Five Years Time

The soft glow of morning light and the warmth of a shared breakfast with my daughter set the stage for today's heartfelt exploration into the art of unwinding and the beauty of life's quieter moments. Imagine a day that starts without the jolt of an alarm, where the final pages of a novel are turned in the comfort of your bed, and a leisurely breakfast unfolds into cherished familial bonding. I share this and more, including the blend of excitement and stress that comes with planning my daughter's first birthday party and the tactics I employ to lift my spirits on off days.

As your host, I take you through the ebb and flow of daily life, from the refreshing simplicity of mint-infused water. I ponder aloud on improving my studio space and eagerly address a listener's question that's been stirring up quite the conversation on social media. Our dialogue then shifts to the intriguing perspectives on aging and the essence of maintaining an internal youth, as I weave through personal anecdotes from my childhood, my college days, and the profound transitions thereafter.

Wrapping up today's episode, I delve into the profound shifts that accompany motherhood and the art of aging gracefully. You'll hear how I navigate the complexities of self-identity post-baby and the societal pressures that come with it. I also reminisce about the freedom of youth while embracing the mature responsibilities of today, offering a treasure trove of entertainment recommendations to enrich your days. Gratitude for shared moments and personal growth underpins our journey together, as we cherish the youthful spirit that resides within us all.

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- Grace


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Ever find yourself in a rut, feeling like Groundhog Day is your life's theme song? That was me until I shook things up with a new morning and evening routine—and oh boy, did it change the game! Join me, Grace, in the latest episode of Five Years Time, where I share the ins and outs of my life's delightful little tweaks, from the energy boost of a midday coffee to the infectious beats in dance class with the coolest retirees you'll ever meet. Get ready to laugh, nod in agreement, and maybe even find a nugget or two to spark your own daily revolution.

Who knew that sticking to a tuna salad diet since college could still be a thrill? I didn't, until I paired it with an unexpected change in my caffeine habits. We're talking about those subtle shifts that can brighten up the grayest of days and how being more present for my daughter Ro and husband Trev has sweetened our time together. It's not just about food and coffee; it's about finding those rituals that bring us joy and turn ordinary moments into cherished memories. So, whether it's a smart light bulb gently coaxing you awake or a sunset lamp warming up your evening, I've got the lowdown on creating a vibe that's all about calm and connection.

And let's get real—none of this would be half as fun without you, my dear listeners, chiming in with your own stories and support. You've turned this podcast from a monologue into a heartfelt conversation, and for that, I'm sending out a galaxy of thanks. Together, we're not just discussing life's ups and downs; we're riding them like the seasoned pros we are. So why not continue this journey with me? Subscribe, follow, and throw me those stars. Let's keep crafting a narrative that's not just heard, but felt right in the heart.

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Thank you for listening 💖
- Grace


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There's something magical about the first few moments of a snowfall that always seems to bring life into sharp, serene focus. As the winter wonderland envelops us, I, Grace Black, invite you on a heartwarming journey through the everyday moments that define our lives in the latest season of Five Years Time. This season, we cozy up with discussions about the simple joys of home improvement, like the great IKEA carpet quest and the bedroom conundrum—should we go king-size? Together, we reflect on the importance of creating a nurturing space that evolves with us, and how it mirrors our own transformations.

Motherhood and career balance is a dance that many of us know well, and as a new mom, I open up about the delicate steps I'm taking on this path. I examine the struggle for identity amidst societal expectations and the allure of being present for those precious early years with our little ones. Join me as I navigate the digital age's demands on content creation and how it impacts our sense of success. It's a candid discussion on the redefinition of our aspirations—finding peace in the choices we make, whether they lead us back to the corporate world or down the road of self-employment.

Finally, we embrace the slow pace and indulge in new hobbies that add sparks of joy to our lives. There's chatter about my latest movie indulgences, a nod to the hilarious reality of TV shows that hit close to home for us parents, and the shared laughter over discovering a new favorite snack. It's a toast to the authentic connections we make, the ones that sustain us beyond the screen, with an open invitation to follow along on YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok for a peek into the day-to-day adventures. Here's to another year of laughter, growth, and those precious moments that we only find when we're truly present.

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- Grace


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As dawn cracked on Christmas Eve, I found myself enveloped in the quiet hum of anticipation, a stark contrast to the sleepless night behind me. While reminiscing about past holidays and the vibrant hues of Quality Street chocolates, I felt the excitement brewing within my daughter Ro, her spirit a beacon for the festivities to come. Join us as we navigate the juxtaposition of work and celebration, with Trevor possibly taking the reins of today's TikTok recipe, all while I tidy up a cooking video. 

Reflecting on the year that's almost behind us is like flipping through an album of vibrant snapshots and warm echoes of laughter, each memory a stitch in the fabric of our family's story. Amidst the whirl of pasta-making and the soothing art of bread-baking, we found solace in the rhythm of our shared experiences, like wine tastings and the simple act of gathering around a meal. My heart swells with gratitude for the growth we've seen, the adventures we've embarked on, and the community that has stood by us, every step of the way.

As we look forward to the new year, it's impossible not to cherish the moments that have shaped us—time well spent over meals, and the profound joy of our Italian family trip. Our episode is a tapestry of gratitude, woven with the threads of shared memories, laughter, and a panna cotta recipe that promises to sweeten your Christmas morning. Wrap yourself in the warmth of our stories and join us as we send out holiday wishes, all the while holding on to the hope and excitement of what's yet to come.

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Thank you for listening 💖
- Grace


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As the festive season envelops us in its warm embrace, my podcast, Five Years Time, becomes a place where we hold dear our traditions and the new memories we create. This  episode finds me, Grace, and my little Ro basking in the quietude of slow mornings and the vibrant energy of holiday preparations. We're making the kitchen the heart of our celebrations, welcoming my mom's cherished roast  recipesstraight to your ears. But it's not just about the food; it's the shared anticipation, the laughter, and the soft glow of reflection that lights up our conversations. I recount the restless nights and the search for the best children's Christmas movies, all while finding solace in the comfort of familiar festive rituals.

Ro and I stumbled upon a little breakfast haven called "Pure & Simple," where a menu delight bore her name—a serendipitous moment that we had to share with you. The nostalgia runs deep as I consider a return to vlogging, capturing these fleeting moments that, like the winter solstice, promise a new beginning. We're embracing the quieter side of December, prioritizing intimacy over grandeur, and cherishing the low-key moments with loved ones. Join us as we muse on the past, savor the present, and look ahead with optimism to the fresh starts that January offers. We invite you to settle in, pour a cup of your favorite holiday cheer, and enjoy an episode that wraps you in the heartfelt spirit of the season.

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Thank you for listening 💖
- Grace


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Wrapped in my beloved Margaritaville T-shirt and the comfort of pyjamas, I hit 'record' in the soft light of morning, eager to swap stories over a cup of coffee. Memories of birthdays, complete with volcano nachos and margarita flights, mix with the snug domestic tales that colour our existence. Join me as I navigate the dance of family life, from the bedtime antics with my daughter Ro and charger-hogging husband Trevor to the larger question of work-life harmony that arises when school breaks roll in. All this while, I'm planning content, family holidays, and Ro's educational journey, making the most of these cherished days.

As the chill of winter lingers outside, I whisk you away on a virtual escape to Niagara Falls, where the indoor magic unfolds perfect for family bonding. Picture a butterfly conservatory, where the warmth of nature's wonders waits, and the interactive Bird Kingdom invites you to feed and frolic amongst the feathered residents. I'll guide you through the kaleidoscope of these attractions, revealing how a simple photograph can bring those precious moments back to life, and how a child's awe at Great Wolf Lodge is a sight to behold.

On the home front, I tackle the festive challenge of whipping up a Jello salad – not my favourite but a seasonal delight – and the comedy of lost phone contacts without iCloud's persistent nudging. With my brother's upcoming visit and our plans to conquer a bouldering gym, I ponder the possibilities for new family activities. As we count down to Christmas, I reflect on the loving chaos of shopping sprees with my mom, braving the crowded malls, and the laughter shared with strangers amidst the holiday rush. So, cozy up as we celebrate the joys, the mishaps, and everything in between on this heartfelt episode.

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Thank you for listening 💖
- Grace


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Ever found yourself tangled in tinsel and to-do lists during the holiday frenzy? I'm Grace, your navigator through the beautiful mess that is the pre-New Year rush. This episode of Five Years Time is an honest account of my quest for balance in the chaos—whether that's podcasting with a pile of unwrapped gifts lurking in the corner or carving out moments of calm to sip tea and reflect. I confess, my house isn't a winter wonderland from a magazine cover; it's lived in, it's loved, and yes, it's cluttered. But within the whirlwind, I'm finding the small victories and sharing them with you.

Join me as I recount the unexpected thrill of thrifting—a robotic dog unearthed from a secondhand pile that's set to light up my child's eyes on Christmas morning. But it's not all festive cheer; I'm scratching my head at the peculiar pricing at thrift stores and pondering the sustainability of bargain hunts when prices don't always add up. And while we're opening up, let's talk about the delicate dance of updating children's wardrobes, balancing cost, quality, and environmental impact. It's a juggling act, but who says we can't have fun with it?

As the calendar pages flip closer to the New Year, I'm sharing my desire for simplicity and calm in the everyday bustle. Hear about my steps towards a peaceful personal space, my quest for serene mornings before the household wakes, and the little changes that promise a better night's sleep. Plus, I'm stirring in a dash of excitement with the anticipation of baking Genoa-style focaccia with my daughter—because what's life without a sprinkle of flour and a lot of laughter? So grab your favorite cozy blanket and let's chat about the small joys and the big changes as we greet another year together.

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Thank you for listening 💖
- Grace


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Picture this: you're in the midst of the holiday season, balancing family, festivities, and an ever-growing to-do list. Amid all this, how do you find the time for self-care? Welcome to another heartfelt episode of Five Years Time where we explore this subject with depth and authenticity. Join me, Grace, as I candidly share my journey of intentionally slowing down, prioritizing self-care, and protecting my space amidst the festive whirlwind. I let you in on the rejuvenating effects of a recent facial and the calming power of setting intentions and meditation. 

What if there was a way to balance productivity and self-care without feeling overwhelmed? Let's venture into the concept of slow living, particularly as we navigate the cold winter months. We'll talk about our daily routines, from relaxed mornings to productive afternoons, and the joy of having delicious snacks within arm's reach. Discover the refreshing benefits of a morning walk, a dose of sunshine, and how these simple pleasures can set the tone for your day. We also tackle that familiar feeling of overwhelm that can creep up during routine activities like grocery shopping and meal prep, sharing personal stories and strategies for seeking support and adjusting routines based on the season. 

Lastly, we'll delve into the art of planning ahead and making every moment count. From booking appointments and treating them as special moments to planning ahead for family activities during the holiday season – it's all about infusing joy into our everyday tasks. I'll also share a delightful seafood pie recipe, perfect for both special occasions and regular weeknight meals. And as we transition into mom mode and hibernation, we'll discuss the importance of making time for ourselves and finding balance between our roles and responsibilities. So, whether you're a parent or simply someone trying to navigate life's busy periods, this episode is a gentle reminder to prioritize self-care and find those precious moments of calm. Don't miss it!

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Thank you for listening 💖
- Grace


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Ever found yourself panic-stricken amidst the holiday chaos, with a grocery list as long as Santa's delivery route and a gift list that seems to be written in hieroglyphics? Welcome to the club! This episode is all about the mad dash of the festive season, from braving the grocery store madness to cracking the enigma of gift-giving.

Journey with me through the ups and downs of meal planning, as I unveil my newfound love for cream of wheat. Sure, my daughter Ro is an oatmeal devotee, but hey, to each her own! Together, we're making breakfast wholesome and exciting, even with a pantry that seems emptier than Scrooge's heart. Christmas is all about traditions, right? Our family has an unusual one - we make stockings the star of the show! Listen as I take you through my methodical approach to filling stockings with self-care items and essentials, and how it adds a spark of joy to our Christmas morning.

However, gift-giving isn't always all fun and games. It's a dance between delight and despair, especially when it comes to children's gifts. Ro, my little firecracker, has the most unique wish-lists. From a projector flashlight to a robot dog, her requests never fail to surprise us! But amidst the wild roller coaster of gift shopping, we're focusing on the heart of the matter - the thought behind the gift. Finding the perfect gift is like hitting the jackpot, but for me, it's all about being intentional. So buckle up, my fellow holiday warriors, as we navigate the emotional turmoil of holiday shopping, and discover the joy in simplicity and gratefulness.

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Thank you for listening 💖
- Grace


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Have you ever felt a pang of grief during the holidays? The sixth episode of our 12 Days of Podmas on the Five Years Time is a candid exploration of that very feeling. I, your host Grace, unpack the emotional intensity that comes with memories of past Christmases and loved ones no longer with us. This is not just a conversation about grief and loss, it's a deeper, more nuanced discussion about how we reconcile the nostalgia, joy, and sadness that permeates the holiday season.

What does it mean to grieve for past memories, places, and the relationships we've left behind? In the first section of the episode, we delve into this. I share my personal experiences of navigating through a season of celebration with a heavy heart, along with the coping mechanisms that have been my anchor. I also touch on something many might not expect: my journey with psoriasis. Here, I provide some practical advice for managing the skin condition during winter. 

But it's not all about the heaviness of grief. As we progress, we shift our focus to the livelier traditions of the holiday season. We talk about my favourite holiday drink, the whiskey sour, and even offer variations of this classic cocktail that you could try. While acknowledging the mix of emotions that the season may bring, the episode serves as a reminder to celebrate the present while honouring our past. Join us as we continue our countdown to Christmas, and let's keep the conversation going in your DMs. Christmas is about connection, after all. So, let's connect.

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Thank you for listening 💖
- Grace


Let’s Get Social 👯
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Email: [email protected]

FYT 2023 Spotify Playlist