Welcome to our July roundup! If it’s your first time here – hello! happy to have you here. Do check out my previous roundup. I hope you like it! Thank you for reading.
Hello, how are you? I hope July was lovely to you – this month felt especially big for me, in the best kind of way. A lot shifted, especially when it came to friendships, family, and my next career path.
A bit of backstory: Since moving to Australia, I’ve often wondered how to recreate the kind of community I had back home. There were times I felt the pain of loneliness, and the idea of putting myself out there felt terrifying. Becoming a new mum, adjusting to a new country and culture – it’s been beautiful, yes, but also a little disorienting. I’ve been lucky to have the support of my family and extended ones, but still, I missed having a circle of my own. This month, I took a chance and made space for new connections – and something clicked. Friends ground you, and I’m lucky to have made a few good ones.
This month has also been about internal shifts. I made a decision that’s been on my heart for a while – something that felt equal parts scary and right. It’s funny how the biggest changes can come from tiny, compounded shifts in perspectives, but this internal shift has allowed me to fully trust myself and my gut. I couldn’t be more proud of my decision.
Best of all, I got to spend a lot of quality time with my daughter who’s growing up right before our eyes. I feel the most present and the happiest when I’m with her, and the time I spend with her is something I lock away in my heart forever.
Of course, in between all of that, I’ve enjoyed writing and spending more time on here. I feel very grateful to see this website growing and how its slowly finding its people. I hope when you read this, you feel a bit more grounded and connected 🙂
Here’s everything I wrote, loved, and recommend from July – the recipes, the restaurants, and the small joys worth passing.
This month on the blog:
In case you missed them, here are the new posts from July on Fresh Saturdays. Each one has a little story, a lot of food, and hopefully something that makes your week better.
🍜 Best Pho In Newcastle: Pho Huy Is The Hidden Gem We Need To Talk About
Warm, comforting, and just what you need on a chilly night. This family-run spot in Beresfield is quietly serving some of the best pho in town.
A cosy, weeknight-friendly recipe inspired by a YouTube rabbit hole and a serious noodle craving. Think tender beef, chewy udon, and a rich broth you’ll want on repeat.
🍥 Best Ramen in Chatswood: Our Visit to Manpuku Sydney
A spontaneous trip to Sydney turned into a ramen revelation. This Chatswood gem serves colourful bowls and serious flavour. A must-visit if you’re ramen-obsessed and Sydney-bound.
🌮 Antojitos Newcastle: This Authentic Mexican Taqueria Is A Local Favourite For A Delicious Reason
Our family’s go-to for delicious, fuss-free tacos and burritos. This taqueria nails flavour, value, and that laid-back vibe we all crave.
🐟 The Swordfish Co Warners Bay: Fresh Seafood & Lakeside Dining
A peaceful day by the lake, with fresh seafood and simple joys. This casual yet modern fish and chips joint in Warner’s Bay is our family’s go-to whenever we visit.
🔥 Hanok Korean BBQ Newcastle: Authentic Charcoal Dining Experience
Charcoal-grilled meats, sizzling platters, and the unmistakable warmth of Korean BBQ. Also try their deep fried prawn and delicious takoyaki.
🇵🇭 Bringing Filipino Flavours Home with Beef Bicol Expressa
A nostalgic, creamy-spicy (if you want it to be!) dish that brings me back to family meals and home kitchens. This version uses beef and includes a no-chili option too. It’s definitely one of my Filipino comfort foods.
Best July TV shows
Some of the series I’ve watched over the past few weeks have been so good. From twisted psychological thrillers to slow-burn British spy dramas, we’ve really been spoiled for choice. These four stood out the most, so if you’re in the mood for something new to watch, I highly recommend giving them a go:
The Gilded Age
Set in 1882 New York, during a time of extreme wealth and industrialisation, this series dives into the drama and intricate dynamics between old money and new. The costumes and setting are so lavish, they feel like characters of their own. Carrie Coon is absolutely magnetic in this role and she’s fast becoming a favourite of mine.
Slow Horses
A British spy thriller (with a dash of dark humour) led by Gary Oldman as Jackson Lamb, the dishevelled head of a team of MI5 misfits exiled to Slough House. It’s got everything you’d want – espionage, betrayal, redemption – with performances that are so sharp, they’ll have you hooked.
Secrets We Keep
A haunting and heartfelt series about Filipino overseas workers in Denmark, centred around the disappearance of one of them. It’s a heavy watch at times, but so powerful. It touches on community, sacrifice, and the quiet strength of women holding it all together.
Ballard
A gritty police procedural set in LA, starring Maggie Q as Renee Ballard, the head of the LAPD’s cold case division. She’s fierce, smart, and completely owns the role. If you like crime shows that go beyond the surface, this one’s for you.
Other things I loved this month..
Beauty Favourites
Skincare has been a joy lately, and these three products have seriously impressed me:
Paula’s Choice Liquid Exfoliant
I finally gave in to the hype (and price tag), and after just a few weeks, my skin feels smoother and more even. I think it’s worth every penny if you’re after some really active skincare.
Timeless Vitamin C Serum
Brightens, evens out skin tone, and is a Reddit darling for a reason. I discovered this through some very intense beauty rabbit-holing and decided to trust redditors’ recos. So glad I did!
Beauty of Joseon Dynasty Cream
The best night cream I’ve ever used. It’s rich but not heavy, leaves my skin so soft, and honestly feels like cloud-textured magic on your face.
Thank you for reading! Don’t forget to subscribe below if you want to read more 🙂 Happy August!
