22! And my first birthday alone. I’m not where I thought I’d be, things haven’t gone to plan. But I’m doing good, chasing my dreams and learning as I go. I’m living independently for the first real time and it’s such freedom. I’m managing my mental health and although I’ve been through a lot, so far I’ve remained pretty stable. I’m coping and that’s amazing.

Birthdays can be hard, I always feel such pressure to be happy, excited and grateful. I still think that but I know that I’m lucky to be here and that I get to have this amazing experience. It’s just a day, and I’ve kept my expectations low and am enjoying the simple things …. like cake.

I video-called my mom and opened a few small presents she sent in the post. I went for a walk along the beach and had a bit of fun with pink hair dye. And obviously birthday cake. Today is a self-care day.

This weekend my mum’s coming to visit so I’m really looking forward to that. My engine should be sorted I’m the next day or two. My plan is to do a shake-down sail to probably test the engine, we’ll head to the point at I was picked up by the RLNI and return back to Padstow. Then it’ll be on to St Ives to anchor, round to Newlyn and then up to Falmouth.