Reading:: Eugenia - Mark Tedeschi QC

If you're looking for an uplifting read - this is not the book for you.

My long time readers will know that I have a fascination with the Sydney's history of crime from the early 1800s - 1950s. 

A friend recommended I read this. And I did. It was heavy, my goodness, it was bleak. 

But am I glad I read it? Yes. Of course. I got to put myself in someone else's shoes, and learn about the hardships of life in the late 1800s through to 1931. It was tough if you didn't have the support of your family. 

Without giving to much away - Eugenia is born into an Italian family, moves to NZ, and at a young age realises she identifies as a male. It's a book of heartbreak and hardship, lack of understanding and compassion, and gritty real-life sadness. 

While the first half of the book was loaded with interest for me, I did struggle when it came to the trial of Eugenia. I skipped parts because it was just too dense for me. 

I'd definitely recommend it though, it's a fascinating story, delicately written with meticulous attention to detail. 

PS - I joined a book club! 

What Are Your Hobbies?

I've been thinking lately about what I like to do.

And I thought. 

And I thought.

And then there were crickets. 

And then after the crickets came the tumbleweeds.

Then there was dead silence. 

Hobbies. Where did you go? 

In all of that silence I asked myself "Yes Lexi, what exactly do you like to do?"

And then there was even more silence.

I like dressing up. I like rummaging at the markets. I like reading. I like baking. I like stitching. I like gardening.

And yet. And yet, I've barely done any of these things over the last few months. Well I dress up, but Fashion Friday has fallen by the wayside. 

And everything else? Well it never seems to happen. 

Being a mum, working, trying to fit exercise in, being a wife, doing all that stuff means there's not much time for other stuff. But my goodness, I'm going to start doing some of that stuff. Beyond all of that stuff - I want to find at least 15 minutes in my day to partake in a hobby. Realistic? I don't know. But I'll try it. 

What are your hobbies? How do you fit them in?