End of summer reflections and autumn thoughts

Hi again, 

Whether you count the end of summer as the last day of August or 22nd September it has to be said: autumn is around the corner. As someone who loves big wooly jumpers, cozy reading and quiet evenings in the house, I can’t lie, I am excited. In saying all that, it has been a really great summer and not only am I sad to see it end, I am also definitely feeling the shift between the seasons. 

In light of that I wanted to do a little blog reflecting on my summer and how I am feeling going into the new season (spoiler: not all positive feelings). I hope this might resonate with some of you who may be feeling the same way. 

Summer highlights 

So this summer has been a good one. Not only have I been able to travel loads, I have also managed to spend a lot of time with the people I love including some who I haven’t seen in ages. One massive highlight was my not so aptly named ‘graduation trip’ as it took place before actual graduation… This aside it was one of, if not the best trip I have done without my parents. In seeing bits of Peru, Colombia and New York it struck me how big the world really is and how much of it is out there to see. Different cultures and cuisines struck me, left a big impression and honestly I am excited for the chance to go back to explore more of South and North America. 

Over the month I was able to spend some really meaningful time with two out of three of my flatmates. Conversations about the last four years of University and what is next helped the transition out of student life. As well as this I was also able to spend some time with my Copenhagen exchange friends (even though it was so short). This time meant a lot to me as we all live so far away from each other. Different time zones make catching up quite difficult. They then went on to travel further which did make me jealous for sure but big plans for next summer are in progress… Portugal 2026 was it? 

This time made me feel really grateful for the University experience I had. It really wasn’t perfect, with a lot of ups and downs especially in the first two years but I got through it with a degree and some life long friendships and memories made. Even though it was hard it taught me a lot and I wouldn’t change it. 

A new start 

Looking forward, I did eventually manage to get a job. Indeed had finally had enough of me scrolling endlessly. Thank goodness for checking it daily and for taking the time to message the people personally. The job is at a cafe 10 minutes down the road from me so it has been perfect. Although being new is never easy, the team has been patient and kind with me while I have found my feet. Now that my holidays are over, I am definitely ready to get into a routine with it and build my confidence up. I am secretly hoping they can train me up as a barista as I have always wanted to do that ! 

Autumn excitement 

I’m also not ashamed to admit I am ready for the colder months. I love autumn fashion and I am so ready to use my available time to style my clothes(and maybe treat myself to some new pieces).  As well as this, autumn screams reading inside to me and I am so excited to stay inside reading my TBR and not feel guilty. Also I am slowly trying to get back into the gym and running. This has unfortunately been a bit of an ongoing struggle, however my gym has a pool which is such a draw and even if I go and sit in the pool for 10 minutes I am deeming my trip a success. The squat rack will eventually be within reach if I stay committed for long enough. 

The harder feelings

Unfortunately with the turn of the season there are also some challenging thoughts. It is also back to University season and I can’t seem to avoid it. My house is situated right in the middle of Edinburgh University land and the cafe I work at is the top study spot for students. It is hard to see everyone going back to a life I would in some ways love but I know that I am romanticising it and it would not be the same nor as fun as it was when I was there. I am still mourning it a little bit though and it may take me some time for that to go away, especially when it is right in my face. 

Related to this, it is hard to see people surrounded by their flatmates, friends and sports teammates. I have mentioned this before but the ease of friendships at uni is something that I really do miss. I know it is an effort that needs to be put in but it is hard when most of my friends are hours away rather than minutes. 

Looking ahead

However, trying to stay positive and think of things I can add to my life rather than mourning the  things that I have lost. Reading is still at the top of the list, with a goal of 52 books this year I do have to stay on top of it. I also started a knitting project a few years ago and want to get back to it as it really does make me slow down and get me off my phone, which I have been so bad at… As well as continuing to post on here and on my journalism instagram of course. 

Alongside these more creative goals I also have some practical aims. l do have to find somewhere to live for my course next year and to secure a placement that is really exciting to me. If anyone knows of any rooms/houses (we’re a small group looking) around SW london let me know. Or if you know of anywhere or anyone in the media/journalism industry that would hire me for one day a week placement for 6 months - please do let me know (shameful ask, I apologise). The search is officially on…

So while I am still reminiscing about summer I am ready to lean into autumn. The shift in season comes with challenges but I am ready to be present with the autumn I have at home and take what comes with being right where I am. 

Rosie x