I warmly invite you to join my monthly newsletter - a cozy corner for sharing joys, insights, and life updates.

The purpose is to connect more deeply with all of you amazing people more regularly, and for me to hear from you (please reply to the email directly).

You can unsubscribe at any time, I won’t be mad and I won’t be notified!

Today's newsletter edition is a little special because I’ll be sharing some of the amazing things I see people doing—things they might be too shy to let others know about.

Chloe and Marko just celebrated their wedding in a beautiful villa in Sydney that had spanning views across the harbour in all directions. I first met them before they met each other, and it has been an incredible journey to witness their love story unfold with each passing year.

As a bridesmaid, it was heart warming to witness their special moment, and seeing the joy in their eyes. A celebration of love that brings two families together, would not be complete without a cherished family tradition. Marko’s grandfather had lovingly crafted the Rakia —a fruit brandy made from apricots— when Marko was born, saving it for the day of his grandson’s wedding.

Edward had rediscovered his childhood passion of tinkering with gadgets and electronics, and decided to work on a mini-project—making his desk automatically sit-down and stand-up, by detecting his presence and then logging his sit-down stand-up time stats into his computer.

To make it work, he’s been tweaking a sensor chip to detect his presence at his desk, making beeping noises every time he sits at his desk. The goal? To remove the need to ‘remember to stand up’ by automating the process at random intervals, ensuring a healthier work routine.

It's a fun challenge for Edward as he transitions from being a software guy to diving into the world of hardware!

Since graduating from university, Jasper has been establishing himself as a UX Graphic Designer based on the Gold Coast. Having worked on many projects as a creative designer, he has brought many brands to life and transformed ideas into engaging, impactful content. Check out his website!

Conflict avoidance - yikes! Conflict is unpleasant and something I often avoid.

But here’s the twist: in storytelling, conflict is essential. Without it, a plot falls flat, becoming bland and forgettable. Conflict gives a story depth, tension, and purpose.

Conflict isn’t inherently bad; in fact, it can be a force for growth. It stress-tests relationships, revealing their strength when handled the right way. Conflict also helps us define boundaries. I like the definition of boundaries as — where you stop and I begin.

Now, instead of shirking away from conflict, I choose to embrace it.

Research shows that expressing gratitude not only boosts our own happiness but also enhances the happiness of the person receiving it. It's a simple yet powerful way to create a positive ripple effect!

Give it a go: Think of someone who has made a difference in your life, big or small, and let them know. It could be a quick message, a thank-you note, or even a full length letter. You never know—it might just make their day (and yours too)! 💛

Kind regards,

Kate

P.S. My favourite thing about you is {{ My favourite thing about you is | your smile }}