In this post I explain how I came to name my Canadian and Ireland adventure The Cold Plunge, and the similarities I drew between submerging in cold water and immersing myself in a new life in a cold climate.
Author: Kate Kelsen
The Cold Plunge: The Goodbyes Begin
In this post, I talk about the spectrum of emotions I experienced as I prepared for the Cold Plunge-aka my trip to Ireland via Canada- particularly the hard and unexpected ones like sadness, guilt and grief, in particular about saying goodbye to friends and family.
The Cold Plunge- My Journey to Ireland via Canada
In this post, I will share the story of how I decided to travel from Australia to Ireland via Canada in 2024, and the leadup to this intrepid adventure of a lifetime.
Not Paid to Care for Mum
After my experience caring for my former partner after a workplace injury, just two years later I would return to the role of carer for my mum. In this post, I discuss how I applied what I learned from my first experience about prioritising my own wellbeing, and establishing and maintaining boundaries.
Not Paid To Care
In this post, I discuss my experiences as an unpaid carer, including what I have learned about prioritising my own wellbeing, and establishing and maintaining boundaries with the person I cared for. I also address the stigma around separating from a partner with an illness or injury.
Some Thoughts on Authentic Friendship
In this post, I reflect on the tendency to overlook conflicts in friendships and emphasise the need for open communication and accountability. I share personal experiences of losing and nurturing friendships, highlighting the impact of genuine connections and mutual respect. I encourage addressing concerns and holding space for difficult conversations in friendships to strengthen bonds. The message underscores the significance of vulnerability, honesty, and willingness to put in the work for meaningful and authentic friendships.
2023 Highlights and Lowlights
Unless your New Years resolutions include reducing time on social media, or getting off it altogether, you've probably seen a tonne of 2023 Highlights Reels by now. Alongside these Highlights are plenty of reminders that they are just that- highlights. Reminders that if all you did this year was survive, that's okay too. Its also… Continue reading 2023 Highlights and Lowlights
Happy New Year from the Frosts
Happy New Year! Ded Moroz, or Father Frost/Grandfather Frost, is a legendary figure of Slavic pagan mythology associated with New Years Eve. The tradition of Ded Moroz is mostly spread in East Slavic countries and is an important part of Russian culture. Although at the beginning of the Soviet era communists banned Ded Moroz, he… Continue reading Happy New Year from the Frosts
Merry Midsummer
Happy Summer Solstice from the Southern Hemisphere! I live on the Gold Coast on the east coast of Australia. While our British and American friends are feasting on roast turkey, baked potato and hot chocolate, us Aussies are packing up the Esky with cold prawns and ham for a picnic or setting up folding tables… Continue reading Merry Midsummer
Yuletide Blessings
Yuletide Blessings to the Northern Hemisphere! My love for the fairies has been with me all my life. Over the last few years, as part of the expansion of my spiritual journey, I have set the intention to honour the fairy festivals, marking the dates in my diary. My celebrations have not reached the levels… Continue reading Yuletide Blessings
