Where did August and September go

Time is flying by as we approach mid October. It’s been a busy few weeks, where I’ve visited Scotland, London, Whitstable and Suffolk, relived live aid, been to a baby shower, and enjoying Pilates so much. I’ve had some hypnotherapy to help me with my fear of bridges and heights which has been tested, andContinue reading “Where did August and September go”

Camino: blisters, bowels and bladders

A year in the planning after a member of the magical midlife group said she’d like to do this, there was enough of us interested to get a group together. There was much talk of footwear, training, choice of sock, clothing, backpack choices, snacks and anything else in between. On the 4th May, 14 ofContinue reading “Camino: blisters, bowels and bladders”

2024 – a dream is a wish your heart makes……

What a year it’s been with travel, new experiences, memories galore and three grandsons to love. Loss of loved ones always felt keenly, but so many wonderful happy memories too. The last few weeks we’ve had the privilege of time with River, Brodie and shared FaceTime with Ramsay. Brodie is thriving, and Christmas and NewContinue reading “2024 – a dream is a wish your heart makes……”

Ahoy there, sailor

This week was another trip to Scotland for a sad occasion. My cousin Helen’s husband, Brian, passed away on 8th October. Brian had faced many health challenges over the last 30 years, and whilst both he and his family shared moments of anguish, these were met with stoical fortitude, humour, love and support. Brian ‘Andy’Continue reading “Ahoy there, sailor”

Tragedy: a very sad event or situation, especially one involving death or suffering

On Wednesday night Georgina called me with the saddest news: the death of Liam Payne from 1Direction. Georgina has been a fan from 2011 and beyond their hiatus in 2016. Five young men of similar age to her, she met them in March 2011 and again in March 2012. We followed their journey to stardomContinue reading “Tragedy: a very sad event or situation, especially one involving death or suffering”

A day to remember

Going to watch a game of cricket yesterday I remembered that it was 43 years ago that I watched a match for the first time, and met Kevin’s family. It was daunting to meet so many new people, which I marvel at I just did it, as I must have been so nervous. I’d neverContinue reading “A day to remember”

Bank holidays

Do you like them or loathe them? Are they a chance to catch up with chores, family or friends? Just spend at home or venture further afield? I loathe them, perhaps because I think we should do something rather than stay in, especially in retirement. So today I took myself off for a walk toContinue reading “Bank holidays”

Skipping to surgery

Almost a year ago I had a call from the GP who advised I had to make a few changes to my diet, exercise more and take vitamin D. Vitamin D was low and cholesterol was higher than they’d like. So I decided to take up skipping ( as you do!) and make some otherContinue reading “Skipping to surgery”

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”

Three weeks in to 2022

It’s been a busy three weeks. We’ve established a routine for looking after River, and we’ve enjoyed time with family and friends. There’s been lots of cooking and tidying, and also plans made for trips in the coming months. It’s been quite weird looking at things to book and places to visit, but the excitementContinue reading “Three weeks in to 2022”

Day after Boxing Day

A trip to Harrods on Saturday 18th with Georgina was, as always, so enjoyable. The store was busy which was surprising with what had been in the news recently. After travelling to Scotland and back in two days, Christmas prep began in earnest and with River for two days it was busy, but fun too.Continue reading “Day after Boxing Day”

Precious moments….

Since last writing, it’s been a bit hectic. There’s been little let up in two weeks: garage clearing ( although that’s stalled), Christmas decorating in the hall, snug and living space. River has been to stay and is enthralled with the lights and baubles. A great trip to Birmingham with Debbie visiting Dudley and BridgnorthContinue reading “Precious moments….”

December around the corner

In the last three weeks I’ve enjoyed two trips to the theatre in London, been to Murrayfield and been to Scotland and back. The next three will be full of all things Christmas preparation (hopefully) and a chance to take things a little easier. A trip to see Pride and prejudice sort of, began withContinue reading “December around the corner”

Travel and travails

Over the last few weeks there has been much mileage put on the clock. We’ve been to Colchester, Devon, Sussex and London. We’ve gardened, completed financial wizardry and celebrated our 39th wedding anniversary. Sadly we’ve lost a couple of dear people in our lives, and that is always a time of reflection, but they bothContinue reading “Travel and travails”