I suppose the biggest piece of news is that in November I decided to go freelance. I was offered an incredible opportunity to earn more money doing more varied work, while still keeping my hand in fruit machine design, and without having to find my own clients (which I find very daunting); I am still working with my former employer a couple of days a week and with an old friend for the rest of the time.
It was really stressful making the decision. Both wanted me working with them. Finding the best compromise I could was incredibly difficult and I found it exhausting and very upsetting.
But, it's done now and I am enjoying my new set up very much. I'm incredibly busy working six days a week, but it's worth it. Soon, I'll begin drawing a wage which will be great! Might even treat myself a little. Haha!
I've set up a simple website - www.stuartbuskell.com
...
Kuk Sool is going great. We had our first National grading in October which was hard work and resulted in me receiving my first ever blood blister, which was pretty nasty and popped a few weeks later in class, all over the mats. Healed up nicely now though.
We didn't travel up to Liverpool for the UK tournament in the end although we did pay for it and booked a room. It was Gemma's best friend's 30th birthday party on the same day and we simply couldn't miss that. This year's European tournament will be held in Norwich so we will definitely be there!
The curriculum was also updated recently meaning that we are learning some sword now. I thought that the staff would be my favourite weapon, but I must admit that the sword seems a little more natural to me and I'm enjoying it a lot!
We've had a few awesome Black Belt Clubs. Especially the most recent one where I was very fortunate to get chucked about by SBN Dave!
...
We are still very much into Herbalife and feeling absolutely awesome! I've lost around a stone and a half in total, which certainly wasn't my goal, but more importantly, my body is far more toned now. Even though I don't do any extra exercise. My thirty inch waist Levi's I bought last year are becoming a little 'gapey'!
Gemma is climbing up the promotion ladder steadily and we are both getting a great buzz from helping people to be healthy and happy.
...
Gemma celebrated her 30th birthday in December with a 'Harry Potter Yule Ball' themed party which was lots of fun. She finally wore her Hermione dress and I surprised her by having a Viktor Krum costume made for the night. Everyone made a real effort to dress up and it was excellent (even if Gemma did have a bit too much to drink and felt very ill the following day! Haha!).
...
Gemma had a tough few months with work. Working at the Florist ended up being incredibly stressful for her and in the end she had to give it in as it was beginning to make her ill. It was very difficult as she thought it was going to be her dream job and worked hard at college and part time in the florist, to make it happen.
She's currently working on reception at a vets. She loves seeing the animals and often comes home telling me stories of puppies and kittens she has cuddled throughout the day.
.
