Have you ever stopped mid-conversation and thought… wait, why is this a thing? From silent letters that do absolutely nothing to “quick” five-minute errands that somehow take two hours, life is full of little mysteries that we’ve just collectively agreed not to question. This blog is a safe space to lovingly unpack the everyday things that simply… don’t make sense.



I am happy but some things that don’t make sense to me is why escalators are a bit scary. It doesn’t make sense why they have stairs. Stairs can be very scary! It doesn’t make sense why escalators can’t be flat or why we can’t just teleport to the top of the escalator. Steps don’t make sense to me. They are scary and intimidating and I don’t like them! It doesn’t make sense how people can use steps without being anxious. 
People who are mean don’t make sense. I don’t understand why they can’t just be nice. I love dogs and I don’t understand why everyone doesn’t. They are cute, fluffy and adorable! Thank you for listening to my blog, lots of love Ronalda.


Today's blog topic is things that don’t make sense.
Something that just doesn't make sense to me is that there are only six Disneylands in the world. I love Disneyland, it's the most magical place in the world and I think they should be everywhere. In Australia I think every state should have one. If I had a Disneyland nearby I would visit every weekend and be their best customer.
Another thing that doesn't make sense to me is why I only have one birthday a year. I love my birthday and would be fun if I had one every month. I like to go on holiday for my birthday with my family and have lots of fun. My birthday is coming up in March and I hope I get to go to China. 
What really doesn't make sense to me is why they don't have more movie sessions. Sometimes I want to go see a movie at a certain time but I can't because there's only one session that day and it's not when I want it. I think the movie should be on every hour so everyone can find a time that works for them.
This is Claire signing off, see you next week.


Things that don’t make sense to me are new cars, and why have they changed the technology. Mechanics make sense to me but these new cars aren't very mechanical anymore they are all computerised and electric. 
Why on Earth do people use a small ute to tow a 6x6 trailer up the hill. Because in a small ute they are not powerful enough. The tyres will spin. This doesnt make sense to me because they can avoid this by calling a friend to use their ute or a different trailer. However, if they did try and tow a small 6x6 with a small ute then it would be funny because the ute would fall backwards because of the weight of the trailer. They might get squashed.

Another thing that doesnt make sense is 50 cent and JRule’s beef.  50 cent bought the front three rows of seats at his concert to play a prank on him. This doesn’t make sense because he spent alot of money on this even though it is hilarious. 
This is Nick signing off, see you next week.


At school I don't know what is maths because it doesn't make any sense to me. I was trying my animation in stop motion but the story doesn't make any more sense.
So I work hard to change it. Why are some horror movie so messed up, that doesn't make sense. Because I was watching Wolf Creek but in looks all right but is just messed up, because Mick Taylor he's the psychopath who likes killing everyone but I don't understand why people just can't be nice and not cut peoples bodies in half like in the movies. I don't understand why Chanel likes green apples and I like red apples. Red apples are better so it doesn't make sense why she likes green. I do lots of pretend for my stop motion program but I was so clever to the animation in 3D animation and stop motion.
Thank you by Korey.


Things that don’t make sense to me are people, especially people from my country. Sometimes they ask questions that make others feel awkward, such as, “When are you getting married?” or, “Why don’t you have a boyfriend?” Some even make comments like, “Oh my God, you gained weight.” I do not like comments like that because they make my heart hurt.
One time, I went to Indonesia in 2015, and my nan’s brother said to me, “You should be tall, drink milk and vitamins. You have to remember you are not a child anymore!” When he said that, I felt upset. I did not cry, but it did not stop me from enjoying my holidays. Luckily, when I went back to Indonesia last year, I did not meet him in person. I saw my other grandma’s siblings, and I said hello to them. They did not ask awkward questions. My aunts, uncles, and cousins were just very happy to see me in person again.
Even though I felt a bit anxious and excited before seeing my family because I thought they might ask awkward questions, they did not. I was worried for nothing. Have you ever felt like that before?
I also find it confusing why, when I was in primary school, my classmates were sometimes nasty to me even though I never hurt them. Some kids are just mean because I am quiet and an easy target. When kids are mean to me, they think I will never yell back. My dad said the reason I got picked on is because kids still do not understand empathy and kindness yet. Once they grow up, they understand empathy more. When I went to mainstream school, some kids did not understand that I am a special needs kid.
There was also another girl in high school who hung out with my friendship group but did not like me. One time we had a dress up day at school, and I suggested, “Let’s dress up as Mario characters.” She did not appreciate my idea, but everybody else was okay with it, so we still dressed up as Mario characters because the majority agreed. Even though that girl was rude to me, she sometimes says hi to me. I thought teenagers were more mature than little kids, but some teenagers can be nasty too. I do not understand why people are sometimes mean, but sometimes okay.
Math can also be confusing. I can do easy math like addition, subtraction, division, and times tables. I did Kumon when I was in kindergarten, but division with remainders was too hard, so I stopped. Later, in primary school, I got homework about division with remainders, and I think I did well.
Reading analogue clocks used to confuse me, but now I can read them, not just digital clocks. All my watches are analogue. I do not have a smart watch like my support workers and friends, but I do have a digital clock in my room. Do you wear a smart watch, or do you prefer a normal watch like me?
Thank you for reading! I hope you all love it as much as I love writing it.
Princess Jacinda signing off.



Things that don’t make sense to me and make me confused is my blood sugar. Some times it goes up and some times it is down and that doesn’t make sense to me. I do my insulin and sometimes it’s still up but then sometimes it’s down.

Sometimes my mind gets angry quickly but I control myself to be calm or listening to music.
From TJ.


Dear readers, how are you?
Today's topic is about things that don't make sense and I have chosen to write about people such as strangers, people that bully others and people who are mean. I also don't like people who don't do anything and dont give space when asked or if they move away. I dislike being forced to be hugged or someone getting in my space without asking. It doesn’t take much to be kind to people so I don't understand why everyone isn't nice all the time.
It goes the same for certain types of foods for me like brussels sprouts etc. I don't like eating animals and I don't know why we need to as there are so many yummy foods that aren't animals so why can't we just eat those instead.
To be honest, scary movies are not for me or going to scary places. I like happy things. I find getting injections at hospitals a bit scary. 
Why can't our birthday be everyday? 
People who don't know how to drive on the road drive me a bit crazy, surely if you have your license you know how to drive and the rules.
Let us know below what doesn't make sense to you and if you agree with what doesn't make sense to me in the comments below.
This is Beth signing off, see you next week.  


Today’s blog is about things we just don’t understand. 
I don’t understand why people are placed in a mental asylum for different situations, like if they had a disability or are mentally unstable.  I find it hard and confronting that people who had kids and couldn’t handle them well would be placed into mental asylums. That isn’t nice or fair. It is so unfair that people would be locked up in their room and the only thing they can do is read or eat their meals looking out a window. I have been to Aradale Asylum and we learnt about an Indigenous lady who was refused entry into the actual buildings but was a patient and forced to reside in her tent by the rotunda. Now her family members go back to the asylum regularly to do a smoking ceremony to pay their respects to her. I would like to go back there to do a six hours paranormal investigation tour and go back into the rooms and watch the screens if they is any voices or shadow figures walking around or trying to make a conversation with us. Thank you for reading this blog. Ash.


Shan’s things that don’t make sense blog…
For most of my life I’ve questioned many things that just don’t make sense to me. As an incredibly deep thinker I analyse everything and question everything because I am on a life quest to understand as much as I can and also I have anxiety so overthinking is basically a hobby at this point. I feel like because I struggled to learn at school I have developed a hunger for the knowledge I might have missed out on. Now let’s get into it!
Humans being the main thing I don’t understand and yes, I am aware I am also human but that doesn’t mean a thing to my beautifully neurodivergent brain. For many people understanding social cues, sarcasm, jokes and having conversations with strangers, is something that some people take for granted, meanwhile I have to work on this so that I can understand what’s going on and to make sure that I don’t misread the situation as something that it’s not. I don’t understand why I have to work so hard to be human. I don’t want to look silly or like I’m struggling to tread water. While I’m much better now and I’m proud of that, this is still something I struggle with.

I also don’t understand unkind people, I don’t understand why there is a need to be unkind or cruel to other beings. I see the things that people can say and do, it just feels unnecessarily unkind and in some cases evil/cruel. I don’t understand what they are thinking that makes what they say or do feel ok to them. Some of the horrific things people have done really shock me because I would have never thought anyone would want to say or do these things. I also wonder about their mind and their wellbeing.
I wonder if they are ok, if they just need some kindness and support? But it’s just not something I can wrap my head around and I have thought about it a lot. I guess I’ll never understand this one.
I think there are many things in life we won’t understand but we can always strive to educate ourselves and learn what we can to try and understand. At least this is what I’m trying to do.
Your friend, 
Shan.

Dear readers, this week's topic are things that makes no sense. Let me start by telling you about things that makes no sense to me and this firstly is the happy birthday song and why it is sang for so long. Why is a red onion called a red onion especially when you take off the outside layers of the onion it looks purple.  Why in the past did we have torture devices in places like jail and yet today we don’t have any torture devices in jail. Another is why do other countries call soft drinks soda or pop because that makes no sense to me.  What is wrongful with everyone just calling it soft drink.
In general the human body makes no sense to me neither but that’s a big for another day  
Readers I have a question, what things make no sense to you? 
written by Charlotte.


These things don't make sense to me. When people come to the door and why doesn't iPhone 11 have a home button.
Ben 2.

Valentine’s Day is usually about roses, romance and overpriced chocolate… but this year we're making it about love in a different way. The everyday kind. The small things. The big things. The things that make my heart feel full for no dramatic reason at all.
Consider this our official “Things I Love” list — no roses required.



These are the things I love. Some things I love are my two boyfriends - Micheal and Daniel but Daniel is my favourite. They are my true love. I love Disney my favourite Disney movie is Beauty and the Beast and Tangled.  I also love Disney music my favourite is Lion King and Aladdin. I love my dog Bella. I love my mum and my dad too. I love my yellow Umbrella drink bottle. like Disney bags and Disney phones. I love my favourite colour,  yellow.  I love Pepsi Max a lot. I love chicken schnitzels. I love Krystle and Chanel and Steph  and I love Cindy. I miss Cindy too. 
Claire.


I’m not quite sure what love is or what feeling love gives out. I’m not a big fan of rom coms because they all fall in love, they argue, then usually end up at an airport saying sorry and then reconcile and get married in the last scene of the movie. I do like the movie Blue Valentine with Michelle Williams and Ryan Gosling. They fall in love at a young age then have kids, but things happen and they separate. Thats how I see love.  But is everyone different. 
I love Johnny Depp. When I was younger I had all of his movies and had many posters of him around my room. I use to have a plan to marry him. 
I would find his house, hit him over the head with a pan and look after him, and I would pretend to be his wife. 
I swear we were meant to be, we are both half blind and we both hate clowns.
Maybe I’m more of a comfort person rather then a love person, as things bring me comfort like
Horror movies, fried rice, cats especially Maine Coons, friends and family.  Being with animals and sound of a fire crackling, nature and the sound of waves at the beach .
So there you go my love is comfort,  and Johnny Depp.
But again everyone feels love in many different ways.
Your comfort queen Haley.


Today’s blog topic is about things I love 
Where do I start? There’s so many things that I love and make me happy! 
I love to draw and colour, I like using different colours and making it look pretty. I love going to Umbrella Support and all the new things I’m learning like making coffee and writing this blog. I really like all my friends that come to Umbrella and I miss them when they’re away. I love dogs especially my dog Zeus, I take him for walks, give him cuddles and play with him. Another thing I love is the water, I enjoy going to the pools and the beach and sometimes my support worker Sheridan takes me to the pool and we have a lot of fun swimming together. 
This is Ronalda signing off, see you next week.


What I love
I love ASIO, I'm obsessed actually and I am pretty smart.
I love the fact that you get to figure out who is the
biggest threat in all things National Security. I reckon I could do that.
I would probably need a car licence so I should focus on that but it's something I could work on. I like to research the Bondi attack and
allegedly ASIO knew about the Bondi Attack. I also love going to the pub and ordering food. I love schnitzel and cider. I also love the people at the pub. I love my job at the tip.
I love building things with my hands. I love motorcycles and ride-on lawn mowers. I love the navy seals in America and I love how they get the bad guys. I love coming to Umbrella on a Thursday because I get to see my friends.
This is Nick signing off, see you next week.


There are so many things that I love. I love my family very much, especially my parents. They raised me, taught me manners, taught me to be a good girl, and paid for my school fees and supplies when I was at school. My parents also gave me great advice, such as to be grateful everyday even when life is bitter. I love my brother too. He is working overseas at the moment. Do you have any siblings? If you do, are they older or younger than you? My brother and I do not really have small talk now, but on special occasions we wish each other well on WhatsApp. My brother is very thoughtful too. One time, he gave me a banana plush from Mario Kart for my birthday even though I do not like cake or singing.
I also love my extended family, especially my Grandma. I still have my Grandpa on my dad's side. My maternal Grandpa passed away two years ago, but I never met him. I love all my Aunts, Uncles, and Cousins. I have one Aunty in Melbourne who is my dad's sister, but I have many relatives on my mum's side. Last year we reunited in Surabaya. It was fun seeing my cousins grow and sitting with them. I also enjoy seeing my cousins grow because they are not as demanding as when they were younger. My relatives are very thoughtful. On special occasions they like to send me messages with digital cards or stickers. I love receiving them.
I love my plush toys too, especially my Cheep Cheep plush. Most of the plush toys on my bed are from Mario games. I love plush toys because they are cute, huggable, and non-judgmental. Cheep Cheep is a fish character from Mario Bros.
I love cartoons, movies, and TV shows. Disney is my favourite, but I also like other cartoons like Sanrio, Snoopy, and Mario. I am excited for the new Mario Galaxy movie in April. I watch cartoons on Disney Plus, Netflix, and YouTube. I usually rewatch movies on Disney Plus and Netflix. For example, I have already watched Toy Story but I like watching it again. On YouTube, I like to watch old cartoons that used to be on ABC Kids. In the old days, I watched cartoons on TV or DVD. My grandparents’ house in Jakarta had paid TV channels with many kids channels, but I never had paid TV channels myself. Now I have Disney Plus and Netflix.
I also love cooler days because I am not a fan of heatwaves and I can sleep better. I use a fan when it is hot and humid. When it is cool, I can wear a cozy jumper and trousers.
I love blogging every Thursday because it is fun to write and express my opinions. I also love coming to the handmade program because all the people are kind and respect my dignity. I love my job at Woolworths. Even though the tasks are always the same every week, I am grateful to have a paid job because many people are still looking for work.
Thank you for reading my weekly blog.
Princess Jacinda signing off.


These are the things I like. I like my friends. I like pizza. I like music. I like the iPad.
I like texting. I like my phone I like Boost Juice. I like pies
Ben 2.


My love “things” are making my animation in 3D it is good fun. I love making the stop motion animation it is good fun for me.
I love making the film at my animation program but in was good fun.
I love Horror movies and my favourite movie is Child’s Play is was bit funny and silly.
I like making the coffee in Umbrella it was good fun for me.
I like heavy metal, my favourite band is Slipknot, Ice Nine Kills, Slaughter to Prevail, Lorna Shore, Metallica they was a great band and awesome scream mode my favourite singer is Alex Terrible, Will Ramos, Corey Taylor, Spencer Charnas they all scream mode.
I love Bill Skarsgard he's a great actor he does like all Horror movies like my favourite actor is Bill Skarsgard, Alexander Skarsgärd, Jensen Ackles, Gustaf Skarsgard and Norman Reedus they are all great actors. 
I love Collingwood they are a great team. My favourite Collingwood players are Nick Daicas, Josh Dricas, Scott Pendlebury, Darcy Moore, and Bobby Hill.
Korey.


Today I am writing about my love for everything haunted. Things like ghost stories from Mayday Hills to Aradale Mental Hospital and I would like to explore everything haunted and do ghost adventures and learning the history behind those places.  I want to go to morgues and the crematorium where they would cremate people. Tours usually go into the wards where they were placed with shackles if they had a mental health issue and they would also place them in separate sections of the institution. It didn’t matter if you were a female or a male they would take your kids away from patients because most babies were born out of wedlock. Sometimes mothers would pass out or pass away from childbirth because they would lose a lot of blood or they did not have the right medications. The instruments would not be cleaned properly and that’s probably why they got infections like blood poisoning or Staph infections. Sometimes they would amputate your body parts without any anaesthetic and sometimes they would use the same dressings for your wonders. No wonder a lot of people died from different types of injuries and illnesses. Some of the nurses were nice and some of them were nasty. The nuns would raise the kids in a special place in the Asylum away from other people. Sadly some of the kids would pass away from a day old or even ten years old, and there are lots of unmarked graves on the premises but sometimes their family don’t come to see them. It breaks my heart to hear the horrific stories of what has happened in the history of Victoria. Saying that I’m very lucky that I wasn’t born in the 1800s of the early 1900s. Thank you for reading my blog. Ash.


My eyes are in pain today and I need coffee coffee coffee, but anyway today I write about Valentine’s Day and things that I love.  It’s a good time by myself at home to do nothing but I love to play Fortnite by myself or with a friend. If you try to get a flower or chocolate for Valentines Day of course try to be nice and sweet to other people. I love to care about people from TJ.


Hi readers, how are you? Today's topic is about all things love and I have chosen to write about why I like it and spending time with my family and my mums partner. I like Umbrella Support, I love all the programs and making friends and having support from my friends.  I like cooking, having dinner with friends, trying something new, talking about employment, karaoke music, dancing, being with supportive people and support workers as well as Martina, Bernie, Chrissie, Sheridan, Chanel, Krystle, Steph, Cindy, Deb, and volunteer Deb and having a Umbrella Support bear named Jeff.  I love having supportive support workers to talk to if something is wrong or to go to, feeling safe with safe people and in a safe environment.  This week has been up and down with emotions being in a new place and more but Krystle and Chanel and Cindy have been so incredible and I know will continue to be. I try not to let it get to me but sometimes it just comes without any reasons. 
Thank you for reading my blog this is Beth signing off until our next blog adventure.


Shan’s what I love blog.. 
What do I love? 
I feel like this blog is a fantastic opportunity to talk about my absolute favourite Disney movie and first love The Lion King. If you are a long time reader you will already be aware that I’m very loyal to the lion king and everything to do with the Lion King. With the exception of the Lion Guard which is not my cup of tea at all. Some time a go in my early childhood my lovely Aunty Cynthia passed on her love of the Lion King to me when she brought me my first Lion King Video. I believe it was a Christmas present and I still have the video on my bookshelf with my Lion King  books. I wouldn’t say I have a Lion King shrine but my Lion king collection is all together and it’s something I love endlessly. It brings me so much joy to have all my Lion King collection safe together in one place.
I love that I can share my love of Lion King with others as well, It’s a great thing to share all our interests and find things in common also. I have a beautiful Lion King Loungefly backpack that is Simba and it does get a bit of attention. It’s a good conversation starter too. I really enjoy talking about the Lion King because it’s obviously one of my favourite topics of conversation. (Though I have to admit sometimes I find conversations a bit daunting). I smile when I hear a child talking about my backpack because it brings other people joy and makes them happy. It’s also nice to know that kids still like to watch a movie that has been around since 1994. I hope that the Lion King can be loved for generations to come, if not I have enough love for The Lion King for everyone.
I am super excited to share with everyone that I am going to see the Lion King Musical in Sydney. I have been waiting since I was about nine years old to be able to go see it and now I am finally going to see it. My Grandparents saw it in 2003 I believe and gave me the musicals program (which I still have in near perfect condition) and since then it has been a dream of mine to go and see the Lion King musical. I’m also very keen to get some Lion King merch and have this experience because as I have alluded to, it’s been a bucket list item for such a long time. It’s also my first time going to Sydney and that also very exciting. I have a countdown on my phone because I am that excited for this trip and seeing the Lion king musical. 
So in conclusion my first ever love was the lions from the Lion King and of course I am forever grateful to my Aunty and Disney for this. 
From your Lion King obsessed friend, Shan.


Dear readers, this week's topic is things I love. Let me start by telling you about things I love. I love cooking, horror and the Twilight movies, listening to Eminem songs, Halloween and I love my job at RSL.
My love of cooking started when I was young. I always wanted to be in the kitchen and help mum cook but she always said no, however she would allow me to cut and peel the vegetables. When I was in primary school at the start mum would always pack my lunch boxes until I got to the age where I could make and pack my own lunchboxes.  As I got older mum started trusting me to be in the kitchen a whole lot more and cook by myself and now I cook all by myself in our kitchen at home for my family dinner. My mum is the one who has inspired my love and passion for cooking.  My older sister and my dad introduced me to my love of horror movies and I love halloween it's one of my favourite holidays.
Readers, I have a question: what things do you love?
Written by Charlotte. 

We all have two versions of ourselves: the one others see and the one that emerges when no one’s around. Today’s blog explores that quiet gap and the version of us that exists solely when unseen. It delves into the differences we make for others compared to ourselves.


There’s no need for fixing or pretending; simply honest reflection on the small yet human ways we live when no one’s watching.


What I do differently when I’m being watched, vs not being watched by others. 
I love learning new things.
When I'm learning things for the first time I feel brave.
When I am dancing it doesn't matter if anyone is watching cause I have lots of fun no matter what. I practise dancing with my friends and I never feel shy.
I can make my own breakfast, and dad will help me with my tomato slices. But, I cook the toast all by myself.
I never feel nervous, I am brave.
When I learnt to use the washing machine and dryer I did well. I put all the clothes in and mum will press the buttons, but I can now  then take them out and put the dryer because learnt how.
When I have songs in my head sometimes they come out my mouth. But I don't mind because I can sing. I can sing with people and on my own. But I'm brave the whole time not nervous.
I am no different if I am around a lot of people or on my own.
Claire.


When I’m alone I’m a bit more comfortable to be myself, I dance a little more and sing louder too. I can be a little shy at times and it sometimes takes me a little bit to become comfortable with someone. Sometimes I’m a little scared to do things on my own but if someone’s with me I gain confidence to do scary things. My support worker Sheridan helps me go on escalators which I would never do on my own. I don’t like to go out places on my own so I always make sure I have a family member, a friend or support worker to help me. This is my first blog I’ve written which is new and different for me and not something I would have done on my own.
This is Ronalda signing off, see you next week.


Dear readers, how are you? 
Today's topic is what would I do differently if someone was watching and why? I have a few things I would do differently, or not at all if someone was watching. 
Dancing:-
I like to dance, but if someone was watching me I wouldn't dance at all this is because I am very shy.
Singing:- 
I also like to sing, karaoke is one of my favourite things but when I am in front of people I sing very quietly.  I feel proud that I keep singing even though I am so shy.  
Trying something new:-
I like trying new things but not in front of people. Again my shyness stops me from doing this. 
Cooking:-
I like cooking but eating what we cook is something I just can't do.  I don't eat in front of people, so other people get to enjoy my cooking.
This is Beth signing off. 


I like to sing when no one is around me because I don’t feel comfortable, I am tone deaf apparently according to some. I like to sing because it makes me feel happy and excited as well. The best part is i will sing in my car so no one can hear my singing but I enjoy it and I have my windows down so I can have my music playing so loud.   I enjoy seeing people faces when I play really good music or listening to the radio and the best thing that no one can judge me for is my singing. Thank you for reading my blog about music.
Ash.


Have you ever felt like you’ve been watched while doing things. When I’m watching while doing things I get a bit panicky and nervous.
I feel like I’ll mess up what I’m doing, but I usually don’t but that’s how I feel.
But one time I was cooking tacos for dinner one night on my own to help out, and I thought the silver packet in the tacos was for flavouring so I sprinkled it all over the tacos, my dad came home and said what’s the black stuff on the tacos, I said the flavouring from the silver packet.  
He said. That wasn’t flavouring that was stuff to keep the tacos moist and taco from going stale.  I could have been the first Erin Patterson.  Yep. 
I’m going to dig myself a grave here, but I secretly dance in my study, I put my headphones on and dance but whenever my family members would walk past I would stop. I know they know I dance cause they would probably hear the music. But I still freeze until they walk past.


When I used to work at a nursery for the job agency, had me do an occupational therapist functional assessment  which involved another worker who work there. I was so nervous because I had people watching me and I didn’t want to muck up my job. Luckily, I kept my job for a while after until they got shut down. 


In all honestly I think I act the same with people watching or not watching me.  I’m can be a ball of anxious bones. 
Haley.

Today’s blog topic is how do I act when I'm observed and how do I act in front of people.
One thing that comes to mind when I think of this topic is that when I work at the tip I wear gloves but at home I never do. I find gloves really annoying and when I'm working on things at home I prefer just to use my hands as I find it easier. when I'm with my friends I like to play pranks and muck around but I'm a bit more chill when I'm on my own. When I'm by myself I like to spend my time fixing things, working on my mowers, play video games and watching movies. Sometimes I will talk to myself when I'm alone but don't do that in front of others because they might think I'm crazy. I also don't need to because I love talking to other people if they are there. 
This is Nick signing off.


I'm not very good at going on Zoom to do a meeting as I go quiet around people sometimes.
I'm not very good at talking to new people. I've got a friend who likes texting more than talking and that's okay.
I like doing both.
I don't like to talk to too many people, I get shy. 
From Ben.


Hello my friend how are you all? I want to say what makes me feel different and what makes me uncomfortable or comfortable. What makes me uncomfortable? People saying bad things about me, but what make me comfortable is when people are nice to me.  If they are not nice to me I just walk away and don’t listen, or I put my music on with my headphone or Bluetooth.  I’ll tell you who is more crazy, it’s my dog Ruby she run around my on my bed. That’s ok if she loves to play with me on my bed.
TJ


Shan’s supervised verses not being supervised blog..
Keeping in mind that for this blog when I talk about being supervised I’m excluding situations when I am learning how to do something because that’s a different situation all together.
This topic is an interesting one because it’s something I think about often and if possible, I try to avoid being in this situation so that I don’t need to feel like I don’t know what I’m doing. It’s mostly part of having anxiety, wanting approval from others and having some self-doubt. I will, if I feel comfortable enough to, ask whoever is supervising me to come back when I’m finished so I can explain that I work better without the supervision. I think it’s best when we communicate our feelings and how we work best in these situations, but also in life.


I feel like whenever someone’s watching over my shoulder, even if it’s something I have done many times before and I’m somewhat of an expert at it I will get anxious and start overthinking the task. I start to feel like I can’t do the task even though I’m quite capable of doing it. Also, I start to feel over sensitive to my surroundings and feel a bit overwhelmed. I also don’t want to feel judged even though I’m fairly sure no one is actually judging me and if I’m honest they’re probably just interested or curious about what I’m doing. I feel a lot better though when they walk away from me or the task is done. It’s like the pressure of it all is released and I can relax, though, I’d also probably overthink it for a bit first. 


That’s my brain dump for this week, thank you so very much for joining us. 
With much love and kindness, 
your friend always, 
Shan. 


Dear readers, this week's topic is what do things I do differently when I’m not around people.
Let me start by telling you about what I do differently when I’m not when around people  I sing really quiet when I’m all by myself because I don't like singing in front of people and I talk to myself which helps me think. No I’m not crazy so I read one of my Twilight books and listen to the songs from the Twilight movies. I listen to pop  songs and meditation music and write in my journal all about how I feel and put together Lego sets that I buy. Sometimes I do my Lego by myself or I ask dad to help me build it and  sometimes he says very nicely “yes” and other times he tells me to “do it on your own”.  When it's a nice warm sunny day I like to paint and do art and craft, and colouring in my colouring book. Also I will watch movies and play games on my phone like cooking games, Township, and home interior design.
Readers I have a question what things do you do differently when you’re not around people?
Written by Charlotte.


This week’s blog topic is a bit tricky: What I do differently when I am being observed compared to when I am not being observed. What would you do when people are watching you, and when they are not?
Being observed means that people are watching me. When I know I’m being observed, I tend to concentrate more.
At work, my manager doesn’t observe me all the time because he has other jobs to do. However, customers at Woolworths might observe me when I’m doing facing. I always make sure the shelves look neat so customers can find items easily.
I also remember being observed at my former job at Australia Post Sprintpak. I worked there for four years doing philatelic work, which involved working with stamps. These days, I attend Umbrella Support instead. At Sprintpak, my manager would sometimes walk around the warehouse to check everyone’s work. When he was watching, I always tried my best to do a good job.
When I’m eating with family or friends, I also feel observed. I use my table manners, such as using cutlery properly. Mum sometimes reminds me to be ladylike, especially at family gatherings where there are lots of people. I sit properly and make sure I’m polite because many people are watching, and good table manners are important.
When I am not being observed, I feel much calmer and more relaxed. Some activities I enjoy when I’m not being observed include colouring in, journalling, and blogging from home. When I blog at home, I wear my home clothes. If I go to class or a public place, I wear casual clothes. I prefer blogging from home because it’s quiet and I don’t feel watched.
When I’m not being observed, I can also eat at my own pace. I can focus on my food and don’t have to worry about talking. I enjoy eating alone for this reason. However, I also like eating with my family and my Handmade program friends on Mondays. Spending time with others is a privilege, and not everyone gets the chance to do that.
Thank you for reading.
This is Jacinda signing off. See you next week, friends.

​Learning new things is like making a coffee in was good fun.
Monday I did my computer group where I learn about making my animation in the program “blender” it was good fun.
Tuesday I making the stop motion, I making the paper craft I made for the Minecraft Villager. I made the house and I made the grass so it looks like the mini animation. It was good fun for me.
Wednesday we making the film, my mate Billy is going to making horror movies in April on the weekend is going to be great.
I just finished my animation I uploaded on YouTube because everyone want to see my videos, everyone loves my videos in though in was funny.
Mv making the toast in the morning, my favourite toast is raisin bread is so taste good for me.

Korey.

January… A new year and our first blog where we can write about anything we like! Our bloggers are full of ideas and are ready to share them with you.
Today's blog is choose your own adventure.


Today I will be talking about my favourite thing, which is Disney. I love Disney music, Disney movies, Disney shows, Disney cruises and of course Disneyland. 
I love Beauty and the Beast and the beautiful castle the Beast lives in, the characters are cool including chip the teacup.
Another movie I really like is the Lion King, I prefer the new live-action version better, it is really cool. Simba is my favourite character and I love singing along to “I just can't wait to be king”.
Cinderella had a glass slipper and a blue dress and meets her Prince Charming which is true love, I love stories about true love.
 
I've been on a few Disney cruises in my time and they are amazing. I find it so fun meeting all the characters, eat at the buffet, go swimming and do fun activities on board. My favourite night is when I get to see the fireworks. Pirate night is really fun and I love getting into character.
 
I have been to Disneyland in Japan and California and it is magical. I love the rides and the atmosphere of being at the happiest place on earth. I love it there I always have a great time I plan to visit all the Disneylands in the world.
 
This is Claire signing off, see you next week!
 
 
Anime for me is great.
My favourite is My Hero Academia and the character Izumi Midoriya. His backstory is sad because his brother taunts him about his name and for having no super power. But his friend Bakugo gave him a new name, Deku.
I love the series, there are seven seasons.
I can recommend a great show for the younger kids, The Amazing World of Gumball. Gumball is a cat and his brother, a fish, is called Darwin. They have adventures together and they're funny. It makes me laugh.
Another interest of mine is gaming and my favourite game of all time is Marvel Rivals.
It's a free game and I love the characters. There is another James Bond coming out in March which I am looking forward too.
Thank you everyone, Thomas. My second blog today.
 
Last week is my 20th birthday and my mum was just made the “slaughter to prevail” cake it was amazing. “Slaughter to prevail” is one of my favourite bands. 
Me and my mum went to the movies to see “28 years later the bone temple” is the good movie I just I like that movie.
And I when to the party in was good fun and I got very big day for my birthday.
On 14th of February me and my mum are going to Polaris, another heavy metal band is going to be great.
Me and my mum are going to see the new “Scream 7” movie. It’s going to be a good movie and hopefully there will be an “Ice Nine Kills” song, but we’ll see.
And guess what? on Tuesday I am making the stop motion animation with my other group and I will keep making the Minecraft Villagers on paper. It is going to be awesome.
Korey
 
 
Dear readers, this weeks topic is a choose own your adventure. Let me start by telling you about my job at the RSL and how much I'm looking forward to going back to work and starting back at work for this year. It is really soon. I love my job and working with all the chefs and this year I can't wait to see what new things I will learn. I also love being in the kitchen and cooking. How do I feel when I'm in the kitchen and cooking? I feel happy when I cook in the kitchen at work and home because I put in a lot of time and love in the foods I cook. I always make sure that all the dishes I make are delicious and tasty.
Written by Charlotte.
 
Hello friends, I like to be a gamer and all the stuff, but there is too much updates on Fortnite. It makes my mind go crazy.  Anyway on the weekend it is beautiful out there but sometimes too hot.  I think nope I am going back inside to stay inside the house, no more sunburn on my skin. Well tomorrow is coffeemaker time at the cafe. 5am in the morning, oh lord, my brain wakes me up early in the morning. So I said it myself in the morning all the time to try to sleep more. I try. sometimes I go to the movies myself sometimes with a friend. I am so happy to see Daz today too. From TJ, your friend.
 
Today, for our choose our own adventure blog I am writing about my fictional adventure and experience on the Titanic. I got a chance to be on the Titanic because I was starting a new adventure from Ireland to England with my family and giving my kids the best experience of living in England because my husband got a job there.  I was a stay at home mum with four kids, two girls and two boys. My husband was a boiler engineer on the boats and he got a chance to work on the Titanic but he turned down the job. He would be working in the yard for long days and start work at 6:00am till 5:00pm. I would be making dinner for the whole family and I’ll be putting the kids in bed and my husband and I would be doing the dishes and we would go to bed early. Because he works long days he doesn’t work on the weekends, instead he needs to spend time with me and the kids. One day we got a letter that my husband would not be working on the Titanic, and that some people will lose their job so my husband was happy that he does not need to work on the titanic anymore but rather spending time together with his family. We got a big house so our kids have their own room and they have a playroom so they can do anything in there like drawing or painting. I was homeschooling my kids, my husband would be cooking all of our meals and was so proud of him. Then we found out one of my kids was so sick so my husband had to take them to the doctors.  They were so sick but they started getting better slowly and I was lucky that my husband was helping me out with everything. Thank you for reading my blog. 
Ash
 
Today is a choose your own adventure, and boy it’s hard.  I’ve chosen so many topics to write about.  I started on one about the inventor of Monopoly,  who wasn’t a man but a woman named Elizabeth “Lizzie”  Magi who sold the rights to Charles Darrow for $500, then he sold it to Parker brothers in 1935.
I wrote a few paragraphs on her and decided not to go on writing about her. So instead I decided to write about SpongeBob SquarePants and his friends. 
SpongeBob was actually going to be called Sponge Boy, where they live “Bikini Bottom” is a reference to Bikini Atoll, an American nuclear test site in the 1940s -1950s in the Pacific Ocean. 
SpongeBob’s work place the Krusty Krab is designed to look like a real life lobster trap. They also assume that the characters from SpongeBob resemble the seven deadly sins, as follows.  

Sloth - Patrick
Greed - Mr Krabs 
Envy - Plankton
Wrath - Squidward 
Pride - Sandy 
Lust - SpongeBob 
Gluttony- Gary (Meow) 
 
I’ve also chosen to write about Unsinkable Sam, AKA Oskar. He is a cat who served in the Second World War, and he survived the sinking of three ships. Firstly in 1941 he survived the battleship Bismarck, then the British  destroyer  HMS  Cossack an Aircraft carrier and then the HMS Ark Royal.  Sadly, he passed away in 1951 in Belfast Ireland 
Thank you for reading my  three-in-one choose my own adventure topic. 
Hopefully next week I can stick with one topic. 
Haley. 
 
 
Dear readers, how are you? Today's topic is a choose your own adventure and I have chosen to write about starting a new employment program. I do this two days a week which is Wednesdays and Fridays where we talk about what is a job, what is a good team worker, teamwork, is it paid work, unpaid or work experience and money handling skills.

We are very hands on and we play games which we get to chose. Connect 4 or a new bowling game called Finska.  We get to learn how to make coffees and use the coffee machine and how to froth milk with the milk frother and serve customers by Krystle. When we are ready to start we will open up the roller door or the hole in the wall hole, as Krystle calls it which is currently covered with a poster. When we remove it we will be really confident to greet our customers and sell drinks and coffees and sweet treats. To be honest it is very nerve racking and scary but I know that I have help and I am safe, and I am with Support Workers which is Krystle, Steph, Deb, Cindy, Chanel and Sheridan. Yesterday Chanel and I made a flyer. It said the business name and the words fun, coffee, kind natured and yummy. We drew rainbow and flowers on our flyer and said that we are open on Fridays from 9:30 till 11:30.
 Thanks you for reading my blog this is barista Beth signing off until next time.


Shan’s first choose your own adventure for 2026. 
We do love a choose your own adventure blog, it takes me a short minute to think of what to write about because my mind goes blank and I forget that I have a whole list of ideas on what to write about in the notes app on my phone. I think I put too much pressure on myself and overthink the whole experience. It’s truly not as easy to come up with topics for a choose your own adventure writing day as you think. 
 
The topic today was inspired by my fellow friend and blogger Haley, she mentioned SpongeBob and I thought about Gary the snail from SpongeBob. I love Gary the snail, Gary is my favourite character from Spongebob and even before I knew about Gary I loved snails in general. When I was younger I wanted snails as a pet, in fact, aside from horses they were my favourite animal. No you didn’t read that wrong snails are in fact animals. They’re also both male and female, which was really interesting to learn about in primary school as I had so many questions about snails. 
 
Snails have tiny teeth, (called radula) they’re very tiny and you probably won’t see them on your typical garden snail. Before I knew this I assumed that snails just made their food all soggy and then ate it. However due to my never ending quest for knowledge I know better now. Snails also have a foot, it’s the part of them that helps them move around. If you have ever seen a snail move on glass you would have seen their foot and the little ripple-like movements that the foot does to help them get around. You’ll also have seen slime, which is actually a mucus that comes from the foot. The mucus helps snails get around without getting hurt or stuck while also protecting their foot. 
I once took a garden snail to primary school because I loved it so much and I wanted to take him with me. Not sure the snail really wanted to come but in my defence I was very gentle and he was released once I got to school on the advice of a teacher. This is when I learnt that all creatures should be left in their habitats (homes) I now just admire my snail friends and let them be the boss of their own adventures. 
That’s all for now though. 
Your friend, 
Shan

Today, I decided to write a blog about my Grandma. She lives in Indonesia, but near the end of the year, she spends time with me in Australia. After the pandemic, she stayed in Australia for three months because she retired and doesn’t get to see me in person often. My Grandma is an active senior, and she prefers coming near the end of the year because she cannot stand the cold winter.

My Grandma has five children and nine grandchildren. Most of her grandkids have finished school, but three of her grandsons are still in high school.

She loves spending time in my backyard, cooking, shopping, and going on road trips. During long road trips, she usually likes to take a “nana nap” because she’s an early bird and rarely sleeps in.  She’s always up before 8 a.m.

Before COVID, when my Grandma visited, I had to deal with sharing my room. She slept in my bed, and Mum moved the spare bed into my room for me. I prefer having my own space, but spending time with my Grandma is a privilege. Do you like having a roommate, or are you like me, who loves having your own space?

In 2023, my brother left Australia for a job overseas, and my dad’s parents moved into aged care, so I had two spare rooms woo hoo! My Grandma could sleep in my brother’s room, and I didn’t have to share. Even though I’m not sure when my brother will return, there’s still my other grandparents’ room for my Grandma if she comes back.

My Grandma is very generous. After COVID, when she visited she bought me cute pyjamas and a Mickey Mouse ring. She doesn’t usually bring keepsake gifts, but I requested these, and she bought them for me. She also brings crackers from Indonesia some ready to eat, and some that need to be fried. She can be cheeky too sometimes she takes fish crackers from my plate without asking! That grinds my gears, but it’s okay because in the family it’s all part of caring for each other. She has cooked for me, changed my nappies when I was a baby (Mum told me), and bought me gifts.

She’s also very good at using WhatsApp. Sometimes she sends me videos, digital cards, or even funny stickers when she’s in Indonesia.

When my Grandma visits Australia, we’ve been to lots of cool places together, like: Pancake Parlour, San Churros, Piatella, Adelaide, Tasmania, San Remo Fish and Chips, Torquay, Phillip Island, and local shopping centres. She always goes grocery shopping with Mum, and they usually plan together what to cook.

I love Thursdays because I get to do blogging! Thanks for reading my blog about my Grandma.
This is Jacinda signing off. See you next week!
Todays blog topic is choose your own adventure. 

Today I'm going to about things that I have built or fixed. Recently at the tip where I work I found a PC. I took it home and it didn't work. I took it all apart and put in some new parts like the motherboard, power supply, RAM and a graphics card. After all that it started working and I was really proud of myself, it took me a couple of hours to get done and was very fiddly.
I plan to keep this PC for myself but in the future I may do the same for another PC and sell it on marketplace and make some money. I enjoyed taking the risk of buying something that didn't work and hoping I could fix it, which I did.

I also like to fix law mowers, I think I have fixed around ten. I get lawnmowers from the tip and I always get excited when I spot one there. I enjoy working with my hands and pulling things apart and the satisfaction of making something work that someone threw away, as they say one mans trash is another mans treasure. At home at the moment I have four lawn mowers which I'm working on. I have a ride on mower which I'm hoping I can fix soon because I think it would be fun to ride around Kilcunda which is where I go away to sometimes.

This is Nick signing off, see you next. week.

I like EB game and shopping and food stuff and lunch too.  that why I love play on my phone or Xbox all stuff anyway shopping for food good for me to get to lunch. 
TJ


Where do I like to go shopping? I like going to buy clothes, I like buying shoes and pants too. I also like to buy Apple® products
Ben 2.


My favourite place is JB Hi-Fi because I buy my CD. I got a new CD, it is the new album of “Slaughter to Prevail” called “Grizzly”. I got it for last year it was awesome. I also like going to the movies at Fountain Gate.
I like going to buy my game, it was good.
Korey.


My favourite shopping place would be the original Knox City because I knew where everything was before they did the renovation of the shopping centre, because they have too many shops and the shops that have closed or have been taken over by different people.  So many years ago my biological father was Santa and one year I was lining up to get a Santa picture then I yelled out “hi daddy” but he could not wave. I told the kids in front of me that’s not the real Santa that’s my daddy and then they left the line. My biological father was shocked when I told him what I did. My mum used to work at Knox City theres a shop called Games World. The best thing is that I used to get free cinnamon doughnuts from Con because he knew me since I was a little girl and to this day, I still get free cinnamon doughnuts.
Ash.


Dear readers, this week’s topic is what your favourite place to shop is, and mine is Fountain Gate.
Let us start by telling you about where I like to go shopping. I love going to Starbucks and buying a chai latte and at Christmas time buying more than one gingerbread latte. I like buying bubble tea and a juice from Boost juice,  buying Lego from the store online, doing my nails at the nail salon, Kmart, Target, Supře,  Ally fashion, Factorie, Jay Jays , Peter Alexander, Bath bath and Body Works, Sephora , Victoria Secret, Just Jeans, Dotti, Shein, the AFL store, Sportsgirl, Cotton-On and Strandbags.  I love getting my hair done at our hairdressers who is one of our family friends  and we’ve have known her for long time now. 
Written by Charlotte.


Dear readers, how are you today? 
What is your favourite place to shop?
I could go on and on and on about my favorite shops, which are Dusk, Kmart, Target, JB Hi Fi,  Coles, Boost, Perfume stores and jewellery stores. I also go to the nail salon at Fountain Gate.  Another store I like to look at is the Apple Store.  Other great shops are Smiggle, Strandbags, Lovisa and the Reject Shop.
I also like to shop online (my poor bank account !!). Some of the stores on the internet I like are Temu and Shein as well as Strandbags. 
Another shopping centre I like is Cranbourne Park.  They have a lovely restaurant called Kelly's nearby. 
The Salvo's is another place I like to shop.
Thank you for reading my blog. This is bubbly Beth signing off until next week.


I love going shopping at Big W, especially at the moment because they sell cute and cosy colouring books for grown ups. Do you love colouring too? Last week, I bought three colouring books. One was Sunday Reset by Sunny Vibes from the Reject Shop. At Big W, I picked up two more: one with a summer theme and another called Little Cuties. Last year, I even bought a cosy colouring book with a poop emoji theme! I like cute and cosy colouring books because they’re bold, easy, and not fiddly like the mandala patterns.
I also enjoy going to Miniso. It’s a shop that sells stationery, blind box toys, plush toys, and lunch gear. Before lockdowns, I bought a whale cushion to sit on because I don’t have a beanbag in my room (though there are beanbags in the rumpus room). I also remember Mum bought me novelty cutlery sets from Miniso as a Christmas gift, I think in 2018. I love collecting cute cutlery sets because they remind me of childhood.
Back in Jakarta, there’s a shop in Puri Indah Market called Citra Galleria. It’s a bit like Miniso they sell soft toys, lunch gear, school supplies, and even goodie bags. I loved going there when I lived in Jakarta. I remember Mum bought me a Hello Kitty lunchbox, though she gave it away before I moved to Australia. These days, I use a Pyrex lunchbox. I also remember buying Winnie the Pooh cutlery sets when I went to Jakarta for holidays in 2011 it was so cute! That shop also sells baby supplies.
Another shopping centre I remember is Mangga Dua in Jakarta. Mum and Nan liked to go there when Nan visited. Sometimes I went with them, other times I stayed at home. It’s very chaotic, but I sometimes enjoy it because they sell affordable cute loungewear, pyjamas, kitchen supplies, baby supplies, and school supplies. Mum bought me lots of matching outfits, pyjamas, and house dresses there. I remember the designs were Disney Princesses, Strawberry Shortcake, Hamtaro, and Hello Kitty. Do you love those cartoons too?
Thank you for reading about my favourite shopping places!
Princess Jacinda signing off. Bye friends!




Favourite place to go shopping…


I really enjoy going to Kmart because it’s got so many things, most of which are also really affordable. I feel like I’m about to anger the Kmart gods by saying this but Kmart is not my favourite place to go shopping, I did feel like it deserved a mention though and now that I’ve mentioned Kmart I should move on to the star of this blog. 


My favourite place to shop and look around would be a shop called Dangerfield. Dangerfield is an alternative fashion brand (according to google.com), I would describe it as a great place to shop. The team at Dangerfield have always been lovely to me and say hi to everyone who comes it from what I’ve seen. I love their variety of dresses, clothes and accessories. While I agree that it may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but it’s definitely mine and I really do enjoy showing off my purchases. I love telling others how beautiful and quirky they are. I have many of their dresses, socks earrings and pins they’re just so wonderful.


Majority of their dresses also have really awesome pockets, like really practical pockets that you can actually fit stuff in. It’s a real selling point for me. while not all the dresses have pockets I try to make sure the ones I buy have them. Their clothes are really different and many of them have animals on them I have a few of the animal dresses, I have a jumpsuit/ overalls as well as a dress from the sunflower collection. Flowers are also my favourite to have on their dresses. 
It always feels nice to shop at Dangerfield for me and I love how different it is. 
Thank you for joining today for some Literary goodness.
We love having you.
Your friend, 
Shan.


To me the shopping centres are sometimes too peopley for me especially at Christmas time. 
I don’t really have a favourite shop, I just go in and get out.
But I do love online shopping.
Sometimes I go on a shopping rampage and almost every other day there will be a package at my door, sometimes it a guessing game if the package is for me or my mum. 
Then we do a little show and tell on what we got. 
At the moment I have two packages coming, one from Shein, because  I got a few dresses for when I’m away, hopefully they fit me, got a few sticker packs,
And the other one is from Hismile which is a company that sells stuff for teeth, I love their flavouring of toothpaste, I got violet crumble, the Simpson purple squishee and a mouth wash that is strawberry  
And another mouthwash that’s meant to whiten your teeth. 
Now that you know where I shop, please don’t shop there I don’t want my favourite stuff to be out of stock.  
Haley. 


I like to shop with my Mum. We go to Big W and I always look at Disney tops, Disney books, Disney games and all things Disney. I also love to look at all different clothes.
Another great place to shop is Kmart. I love looking at Scented Candles and DVD's.
Target is another one of my favourite places to shop. They have very colourful artificial flowers there, which I like. I like looking at the perfumes in Target as well. I don't try them on, but I do like looking at them.
Fountain Gate is a great shopping centre as it has all my favourite shops. One day when I was there with Krystle, we both got stuck in the lift. I was very scared but Krystle made me feel very safe.
I often go to Fountain Gate with Krystle and we love to have lunch at Salsas. My favourite food at Salsas is loaded fries with pork. Krystle's favourite food is a soft shell taco with shredded pork, sour cream and guacamole.
I have a great time at the shops.
Claire.


Today’s blog topic is about my favorite place to go shopping. My favorite place to go shopping is the tip and lucky for me I work there. It’s a pretty big bargain shopping at the tip, when I find something I like it normally costs me around $5 if I want to keep it. I've found lots of cool things at he tip like a computer case, remote control car, headphones, old plane tickets, drill press and old speakers.
It’s super easy to go shopping as I just browse whilst I work. The tip is my favorite place as I get to pull stuff apart. I work at the tip on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
This is Nick signing off, see you next week.
​

We’re feeling a little agitated as we write these blogs today and wanted to share with you, our readers what grinds our gears. That means we are going to write about things that make us feel a little frustrated…
 
Scary movies are not my thing. Some scares and the blood and gore isn't nice for me.
If people want to see a scary movie I would suggest a comedy instead.
I also get annoyed by having to change the settings on my iPad. It's always annoying and grinds my gears. So now when I want to go on silent I have to go deep in the settings instead of flicking the switch.
Bullies at school grind my gears because it isn't fair. Swearing isn't nice and bullies would swear at school.
I will encourage people to do what they dream for, for me, that's a podcast or a YouTube channel. This makes me very happy. Thank you for reading my first blog, Thomas.
 
 
Today’s blog is about what grinds our gears.
There are a few things that grind my gears but the first that comes to mind is when my friends pull pranks on me. My friend often turns my scooter off while I'm riding it and he also pushes me over when I'm on the edge of a ditch. When I'm working on my mower and I can’t get it undone I find that super frustrating and sometimes I’ll even hit it, but that doesn't seem to help very much. When I'm at work or do some stuff at home and can’t find the right tools that I need. Well that really grinds my gears. Especially when I cant find the tools to work on the gears of the lawnmower. Overall I'm a pretty chill guy so this blog is short and sweet today.
This is Nick signing off, see you next week.
 
 
 
My brothers annoy me. I am the youngest in the family.
Michael and I were doing the dishes together after Christmas lunch and he was too slow. I told him to hurry up.
My other brother Robert was snoring when I got home from the tennis and it kept me awake. Most of the time I think they are pretty good.
To be honest, not much annoys me. I am a very happy person.
This is Claire signing off.
 
 
Here is my list of things that grind my gears.
When companies discontinued my favourite products. 
When things are on the top shelves.
People who don’t know the road rules and don’t use indicators.
People who are cruel to animals.
Criminals and people who make the world unsafe.
Puzzles missing a piece. 
How the world is not suited to people with disabilities, while people with disabilities have to adapt to the world.
People who use illegal substances.
People who commit crime and break the law and blame it on mental illness to get a lower charged or no jail time. 
I could go on and on, but I try not to let things get to me too much because that wrecks my own peace of mind. 
Thank you for reading, Haley. 
 
 
What grinds your gears blog…
I feel like I have a lot of things that grind my gears. Some are tied to being neurodiverse and others are just part of the human experience apparently. 
As a person with an invisible disability I sometimes feel the outside world expects me to be able to do life without any extra help or guidance. It’s as if my disability is invisible and doesn’t really exist so is therefore less deserving of any assistance. We shouldn’t have to fight tooth and nail for support whilst proving our disability is real. Invisible disabilities are invisible but that doesn’t mean that just because you can’t see them that I or anyone else with an invisible disability are any less deserving of guidance and/or help. It just means that we may need to ask for help or guidance when we need it and that should be ok and something that we shouldn’t have to justify. 
I also don’t like when people are mean or unkind. Its not at all needed or called for to be unkind and it doesn’t add value to anyone’s day. It really isn’t hard to be a kind and good human being. I really feel that if you can’t say anything nice don’t say anything at all. You don’t know what people are going through in life and words do have power, so being kind is important. If you don’t believe you can be kind then be silent, because this world has enough unkindness so if you feel so inclined switch it up and spread some kindness instead. 
Thank you so very much for reading the shortened version of what grinds my gears. I have a very long list of things but it’s important to leave room for my beautiful friends and fellow bloggers. 
Your friend always, 
Shan.
 
One thing that really annoys me is when people sing "Happy Birthday" to me on my birthday or surprise me with a cake. Even though it’s meant to be nice, it can be annoying. I used to be fine with it when I was little. One time in primary school, I even gave goodie bags to all my classmates. That’s partly why I don’t tell my Umbrella Support people my birthday. I also don’t like birthday shout outs when people post photos of me on social media and everyone comments, “Happy Birthday, Jacinda!” I prefer quiet celebrations. My family understands this and usually sends me digital cards. I like these because they’re private and noise free.
Another thing that annoys me is when people insist I do things I don’t like. For example, at a party, someone might say, “Dance, Jacinda! Don’t just sit there!” This makes me angry because dancing isn’t my favourite. At parties, I prefer to be a wallflower sitting quietly and enjoying the music. I also don’t like it when people say, “You’re too old to watch cartoons!” Cartoons make me happy they’re my therapy and something I’ve loved since I was a kid.
Hot summer days also annoy me. I prefer cooler days. But even on a hot day, I can enjoy ice cream as it lifts my mood. I also like to sleep with a fan. Flies and mosquitoes annoy me too, especially when doors are left open and they come inside. Their buzzing can be distracting. I do understand it’s good to go outside for vitamin D, though. Another thing that bothers me is doors banging, especially my kitchen door. If it’s not closed properly, the wind can make it slam loudly. It’s especially startling when I’m doing quiet activities like colouring.
Do any of these things annoy you too?
Thank you for reading!
Princess Jacinda signing off.
 
Hello dear, well when you all volunteer for work and you all don’t get paid but you all help people from work hard to be job of course so if you help people over job and listen to people anyway.  My legs pain me and annoying me and sometimes I can’t walk very much sometimes I can walk little longer.  Sometimes my legs stop working and don’t move very well.   
From your dear friend, TJ. 
 
This is what grinds my gears, it’s annoying that people are so rude in the shopping centre and telling me “could you move to a different place to talk” or something like that. People pushing in with their shopping or trying to get your car spot. Some people don’t have any respect for other people at all. They are some nice. It’s important to be nice.
Ash.
 
Dear readers,
How are you? Today's topic is what "annoys you" and why.
Let me start by telling you what annoys me is my brother and sister. They take things that don't belong to them, they eat my food without asking, they take things that are not theirs. They also play loud music when I am trying to sleep or when I am on the phone to my friends, and when I am listening to my music. 
They move me without asking me, which is very annoying.  They swear and I don't like swearing.  They don't even listen to me or my mum.  I am the eldest so they should listen to me.  They also fight which is not nice to listen to.  I don't like fighting... I prefer peace and quiet. Thank you for reading my blog this is bubbly Beth signing off until next week. 
 
 
What grinds my gears?
I don't like the iPhone. When they do updates and when I’m trying to get to sleep, and my computer when it's broken.
Ben 2.
 
Dear Readers, this week’s topic is what grinds my gears.
Let me start by telling you about what annoys me. Readers if you could list what annoys you I wouldn’t write only a paragraph and I wouldn’t be able to stop. I would write a big list.  In saying that let me get started on writing that big list. What annoys me is stupid drivers on the road that don’t know how to drive and if you ask me they should not have a license.  My older sister annoys me sometimes but I still love her. Silly people in shopping centres who do last minute shopping  at Christmas time, people at the bank who are working there and sometimes look like they don’t want to be bothered to work or don’t want to be there. When people come into my personal space and don’t even ask me if it’s ok to be in my personal space.  Also when people do bad things like crime and they blame mental health issues and they use mental health as a jail free card all the time. Centrelink also annoys me, especially when I have to do my report for work and I haven’t even worked or got paid yet and put zero hours and zero pay and I feel like the government and Centrelink wants to know everything.
Written by Charlotte 

Welcome back for 2026!
We are refreshed, we are reenergised and we are keen to give you, our readers, a further twelve months of amazing blogging.  But today we are sad, it’s a gloomy day outside, but we are so very grateful.
Our blog this week is solely a love letter, an extended appreciation and heartfelt piece for our lovely volunteer Delia. Delia, we hope you will love our blog on Saturday morning whilst you enjoy your cuppa in bed. You may need tissues. 




Delia is a nice girl, I will miss her. I hope she is happy with her grandchildren because she is beautiful. I love dancing with Delia at the park, where I can show my moves and dance to Michael Jackson and Shrek.
Delia always helped me with my handmade crafts on Mondays, which makes me feel so loved.
Always Delia was happy to be with us.
Thursdays are always fun and when Delia would come she would bring us donuts. Some days it was “no Delia no donuts" but that's ok too.
When I think of Delia I think of three things. I think of Delia always looking happy.
I think of Delia always making me feel happy, and that she is very smart.
Delia I will miss you a lot. 
Claire.


Dear readers, how are you? Today's topic is about Delia and how much she has helped us. Delia worked with us for two years and we will miss her very much now that she has retired.
She has taught me how to knit. She knitted me, my mum and my sister a scarf. She was kind, caring and supportive. I am so grateful to her.
I am turning twenty-one on Tuesday and having a party this Saturday. I am very excited and I am getting my hair coloured and curled this Friday.
I am sad that Delia won't be part of my birthday celebrations but I am happy she is going to spend more time to herself and with her grandkids.
Beth



Dear Delia, our number one fan,
Three years ago, Sofie was telling you all about us and Umbrella Support. I think she chose the right person, an angel in disguise.
Well technically you were both angels in disguise. It takes special people to volunteer their time. We were the lucky ones who got you and Sofie.

I remember pranking Sofie with a drawing of a leak in the toilet, she laughed her head off, I was a bit scared to do a prank on you, but I wish I would have. 

Let’s be real you were the organising boss, you knew where everything was. All we would have to do was ask and you would find it for us within seconds. When you were away, everyone would all be looking for it. 
So yeah you were the organising boss. 

On Thursday we all appreciate your offerings for donuts and other little treats you would bring. We all loved hearing your stories, especially about “free range” and all of your grandkids’ special moments and glory, it really made me feel like we were one big happy family, cheering on and supporting your grandkids along with you. We will miss hearing your stories. 

Even knitting the staff members scarves. You’re a lady of all talents. 

Umbrella Support staff and the participants will dearly miss you and your presence at all of our groups. 
Thank you for keeping your door ajar, to let more beautiful people to volunteer their time. We know you didn’t want a celebration for your send off, but this is our way to show our appreciation to you.  You can’t get out of it that easily Delia!

D - Delightful
E -  Extraordinarily 
L -  Lovely 
I -   Inspiring 
A -  Amazing.

Again thank you so much for taking time out of your life to come and volunteer and support us, we all appreciate you and will also miss you. 

It’s really not a goodbye it’s 
“See you later Alligator 
See you around like a rissole”
Haley.


Dear Delia you are very nice with me and you help me, I miss you from last year. Like that you bring donuts and you make me feel happy.
I would like to tell you about my Christmas break.  On Christmas Day my family and I went out for lunch with my Nana and Poppy, we had chicken, pork, veggies and potato salad, it tasted good.
Guess what, my family and I went away on the holidays, we went to Mt Beauty it was good fun and we went to the river for a swim it was great fun, we do it every year.
Next week I'm very excited for it to be my twentieth birthday, me and my mum are going to see “28 Years Later at the Bone Temple” and we are also having a party.
This is Korey.
Signing off and we will miss you so much thank you.
Korey.


When I started at Umbrella I met Delia for the first time. Delia helped me every Thursday to write my blog, and that makes me feel thankful for Delia.
When I think of three words about Delia, I think of happy, birthday organiser and that I will miss her.
From Ben C 


Our blog today is about our past volunteer, Delia, who retired last year. She didn’t tell anyone in person, but on the Friday before Christmas she sent me a message through Messenger. I was surprised when I read it. I felt neutral, which means I wasn’t super sad or super happy, I was just happy for Delia that she can now do whatever she wants in retirement. I also sent her a happy retirement digital card because it’s convenient. It had a picture of a teddy bear and said, “Best wishes on your retirement.”
Delia has always been very generous. During the Christmas party, she gave everybody a little gift. Inside were a pen, KitKat, and M&M’s. Do you like KitKat and M&M’s? I also remembered back to when Delia started helping us in January 2023. I wrote her a card saying, “Welcome to Umbrella Support,” and she replied with a thank you card to make me feel welcome. Delia even gave me Mickey Mouse serviettes because she knows I love Disney. It’s always nice to share mutual interests with someone. She’s truly a big kid at heart, and her age doesn’t stop her from enjoying things that make her happy.
Delia also loves spending time with her grandkids, who are all younger than us and still in school. I remember Delia bringing one of her granddaughters to the handmade program, and we got to know her. She also enjoys posting photos on Facebook of her grandchildren’s achievements.

Last year, Delia had a 70th birthday party at Umbrella Support. There were lots of finger foods, both savory and sweet, because seventy is a milestone, and Delia enjoys a little fuss  the party made her heart feel warm. I also remember a lady at Balla Balla who went upstairs to our art room to deliver flowers from all of us, then started singing the birthday song. Everyone joined in, and it was such a lovely moment.
Delia is also a party animal who loves dancing at the park. Even though I’m not a fan of dancing, she thoughtfully brought chalk and bubbles for anyone who didn’t like dancing. She’s also great at organising party snacks I remember she brought some for Jeff bear and the Umbrella Support birthday party last year.
She even gave me a Santa Claus squishy toy, saying I could have it. Thank you Delia, I love playing with it, and it now sits in my fidget toy box. Do you like squishy toys too?
I hope Delia finally gets a chance to visit Bali, as she’s never been there but has always wanted to go. Now that she’s retired, she can make that dream come true.
Thank you very much for reading my blog about Delia. I hope she enjoys it maybe even happy tears a little.
This is Jacinda signing off.


Dear Readers,
I will start off by saying happy new year and welcome to 2026 .
This week’s topic is about one of the loveliest people and volunteer of Umbrella Support and her name is Delia. Let me start by saying a thank you for everything you have done for us, especially for me and coming in every single Thursday and always helping me with my blog every week. I also thank you for making me my purple scarf and I really appreciate you for going out of your way and decorating the table for us and bringing us donuts and cookies. I want you to know that I will miss you and I hope that you enjoy your retirement and enjoy spending time with your family. 
Written by Charlotte.


Dear Delia, I would like to say thank you for our donuts on every Thursday and for making delicious food for special occasions, and heating up peoples food for lunch. Delia you are an inspirational person who has the biggest heart and your work goes beyond. 
For Christmas I went to Pakenham to see my grandparents and we had the whole family there inside the retirement hall. We had all different foods like cold meat, salami, chicken loaf and chicken and of course Christmas ham. Then we had different desserts like ice cream, mint slice and cheesecake. On Boxing Day I saw my biological father and then I saw my friend on the 28th of December for dinner then I went home on the 29th of December. Then on my birthday I donated blood for people who need my blood type. I then had a big night, it was a good night with my mum and dad. Delia we will miss you so much.
From Ash.


Dear Delia blog,
For those who aren’t aware Delia was our absolutely selfless Umbrella volunteer who became everyone’s bonus grandma, the love and kindness she gave everyone was far beyond what I have words for. At the end of last year she decided to retire from her Umbrella duties and from the working world. I really feel it’s important for her to know that we are all happy for her and that we wish her the best in her retirement. I know that she will be living her absolute best life like she deserves to.
Now to the letter part of this blog.

Dearest Delia,
I have and always will believe that you were our dear friend Sofie’s gift to us and what a beautiful gift to give us. I’m so incredibly grateful for you, I don’t think I have the words to explain how grateful I am for you and all you do not only for us but for all the Umbrella people and the outside world too. You gave us so much of your beautiful self, your wisdom, your time, your love, your kindness and so much more. You came in and accepted and loved us from the first moment even though you were probably super nervous and we were a bunch of strangers.
You’re definitely an important part of our lives and you will always have a place in the garden of my heart. I hope that you know how much we all love you. There is so much about you that I admire, you are truly a beautiful and magical person who has left us with so much to be grateful for. This blog is never going to do justice for how much you mean to us all, and myself. You have given me so many moments of joy and laughter, like the kind of happiness that you feel in your soul.
Again I’m so grateful for you always and love you endlessly.
Your friend today and forever,
Shan.



Dear my friend, I like to do Christmas all stuff and so much fun, nice time outside with family and friends too. Happy New Year, I didn’t see fireworks and I stay in my room. I was too tired, I was always wake up 3am in the morning oh lord, I couldn’t go back to sleep so my eyes hurt so bad.
So today’s blog is about Grandma I love her so much because she sometimes cheeky.  All I say is Grandma we all miss you too much, but sometimes funny oh dear.  She always call me grandson and we been troublemaker together. We will all miss you Grandma too much.
TJ
     

​As 2025 comes to a close, we’re taking a moment to reflect on the experiences, lessons, and achievements that shaped our year. We have all grown through challenges, celebrated progress, and learned from one another along the way. As one chapter ends a new chapter begins, A new year brings fresh energy and new possibilities. This year is about moving forward together, trying new things, achieving goal’s and making steady progress.
 
Today’s blog topic is reflecting on 2025 and my goals for 2026.
This year was amazing, I did so many cool things and had a great year. I attended my programs at Umbrella where I do crafts, blogging, media and social groups. I have grown a lot of confidence and I enjoy making a toast for my friends. I also learnt how to do a podcast which was so much fun, and Daz was a nice guy who helped me with it. I love going on holidays with my family and this year I went to America, Canada, Japan and on a Disney cruise. Holidays make me happy and I love spending time with my mum and dad and exploring new places. I went to Disneyland this year which is my favourite place in the world. Next year I will continue coming to Umbrella, seeing my friends and working hard and doing a good job. I will start a new employment program which I'm excited for to learn new things. I'm going to keep doing dancing on Wednesday's and learn new moves. I hope new Disney movies come out so I can watch them at the movies with Krystle and Steph. Next year I will be going on holidays, not sure where yet but they will be good. I hope I can go to China because I haven't been there before and Disneyland is there that I would like to visit. I also would love to go to Disneyland Paris, as I haven't been there yet.
This is Claire signing off, see you next year! 
 
2025 what a whirlwind of a year, I tried new things, travelled to new places, had breakdowns, gained great people, and lost people.
In January 2025, I wrote my main goals and 12 mini little goals for each month.
I started a mini goal of a photo a day also so I would end up with 365 photos to look back on.  But I stopped doing it. I might do it again next year, I also did a self portraits once a month to give myself a bit more confidence in photos, but sadly my mind ended that one once I saw a photo I didn’t like.
I did a 5k foam run which was great, I did with two of my friends, we earned  a medal no matter what  we placed.
I went on family trips and trips with friends, I went to Coffs Harbour, Hamilton Island and China. Next year I’ve already booked a trip with my friend to Cairns in February and looking forward to it.
 
I’ve also picked up the hobby “gold detecting”. Sounds boring, but when the detector beeps, it’s the thrill of digging something up.  Next year one of my main goals is whenever I find money, I’m going to save for a Maine Coon cat, who I have already named. Probably will take me ages but it’s something I’ll look forward to. 
I’m not sure if I accomplished any of my goals this year, but I gave them all a go, sometimes life throws hurdles and set you back, but as long as you try, that’s all that matters.
I had two car incidents, neither were my fault and I was without a car for a bit. But luckily no one was hurt and my dad was able to be my taxi driver. 
I’ve started writing my goals for 2026 and what I want to achieve. 
I want to try and write in a journal called a common place journal which is where you write positive quotes and movies that moved you. I’m going to try and research about topics I’m interested in and write it in the journal,  for example a theme per month, but a topic within that theme per week.
Also, I might do a horror movie themed monthly, for example January could be Australia horror for Australia Day, February could be couple murderers for Valentine’s Day. 
But I guess no one really knows what 2026 will bring, but, it’s always good to have goals to look forward to and try to aim to achieve them.
Well I hope everyone has a great Holiday, thank you for always reading our blogs each week,  
Merry Christmas and have a Happy New Year
 From Haley. 
 
 
This year my reflection was seeing Nate Hill and Peter Reggie Bowman in our Hellow Media and asking them questions about the music they make and I asked them what made them play with paint and being part of Southern Sons and I really enjoyed seeing them and my highlight was getting a hug from them both.  I’m so grateful they could come in and give us their time and what I’m looking forward for next year is taking part in the the Reach Employment program. I’m looking forward to work in a cafe with my friends. I would like to say a big thank you to Cindy and all her amazing staff for all of their support and help through out the year. Ash
 
Dear readers, this week’s topic is a reflection on 2025. 
Let me start by telling you about my reflection back on this year, for me, on the second of April I joined and started a new program called Hellow Media and that experience has been so fun because I have met some amazing new people who I have became close friends with and have learnt new skills like using the camera, clapper, helping set up all the Hellow Media equipment and learning to step out of my comfort zone and how to interview people. The first person I got to interview was George from the Rosebud RSL and then a few months later head chef Michael from the RSL came. A few weeks after interviewing head chef Michael, we went down to the RSL for lunch as a treat for such an amazing interview and then George and head chef Michael  invited me as guest to tour the entire bistro and I was even allowed to go into the kitchen. After the tour ended, I was offered a job at the Rosebud RSL to work in the kitchen with all the chefs and when I got offered my job I said yes please!! I accepted my job and now I can appreciatively say that I love my job. 
Secondly, don’t get me started on how amazing the Hellow Media red carpet event was as it was so much fun and everyone looked so good in their outfits.  
Dinner with friends all year has been so fun and I really enjoyed doing cooking and making new recipes.
I can’t wait to see what 2026 brings for me and I can’t wait to hear from you my all readers, 
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all the Readers 
Written By Charlotte.
 
 
My memory of 2025 and my excitement for 2026.
I have been with Umbrella Support for almost five years and my life is good and rewarding.
I am writing my story today starting at January this year and all of my fun activities and memories. I attend groups with my beautiful friends and we have lots of stories to tell and hand craft to do. 
I have one day where I go bowling with my friends and sometimes I get a strike which makes me so happy. 
I am having a fantastic year with the most positive, beautiful people in my life, they will be my friends forever. I am so excited moving into 2026 and the adventures I will have.
I will see my friends again after this Christmas break and start with new activities and making more friends where we can share our lives together. 
It is now time to wish all of my family and friends the happiest Christmas and safe New Year. 
This is merry merry ho ho ho Beth signing off until next year.     
 
All good things come to an end... 
Though in the case of blogging, it's a short Christmas break and we will start up again in 2026. It's just the end of another year for us all and it's exciting to hear/read everyone's last blog for 2025.
 
This year has been a bit of a rollercoaster, which is funny because I have never actually been on a real rollercoaster and I'm not about to add that to any bucket list. Regardless, I have enjoyed 2025 for the most part and it's had many highlights. All very exciting and joyous though in this blog I would very much like to focus on my goals for 2026. Quick question for you, our lovely readers; do you have any goals for 2026? 
 
I have had going to The Lion King Musical on my bucket list for 22 years, It has been a dream of mine and I have waited very patiently for The Lion King Musical to come back to Australia. I'm so happy to share that in 2026 I will be flying to Sydney to finally tick it off my bucket list and make a dream of mine a reality. To say I am excited is a understatement, it's going to be amazing and I get to go with some really awesome people. I feel incredibly grateful for this opportunity, I can't explain the feelings I feel thinking about the fact after so many years I get to do this!
 
I'm sure I will have so much more to share over the next year, it's really exciting to have another year of blogging to look forward to. I hope that everyone has a safe and happy holiday whatever you choose to do and how you choose to celebrate the holidays. 
Thank you for your time and loyalty this year dear readers. 
Your friend always,
Shan.
 
January I’m going away for the holidays we are going to the mountain.
Monday I am making my animation, it is such good fun.
Tuesday I love making the stop motion animation and I do the speech session on a zoom meeting. 
Wednesday we making filming and it was good fun.
Thursday I will come back for Umbrella Support I like you guys and , I have a lot of good fun.
Fridays I have Umbrella Support again!
On the weekend we are making of the film for the movie.
Me and mum are going to the concert to see Polaris and Ice Nine Kills and I see my OT regularly. 
 This is Korey signing off and Merry Christmas everyone, Happy New Year. 
 
Reflecting on this year, I am still so excited that I work at the tip and all the things that I have found and collected. At the moment I have a pair of walkie-talkies that I plan to use with dad, especially if I run out of fuel when I'm out on my lawn mower.
I went to the Airshow in Avalon when the accident happened.
Terrible, but I look forward to going to it again. I wish they flew over head like they used too,oh well.
I am super proud of building my racing mower, as I collected pieces and parts from the tip. I have a good understanding of what goes where and how to do it. Also I am rebuilding a gaming computer.
I have great social outlets in my life and love going to Kilcunda. I have made great friends at work and Umbrella and look forward to seeing everyone after the Christmas break next year. I would like to organise an event with my friends where we go paint balling together. My good friend and I will be on one team and we will verse everyone else who are the bad guys, our mission is to take the bad guys down.
I would like to keep working at the tip and continue with my programs, I also want to continue with my project of building a computer.
This is Nick signing off, see you next time.
 
This year I joined Umbrella Support for Blogging and Media groups. They were kind to me when my mum passed away. They are a very friendly group and they gave me a party for my birthday.
I had a new job with Down Syndrome Australia and I met my friend named Alana. I designed an outfit for Cindy's dog Mavis It has the  Everyday People logo on it. My friends Brie and Michael did a market for DSA and I did another market this year with my friend which Brie found for me.
From Ben

​This year
This year I joined Umbrella Support for Blogging and Media groups. They were kind to me when my mum passed away. They are a very friendly group and they gave me a party for my birthday.
I had a new job with Down Syndrome Australia and I met my friend named Alana. I designed an outfit for Cindy's dog Mavis It has toe  Everyday People logo on it. My friends Brie and Michael did a market for DSA and I did another market this year with my friend which Brie found for me.
From Ben
 
Today is the last blogging day of 2025. The year went so quickly as it feels like just yesterday that I started the Just Write program. I remember feeling apprehensive at the beginning, but once I got started, I did really well. Now, I’m a blogging fanatic.
This year, I also found a new hobby. Mum suggested that I try journalling at home, so I went to the shop and bought a journal. Journalling is a great activity you can write about what you did, where you went, who you spent time with, and even what you ate for lunch or dinner. I recommend journalling to everyone in the Just Write program.
In April 2025, our support worker Jessy left Umbrella Support. I’m proud of myself because I recorded a goodbye video message for her. Talking on video can be easy for some people, but I feel awkward hearing my own voice. Even so, I did it and Cindy stood beside me, which helped me feel less anxious.
I also spent special time with Mum and Dad. We went to the city, Lorne, and the Pancake Parlour. It was amazing. That was in May.
I travelled to Indonesia this year, which I have to mention in my blog. I went to Bali for the first time, and it was amazing. Then I went to Surabaya to catch up with my cousins. We had a family dinner together. They are adults now and I remember seeing them when they were babies and kids. Now they are in university and working.
They hugged me, and I also saw my brother again. He hugged me too, as he is currently working in another country. We also travelled to Central Java and did a lot of outings. Even though it was very hot, I didn’t complain. After our outings, we spent time at the mall to beat the heat.
I am proud that I attended two parties this year, even though they were loud I still enjoyed them. One was my Grandmother’s 80th birthday party. Everyone was there, and there was karaoke, so anyone could sing or dance to the music. I was also happy to sit with all my cousins at the lunch party because I don’t get to hang out with them often. It was a happy celebration with all my family members.
The other party was the Christmas party with my support group. It was fun, and I really enjoyed opening gifts. I received cute items like a Pooh plush, Cinnamoroll stationery, fish ornaments, and Lego bricks. Thank you to whoever bought those gifts for me. We also played group games, and everyone supported each other.
Next year, I’m looking forward to doing Just Write again in January. This year, I only began in March. I’m also excited to return to the handmade programs. I will miss Umbrella Support, but I’ll be back in January. I’m not sure yet if I’ll be travelling next year as my parents haven’t mentioned anything yet. We will wait and see. 
Thank you for reading. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year 2026. I hope everyone has an enjoyable summer break.
This is Jacinda signing off. See you in 2026.

Can you remember when you were young? The excitement of Christmas? The presents? The family meals? The hot summer sun? Today we are blogging about the way we celebrated Christmas when we were little compared to the way we celebrate now…
 
Christmas when I was growing up and now is our blog this week. 
When I was little I would have all my family over for Christmas and we would have lots of food and great fun together.
My Pa would come with Grandma and Sarah my sister would be there with mum and dad. There would be many gifts under the tree I would be the first one to open the presents and then watch everyone else open up their gifts. This special day was the happiest day for me as I had all my family with me and would have the best lunch. Ham on the bone, chicken, pork and roast vegetables and for dessert we would have pavlova and plum pudding with custard and cream.
Our Christmas tree was covered in lots of decorations and ribbons with lots of lights on the tree and I would help mum to decorate and try not to tangle the lights. This is such a fun and happy time shared with all.
This year for Christmas I don't know what we will be doing but I am sure it will be as good as the last Christmas get together.
Signing off for now, have a fantastic Christmas with your families, Nick.
 
I was a little boy mum giving me a presents for Christmas and we get to the Santa photo too.  When I was a big boy I would go to the shopping centre to get stuff for Christmas.
I have been making the Christmas tree decorations and it was good fun.
This year we are going out for lunch with my nana and poppy for Christmas lunch. 
We will be giving each other presents, it will be fun.
This is Korey signing off and wishing Happy Christmas to everyone.
 
Today's blog is now and then Christmas.
When I was a little girl I loved Christmas time. I have the best memories full of happy moments, excitement and of course lots of presents. I always found it hard to fall asleep on Christmas Eve because I was just too excited and couldn't wait for Santa to come visit. Before bed I would leave out some milk and cookies for Santa and a carrot for the reindeers, sometimes even some candy canes. When I woke up I would run to mum and dad's room and wake them up so we could go look at the tree together. I would get presents from Santa, mum and dad, friends and family, my brothers would also get presents. I loved spending the day with my family and it was usually held at my house. My mum makes the best Christmas lunch with roast pork and roast veggies, she makes yummy crackle which is my favourite! We also have Christmas ham which is also yum, roast lamb and salads. Mum makes Christmas pudding and a few other desserts as well. Our family tradition is to watch Christmas movies together which is really nice. My Christmas as a child was amazing and I have good memories, but my Christmas now really hasn't changed much.
I love Christmas it's my favourite holiday. I'm looking forward to Christmas this year and my presents, I will get heaps. I like to be a Christmas angel and superstar.
This is Claire signing off, see you next week.
 
 
Dear readers, this week’s topic is Christmas then and now. Let me start by telling about Christmas then and now for me. It is now so different from when I was younger. When I was younger it felt very magical to me because I remember waking up and going to wake up my parents and my sister and being really happy and excited about opening Christmas presents. The night before writing our Christmas letters to Santa and telling him what we wanted for Christmas was really fun and exciting too. Now Christmas I am older and it feels like an emotional roller coaster and stressful. Now I need to remember and think what  to buy for my family as Christmas presents. Now, going to the shop is a different story and don’t even get me started on how busy, crazy and crowded the shopping centres are. That’s why I do my shopping one month earlier every year now. 
Written by Charlotte 
 
When I was a child growing up in Jakarta, Christmas felt magical. My parents took my brother and me to a “Snowing Christmas with Snoopy” meet and greet at the mall. I still remember the photo from that day, and the fake snow falling outside the mall. They were selling lots of Snoopy merchandise, and my mum bought me a Snoopy colouring book, a pencil case, and a mechanical pencil. The mechanical pencil was actually a Christmas present, so it wasn’t really a surprise  but I still loved it so much.
At my school in Jakarta, we had a belated Christmas celebration after New Year. I enjoyed watching people sing, dance, and act in the Christmas drama. Only students who liked performing joined in, so it was fun to watch. For lunch we got fast food like KFC, Popeyes, and A&W. We also received goodie bags filled with snacks and a little gift, like a lunch bag or something we could keep.
When I moved to Melbourne, Christmas at school felt different. Every class from Prep to Grade six had to perform at the Carols Night. I didn’t like being the centre of attention, but I’m still proud of myself for participating with everyone. Classes were called in random order, and even the teachers performed. After the performances, all the families had a picnic. My parents, brother, and I sat together with my relatives, eating snacks and drinking soft drinks.
Back then, my family also visited my relatives’ house for Christmas. We exchanged presents, and I remember my cousin loved writing letters to Santa. One time she showed me she got The Wiggles SingStar game. While waiting for dinner, my brother and cousin played PlayStation, and I just watched them.
Nowadays, Christmas feels different. I usually attend the Umbrella Support Christmas party. Their parties are always successful. Last year, some of my friends sang Christmas carols as they enjoyed being the centre of attention. We also got presents from Santa, and there were games and crafts. I honestly prefer the Umbrella Support party over work Christmas lunches, because it feels more lively and fun, not just sitting and chatting.
Christmas with my family is quiet now that we’re older. It’s usually just my parents, my grandma, and me at home.
I like sending my relatives in Australia electronic Christmas cards because it’s easy and I don’t need to buy cards or stamps. My relatives in Indonesia also send me Christmas greetings and stickers, even though most of them don’t celebrate Christmas. They’re very thoughtful. I do have one aunty on my mum’s side who celebrates Christmas, but she is usually busy during the season.
What is your favourite thing about Christmas? Tell me in the comments please!
Thank you very much  it’s Jacinda signing off.
 
When I was little I liked Santa but then I pull Santa beard and I realised they’re fake Santa. I was like “oh you’re fake and middle of age” I remember Santa's helper was fake.  Oh come on. Anyway, it’s Christmas still so I have to get in Christmas picture oh lord.
TJ
 
Dear readers, how are you today?  Today's topic is what Christmas was like when I was growing up and I have chosen to write about when I was little. At Christmas time my Aunty and Uncle and my cousins, Nan and Grandad would come to my house and the house was all decorated. The table was set up with decorations and so was the tree and presents under the tree. We opened some of our presents and then it was time for dinner. For dinner we had roast chicken, roast pumpkin, mash potatoes, veggies and yorkshire pudding and gravy. For dessert it was sticky date pudding with ice cream and warm custard. This year I have no idea what Christmas will be like but I am still looking forward to presents under the tree and spending the day with my family. 
Christmas time as an adult is so different from when I was a child but I still love Christmas and I can't wait for it to arrive, because my birthday is the month after it. 
Readers what will your Christmas be like? Will it be stress free and on budget? I asked Google for some ideas to keep Christmas stress free, plan ahead and get organised, set a realistic budget, delegate tasks, set boundaries and say no if you need to. 
Bethany
 
When I was a little boy we didn’t really celebrate Christmas but my mum would cook a special meal and sometimes we had friends come for lunch.
Now I am an adult we go to my sisters house and she cooks us a special meal. My support worker takes me shopping to buy Christmas gifts for my family and friends. This year is a bit sad as my mum won’t be here but I will be celebrating with my dad, sister and her family and my friends. 
How are you celebrating Christmas?
From Ben

We’re in charge of Christmas!
 
Imagine this! You and you alone are in charge of the entire Christmas Day celebrations. What would you eat, wear, wrap, and what would you arrange for all of your guests?
 
Christmas is fast approaching! 
 
As usual December has come at us with the speed of Usain Bolt going for another record. 
I'm never quite ready for the chaos that is December, with the Christmas shopping and everyone being in a mad rush for everything. 
 
I suppose it's the Christmas spirit and festivities that gets the fire going in everyone which is understandable because now I'm planning Christmas Day, so I get to join the chaos. I'm going to do a Christmas lunch and everyone will bring a plate of their favourite food to share. 
 
The Christmas decorations will be sparkly and rainbow because you can never have enough sparkle or rainbows, I'll even put up and decorate a rainbow Christmas tree. Plus, every guest gets to take their favourite decorations home with them because I like sharing and gifting. There will be beverages of all kinds in sparkly cups that the guests can also take home. 
 
Honestly it will just be a super magical time that will start at 11am and finish at 1pm because after a magical Christmas lunch I may need a nap. 
Did I mention the guests are the people who read our blogs? Yeah, that's right you! How exciting! 
 
Honestly, I'm not at all great at planning things but I'd put so much love into this lunch that as I said I'll need a nap after. Ha ha. Have a super wonderful day my friends! 
 
Your friend and Christmas lunch host, Shan. 
 
 
It’s December! Have you all done your Christmas shopping yet?
My Christmas season will be quiet and cozy. The people at our family Christmas dinner will be my parents, my grandma who lives overseas, and me. Back in primary school, I used to visit my relatives’ house, but that was a long time ago. Now that I’m an adult, Christmas is just with my parents and grandma. I still text my relatives to wish them a Merry Christmas, though.
The dinner will be at our house. Actually, my grandma doesn’t celebrate Christmas only New Year and Lunar New Year because in Indonesia only Catholic and Christian people celebrate Christmas. But she still wished us a Merry Christmas and gave me a hug and a kiss. We include her in our Christmas dinner and usually give her something small.
We will eat roast chicken, potatoes, broccoli, and carrots. There will be rice too, even though it’s not really part of Christmas food. Dad will do the cooking, and grandma suggested we should include vegetables rather than just meat.
While Dad is busy preparing dinner, I will do some colouring in my room. Mum will choose a Christmas playlist, and we usually just listen to whatever she picks. Grandma will sit in the dining room and text her family and friends on WhatsApp.
Then Dad will call everyone when dinner is ready. I will help carry the food to the living room and maybe help set up the table. Once the food is on the table, I will put all the empty plates out I’ll use my Minnie Mouse dinner plate. I’ll sit next to Grandma, and Dad will sit with Mum.
I need to be patient, especially during Christmas, while waiting for a group photo and before we pray. We don’t usually pray at casual dinners, but this time Dad says a prayer in his own words and then says the Our Father in Indonesian. After that, we can enjoy our dinner.
After dinner, there will be a group video call from my relatives wishing us a Merry Christmas. Only one of my aunts celebrates, and the rest are Buddhist. I also exchange text messages with my cousins. 
This year, I hope to get a twelve pack of pastel Faber Castell pencils in a tin. I feel anticipation about unboxing my Kris Kringle gift, and I’m also happy that Christmas at home is quiet and not too overstimulating.
Thank you for reading. Sending love to everyone who lost loved ones this year. This is Jacinda, your friend anticipating Christmas, signing off.
 
 
I got my Christmas list for Christmas Day.
I want to get a slaughter to Prevail t-shirt, I prevail violent nature on on cd, Falling in Reverse Popular Monster on cd, Silent Hill hd collection on ps3, the Quarry on PS4, Chucky season 3 on dvd, Parkway Drive Darker Still on cd, Slipknot Sid Wilson funko pop and the Walking Dead - Destinies on Nintendo Switch.
Tell me about what you are going to organise for Xmas for your family?
I’m going out for the lunch with my Nana and Poppy and we will be having pork, lamb, potato broccolini and chicken.
Korey
 
Today’s blog topic is if I was in charge of Christmas what would I do. 
This year I'm planning Christmas and we're going on a Disney cruise leaving from the Bahamas. The cruise will go for seven nights and stop at Castaway Bay the special Disney island! My mum, dad, brothers and some cousins will come along with me. On Christmas Day I will open my presents in my cabin with all my family, and they will open theirs too. Christmas lunch will be in the buffet so there are lots of options, I will fill my plate up with roast pork, roast lamb, roast ham, seafood, salad, arancini, spring rolls and whatever else I see that looks yummy. For desserts I need to have Christmas pudding! I'll also have some pavlova, cheesecake, fruit, chocolate mousse and donuts. At night time the Disney cruise will host a big party. We will have dinner first in a nice restaurant, then we will go do some dancing. A band will be playing all my favourite Christmas songs, I will sing with them and dance too.  There will be fireworks on the deck that go for so long and will be amazing. After the party ends I will go back to my cabin and watch a Christmas movie.
This is Claire signing off, see you next week.
 
What would I do for Christmas? I would give people presents. And I would give presents to some of my friends, and l would have pizza to eat with all my friends and pies and chips. Then I'm going to have lemonade drink.
Ben2
 
If I was in charge of Christmas,  
I’ve always wanted to have a white Christmas, but in Australia it’s summer.
Unless I travel to the United States of America or the United Kingdom. 
So I would magically spray the whole of Australia in snow, so everyone can experience a white winter wonderland.  
On Christmas Eve I would help out at a soup kitchen, because I think Christmas time is about giving instead of receiving and everyone deserves to feel special around Christmas. Especially kids. 
Then on Christmas morning, I would spend my time giving gifts to kids at a park so they can all enjoy the presents with each other. 
I would get Santa to pop in as well.
 
For Christmas lunch I would have Christmas at my parents house, with a bucket of KFC chicken, roast pork in the Webber and just your normal Australian salads and sides. 
After lunch, we all sit down in the lounge room with the cats and we all pick a Christmas movie to watch, I picked a horror Christmas movie, mum picked a comedy Christmas movie and dad picked an Australian Christmas movie. All so different but just spending the day with the family is really all you need. 
Before we go looking for Christmas lights, we go visit everyone in the family who has passed away, we would place a bunch of flowers next to their graves. And one at the beach where we scattered one of my nannas ashes.  
Again I think Christmas is about being selfless and giving, and just spending time with all of the people you care about. 
Christmas night, we would go and look at Christmas lights, then we would go and sit somewhere where we can watch the beach waves and make a wish that everyone else who is waking up on Christmas Day have a great day with family and no sadness at all.
Well that is my Christmas if I was in charge of Christmas.
Just remember Christmas is about giving and kindness. 
Merry Christmas from Haley.
 
Today’s topic is about Christmas and in my family, December is one of the worst months ever. It’s because I’ve got a cousin’s birthday on the 22nd and the 25th and the 28th and of course me on New Year’s Eve but saying that, Christmas means everything to me. We see the family we have a good laugh, have good food and interacting with the family members that we don’t normally see.  Where would I have it in the world? It would still be Australia because I love summer as it’s hot. I have some beers. Maybe we have some prawns on the barbie and I really enjoy the summer time when it’s Christmas. It’s because you can swim by the pool. go to the beach whatever but it’s amazing. The food would be cold meat like ham, salami, chicken, and turkey and for dessert trifle, pavlova, ice cream mousse, fruit salad.  We do secret Santa or Kris Kringle on Christmas morning is the best time because I like to see all my siblings open their Christmas presents and see what they got.  That just brings so much happiness and enjoying my life
Ash.
 
Well I like do Christmas stuff, a good present is nice and summer is cool.  Food is good, pork and chicken and beef with gravy. It’s so yummy with sweet potato and Christmas cup cakes.  We go on family Christmas and friends Christmas, all my family need to get Christmas clothes too good fun, beer and all stuff party. 
Christmas is a beautiful day for summer from your good friend TJ. 
 
 
Dear readers, this week’s topic is if you were in charge of Christmas. 
Let me start by telling you about if I was in charge of Christmas. I would not be in charge of Christmas and I would let my mum organise it all.  Instead, I would go on a holiday to Europe for five weeks and I would start by going to Paris followed by Italy, Rome, Greece, Germany and Hungary.  I would spend every week exploring and doing fun stuff like shopping, going to Disneyland in Paris  going to the top of the Eiffel Tower, Venice, the Colosseum, Mount Olympus, Athens, Munich and Budapest and at each place I would find a restaurant or cafe to eat and drink European food. After five weeks I would fly back home and I would be sitting in first class on the way back home, and when I arrive at my family‘s house, I would give everyone a present that I bought back for them.
Readers I have a question what would you do if you were in charge of Christmas? 
Written by Charlotte