My little life

A trip home…

A message earlier this month from my Mum breaking the news of my dad’s younger brother’s death was a bolt out of the blue.

A call last Thursday, 10th, saying the funeral was on the 17th meant a few internet logins with return tickets purchased and time off in lieu agreed.

My Dad is the oldest of four children, 3 boys and 1 daughter and now Dad (85) and Mabel (80) remain.

The journey up on Wednesday started off with signal failure and catching the train from Kings Cross with only a few minutes to spare. I arrived just after 4pm after a quiet journey of reflection: not something I’m particularly good at!

Tea and cake with Mum and Dad was enjoyed, followed by lasagne.

We chatted, watched some repeats, footie and then to bed.

I love my husband to bits, but the chance of sleeping in a double bed diagonally is always a treat!

I woke to the sun streaming through the window and we enjoyed scrambled eggs and smoked salmon for breakfast and then got ready for the solemn occasion.

We arrived in plenty of time and met with family and a large group of mourners assembled to pay their respects.

The hearse arrived and we filed in, to the strains of heedrum, hodrum music.

The family and Jim made their entrance.

Jim was married to Ina and they have 5 children.

The ceremony was humanist and the celebrant was wonderful.

The tribute to Jim was heart warming and gave insight to the man who loved his family, his dancing and his bowling.

He worked hard travelling with his work and I have fond memories of the slim man with the shock of dark hair, Ina and our cousins.

Jim was held in high regard and he seemed to have life sorted, doing what he enjoyed with those he loved and cherished.

Highland Cathedral was played, a tune I love and synonymous with Murrayfield for me.

The family were very kind yesterday and their love for their Dad and Grandad shone through. A sad occasion but glimmers of memories and happiness too.

The sun greeted me again this morning and shone on my journey home.

Another quiet journey that made me think that we have lost the art of communicating: so many people on their phones, tablets and laptops, earphones on, shut off from human contact.

I chose to read a book and thoroughly enjoyed it. I also reflected on how fortunate I have been to be part of an extended family with so many aunts, uncles and cousins. There are fewer now, all the more reason to keep in touch and enjoy time together.

Very few of us know when our time will end, and I have spent some time thinking about enjoying what I have, as in family and friends and the things I can do, and stress less over things I can’t change and take a moment to say ‘will I remember this in 3-5 years time?’ and if the answer is no then just let it be.

I think that’s what Uncle Jim did and I will take inspiration from that.

💕💕💕💕💕💕💕

A tale of two Abigails

Friday meant an early leave from work and a trip to Brighton.

The journey down was good and we took a taxi into the city to meet Mark and Matt to enjoy dinner at Cote before the theatre.

We were to see Abigail’s party: a seventies play by Mike Leigh. A real treat with Jody Prenger, an absolute joy as Beverley. We all enjoyed it immensely, with some laugh out loud moments. Outrageous on occasion and an insight into relationships and seventies fashion and furniture!

‘Do you like Demis Roussos, Sue?’

We had a leisurely start to Saturday, a fantastic breakfast, prep for an Indian feast, and a seafront walk before the cinema.

Elaine had booked to see The Favourite, a film about Queen Anne and her relationship with Sarah Churchill, and a usurper in the guise of Abigail Hill.

Erotic, funny and poignantly sad, Olivia Coleman is deserving of the plaudits she is receiving.

Back home to a home made Indian feast-delicious and has inspired me to cook more Indian food.

Bed beckoned and another good night’s sleep. We caught up with Andrew in Australia, as Lis was returning from a French music festival.

A continental breakfast followed, good conversation about future travel plans, home improvements and laughter were on the menu too. Elaine and Jane are such great hosts and whilst we can have serious moments, we mostly laugh a lot!

We had a good journey home and this was a real tonic for me particularly, as next week I travel to Scotland for my uncle’s funeral.

2018

A year full of so many things all written about in previous blogs.

So many challenges, some wonderful moments, and some scary.

What will 2019 hold?

Opportunities will present themselves, be taken, enjoyed and faced with love and enthusiasm!

That’s it for now-short but sweet.

Xxxx

Christmas preparation

December has just shown up and I couldn’t be less prepared in some ways. I’ve met up with a few friends and enjoyed some great food and chat!

I’ve made cards, and posted most of them; I’ve bought crackers; I’ve ordered ham and a capon; I’ve even got a Tesco slot for 22nd booked.

Yesterday was tree decoeating, especially after my wreath making in the morning

With Georgina’s help, the tree is now decorated and a few other festive touches around the house!

In school we have advent angels, anonymous currently, and mine has given me a nativity calendar, nativity cookie cutters and some chocolate, each with a little commentary.

Very thoughtful, and I have one too and am doing similar.

There is still things to be done, outside lights, garlands, even gifts to buy (not holding out much hope for that though, as there is so little time!)

We break up for Christmas on 21st December 😱

As long as there is enough food, drink, clement weather, with family and friends to see, I’m not going to stress too much about what may not be done.

The last three months at work have provided so many challenges and I’m tiring as we approach the long awaited two week break.

It’s the season to be jolly!

Some good news…

The last three weeks have been peppered with anxiety, positive thoughts, hope, work challenges and love and support.

Two weeks ago an appointment was made for the breast care unit at Basildon hospital as the doctor still felt there was a lump.

Those 14 days have shown how kind people are, how I over think things and that it is important to have checks to discount the worry and anxiety.

After three mammograms, an ultrasound and three hours my boobs have a clean bill of health! Hurrah!

The relief was immense, and a celebration was to be had.

A curry and a couple of Bombay Smashes certainly helped.

The messages today were overwhelming and have really lifted my spirits, so much so I put up a mirror and shelf in the downstairs loo!

Now to enjoy the build up to Christmas, the start of another year and all that that will bring. 💕💕💕💕💕

Keeping abreast of things-a serious post for me

This last week has been full of so many things, it’s where to start.

Sunday saw Georgina and I caught up in a bomb scare at Bluewater, a frightening experience in itself, but at least a false alarm. I was surprised at how my mother hen came to the fore, and my imperative was to keep Georgina calm and safe.

Monday, and doing a routine breast check doubled with a dull ache and tenderness, I made an appointment to get it checked, but not till next Wednesday.

Tuesday with feeling worse I called again, best offer was to go to the surgery for 8:00 am the next day. An evening trip to see Bohemian Rhapsody provided some relief with music cheering me up.

Luckily the doctor saw me earlier and he found a lump, but as I had a mammogram in April that was clear, he is, as I am, hopeful it is a cyst and a course of antibiotics prescribed.

I can’t lie and say I’m not worried, that is natural, but I have always resolutely attended regular appointments and do checks at home.

I have told some family and a few other people, and it is surprising how many people have had a ‘scare’ and they have offered comforting words.

I’m sure it’s nothing sinister, and hope so too.

Early detection is crucial as is to find out that it’s nothing suspicious and get that reassurance.

Two late evenings at school, culminating in seeing a message from Oz today that Andrew and Lis are safe after a terrorist attack in Melbourne!

What a world we live in, but I am blessed with wonderful family and friends and intend to enjoy the weekend at Twickenham watching rugby!

Trick or treat

What a week, full of treats certainly, but fortunately no tricks!

I’ve made a conscious effort to switch off from work, and with only two mornings in I’ve succeeded.

Kevin and I enjoyed afternoon tea, bought a new car, I’ve made cards, baubles and been to the cinema.

The house has been cleaned, the garden fed and watered, the drive treated and had time with the kids too, always fun!

I’ve started thinking about improvements/ refurbishments of our home, and enjoyed some walking in the sunshine.

Yesterday we drove to Surrey and enjoyed an extended lunch at Great Fosters in Egham with Viv and Don. The food was great, the surroundings magnificent and well worth another visit!

The clocks went back so an extra hour of sleeplessness for me, but hopefully recharged enough to face the ‘muck and bullets’ of the next eight weeks until the Christmas break: so much to do, but I have promised myself to say ‘no’ and ‘not at the moment’ more, be kinder to myself. Place less pressure on being everything to everybody, and enjoy the build up to Christmas.

Autumn half term-term1

Today sees the start of half term, after an eventful seven weeks.

The school has a new Head teacher, and that with the start of the academic year has brought fresh challenges, transparency, joy, and a real buzz.

No two days have been the same, and I have been pushed to my absolute limit: HR, payroll, event planning, gift making, legal advice, supporting staff new to their roles-just so much. I can feel a cloud hovering and this time I am aware of what that means and after Thursday I have realised how little finance, budget monitoring and review fills my time, so I intend to have some time away, refocus, room decorating planning and be creative, in an effort to go back stronger for the next seven weeks up to Christmas.

No doubt once back I will see myself pushed again, but I must learn to give myself time to do my job and not be distracted.

I’m having a sign made for my door, will post a pic when it’s done!

Ninety not out

Today we visited Crawley to see my Auntie Alma on her 90th birthday. Her and my Mum’s brother Joe were married in 1952 and Alma is originally from Liverpool.

Family had travelled far and wide including her eldest son from America, and family from all over the UK.

We were awaiting the birthday girl’s entrance and as she came through the doors we all began to sign Happy Birthday. Unfortunately, her skirt fell to her ankles, which was heralded by much laughter and an underskirt covered her modesty! Later in the afternoon Auntie Alma said it was because she wanted to show off her legs 😂😂

There were photo albums and photos strewn over many tables with memories aplenty for those that remember loved ones no longer with us. Many an eye had a tear, some with fond memories, some with sadness, but also laughter.

To see this writing in an album from over 30 years ago brought so many happy memories of my childhood flooding back! The picture above that has Alma in the shop and the mirror I am having restored in clear view

One particular favourite was of my grandma, Valentina, probably taken in her early twenties.

A women who had warmth, a wicked sense of humour and also not opposed to cheating at cards!

We all had a great day, Jo, John and Mike did Alma proud and her grandchildren and great grandchildren were there too. How fortunate we were to be invited, and able to attend.

💕💕💕💕💕

Make me a channel of your peace

What a day.

It began with the final preparations for the Bishop’s visit.

The itinerary was precise but took no account of the Bishop and his humility and wishing to meet the students.

It all appeared to flow well, the building was blessed and Mass was celebrated. A joyous occasion, uplifting and a real boost to our community.

After 2pm our focus was for open evening and there was a buzz around school that enveloped is all.

We dined together and it was such a pleasure to see old faces and new to welcome to our school.

Today will remain a wonderful memory for me that will sustain me on one’s that undoubtably prove challenging, and I felt a real sense of belonging and a warmth that radiates for all to see.

Legend of Upton Park

I attended St Angela’s convent school in Forest Gate and knew well the Upton Park/West Ham connection.

Trevor Brooking was and is a legend!

Kevin and I were celebrating our 36th wedding anniversary and went to Vita Bella to dine.

Seated at our table there was a table to my right comprised of Grandparents, uncle, daughter and two grandchildren.

After a while I recognised the voice of the male grandparent-Sir Trevor Brooking no less!

I felt I had to get a photo, as Andrew would love that as a WHU fan.

I ummed and ahhed, but as they were to leave I took my chance, and Sir Trevor happily obliged!

Lovely man, legend and great ambassador for football and West Ham.

I hope you enjoyed your 70th birthday celebrations today!

Weekend delights

This weekend I’ve been staying near Brands Hatch for a craft weekend.

A room full of a couple of family members and over 20 new acquaintances/ friends. Tables heaving with cards, embellishments and an array of made goodies.

The challenge began with following sheets to replicate those and maybe deviate.

Our rooms were ready so time to have a look – wow!

More cards, boxes, food and drink, then a little time to relax and prepare for dinner.

Bingo next but no win for me 😞

After a good sleep breakfast beckoned, with more things to try and make.

A little gift from Kim who put together this weekend!

Many thanks to all for an inspirational few days. Now all I need is the time to do more 🤔🤔 and the week ahead is not conducive at all, SLT, wedding anniversary, MAT meeting, Bishop Alan’s visit, open evening, INSET, and mum and dad down. I’m exhausted just writing it down! 🤗💤💤💤

Four weeks and counting!

So I’ve been back at work, or at least joined by others, for four weeks!

One month done and now the build up to Bishop Alan’s visit to bless the sixth form block.

Lots of preparation is afoot, with practices, plaques, and floral arrangements arranged.

It really will be a holy and joyful occasion! More to follow in a just over a week’s time.

We have also met Reggie, Georgina and Jay’s kitten. Such a sweet thing and perfect for Georgina!

Also one of our Assistant Head’s has become a first time grandparent to a granddaughter, Cerys, such wonderful news after a fairly protracted labour.

May they enjoy all the blessings for years to come.

Tying the proverbial knot

On Thursday Kevin and I began our journey up to Scotland for a family wedding on Saturday.

We drove to Suffolk to a mirror restorer to see what could be done with my grandparents chip shop mirror. A bit of a detour but provided great scenery and a lovely lunch.

Next up the drive to Yorkshire and a great overnight stay with my cousin Heather and her partner Mark.

We also saw our first pictures of Reggie, Georgina and Jay’s kitten.

Friday morning and a light breakfast and the drive to Leslie.

Our B&B was superb and we were joined by Elaine , Jane and Mum and Dad.

Our hosts dropped us off at Balbirnie House for the pre wedding gathering where we enjoyed an eclectic mix of food and met some new people.

Andrew also made the above logo for me!

Saturday and we awoke to grey skies, but after a good walk the sun was trying to shine through

We all got suited and booted and after a photo shoot made our way to the wedding venue.

The bride glided down the aisle to ‘tale as old as time’ from beauty and the beast. Fitting as both her and the groom are Disney mad.

A Humanist ceremony which was personal, poignant and touching followed. The photo above showing the celebrant literally tying the knot!

Photos followed, the speeches, then dinner. The cake was cut, the band played and guests danced with kilts aplenty swaying!

The joy and hope of a wedding always brings me to tears. The love surrounding the couple, the pride of all the parents in their children and of each other was palpable. A job well done and precious times and memories.

Sunday breakfast was delicious and goodbyes said we made our way back to Thorner. Another wonderful evening and then off to bed.

This morning we made an early start, stopped for breakfast at Stamford and I popped into to work( for 5 hours)

I couldn’t wait for Kevin to pick me up as we were to meet Reggie in person.