Stranger #21
Living with a cat
Do it! I initially got a cat because my job meant it was hard to keep regular hours that would be needed to keep another type of pet – unlike a dog for instance, cats are pretty self-sufficient. I never thought I was a cat person until I got her, now I am one of the craziest cat ladies around.
Lots of people tell me they don’t like cats, but they like Porkchop (pictured), and she’s not even really affectionate, so I think they just need to give more kitties a chance…Or maybe my friends are just polite! Is she weird and obnoxious? Absolutely, 5am wake up calls aren’t usually my thing!
Did I have to work incredibly hard just for her to sit on my lap, or let me rub her belly? Stupidly hard. Still.
But the payoff is so rewarding. Even though I know she is usually just purring because I have the thumbs required to open her food for her, I take what I can get.
And those times when you know it’s actual affection are like winning the lottery, hahaha.
The rumours are true, your cat will own you, but once you surrender to that, having that extra quirky little heart beat around the house can make all the difference.
Taking the karaoke stage with confidence
Surround yourself with friends who will cheer you on no matter what and probably sing along too. Pick songs that you feel passionate about! Your performance will be fierce if nothing else, & everyone loves a good show. Also, a little dutch courage never hurts…
Volunteering at a film festival
Let them know what YOU want to gain from the experience! Volunteering really is an immeasurable help for the festival, but it is a two-way street. Sure, some people do just want to lend a hand, but if you are there to gain new skills – make sure the person rostering you on knows what you are interested in learning about, so they can help facilitate it. And have fun, always have fun.
Would like advice on
How and when to say no! I love being busy and saying yes to new opportunities. I love being social and (trying to) be a good friend and family member. I love my job and working hard at being better at it. But there really are just 24 hours in the day, you know!
Best advice received
To think of your energy as a set of spoons. Everything you do takes away some of those spoons and you’ve got to make sure you are able to take the time replenish them, before you use them all, and end up with none. It’s hard, but I think about those damn spoons almost every day.
Life experience
32 Years
Location
Sydney, Australia