An Extraordinary August

August has been a month like no other. So extraordinary I thought that I deserved it’s own Vocal post. August always tends to be an adventurous month. Two of my best friends have birthdays four days apart from each other, even though I haven’t got to see them yet I keep in touch with them which was nice. I don’t remember what I was up to on August 1st other than returning to work after Vegan Campout. Work is getting busier but I still enjoy the job. I’ve been there for over a year and I feel like my quality of life has improved as well as my salary. It just amazes me what a change of job can do for you.

The outdoor swimming pool near me is open till September and I have been making full use of it. I even encouraged some people to come and go swim with me. I like the outdoor swimming it just feels more community friendly and it’s lovely when the sun is out. I always loved swimming and the regular sessions here are a highlight for me. Even when a certain twat is there giving me evils. I feel like I dodged a bullet with him. In one of the dares I had a card where I had to text my ex. As I had blocked him they nominated a male friend to text instead. That friend was very confused but he shook it off.

With all the AI going about, it makes me glad I am on Vocal. Vocal feels like my happy place because it’s one of the rare sites where I feel safe to say what I want without persecution. I also feel like the values the Vocal community has also matches with mine. I feel that I can write as much or as little as I like. The site has some really great stories and poems here as well. I am happy to see the poetry community thriving on Vocal. I feel safe and validated here.

One of the highlights for me was hanging out with friends at the London Anime and Gaming convention. Lizo, who I used to work with joined us and that was special. They don’t get to see me much nor their other friends cause of work. I also got to build a sandcastle even though it did not last very long. I played the Pussy Out card game, which I was obliged to do the dares because I had already finished my drinks in a game of Never Have I Ever. Though to be honest, I didn’t bring much alcohol with me. I don’t drink that much and when I do, I get overenthusiastic, which leads to a rabbit hole of shenanigans. At least I didn’t break my face with time.

My friends were impressed that I finished two books that weekend, but they were excellent and also had a lot in common.

And now I am on a German train. I am traveling to Freiburg after arriving at the airport in Frankfurt. I am amazed at how quick and efficient everything is. Maybe I have spent too much time being used to the rail strikes in the UK. I walked past a McDonald’s and I went in because I was curious how the menu differed to the UK branch and I was gobsmacked.

Not only did they seek to have a bigger menu, but also more vegetarian options. The McPlant nuggets were a delight and I also got to have some cheesecake, another thing that the UK one doesn’t have. I also enjoyed a cold brew.

A big box for a small slice!

Looking forward to the holiday and also going to Basel, Switzerland. We might end up in France if we are lucky.