My Favourite Universal Resort Attractions

The Universal Resort theme parks - Universal Studios and, Islands of Adventure - are probably my fave two theme parks in Orlando. I love Disney, but the Universal rides are just tailored to what I prefer, so they are perfect - even if Disney has stepped up their ride game recently (hello Tron!)

The rides here are incredible, and though I couldn't get my camera on any of the rides, due to the metal detectors and no-bags policy on a lot of the rides, I just got to be in the moment and enjoy the rides. Here's a list of the ones I really enjoyed, and in no particular order.

Harry Potter & The Forbidden Journey

Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit

The Incredible Hulk Coaster

Harry Potter & the Escape From Gringotts

Jurassic Park River Adventure

Dudley Do-Right's Rip Saw Falls

 

The Bourne Stuntacular

All of these the rides that we went on, were AMAZING - but these are my top rides from both parks.

On Rip Saw Falls, we got so wet on it, that I was literally dripping water the entire way back to the car! Escape from Gringotts was so awesome, but the que time had jumped up to over an hour during the time we has queued for 10 minutes, went on the ride, and then came off of it. 

I also cannot stop raving about the Bourne Stunt show - I've never seen anything like it, and it was so good, we saw it twice!

What are your fave attarctions at Universal and Islands of Adventure? Let me know! Hope you have a great day and keep safe :)


Pryer Assistants | Instagram | YouTube | Twitter | Pinterest | Facebook

My Debut Novel 'Another Day On The Island' Is Finally Here

Back in 2018, I had one of those dreams - you know the kind that clings to your brain like glitter and refuses to let go. A nameless girl stood on an island, singing a haunting melody that I couldn’t stop humming. I quickly voice-noted the whole thing before work so I wouldn’t forget... and that song? It lived rent-free in my head for weeks.

That random dream? It became Chapter 23.

That girl? She became Charlotte.

And today? Her story is out in the world. My debut novel, Another Day On The Island, is officially available to buy in paperback and on Kindle.

This book has been my heart and soul for the last few years. I've written, re-written, sobbed, smiled, and completely obsessed over this story - and now it's yours to read.

So, what’s it about?

In the unforgiving embrace of an uncharted sea, the Ward family's journey begins. Stranded on a mysterious island with no way home, they must fight to survive - against nature, isolation, and time.

Told through Charlotte Ward’s powerful and emotional lens, Another Day On The Island is a decade-long story of survival, unimaginable loss, and the enduring love of family. Even in the darkest moments, hope flickers. And even in the face of death… love prevails.

It’s raw, it’s emotional, and it’s personal.

Meet the cast (naming them was a journey in itself…)

Charlotte was named while I rewatched Sex and the City in 2018. (Yes, Charlotte York inspired her name. No regrets.)

Eliza started life as Lisa. Then I watched Hamilton on Disney+ in 2020, and… “Eliza!”

Lawrence was originally Rory, but in 2021 I renamed him after one of my fave UK Drag Queens – Lawrence Chaney.

Bethany and Graham? Just names I love.

I used ChatGPT to help visualise their faces. And one of the character mockups looked exactly as I imagined them. Not ashamed to say I got emotional.

And people are already loving it…

💬 “Very exciting!! Well done.”

💬 “Wow Tania, this is amazing!”

💬 “I’m definitely gripped by this story!”

💬 “Started reading your novel but decided I want to wait for the completed article! You amazing go girl - my kinda book!”

Honestly? I cried reading some of these. Charlotte’s voice is one I’ve carried with me for years, and seeing readers connect with her already means the absolute world.

How to get your hands on it:

📚 Paperback and Kindle versions available now!

👉 Paperback here

👉 Kindle here

📅 Release Date: 1st August 2025 (aka TODAY!)

Thank you for supporting me on this journey - whether you’ve read the prologue, followed along as I posted writing updates, or just liked a post now and then.

This is for anyone who’s ever had a story stuck in their head and dared to write it down.

Now go meet Charlotte 🖤

If you buy it, let me know what you think of it! Hope you have a great day and keep safe :) 


Pryer Assistants | Instagram | YouTube | Facebook

5 Hilarious Things I’ve Learned Since Becoming My Own Boss

So, you’ve ditched the 9-to-5, waved goodbye to awkward office kitchen small talk, and are now the boss. Congratulations! Welcome to the wild, weird, and occasionally wonderful world of self-employment - where you’re equally likely to feel like a business genius and a hot mess within the same hour.

Here are 5 laughably real things I’ve discovered since becoming my own boss…

1. Lip-sync reels are absolutely mortifying - and I keep making them anyway

Nothing quite prepares you for the moment you catch your own reflection while mouthing along to a trending sound like a pound shop pop star. I can feel my ancestors judging me.

But here’s the thing: content is queen. And apparently, nothing says “I’m a capable, trustworthy business owner” like pointing at floating text boxes while mouthing “Nobody’s gonna know.” (Spoiler: They always know.)

So yes, it's awkward. Yes, I feel like I’m having an out-of-body experience while editing them. But also? My engagement goes up. So we carry on, cringing all the way.

2. Canva is both my best friend and my nemesis

Ah, Canva. The online design tool that tricks me into thinking I’m a graphic designer - until I spend 40 minutes tweaking the spacing between two words and questioning my entire existence.

It’s fun. It’s easy. It’s too easy. Before you know it, you’ve downloaded 17 versions of the same Instagram post and can’t tell the difference between “Mulberry Mist” and “Dusky Plum”.

Also: if you haven't named your files things like “final-final-FINAL-post-v3-USETHISONE”, are you even self-employed?

3. Inbox detoxing is basically adult archaeology

Doing an inbox detox sounds productive and professional, right? Like you’ve got your life together and you’re not surviving on leftover Easter eggs and passive-aggressive to-do lists.

But the reality? It’s a journey. A very strange one.

You’ll find discount codes from 2019, an email you never replied to that haunts you in your sleep, and at least three mystery subscriptions you have no memory of signing up for. It’s messy. It’s enlightening. It’s oddly satisfying. 10/10 recommend.

4. Working alone is a bloody dream

Okay yes, sometimes it’s a bit quiet. Sometimes I narrate my day out loud just for some human interaction. But truthfully? Being left to crack on without Karen from HR hovering or someone stealing my snacks? Glorious.

No pointless meetings. No fake laughs at your co-worker’s stories about their cat’s gluten intolerance. Just me, my to-do list, and the freedom to work how I want.

Bonus: I can have Taylor Swift blasting on repeat without judgement.

5. Business on the top, chaos underneath

There is nothing - and I mean nothing - more iconic than showing up to a Zoom call in a lovely blouse, camera-ready makeup… and pyjama bottoms with cartoon sloths on them under the desk.

The ultimate work-from-home power move.

It’s comfy. It’s practical. And frankly, if I don’t have to wear jeans to be productive, I simply won’t. The business mullet (smart on top, party on the bottom) is now a way of life.

Final Thoughts?

Self-employment is a rollercoaster - sometimes you’re flying high, sometimes you’re crying into your third lemonade of the day because your WiFi’s gone again. But it’s also full of hilarious moments, brilliant wins, and unmatched freedom.

So if you’re out there, building your dream from the kitchen table in mismatched socks - just know you’re doing amazing, sweetie.

Got any funny or unexpected lessons from your own self-employment journey? Drop them in the comments or message me - I love a good business blooper.

And if you need me, I’ll be lip-syncing in my dressing gown while pretending I’m not rebranding for the third time this month. Hope you have a great day and keep safe :)

Pryer Assistants | Instagram | YouTube | Facebook

What Disney Princesses Would Be Like as Small Business Owners

Let’s be honest - if Disney princesses existed in the real world, they wouldn’t be waiting around for a prince. They’d be launching empires, building personal brands, and absolutely slaying the small biz game. So, naturally, I had to imagine what kind of businesses they’d run if they swapped castles for co-working spaces.

Whether you’re a fellow entrepreneur, side-hustler, or just here for the Disney chaos - this one’s for you.

Belle – Owner of “The Enchanted Nook” Book Café

A warm cuppa, cosy armchair, and floor-to-ceiling bookshelves? Belle’s dream come true. “The Enchanted Nook” would be the go-to place for bookworms and introverts alike. She’d host weekly book clubs, open mic poetry nights, and probably have a rewards card for anyone who finishes War and Peace.

Expect a beautiful blend of rustic French charm and intellectual flair. She’d be an absolute queen of thoughtful Instagram captions and probably have a TikTok series called “Books I’d Risk My Life For.”

Elsa – CEO of “Let It Flow” Luxury Ice Sculptures

Ice magic is a niche skill - and Elsa knows how to monetise it. Her company “Let It Flow” would be the top supplier of bespoke ice sculptures for swanky weddings, high-end events, and posh winter galas.

She’d lean into the luxury market hard. Think: frozen champagne towers, personalised ice bars, and elaborate snowflake installations. Elsa’s a bit of a perfectionist (read: nightmare to work for), but the quality? Unreal. Oh, and she absolutely uses a project management app that sends passive-aggressive reminders.

Tiana – Founder of “NOLA Nourish” Meal Prep & Catering Co.

You already know this woman’s got hustle. Tiana’s passion for food and her strong work ethic would make her a small biz powerhouse. “NOLA Nourish” would offer soulful, wholesome Louisiana-inspired dishes - with a twist.

Her Instagram would be filled with drool-worthy food shots, behind-the-scenes kitchen chaos, and motivational reels reminding us to “stay focused and season generously.” She’d also have a bestselling e-cookbook and a podcast called The Supper Club.

Rapunzel – Creative Director of “Tangled Threads” Art Studio

Locked in a tower for 18 years? Of course she’s crafty. Rapunzel would open an eclectic art studio-slash-boutique called “Tangled Threads,” selling everything from hand-painted denim jackets to homemade candles and embroidery kits.

She’d offer in-person workshops, downloadable printables, and reels showing her painting to Lizzo songs. Her vibe would be chaotic-good with a side of glitter, and she’d probably go viral on Etsy in about five minutes flat.

Ariel – Founder of “Seas The Day” Sustainable Swimwear

Ariel’s brand would scream beach babe vibes with a conscience. “Seas The Day” would be a sustainable swimwear and ocean-inspired lifestyle brand. Think: eco-friendly fabrics, coral reef prints, and dreamy product shoots on the coast of Cornwall.

She’d be big on partnerships with marine conservation charities and would absolutely have a series of Insta stories titled “Flippin’ Fabulous Fridays.” Ariel’s USP? Mermaid energy with a climate-aware twist. Oh, and every order comes with a seashell hair clip. Obviously.

Cinderella – Owner of “Glass Slipper Events” Wedding & Event Planning

With her flair for transformation, Cinderella would be the ultimate event planner. “Glass Slipper Events” would specialise in magical, fairytale-inspired weddings (but she draws the line at actual pumpkins, thanks).

She’d run everything like clockwork (pun intended) and be the queen of Pinterest boards, Google Docs, and emergency sewing kits. Her tagline? Because your dream day shouldn’t depend on a fairy godmother. Love it.

Honourable Mentions

Moana would run a surf school/community centre hybrid and do TEDx talks on bravery and leadership.

Merida would own an outdoor adventure retreat in the Scottish Highlands.

Aurora would have a luxury sleepwear and aromatherapy brand called Once Upon a Nap.

So, whether you’re elbow-deep in admin, dreaming of launching your own business, or just needed a reason to picture Elsa in a blazer - remember: every Disney princess has an inner boss babe.

Which Disney character do you think would make a great business owner, and what would they run? Let me know in the comments - and don’t forget to check out my other small biz posts for more inspo! Hope you have a great day and keep safe :)

Pryer Assistants | Instagram | YouTube | Twitter | Pinterest | Facebook

My Favourite Disney World Park

It’s been two years since my last incredible Florida holiday ended, and I miss it so much! I can’t wait to go back. We had the most amazing time, but for now, I wanted to kick things off with some pics from my favourite Disney Park.

Hollywood Studios, in my opinion, is the best of the Disney Parks. 

It definitely feels like the more ‘mature’ park, mainly thanks to iconic rides like The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror and Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster. And now, with the addition of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, it’s even more appealing to me compared to the other three Disney theme parks. From the incredible shows and shops to the rides and general atmosphere, I just love everything about it!

Speaking of shows, we always make sure to catch the Indiana Jones Stunt Spectacular - it’s such a classic and never gets old! And we somehow managed to get on Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance one morning with only a 15-minute wait, instead of the usual 2–3 hours of queueing! Absolute miracle. 

Oh, and let’s not forget the new Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway ride - it’s so much fun, and the catchy tune gets stuck in my head every single time!

Here are some of my favourite pictures from Hollywood Studios! 📸✨

If you’ve been to Disney World in Florida, let me know which of the four parks is your favourite! I can’t be the only one completely obsessed with Hollywood Studios. Hope you have a great day and keep safe! 

Pryer Assistants | Instagram | YouTube | Twitter | Pinterest | Facebook

Why Summer Is the Ultimate Mood Booster When You Work from Home

Working from home has its perks - no commute, lunch in your own kitchen, and the ability to wear pyjama bottoms to Zoom meetings (don’t pretend you haven’t). But it can also get a little samey at times. When you're staring at the same four walls every day, it’s easy for your motivation to dip, especially during the darker, colder months.

Enter summer. The season of sunshine, ice creams, and that magical boost to your mood that makes you feel like anything’s possible. Here’s why summer is a total game-changer for those of us working from home:

Longer Days = More Time for You

When the sun doesn’t dip until 9pm, it feels like there’s actually time to live after work. You can finish your to-do list and still have hours left for a walk, meet-up with friends, or just sit in the garden with a good book and a cold drink. In winter, it’s pitch black at 4.30pm and suddenly it’s time for bed - summer gives you the gift of time.

Sunlight Literally Boosts Your Mood

It’s not just a placebo - sunlight increases your body’s serotonin levels, which helps improve your mood and focus. When you work from home, a quick 10-minute break outside in the sunshine can be enough to shake off a slump and get back to your desk with a clearer head.

You Can Actually Enjoy Your Lunch Break

No more huddling under a blanket with soup while it lashes it down outside. In summer, your lunch break can mean al fresco dining in your garden, a picnic in the park, or a short walk to get a coffee. It feels like a mini holiday in the middle of your workday.

More Energy, Less Burnout

The warmth and light of summer naturally give you a bit more get-up-and-go. You’re more likely to move your body, eat lighter meals, and sleep better (providing you’re not overheating!). All of that adds up to more energy and less burnout - something every home worker can benefit from.

Spontaneous Plans Are Easier

One of the biggest perks of being self-employed or remote working is flexibility. In summer, it’s so much easier to say, “I’ll finish up this task later and head out now.” Whether it’s a beach trip, a last-minute BBQ or just grabbing an ice cream with a friend - summer makes spontaneity possible, and honestly? That’s so good for the soul.

Your Workspace Just Got an Upgrade

Working from home doesn’t mean working indoors. In summer, your desk can be the garden table, a shady bench in a local park, or even a cute café with outdoor seating. A change of scenery can do wonders for creativity and focus - plus, everything feels more fun in the sunshine.

Nature Is an Instant Reset Button

When you’re stuck on a task or just having one of those days, a five-minute breather outside can completely reset your mindset. Summer means more green, more blue skies, more flowers - all of which have been proven to reduce stress and improve mental wellbeing. And bonus: it’s free!

Summer reminds us that life isn’t just about the hustle. It’s about joy, light, and taking a moment to breathe. So if you’re working from home this season, don’t forget to soak up the sunshine and enjoy the little moments - they might just make you more productive in the long run.

What’s your favourite thing about working from home in the summer? Let me know in the comments! Hope you have a great day and keep safe :)

Pryer Assistants | Instagram | YouTube | Twitter | Pinterest | Facebook

Stupid Sh*t I Used to Waste Money On (And What I Do Now Instead)

Let’s be real: we’ve all wasted money on dumb stuff. At the time it felt justified, exciting even. But looking back? Absolute chaos. Today I’m sharing a few things I used to regularly drop my hard-earned cash on, and what I do differently now (aka older, wiser, and mildly less impulsive).

Pop Figures

At one point I had over 50 of these little vinyl creatures staring back at me from every corner of my room. I loved them... until I didn’t. I’ve since sold off most of my collection, keeping just six of my absolute faves. Lesson learned? Collecting is fun until it becomes clutter - and a bank-draining one at that.

Now: I only buy merch I really love and will use or display with purpose.

Beauty Purchases

My blog used to be beauty-focused, and I lived for the latest releases, haul content, and discount codes. But it got to a point where I was buying stuff just for the sake of it - not because I needed it. Half of it went untouched.

Now: I’ve got a solid skincare routine and a few trusted makeup staples. If it’s not an essential, I pass (unless it’s on a ridiculous sale, let’s be honest).

Heels

I cannot walk in heels. Never could. Never will. And yet, I owned multiple pairs "just in case". Spoiler: the case never came.

Now: I stick to comfy shoes I’ll actually wear - flats, trainers, and the occasional chunky boot. I still have a few small heels I can just about wobble through a restarunt in, but that's it! 

restaurant

Meal Deals Every Day

Buying a meal deal every day at work was my norm because I hated prepping lunch (still kinda do). But it added up fast.

Now: I meal plan before doing the food shop, and make sure I have food for lunch and dinner planned and purchased.

Notebooks

Stationery girlies, unite - I am still one of you. But there was a time I was buying 1–2 notebooks a week for literally no reason other than: "oooh, cute!"

Now: I limit myself to one new notebook per season (ish). And yes, I still struggle walking past the stationery aisle in The Works.

Clothes I Didn't Love

The early YouTube days of Primark hauls? Yep, I was deep in that phase. I’d buy loads of clothes for the sake of content, but half of it never fit right or wasn’t even my style.

Now: I only buy what I know I’ll wear. No more haul pressure.

Honourable Mentions (aka The Random Sh*t List):

• Tacky jewellery that fell apart within a week.
• Fragrances that triggered my asthma (love that for me).
• New food items from the deli at my old job - curiosity is expensive.
• Packaging and shipping supplies from my brief “I’m going to sell stuff online” era.
• Subscriptions to weight loss apps that I never used.
• Rune stones I never learned how to read (still cute though).
• Cheap tech that barely worked beyond opening the box.
• PENS. PENS. PENS. I don’t even know what to say here.

Moral of the story?

Impulse buys are fun in the moment, but being intentional with your money is so much more satisfying long-term. Don’t get me wrong - I still treat myself! But now I ask myself if it’s going to be used, loved, or just another thing that ends up in a box under my bed.

What’s the dumbest thing you used to blow money on? Let me know - no judgment here! Hope you have a great day and keep safe :)

Pryer Assistants | Instagram | YouTube | Twitter | Pinterest | Facebook

Living with Social Anxiety

I’m not entirely sure how to word this post, so please bear with me!

The first time I really noticed I had anxiety was when I was 15. That’s when I realised what it was called and why I was feeling the way I did - along with experiencing panic attacks. By the time I was 18, I’d figured out what triggered me or made me feel 'off'. By around 22 years old, I’d developed certain techniques to help calm myself down and to deal with panic attacks when they occurred.

The good news was that in 2017, I only had about six or seven pretty bad panic attacks, along with a few smaller ones that were easier to manage. Considering I’d been dealing with this since I was 15, having had around 100 major panic attacks in total feels like decent progress. It’s strange how it works - sometimes I can go months without one, and then other times, they happen every other week.

These days, I rarely leave the house. I don’t tend to see people, go shopping, or do much outside. I see one of my friends every Thursday, and my other two friends around once a month. Social anxiety has made my world feel much smaller, and it's something I'm constantly trying to work on.

Social anxiety is my biggest challenge. I turn down social outings about 90% of the time. The 10% I do say yes to are usually when my one of best friends are there, or if it’s a familiar place with friends I feel comfortable around.

One month a few years ago, I managed three social outings over one weekend, which felt surreal looking back! Friday night was dinner out with Nicola, and I had no anxiety whatsoever. Saturday was a night out with some friends from work, heading into town for drinks at various bars. Which I NEVER did back then (or now, for that matter!)

I remember having a massive panic attack that morning and a few smaller ones while getting ready, but I still went out. It felt like such an achievement to push through that fear. I stayed out for a few hours, but my anxiety was a solid 8/10 the whole time, especially in one overcrowded bar where I felt like I was being crushed. Even after getting home, I could still feel my heart racing, and my legs were heavy from all the foot-tapping I did to distract myself.

On the Sunday, I went to a nearby pub in the evening with a couple of work friends. Despite it being a new place and with people I hadn’t hung out with much before, I felt completely fine. I was genuinely proud of myself for managing that so well.

So, what triggers my anxiety? Here are some of the biggest culprits:

• Large crowds of people
• Unfamiliar places
• Going somewhere new
• Going somewhere alone
• Driving long distances
• Feeling confused and not knowing how to handle a situation
• Arguments or confrontations
• Social gatherings

How do I cope? 

These are the techniques I rely on when my anxiety gets really bad or when a panic attack starts to set in:

• Counting slowly to 20
• Using the 5-4-3-2-1 grounding technique (engaging my senses)
• Sitting by a window and looking at the sky to create a sense of space
• Getting some fresh air
• Get the hell outta there, and go home!

If you have any techniques that help you or could be useful to someone else, please share them! I’m always looking for new ways to calm down quicker. 

Sorry if this post feels a bit all over the place - it’s so hard to put these feelings into words. But thank you for making it this far! Hope you have a great day and keep safe :)


Pryer Assistants | Instagram | YouTube | Twitter | Pinterest | Facebook

June 2025 Wishlist

I like to make these now and then so I can visualise what I'm after at the moment, and then I can hopefully go and buy them once my clients all pay me! 

Here is what has caught my eye for June!

Disney Mulan PopSocket | Balance Active Formula Vitamin C Brightening Serum | BIOVEN BARCELONA Retinol Eye Roll-on | Murder in Market Hill Murder Mystery Game | PILOT - Set of 4 sets of 3 Refills | YOURS Curve Blue Ditsy Floral Print Strappy Sundress | Krush Emily Womens Black & White Trainer | Razer Kraken Kitty V2 Pro Wired RGB Headset

What's on your wishlist for June? Let me know! Hope you have a great day and keep safe :)

Pryer Assistants | Instagram | YouTube | Twitter | Pinterest | Facebook

Universal Studios Florida Bucket List: Updated

Universal Studios Orlando, is another one of my fave places on this planet (second to Disney!). The thought of being there makes me immensely happy, but being there is a whole different thing. The screams of being on The Mummy, watching the James Bourne Stunt Show, watching Marilyn Munroe perform in the streets - it's just amazing. 

In 2017 before I went to Florida for the first time in a while, I made this bucket list of what I wanted to do. Since then, I've been three times, so here is what I have and haven't yet done off the list!

1. Meet the Marvel characters ❌✔️
• This is a yes and no - we met Spider Man in a store, but haven't yet seen mat any other characters from Marvel!
2. Ride the Hulk Coaster ✔️
3. Go on the King Kong: Skull Island ride ✔️
4. Watch the 8th Voyage of Sinbad show ✔️
5. Visit Hogsmeade ✔️
6. Visit Diagon Alley ✔️
7. Try Butterbeer again ❌
• Ended up remembering I didn't like it during a brief visit in 2013, so don't want to try it again!
8. Have a picture in front of the big 'globe' ✔️
9. Go to Volcano Bay ❌
• We're not huge on waterparks, so this is currently off the list!
10. Meet the Minions ❌
• I saw them in the parade if that counts!?!?
11. Go on Jurassic Park River Adventure ✔️
12. Brave going on Rip Ride Rock It! ✔️
13. Try Duffbeer ❌
• Soooo I no longer drink at all, so this is off the list!
14. Buy a wand in Ollivander's ❌
• The queues for this are ridiculously long, and also my love for Harry Potter has dwindled a little over the last decade, so this isn't something I feel a need to do anymore. 
15. See the Blue Man group ❌
• We thought about going. Hurricane Irma hit. We forgot about it. By 2019 the show had pretty much stopped. 
16. Watch one of the daily parades ✔️
17. Watch the Blue's Brothers ✔️
18. Meet a Raptor ❌
• Honestly, forgot all about this one, so maybe next time!!
19. Go on Dr Doom's Fearfall ✔️
20. Race through New York with Jimmy Fallon! ✔️

Is there anything I've missed from the list that you think I might want to do? Please let me know! Hope you have a great day and keep safe :)

Pryer Assistants | Instagram | YouTube | Twitter | Pinterest | Facebook

Learning to Drive: My Journey

Do you remember your first driving lesson and your driving test(s)?

I do. Cue story time music...

September 6th, 2011, was my first lesson! I remember feeling so nervous when Ray, my instructor, pulled up outside my house. My sister reassured me, telling me I’d be fine and not to worry. Once I got in the car (passenger seat to start!), Ray drove us to a quiet area nearby. It wasn’t too busy and had all the basics I’d need: a hill for hill starts, a few turnings to get used to steering, and a crossroad to help me get accustomed to traffic. He went through the car basics, explaining what each pedal and gear did and reminding me to use my mirrors ‘all the time’. I think that was the bit I forgot the most during my lessons!

I managed to get the hang of speed control quite quickly, but the pedals and gears were a real struggle for weeks! During that first lesson, I was able to pull away, stop, and turn left and right all within two hours. I was nervous the entire time, but I was so happy I was finally doing it. I stalled about 20 times that first lesson, but I was honestly expecting way more!

After that, I had a lesson every Friday for an hour with Ray. At £20 per lesson, I was determined to do well and learn fast. After about four lessons in that quiet area, Ray let me loose on the main roads near my house. I was terrified! Red lights were a nightmare to get used to, and I always felt like I was driving so slowly.

By December, when the snow hit, I was doing alright. I was only stalling a few times each lesson but now had the added panic of driving on ice and snow. Eventually, my lessons had to be put on hold until mid-January because it was too unsafe to continue. But I was happy with the progress I’d made.

I was also working on my theory test at the time and, thankfully, managed to pass it on my first try on April 25th, 2012 - by the exact number of points needed to pass. Talk about lucky! With that out of the way, I was finally able to apply for my practical test.

My first test was at the start of June 2012. I tried to squeeze it in before a holiday, but the route was in an unfamiliar area of town, down a narrow country lane. Ray sat in the backseat while the female examiner was in the passenger seat. I ended up failing for “going too fast” in a 30mph zone - even though I was only doing 20mph because I was absolutely terrified of how narrow the road was. I was so frustrated and cried as soon as I got home.

My second test was in August, and I knew I’d failed within the first 10 minutes. I was having a bad day, and my nerves were all over the place. I hit a curb and accidentally cut up a car on a confusing one-way system. I actually saw the examiner mark me as failed while I was still driving. Since I knew I’d already failed, I pretty much ignored his directions and drove back to the test centre however I liked. Not my finest moment!

Finally, on September 4th, 2012, I passed my test on my third attempt! Coincidentally, it was the same route as my first test. The male examiner I had at that time was so kind and really helped calm my nerves. Even when he had to assist me on the country lane because a lorry was stuck, he still passed me with only one minor. It felt like a miracle!

I got my car, which I lovingly named Betty, on February 18th, 2013. My dad was incredibly generous and bought the car for me because he was tired of having to cart me to and from where I worked at midnight! 

In total, I spent about £1,200 on lessons, theory tests, and practical tests. My parents chipped in around £200 when I was short on cash one week, but the rest came out of my own pocket. It took me just under a year to learn and pass my test.

If you’re looking to start lessons or want advice on the tests, check out BookLearnPass. They’ve got loads of helpful tips and a brilliant mock theory test that’s super useful!

Have you passed your test or are you currently taking lessons? I’d love to hear your stories and how you’re getting on, so let me know! Hope you have a great day and keep safe :) 

Pryer Assistants | Instagram | YouTube | Twitter | Pinterest | Facebook