It's been a while since I posted, but I have been travelling in Europe for six weeks. I visited four countries: France, Italy, Spain and England. Along the way, I made many beautiful memories and made a few unexpected discoveries. It was a chance to slow down, explore, enjoy beautiful food, discover different cultures and, most importantly, spend time with family. As I reflect on the trip, I realise it was about much more than the places I visited. It was about the people I met, the stories I heard and a deeper connection to where I come from. I often think about a quote by the late Anthony Bourdain: "If I'm an advocate for anything, it's to move as far as you can, as much as you can." I love this thought because I believe travelling is about so much more than sightseeing. It's about immersing yourself in the life of a country. Sitting around a table, enjoying the local food, wandering through its streets, listening to people's stories and getting a feel for how they live. It's those little everyday moments that often leave the biggest impression. For me, one of the most special parts of this journey was reconnecting with family and learning more about my heritage. I discovered that one of my aunts had lived to the remarkable age of 100. She had lived through the Second World War, political uprisings and eventually immigrated to England from India in the late 1940s. I found myself thinking about what an extraordinary life she must have had. The changes she witnessed, the uncertainty she lived through, the courage it must have taken to leave behind what she knew and start again in another country. I would have loved to sit with her for hours and hear all her stories. Discoveries like this make you stop and reflect. We sometimes know so little about the lives of those who came before us, yet their experiences, sacrifices and choices have helped shape the lives we live today. It made me appreciate my family history differently. Our heritage is not simply about where our family originated; it's about the people, the resilience, the traditions and the stories that become part of who we are.

Celebrating life’s milestones—both big and small—matters more than we sometimes realise. Last weekend, I had the honour of attending my friend’s dad’s 90th birthday celebration, and it was a beautiful reminder of this. Moments like these aren’t just about marking time; they’re about connection, gratitude, and acknowledging a life well lived. Whether it’s a major milestone or a quiet win, taking time to celebrate creates memories that stay with us long after the event is over. ❤️

Thank you for having me as part of your community Caroline🥰