Autobiography 

Today you're reading the hopefully somewhat interesting journey of myself Audrey Griffin born on the 18th of May 2005 at the Royal Hospital for Women in Randwick. As the sun sets on my high school years, and a new dawn emerges, an exhilarating chapter in the chronicle of my life. This autobiography invites you to read the accounts of my journey up to this point as an 18 year old footy playing, beach-loving, pizza inn employee, dog owner, CCSC student. I hope to capture the essence of my experiences up to the precipice of adulthood, which have led and prepared me for the eagerness to embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

Who I am today is a result of many influences and events that have shaped me on my 18-year-long journey. My family and friends, how I've grown up, my education, hobbies and even the challenges I've faced and conquered. All of these things have moulded me into who I am and who I strive to become. At this point in time, I acknowledge I'm still growing as an individual, I feel as though I have yet to grasp and embraced all that I can and am. Though my life has been a wonderful experience so far I am optimistic that it will only continue to improve if I put in the work to reach my full potential. One of the most important things I've come to understand right now however is being content and present where I am and with who I am. 

I am a person that lives in two great houses (the benefits of split parents) predominantly I live in Terrigal with my mum and dog Butcher only a five-minute walk from the beach and the other being in Sydney my reformer primary living location which means when I visit my dad I can see old friends and also get easy access to the Sydney atmosphere which I love. I am a person who spends a large quantity of time near or in water even in winter when Terrigal Beach is as refreshing as 15 degrees. I love swimming in the ocean, being able to swim with beautiful marine animals like grey nurses, port Jacksons, octopuses, turtles, stingrays, gropers etc I love catching waves without getting dumped because sand does not come out of my hair easily. I don't think I can go near water very often without swimming in it and the beach is where I find myself most chances I get.

In combination with swimming, I'm a person who enjoys exercise I usually pair my swim with a run around Terrigal and up the skillion, I love the gym and being humbled by the senior age group in yoga and pilates classes, I loved playing footy but since breaking my hand in June it's been a long time away from rugby. 

I'm a person with incredible people in my life, I feel as though I have bragging rights how lucky I am to have such cool people from friends to friends parents, teachers and family I truly admire the people in my life they are all quirky and cool. I'm a person who loves food, especially chocolate, I love excitement and fun and adrenaline. I admire music and art and even though they aren't my stong suit. There are many more components that contribute to me, I have dabbled in many areas like traveling but I'm looking forward to seeing myself and who I am once I finish school.

Who I am now has been made up of the many building blocks of my life which have established a sturdy foundation and moulding me into my idiosyncratic self. I am excited about my future and much more growth on a personal & professional level but I certainly have gratitude for my past that has got me here today. 

I grew up with separated parents since I was born I'm an only child which qualifies me for the title of the favourite child in my family however sometimes my dog seems to be favoured over me. Some may say its a bit of a less fun & lonely lifestyle those people would be correct. But I've never had it any diffrent and I never thought I have missed out on anything or gone without, honestly growing up I have been spoiled being an only child and there are truly many alternative benefits to my lifestyle and it just made me admire big families but I will always love my little one. 

My family consist of my mum Kathleen, my dad Trevor, myself and my dog Butcher. I could expand my description to my stepmom Fran and my step-brother Aaron legally they are still my family but honestly that relationship has been on the rocks for a little while. Aaron will always be my stepbrother thought, we have grown up since I was 3 years old. 

I could aslo tell you about my mum's boyfriend Bearnie but I don't know how solidified that relationship is it's been in the works for a little while.

My parents are amazing individuals who have given me everything they can. Their unconventional ways and peculiarities aside, their hearts are filled with goodness. Their ultimate goal has always been my happiness and shielding me from the mistakes they themselves have made. Despite facing numerous challenges, they have worked tirelessly to overcome them and accumulated a wealth of experiences, some they wish to spare me from. Their love and dedication are truly remarkable, and I am grateful for everything they have done for me even if it took me up to 18 year to truly realize and appreciate their unwavering love and dedication. While in the past, I may have seen them as bossy, I now understand that their intentions have always been rooted in wanting the best for me.

My dad is an admirable man who had a modest upbringing in England. His parents had their struggles, with my nan battling alcoholism before finding solace in devotion to God, and my pop leaving my dad and his sister to grow up independently in Ireland. Despite the challenges, my dad still loves his parents, and I hold great affection for my nan, who was a truly unique individual, especially with her indomitable spirit despite having only one leg. Sadly, she passed away in 2020, but I had the opportunity to visit her a few times in England before then.

I eagerly anticipate going back to england to visit my aunty and cousins once school finishes. My dad's upbringing has greatly influenced his aspirations, and he is the hardest working man I know. While I may not fully comprehend his desires in life, I know that he wants my life to be easier than his and for me to find happiness.

Throughout his life, my dad has worked physically demanding jobs in the construction industry. He has owned his own businesses and worked for others, and I am in awe of his ability to manage it all. He epitomizes resilience and determination. In 2013, he purchased land in Matraville and dedicated multiple years to building a family home, aiming to create an ideal lifestyle for us. I vividly recall his unwavering determination to complete the house, often working weekends and afternoons after his regular job. He did it all for our family.

However, upon reflection, I realize that while the house is a wonderful achievement, the time spent with him may have been even more valuable even though I occasionally helped build with my fabulous bricklaying or mail box building skills. I have learned a lesson about the pitfalls of materialism, and I believe my dad has also learned this lesson over the years of hard work and deterioration to his body. 

I deeply cherish my dad, his sense of humor, his love, and his fun-loving nature. He always watches out for me, and our time together is characterized by quality rather than quantity. I have never lacked in good times with him I have countless fond memories together, from swimming lessons and kicking the footy around on weekends, to going to the movies and visiting relatives that are old schooled and made me peel prawns for my dad to eat. Every moment with him is great even when he’s hangry cause he makes a good ham roll, (I wouldn't eat anything he's cooked he’s poisoned me more than once)

My mother is quite different from my father. she has lived a free-spirited life, that's for sure. She has been a single mother for most of my life, and now that I'm old enough to understand the challenges of adulthood, I have no idea how she managed it all. Being a full-time mother and juggling work is an enormous responsibility.

My mum was born in Penrith and has four sisters and one brother. She has experienced a lot in her life, travelling to numerous countries, making friends everywhere she goes, and indulging in both hard work and vibrant social activities. She hasn't followed a specific career path but has worked in various industries. I would say her expertise lies in retail and sales. Currently, she works at the markets in the women's fashion niche, and she excels in selling. However, she struggles a bit with the business side of things.

I admire my mum for her fun-loving nature, and I especially appreciate her as a great mother, now that I understand the challenges of parenting. Growing up, we often clashed, and occasionally we still do. Now that I'm more independent, she has less control over me, and her role has shifted to occasionally scolding me instead of taking awa y my phone.

I have moved around quite a bit with my mum, as she always tried to make my life as enjoyable as possible. She moved to Sydney so I could be close to my dad and to the Central Coast so I could be near my friends. She has taken me on holidays to Bali, Europe, and Byron Bay. It's remarkable how hard she works and balances so much on her plate. She's like a pocket rocket, always on the go and ready to tackle anything that comes her way.

My parents are the reason I have everything I have today and everything I am. I'm a result of their hard work and determination.Despite shielding me from many challenges, I have witnessed firsthand their unwavering determination and the sacrifices they have made. Their strength and resilience truly amaze me, and I often wonder how they managed it all. Their generosity and hard work inspire me, and I aspire to someday repay their kindness. Their journey was not easy, but they made it work, and I am forever grateful for everything they have done for me.

The relationships I’ve been able to form over the years, I’m truly grateful for I have so many inspirational people who have supported me and guided me. I’ve always had amazing friends one of my best friends , Sam has been my best friend since I was born. We are only nine days apart. Other friends I’ve met in preschool and primary school and I’ve kept in contact even when moving to Sydney where I got to make more friends who I’ve kept in contact when moving back to Central Coast. It’s exciting seeing my friends growing up and seeing my friends grow with me, celebrating their birthdays and achievements and seeing how time has gone by. Having good friends is one of the most amazing attributes, a person can have I think because they are there to laugh with and cry with and make memories and reflect on them. Some of my closest friends I have a from CCSC and we have spent our senior years at school together, navigating through many obstacles, and I hope we navigate together for the rest of our lives. Along with friends is closer than Friends I’ve had two almost proper relationships so far, and they have changed me the most. Although they are amazing, they have changed my mindset on many things and love is very powerful and the best and worst thing in the world.  

Growing up. I also spent a lot of time with my friends parents and have been very grateful for them looking out for me like their own I feel as though I have lots of second families that I could go to. One of the most unexpected and important relationships in my life was formed during Covid when are swimming group down at Terrigal was formed and became a little swimming family where I met many amazing people who I have idolised. Like Kate, Mimi, Matt Simone, Lana the list goes on I spend every day of lockdown with these people and ever since then they have been my second family. They are people I can go to for advice or wisdom or ask questions. There’s so many more relationships I have in my life and I value every single one. I think the people around me have contributed more than anything in my life. The people around me have shaped me from teachers supporting me parents lecturing me, friends, laughing with me and and strangers teaching me. I definitely believe in the saying it’s not what you know it’s you you know.

School has always been a positive and enjoyable experience for me. I've had the privilege of having great friends and teachers throughout my educational journey. It all began on the Central Coast at Juniors at Wamberal, where I attended preschool alongside my best friend, Sam, as well as Sofia and Jaz, whom I still keep in contact with. Although my memories from that time are not entirely clear, I have fond feelings for that place. I remember getting my hair braided, taking naps, enjoying delicious food, and indulging in arts and crafts, which I always loved.

From Juniors at Wamberal, I progressed to Wamberal Primary School, located just across the road. Kindergarten was another fantastic year, and I formed incredible friendships that have lasted over the years. My best friends, Elodie, Sam, Sophia, and Lydia have been with me since then, and we have grown up, matured, and learned together. In 2013, my mum and I moved to Sydney, and I transitioned to St. Charles Primary School in Year 1. It was an exciting experience as I got to live closer to my dad and make new friends at a different school. From Years 1 to 4, I attended a religious school, participated in Holy Communion and reconciliation, and actively engaged in church activities. It was a fun time, and Jessica became my best friend during those years. It was tough leaving her behind when I moved again.

In Year 5, I returned to the Central Coast, which I was initially excited about. However, I did miss Sydney which I will return to one day. I cherished reconnecting with my original friends from when I was younger.  I had an amazing Year 5 and 6, with Year 6 being one of the best times of my life. Mr. Nusk, my teacher, was incredible, and we enjoyed sports, engaging in STEM projects, and exploring various art projects. The year group was fantastic. 

In 2018, I left Wamberal to attend St. Joseph's Catholic College for Year 7, entering high school. It was not a Jurassic change as I had previously experienced a Catholic School. I made good friends and remained a diligent student. However, the sports and lunchtime activities lacked excitement, as everyone seemed to sit down, At one point my friend group did play a fun game of piggy in the middle but we were told to stop as people around as we're getting hit because we didn't have an adequate area to play like an oval. Eventually, my friend Darci decided to transfer to Central Coast Sports College at the end of Year 8, which sparked my curiosity. Although I hadn't considered changing schools, my mum and I attended an open day to explore the new school's approach to learning, particularly the Big Picture Learning model. We both liked what we saw, and I made the decision to join Darci at Central Coast Sports College for Year 9.

The transition was significant for me as I had to adapt to the relaxed atmosphere, which was a refreshing change. Nat, my advisor in Year 9, played a crucial role in making the adjustment smoother for me. Additionally, I had to get used to the increased emphasis on sports, especially as I had never played rugby league before. The two-hour morning training sessions helped me improve my skills and introduced me to a different way of living compared to my time at St. Joseph's.

Navigating the academic aspect of the school was slightly challenging due to the increased freedom we were given. I struggled at times with decision-making but always aimed to do my best. Overall, attending Central Coast Sports College has undoubtedly shaped me into a different person than I would have been if I had not made the move. I have grown, learned, and developed new areas. 

School has a profound impact on shaping our identity and confidence. I've been part of supportive learning groups and have excelled in top-level classes. It's important not to let external factors define who we are, and I consistently strive to work hard in all my endeavors Cos that's the best I can do. I consider myself fortunate to have had a positive educational journey with a strong support system that pushes me to reach my full potential. Looking back, I never would have imagined being where I am today in year 7. Central Coast Sports College played a pivotal role in my life, introducing me to rugby league, a sport I've come to love despite its physical nature. Through rugby, I discovered the power of teamwork and developed a strong sense of dedication to improving my strength and fitness. Moreover, I've had the opportunity to gain valuable real-life experiences through internships and real life connections (networking)  like my swimming group from Terrigal Who I have reached out to a couple of times and they have helped me very much with my school work.  I've also had an incredible advisor through my CCSC journey Sam, He has been more than just an advisor to me he's been a mentor and a friend. I've spent countless hours with Sam, sometimes even more than with my own family, as I see him five times a week. Having him as a role model feels like hitting the jackpot, and I'm incredibly grateful for all the support and guidance he has provided me with. He has helped me navigate through various challenges, and I can't express enough how thankful I am for his presence in my life. 

Besides my involvement in school, family, and friends, I've dabbled in a wide range of activities that have had their own influence on me. I often feel like a Jack of many trades, having tried my hand at various pursuits without truly mastering any. I've explored playing instruments such as the violin and piano, engaged in sports like Oztag, horse riding, rugby league, basketball, netball, ice skating, water polo, ice skating, and ballet and most consistently over the years being swimming as I partook in squad training for a couple of years then moved on to ocean swimming which was much more enjoyable along with spending many years as a nippers kid then progressed to volunteering as a lifesaver and briefly doing RIB racing (inflatable rescue boat). I cherish every experience in these activities, and I am grateful to my parents for supporting my participation. Looking back, I do wish I had possessed greater dedication to pursue them for longer, it would have been beneficial if my parents had encouraged me to commit to one activity for an extended period. Nonetheless, these activities have provided me with countless memories. Some were amazing, like cantering on a horse, while others were less enjoyable, such as waking up at 5 in the morning for chilly swimming squad sessions. But every less enjoyable thing has its silver lining, like whenmy friend Elodie and I would have fun and reward ourselves after training by holding our breath, seeing how many laps we could complete around mingara whirlpool. Apart from the occasional mishaps, when a child accidentally contaminates the pool and renders it temporarily unusable.

My memory is poor almost like a 90 year old. Looking back on my life I realise that many challenges that seem huge at the time are very insignificant in the larger scheme of things and if I can’t remember it must’ve been too important. However, sometimes I remember the upset I felt. I haven’t had true problems in my life and nothing someone hasn’t been there to help me with. I can only say my challenges were all learning opportunities. Some of them are very hard ones though. I would say my largest learning opportunities would be conflicting with my mum growing up, especially during lockdown, dating and going through break ups, problems with family members, finding my values and morals, self-esteem & losing family. 

I think so far 2023 has been my toughest year. I have been forced to push myself to mental resilience. Over the course of this year I had felt stressed about leaving school, emotionally chaotic from being in a relationship to going through a break up which significantly impacted me & losing a family friend to cancer. All these things have felt awful over this year and I have felt in an emotional slump for much of the time feeling upset and disconnected but I will leave 2023 with much growth and hopefully as a stronger person. 

I try to live with a mindset that everything happens for a reason and there is meaning behind everything. Sometimes its beneficial to move on and let go, so I can cherish what I have right now but also to be careful with it. Trust and respect are so important. And we all have ups and downs and over this year I have felt like there are never any ups, I refuse to be a person who enjoys pity parties or playes a victim I can not control events arond me only my reactions. Although I do not feel my best right now I am optimistic that one day I will feel relief and ready to move past my problems right now because I have nothing left to learn from them and I will be ready for the next lot.  

As I look ahead into my future, I have a strong desire for a fulfilling and successful life, I am most scared of living a boring life. Although I'm uncertain about the exact definition of success for me, I have a general idea of its concepts. Success, to me, is based on my personal goals, values, and aspirations, encompassing excitement, connections, learning, and helping others. It involves achieving desired outcomes and fulfilling meaningful objectives and experiencing fulfillment and happiness, continuously growing and improving, making a positive impact on others and the world, and seeking financial stability and loving relationships.

However, I understand that success is a journey that requires adaptability, embracing challenges, and learning from failures. Ultimately, success is subjective and should be defined by each individual based on their own passions, values, and aspirations, rather than external pressures or societal norms. My ultimate goal in life is to maintain a positive mindset by being authentic, true to myself, and embracing my uniqueness. I strive to cultivate an abundance of gratitude, recognizing and appreciating life's blessings. Growth is essential to me, emphasizing continuous learning and self-improvement, while connection focuses on building meaningful relationships and fostering a sense of belonging.

Currently, my idea of success for my near future revolves around working hard and utilizing the potential and time I have in my youth to learn, earn money, and set myself up for a worry-free future. I aim to excel in an area where I can assist those who lack expertise. It is important to me to be part of an educated society and possess reliable opinions. I seek experiences that require hard work and are often overlooked by others, and my goal is to bring happiness to the people around me.I aspire to cherish every aspect of my life and fully embrace all opportunities that come my way. My goal is to create a lifetime filled with incredible experiences and people.

After reading the journey of navigating the tumultuous seas of adolescence and embarking upon the uncharted voyage of self-discovery.

I hope this has provided you with insight into my journey. Overall, I'm enthusiastic about the upcoming chapter in my life, and I believe that this autobiography is a good way to summarize my journey up to this point, even though it's challenging to encompass everything and its impact within a single piece of writing. I've often heard that life truly begins after school, and I'm excited to see where the road takes me, even though I dont expect it to be smooth sailing, but hopefully, it will be a bit of fun. 

I've been fortunate to experience a lot of love and visit many beautiful places, for which I am immensely grateful. Nevertheless, I'm filled with excitement for the new experiences to come, even though right now it's scary going into the unknown.