Countdown to 2023

As we approach the last month of 2022, we crammed in a lot to November. A trip to Twickenham was up first with an average game of Rugby from England. View and weather though was good. We’ve spent time with River visiting parks, Christmas displays and Southend. I’ve seen Will Young, we’ve dined with familyContinue reading “Countdown to 2023”

Keeping busy

It’s been full on these last few weeks. We have visited Barnsley, Leeds, London, Newcastle, a boat, a castle, theatre four times, eaten out, spent time with loved ones, caught up with dear friends and a work reunion. My cousin, Jo, also reached the dizzy heights of Kilimanjaro- what a fantastic achievement! It’s been funContinue reading “Keeping busy”

Bellrock and a Ruby anniversary

Last Sunday Kevin and I celebrated our 40th wedding anniversary. We stayed on the Fingal at Leith in the Bellrock Lighthouse Suite. I chose this as the Bellrock is the oldest existing rock lighthouse in the British Isles that is still an active lighthouse, is the tower on the Bell, or Inchcape, rock. This isContinue reading “Bellrock and a Ruby anniversary”

Retirement one year in

Well that year flew by, although it’s not been without it’s challenges. The relief of not getting up five days a week, to meet deadlines, smoke and mirrors, pulling rabbits from hats and spinning plates, is great. I don’t regret the decision to retire, in fact it’s one of the best I’ve made. I, andContinue reading “Retirement one year in”

Two weeks, two countries, two birthdays.

Andrew came to visit, the first time in four years, and three years since we last saw him. There was lots of catching up with family and friends in Scotland and England, so lots of miles covered. My mum was thrilled to see him, and we visited Dad’s grave which was poignant. Andrew taught KevinContinue reading “Two weeks, two countries, two birthdays.”

Where did March and April go…..

The last eight weeks have flown by with outings with River, trips to Scotland, Bruges, Spain, Surrey and Sussex. Our first tentative travel experiences were successful which have given me confidence to do more and soon. We’ve delighted in great company, fantastic food and seeing lots of family and friends. The weather has been greatContinue reading “Where did March and April go…..”

The Big 60-I’m a Yankee Doodle dandy……

For my 60th birthday yesterday I hosted an outside gathering to celebrate. The weather forecast had been good for the day, then it changed to rain and thundery showers. The canopy I ordered was delayed so I was in disarray that the gathering may not happen or we would be very wet. My wonderful hairdresser,Continue reading “The Big 60-I’m a Yankee Doodle dandy……”

A week of change

Almost two weeks after making the decision to retire, I’ve been overwhelmed by the lovely comments, many of which are surprise, expressed sadness and congratulations. Everyday that has passed has provided me with the affirmation that this timing is so right for me. A dear friend lost her husband this week, which highlights the importanceContinue reading “A week of change”

Here we go again….

It’s been a month since writing last and it’s been eventful. My parents have been down to Brighton and returned to Scotland. We briefly saw them, which was lovely. We enjoyed great food as always. I’ve been creative and even made my first crochet item. It’s made with love and can keep our grandson warmContinue reading “Here we go again….”

September ahoy

Four weeks have passed as we approach autumn, and a new academic year with all that will hold. I’ve been busy at work with all the prep for the full return to school for students and staff. This has been a real rollercoaster and my days have been long and the anxiety huge. A floodContinue reading “September ahoy”

LD 39

Another week has passed, where I haven’t posted on social media as much as usual. This last week the weather hasn’t been great and it’s been harder, and I’ve been into work four out of five days, unusual and very tiring. I caught up with friends and work colleagues both virtually and in person- strangeContinue reading “LD 39”

LD 33

A busy rest of the week with two trips to work, decisions to be made and ensuring that everything just seamlessly carries on in readiness for students and staff return. My role in school is definitely a solitary one and the anxiety of missing something is profoundly felt, but I can only do what IContinue reading “LD 33”