Microsoft Word ielts speaking Actual Tests (Sep Dec 2019) and Suggested Answers Version

21/ Describe a time you enjoyed your free time

You should say:
When it was
Where you were
What you did
And how you felt about it
Version 1:
There have been several instances in which I have had the pleasure of enjoying my free time over the course of my life, but I will talk about the most recent one. Well, to give you some background, I have recently taken on a new managerial position at a company. Since I’m new to management, I find some of the tasks and responsibilities overwhelming at times, so free time is something I cherish (appreciate) more now.
Luckily, there was a holiday last Monday, so I had a three day weekend. I took advantage of this time by going to visit my relatives for the weekend. She lives a couple hours away, so I made a short road trip there across my state. As soon as I got there, I was greeted by warmth and affection. I was staying at my auntie’s house, so we spent countless hours at the pool drinking margaritas all weekend. Along with this, we cooked together and caught up (updated each other). One afternoon we went to visit my grandfather, in which we just relaxed and prepared lunch for him. Although it was a simple weekend, it was just the relaxation that I needed.
I felt so happy and light-hearted (simple; non-emotional) over this whole weekend. When I went back to work on Monday, I felt re-charged and ready to tackle (face) all the challenges of the week. Family is my number one, so I always feel relaxed after I get to spend time with them. All in all, it was a very pleasant visit.
Version 2:
Wow! That is difficult to just think of one instance, as I tend to always enjoy my free time. However, I’ll tell you about one day last week when I had a snow day (day when you can’t leave the house because of a snowstorm) and couldn't leave the house. I’m not a fan of the snow, so I often get down in the dumps during the winter season. But, this day I decided to cheer up (get happy). I was home alone, so I started off the day by making myself pancakes, eggs, and a few cups of coffee. I think even just this kicked off the day better for me, as I’m usually scrambling around (running around quickly) at the last minute to get to work on time in the mornings.
After breakfast, I went outside in my yard for a bit and just sat in the snow in my apartment complex. Then I decided to trigger my inner child (act like a child) and build a snowman and make snow angels. This really made my day! After this, for old time’s sake (to remember old memories), I went inside and made myself a cup of hot chocolate with marshmallows, as my mother used to do for my brother and I when we were kids. Following this, I stayed in my apartment all day sprawled out (lied) across the floor with blankets and pillows watching Netflix. I watched everything from childhood classics like Lion King to conspiracy theory documentaries.
I truly felt relaxed and at ease on this day. As I tend to get lost in the demands of my boss as well as drama with my boyfriend, I really needed a day like this. Actually, this day changed my attitude about snow. I used to think of it as just an inconvenient, inefficient day, whereas now I see it in a different light. Now I see them as opportunities to awake my inner child and take me back to the good old days!