Welcome to The Next Chapter Room

Kia ora and welcome.

My name is Harper.

I became a registered nurse in my mid fifties, after a long season of change in my own life. Stepping into a new profession later in life changed me. It brought uncertainty and courage and a few wobbly moments, and also the quiet joy of discovering that it really is not too late to begin again.

For now, I write mostly from my own life. These are personal reflections about learning, ageing, mental health, relationships, identity, and the tender work of becoming someone new in the middle of life. Writing helps me make sense of things as I go.

Over time, I hope this space also becomes a place of connection for others who are walking similar paths. People returning to study, changing direction, recovering, unravelling, rebuilding, or simply realising that the life they want calls for a new chapter.

The Next Chapter Room is not about having everything figured out. It is a quiet room for real lives in progress. My story is only one of many, and I am glad you are here reading alongside me as I grow into whatever comes next.

If you are beginning again in any way, you are not alone. Pull up a chair. You are very welcome here.