why can't I cope longer?

I don't think you asked for too much at all @Former-Member - your guest doesn't sound like they were very nice at all. Helping just a little and contributing to what you did together seems like a really small thing to ask. Doesn't sound like a very good freind to me Hon - I am not surprised you feel the way you do - not a nice visit at all

No it is definitely not all you @Former-Member I don't think your visitor's behaviour was at all acceptable - grr! Aren't our fur babies wonderful - they give us so much love and help us to keep love in our hearts

I am having much the same day - jammies and snuggle on the couch under the doona with Toby spread out next to me. A little housework to do over the weekend, some paperwork for work and footy watching - but not pushing it today - resting s much as I can.

Some days we just need to take care of ourselves and have no expectations of the day @Former-Member I find those are often the days when I feel most at ease also - maybe that it because there is no pressure to do anything and maybe that is because rest days are also good self-care - either way it is good to do nothing some days

No not a singer at all - me singing would set all the dogs in the neighbourhood off in full voice lol @Former-Member I don't know much about The Festival of Voices - not something that I have ever been to so can't offer any advice there.

There are so many places you could stay but it depends on whether you like a city, bush or beach view. The East Coast has some amazing beaches and Strahan in the west is untamed natural forest and waterways - definitely a place to see if you like the natural environment. It is starting to get much colder here - especially at night so whilst it is still a good time to come to Tassie you will need to pack warm clothes.

@Former-Member I know a few people who have been and say it is wonderful. I have not made it yet, though maybe one day. I am staying closer to home for a while, saving money and keeping home fires burning bright expecting first grandchild.

There are different types of music festivals and workshops all over the place, in the regions and the cities. A lot of them quite affordable. There is a Melbourne International Festival in June which I have been to which is great. Run by the Choir of Hard Knocks guy. I have gradually found out about them by talking and looking online and getting newsletters.There is Canberra folk festival, Castlemaine Jazz festival, Wangaratta Blues festival, Albury Wododga has a festival etc etc. There must be some in the state you are in, though travel might be needed. It might take a while before I get around to it ... but I am actually looking forward to a fantastic year with good things planned every month. It has taken a long while to be able to afford it, but I just stretch my budget slightly a little to give myself rewards, but live within my means generally and keep it simple.

I dont believe @Zoe7 re singing ... so we can have a big argy bargy bout that.

We will have to agree to disagree about the singing then @Appleblossom

@Zoe7 , ain't you in Hobart? with it being all over the city that you must have seen a bit of it. These ''o Ups' look fun. Thanks for the town alternatives. I'm tired. Bit worried about travelling there in winter too. Should probably settle myself somewhere for the winter. Travel in spring, maybe, thinking out lout, hang on, I'm writing, not talking Dre... You know hat I mean.

Appleblossom, I'll definately be looking up all those other music festivals. Knew you'd have some experience with this. Congratulations on new grandbaby on the he way... when due? Babies are hard work but bring so much joy...