earthy, fresh eucalyptus. 🙂 What do you think? ❤
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I think that sounds absolutely perfect. You really do know me. ❤️🍀 xo
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great post! Love your video. Look forward to seeing more and reading more of your stories!
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Thanks so much Liu. Lovely to meet you.
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