“Ding Dong, it’s time to wake up ladies,” I hear the sound of someone’s voice over the speaker. Before I know it I’ve brushed my teeth and the feeling starts to kick in, I’m ready for work. My happy place. I start bible study, I finish the chapter, I forget to pray, I then start writing to God about all that I need help with, with hope in my heart that I am not writing to God in vain about things I want. I open the door, I stand there silent, it’s quiet, no one makes eye contact, nor do they start an argument. We walk towards the eating quarter, it’s Monday. My happy place.

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It’s 10am, I am at work deciding if I need coffee to get the jitters, a piece of fruit for some sugary glucose or a peanut butter and jam sandwich.

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I think to myself, do I need the extra calories? I drink cordial then go back to my work area, restocking shelves, finishing any work that needs completing. I set the standard yesterday, about to beat my score. My happy place. I’ve decided to take my studies to work to practise active learning strategies in my extra time. My happy place.

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I am in the medication line, I remember taking the first bite of dinner at 1pm ... My happy place.

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Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and now Friday, I check my balance – I’ve saved money. I’m in secure buy-up fortnightly, I do not have access to food 24/7.

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I only have to see one other person unless it’s meal time. My happy place.

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It’s Sunday, I am at church. My happy place.

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It’s Monday again, except there’s a change, the date.

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I am nearly home, Mum.