Not quite the end

I always find myself reflecting at this time of year.

I try not to. I tell myself it's just another day, another week.

But it's no use. I like to reflect on the last year, and look forward to the new one.

I like to think about what I've done that's been good, and what I could have done better.

I like to think about what I want to do in the coming year. How I can improve myself, and make things better for those around me.

I even like to make resolutions!!!

I don't care! It is the end of one circle, leading into a brand spanking new one, and I like to mark it.

Today I am grateful for the circles of life...just when you think you've reached the end, you find out that you're really only at the beginning!!

Gratefully yours.
xx

The brightest star

Oh what a joy it is to find something beautiful in a totally unexpected place!

I was working today. On my feet and doing paper work for most of it. It was a real wintry day...cold, wet and windy.

It was, of course, dark by the time I was finished, and I headed back through town to collect my car, and drive out to Shannon to collect Megan.

The sleety rain was coming and going, and, as is usually the case, when I reached the main street, the green man turned red and I had to stop.

Basically, it was miserable standing there, waiting for the lights to change.

As I pulled my hood tighter round me, I looked down....and there it was, on the wet road in front of me....a beautiful star.

My brightest star

What a lovely surprise!

Today I am grateful for beautiful things in unexpected places, and the joy that they bring to a weary heart.

Keep your eyes peeled and your hearts open. You just never know!

Gratefully yours.

xx

One for the workers

Today I am grateful for all those poor souls who have to work over the Christmas holidays.

Especially those who work in electrical stores!

If it wasn't for them then it would be impossible to replace a washing machine that has given up the ghost on boxing day, before the new year!

So, I sent love and light to all these guys and girls who have enabled me to get a new washing machine (to be delivered tomorrow) with very little fuss or bother!

And to everyone else who doesn't get to spend much time at home over the couple of weeks around Christmas. They remind me how lucky I am.

Gratefully yours.
xx

Staying regular

There is definitely something to be said for eating regular meals.

I notice it at this time of year, what with left-overs, long lies, selection boxes and evening plans. Regular eating just seems to go out the window, and I'm not the better for it!

The kids don't seem to mind! They revel in it....especially Megan....but my constitution just isn't up to it!

K is very good these days about what he eats, and is making sure he is still eating properly, but I have to admit to being a bit lax today, as far as the rest of us are concerned!

I guess I'd better try and get back to normal tomorrow! Can't let it drag on or we'll all be suffering!

You know, it's just as well I have the bairns to think about, otherwise I'd be all over the place!!

Today I'm grateful for dependants!

Just as I'm grateful for Mam and Dad (and big sisters!) for looking after me for all these years!

Gratefully yours.
xx

The day after

Today I am grateful for family...near and far.

I had my in-laws coming today for lunch. No problem. Except that I didn't wake up till half past nine, and then remembered that I didn't cook my ham yesterday, and needed to use the stock to make one of my two soups!

Oh, how I love a cookery challenge!

Challenge number two was that, as usual, I forgot how to make butternut squash and apple soup. No problem!

That's what I have a mam and sisters and nieces for! One phone call to Scotland later, and I'm sorted. (Just don't tell anyone that after all that I forgot to put in the apple! So it was only butternut squash soup!!)

Anyway, at the end of the day, the food was good, and the craic was mighty, as they say! It was lovely to see everyone, before the Dublin crew headed back off up there. The kids love to spend time with their cousins and it's nice to have the house full every now and again!

And it was lovely to know that my nearest and dearest were with me in spirit, and on the end of the line whenever I need them!!!

Gratefully yours.
xx

Merry Christmas

Today I am grateful for presents and cards and chocolates and bucks-fizz and corny films and contented kids and feet up and sherry and pavlova and beautifully cooked steaks and Strictly and Downton....

Happy Christmas! Hope you all enjoyed your day too!!

Gratefully yours.
xx

This is it

Well, this is it! Stockings are up, chocolates and milk out for Santa, carrots for Rudolf. Kids are pj'd and ready for bed.

All systems are go for Santa's take off from the North Pole.

Safe journey Santa!

I wish you all a joyful and restful Christmas, spent with those you love.. Turn and give a big kiss to whoever is nearest you as you read this, and wish them a Merry Christmas from me!

Today I am grateful for the love of my family. My Mam and sisters, K and my darling babies. I love you all.

Have a fun day! Hope Santa is good to you all!

Gratefully yours.
xx

Two-getherness

Two more sleeps!!

We had a good day today.

Whiles when we did our own thing (golf, x-box, i-pod, laundry!!) and whiles when we did stuff together as a family.

We played board games and listened to Christmas songs on the radio. We wandered round Bunratty folk park and enjoyed the Christmas lights and atmosphere. We had dinner out with all Kieran's family...well, the ones who live in Ireland. And we finished the night, unintentionally as it happens, watching a film together. Even Gorgeous joined in!!

It was a good day... a good Christmas eve's eve!

Today I am grateful for togetherness.

There really is nothing like family.

Gratefully yours.
xx

3 more sleeps

Three sleeps and counting!

I was in the supermarket at two minutes to nine this morning and home again by ten.

So that's it. No more to be done. Decorations are up, pressies bought and wrapped, food sorted.

So, now we wait!!!!!

I've really enjoyed the build up this Christmas. Tried every now and again to remember what it's all about and not got too bogged down by the commercialism of it. I've watched hours of Christmas films on TV and listened to every Christmas song every written, several times a day on the radio!

Today I am grateful for the magic of Christmas. It can melt your heart.

Gratefully yours.
xx

The end of an era

What the intellectuals and academics failed to grasp was the fact that the Mayan calendar maker just decided to retire to the country and put his feet up after a long and un-varied career!

Today I am grateful that the world has survived and Christmas is set to go ahead as planned, in four (count them!) days time!

But, d'ye know what? The end of one thing only heralds the beginning of something new.

Just as the end of one day heralds the beginning of the next, brand new day. The conclusion of one challenge sheds light on the next one. The passing of one chance leads to the next, possibly more exciting possibility.

I am grateful for the possibility of new, exciting and positive beginnings, each and every day.

Gratefully yours.
xx

That Friday feeling

...yes, I know it's only Thursday!!!

I still have that Friday feeling, 'cos I am now on holiday for two weeks (well, if you don't count Saturday 29th December!!).

Work was actually quite good today...very busy, but good. Everyone seemed to have that frenetic "last few days before Christmas" vibe about them, both colleagues and customers.

Then it was off to Thomas's school pre-Christmas mass, which was, as usual, lovely. The boys in the choir always finish off, after the official mass is ended, with a medley of Christmas songs which they sing with gusto, and much cheering and egging-on by the rest of the school. I always come out with a lovely warm, fuzzy, Christmassy feeling.

I then had a visit from my buddy, Audrey, and her partner and wee boy, Conor, who is 10 months old and a gorgeous wee rogue.

Just a lovely day.

Today I am grateful for days like these.

Gratefully yours.
xx

A wee nudge

I was tidying up in the kitchen this afternoon (it happens!!), and had to go through to the utility with some bits and bobs for the recycling bin.

When I walked in to the utility I wondered what the strange pink glow coming in the window was...it was the most gorgeous sunset I've seen in a long time!!

Now, working in the kitchen I had seen nothing because the window faces north!

Today I am grateful for the wee nudge that made me go through to the utility.

Yes, it really was that pink!!!

By the looks of that sky it's going to be one heck of a good day tomorrow!!!

Here's hoping!!

Gratefully yours.

xx

Creative inheritance

Today I am grateful to my darling Mum, for passing on, amongst other things, her creative genes.

Meggie is in a group called the Sunflowers, which is run by a group of local nuns, loosely associated with her school.

Every year, the Sunflowers do a Nativity play at our church on Christmas eve.

This year they are doing a somewhat different take on the Christmas story. For example....Meggie is playing Wonder Woman!!!

Anyway, the long and short of it is, she came home the other week with a request for me to make her a Wonder Woman outfit!

Amazing what you can do with some fabric paint, gold card and elastic!!! And, of course, creative genes!!!

Thanks Mam.

No photo as yet, but I will let you all see her dressed up over the next few days, when I get a photo taken!!!

Gratefully yours.
xx

Human beans

Oh, it's nice to feel human again!

Never again!!!!!

And amazing how much one can achieve in a single morning when you know it's the last one you'll have before Christmas on your own!!!

Presents wrapped and posted, cards written and stamped, food shop to feed an army, new bulb in car headlight, pick up parcel from post office. I felt like I was turbo powered!!!

Only 8 more sleeps!

Today I am grateful that Christmas is nearly here, and the preparations are nearly over!!!

Gratefully yours.
xx

And to all, a good night

Okay, okay! I know I didn't do my blog last night!!

It is as you suspected....not only was I a dirty stop-out, I was an ever so slightly overly tipsy dirty stop-out!

We didn't get home till very, very late - or very, very early, depending on which direction you come at it from, and I was in no fit state to be left in charge of a keyboard. Don't worry, the kids were safely tucked up in bed at Nanny's!

The reason for this stopping-out was two-fold.

First, I had my Christmas concert with the choir! It was great! We really sounded good...though I say so myself!

We then moved on (much later than we had hoped) to a friend's house for his Christmas party.

Needless to say, the singing was mighty after a few glasses of wine, and not enough to eat! And, of course, a great night was had by all.

Today I have been suffering with a terrible bug. At least, I think it's a bug!!!!!!!!!!!

So, today I am grateful to have been looked after very well by K and the kids.

Now...I'm off to a very early and much needed bed!!!

Gratefully yours.
xx

Funday Friday

We love Fridays!!

Fridays mean no homework!

I was just getting a cuddle from Meg, and asked her what she thought I could be grateful for today, and that was her reply!

And I do believe she's right!!

I had a lovely afternoon wrapping Christmas gifts and making cards.

So, today I am grateful for Fridays.

I intend to cherish them a bit more in future, enjoy the freedom of no homework!!

Gratefully yours.
xx

Instant Christmas joy

It has to be Christmas magic.

Everyone should have one!

It's like, click your fingers and feel instantly Christmassy!

I am, of course, referring to a Santa hat!

Thomas was singing in the school choir this evening at our local shopping centre. I went along to lend support, so I decided to bring my new Santa hat with me. I bought it for my choir concert this weekend, if you're wondering why I bought a Santa hat in the first place!

Well, as soon as I put it on...Pow! Instant Christmas joy!

And to top it all, the boys singing was lovely! Great acoustics.

Today I am grateful for my Santa hat.

Must remember to wear it more often! Maybe to lighten the mood at work? Or, just out and about to totally embarrass my too-cool-for-school son!!! Ha Ha!!!

Gratefully yours.
xx

Winding down

I like the lead-up to school holidays.

All the after-school activities are winding down!

No more piano. No more Brownies. No more Speech and Drama. No more choir.

Ah, now....what to do with all the extra time!! What bliss!!!

Today I am grateful for a little bit more time.

Now, the real trick is not to waste it!

Gratefully yours.
xx

Here and now

I was just checking e-mails and such before I did my blog, and discovered that Lindsay has started a new facebook page called Mindfulness - Here and Now.

What a brilliant idea. And especially at this time of year.

I don't know about you, but my days are disappearing at such a great rate of knots that it's frightening!

Time to slow down and appreciate the here and now a bit more.

So, today I am grateful for the timely reminder by Linds.

Thank you!

Gratefully yours.
xx

Joy to the world

That's it. I can do no more.

I am well and truly finished.

In fact, if I have to set foot inside the door of one more shop this side of next year, I am likely to explode!

Crack the eggs for the eggnog, light up the brandy butter and start handing out the mince pies....my Christmas shopping is done!!!

Today I am grateful that I can tick one BIG thing off the Christmas list!

I was "niver aff the heid o' the road" this morning, but it was worth it. All done and dusted. I even started some of the wrapping! That'll be the next task....wrapping and posting!!!

And then, all I'm left with is the cards! I'm afraid I've not stuck to my card-making schedule, so I could be in a bit of trouble!!!

Maybe a good year to start saving the planet one tree at a time!!!!!

Gratefully yours.
xx

You light up my life

Lovely to come down in the morning and switch on the Christmas tree lights!

It doesn't matter what kind of day you are having, you turn round and see the lights and it gives you a lift.

Oh I wish it could be Christmas every day!!

Today I am grateful for little lifts.

Gratefully yours.
xx

All that glitters

What can I say....what could be better than coming home from a days work, putting feet up with a glass of wine and watching Strictly?

I mean it's got the music, the dancing, the gorgeous guys and beautiful girls and the frocks!!!!!

I really want the dress Danny was wearing tonight!! Or maybe the one Kimberly was wearing!!! Okay, I know I'm not quite the right size or shape, but I'm sure they're made of stretchy fabric!!

Today I am grateful for dreams!

So what if they never come true! It's having the dreams that's fun!!

I'm sitting here writing this beside a beautiful wee girl who has a world of dreams ahead of her. I hope she has loads of them, and doesn't care too much if they come true or not!

Gratefully yours.
xx

Christmas lights

We put up our tree tonight.

Correction....K put up the tree, Meggie played Christmas tunes on the piano (where does she learn them???) and Thomas sang.

I did a little bit of supervising, a little bit of singing and not much else.

I love to see the house all decorated for Christmas....but I'm really not fond of actually doing it! I would much rather just get up one morning and voila!!!

Still, lots of Christmas cheer with the singing and piano playing, and, of course, the Christmas lights!!

Today I am grateful for my darling family, without whom my home would be a much, much duller place.

Gratefully yours.
xx

Her indoors

Today I'm grateful that I didn't have to be out and about today.

It was a horrible, cold, wet and windy day. Thankfully it didn't get really bad until after I got home from work. I still had to collect the kids from school, but other than that I've not set foot outside all day.

Gorgeous, on the other hand, has been out and in like a thing that goes out and in a lot! She then climbs into my lap to warm her cold, wet feeties!!! Ye gotta love her!!

Gratefully yours.
xx

Open all hours

Except first thing in the morning, it seems!

I decided to get a good run at the Christmas shopping today, as I am working a fair bit these days, and time is slipping away from me.

So, I got organised to go straight into town after dropping the kids at school...no mean feat in this house!

Got into the car park nice and early and decided my tactics as I came down in the lift. Head to the furthest shop away from the car park and work my way back. Good plan, especially knowing that the book shop, where I knew I wanted to get lots of stuff, is close to the car park!

Got to furthest away shop and got the necessary presents. Then plan fell apart! Only quarter past nine, and none of the shops I wanted to go into were open! I rattled doors, and peeked through windows like a poor wretch, but to no avail!

Had to resort to plan B...coffee and a scone!!! Well, a mocha and an apple scone with strawberry jam, to be precise!

Today I am grateful for plan B!!

Duly refreshed I motored on for another 4 hours and (almost!) finished the shopping!

All in all, quite a good morning! Very pleased with myself!

Gratefully yours.
xx

You're not alone

Today I am grateful that K had a day off.

Meggie needed to go to the dentist this morning, we had a parent teacher mid afternoon and, not forgetting, ballet at 5.30.

So, K decided to take the day off.

He took Meg to the dentist - she had a temporary filling and absolutely loves her dentist. Tick.

We were both then able to go to Meg's parent/teacher meeting, and came out glowing with all the praise for our wonderful daughter. Tick.

And I didn't have to worry about trying to get homework done, cos K was here to help and be with Thomas while Meg and I went out to ballet. And tick.

All in all, I think it's time he gave up work all together and stayed at home to help me with real life!!!

Gratefully yours.
xx

Productivity

What a great day.

Whole dispensary re-gigged during the day. We have just started looking after the meds for a nursing home, so stock levels have sky-rocketed. I was asked to make a start, but I don't like to leave a job half done, (no, don't laugh....I seem to have a split personality, one for work and one for home!!) so I motored on and got the whole dispensary sorted! Great feeling!

The it was on to choir.

Sometimes it can be a bit tedious by the time he goes over everyone's parts, but tonight we managed to get through three new songs! Two of them are like canons, so really there was just one tune to learn, even though we sing it in three parts...if you get my drift! And, d'ye know what.....we sound pretty damn good!! Just as well...our concert is on the 15th December. We are singing 13 songs...15 if you count the fact that for the last song we are actually singing three different carols, all at the same time!!!

Anyway, as you can gather by the volume of writing tonight, I am still on an adrenaline high from my productive day!! And it's quarter to eleven! I'm usually fast asleep by now!!!

So, today I am grateful for my full and productive day, and the satisfied feeling it has left me with.

Now, what can I find to do at work tomorrow???

Gratefully yours.
xx

What a day

Well, we don't have the snow you guys have in Scotland, but we are in festive mood.

Two days of Christmas shopping and the marvellous "Rise of the Guardians" film at the cinema have seen to that.

Thomas is actually thrilled with himself with his shopping. He saved some of his birthday money and has really thought hard about what he wanted to get everyone. Meggie also managed to save....a huge feat for her, cos she takes after her mum!!! So everyone is taken care of!!!

Now if only I could get my head round my shopping!!!!!

Today I am grateful for the joy of giving....and the thought that maybe Megan and Thomas are experiencing it too!!

Gratefully yours.
xx

Watch out shops....

....'cos here we come!!!

This was my first Saturday off in weeks, and my last before the weekend just before Christmas!

So it was a day for shopping (not to mention Costa....shhhh, who said that??).

The boys hit the town and the girls hit the shopping centre....here come the girls!!!

Meg is a great wee shopper...bit like her dad - straight in, get what's needed and straight out again! We did, of course, manage to buy some new clothes as well as the Christmas pressies....well, it would have been rude not to!

Not sure how the boys did shopping wise...they're keeping it close to their chests! Hopefully something small and shiny??? Only joking!!!

So, tomorrow it's on to phase two....Thomas and I will be making up team one, and Meg and K will be team two. Mind you, Meggie bought for everyone, including the cat, today, so daddy may be in for an easy time of it!!

But never fear....Thomas likes Costa too so I'm set!!!

Today I am grateful for a weekend off work!

Gratefully yours.
xx

At the end of the day

It really doesn't matter what kind of day I've had, what kind of mood I'm in or how tired I am.

At the end of the day I am grateful for three huge hugs, plus a small furry, purry one.

If it's been one of THOSE days, all fights are forgotten and all arguments forgiven. I always go to bed knowing that I am loved, and I hope that my cuddlers all know how much they are loved too.

At the end of the day, that's what matters.

I'm wrapping my arms round YOU, in spirit, if not in the flesh. So I hope you can feel the love too.

Gratefully yours.
xx

Comfy cosy

It's half past eight on a freezing cold, wintry night. I am in the only sensible place to be on a night like this...in my bed. I am cuddled up here with my book, my baby girl, her book, her teddy George and my laptop.

The boys, being the less sensible gender, are out at a table quiz in aid of Thomas's school. We were all going to go, but Meggie has had toothache all week after loosing a filing, and is feeling a bit out of sorts. I won't even go into my excuse...suffice it to say, we decided that an early bed was the best option for the girls!

So today I am grateful for early nights, and the chance they give for cuddles and cosy chats.

Gratefully yours.
xx

The sky at night

I had to wait till the sun went down today for my "aaah" moment.

Driving Thomas to his singing. The sun was going down and the sky was a mixture of pink, purple and red. Gorgeous enough, you may say...and you'd be right. But then two swans flew across the road ahead of us! Talk about special. Thomas was delighted too!

And then, of course, there's the full moon! Never gets old!

Today I am grateful for the sky at night.

Gratefully yours.
xx

Take it easy

Today I am grateful for an easy, relaxed feeling I seem to have developed over the day today!

Don't know where it's come from, how it got here or how long it plans staying.....so I'm going to enjoy it while it's here!

Normal kind of day...walk, work, walk, lunch, kids, homework, ballet, dinner, It takes Two, dishes....relaxed, easy feeling!!!

You tell me!!!

Gratefully yours.
xx

Small mercies

Today I am grateful for small mercies.....

Like a broken light in the loo that give you time to close your eyes and take a couple of deep breaths before you get down to business.(In other words it's dark in there until the light gets going and you can't find the loo!!)

Like an amazing sky for 5 minutes as the sun shone rays in all directions from behind a big black cloud....the famed silver lining??

Like a fox running across the road in front of me on the way home. And I mean in the city suburbs!!

Like a warm welcome home after a long day at work followed by a very cold 3 hours at choir!

Like half a pot of Ambrosia creamed rice as I sit here typing!!!

What more can I say??

Gratefully yours.
xx

Shop till you drop

Well, Christmas has officially started.

I started my Christmas shopping today and d'ye know what??? I think I enjoy shopping for other people even more than I enjoy shopping for myself!!!

It give one a certain satisfaction to think that what you have just bought will make someone else smile.

I've a lot on this coming week and won't be able to get much shopping done....but look out the following week!!!

Today I am grateful for the opportunity to make someone else smile!!

Gratefully yours.
xx

King size

Today I am grateful for my King sized bed!!!

Plenty room for a mammy plus lap-top, two smallish children with books, one very fluffy cat, and room to spare for a daddy, should he choose to join the fun!!

How did Mam and Dad ever manage with four kids and only a double bed?

I love my bed....and all who sail in her!!

Gratefully yours.
xx

Long day

After a long day at work, at the end of a long, busy week, it's nice to come home and chill, feet up, in front of the fire.

What's not to be grateful for??

The only thing better is the thought of my bed!!!

I hope all my loyal readers are doing likewise, and relaxing after a week of hard work.

It's all about balance. Work, rest and play. It could actually be as simple as that!

The work and the rest seem to be sorted.....now who wants to go out and play???

Gratefully yours.
xx

Computer rage

Tonight I am grateful that I have a lap-top!

It has just taken me 20minutes to log out of K and Thomas and on to my settings on this computer. It is so slow...it's doing my heid in!!!!!

So, I think that from now on I will write my blog using the lap-top....see, K, I knew it would come in handy at some stage!! Best Christmas pressie ever!

Gratefully yours.
xx

Something small

What is there to be grateful for after 320 days???

The first cuddles of the morning.
Getting out the door on time for school and work.
A job I enjoy.
A quick visit to K in the middle of the day, totally un-planned!
A purry furry pussycat waiting to welcome me home.
Not having to go out after tea, so being able to have a wee brandy.
A lovely hot shower to warm me up.
Last cuddles and capers at bed-time.

Today I am grateful for all of the above....and so much more that goes into an ordinary day.

Gratefully yours.
xx

Us time

Christmas is coming.....and the diary is getting fat!!

Today I am grateful that for just over an hour this evening, we had something we all had to attend together!!

I feel like we are all living separate lives at the moment! We never have time together as a family!

Tonight we had a special mass for Thomas, for his upcoming confirmation.

Forgetting about the religious significance...it was just nice to be together for an hour!!!

Time to start reshuffling, I think! Time to get the priorities straight!!!!!

Gratefully yours.
xx

No tantrums please

I'm trying to stick with my less-stress approach to parenting.

Life in general was getting a bit hectic and it had to slow down or I was heading for melt-down.

As I suspected, it was a vicious circle, and now that I have broken it, everything is slowing down and chilling out.

I didn't shout at the kids to get ready this morning (well, not repeatedly anyway!), and, even though we were much later leaving the house than normal, no-one was late for school....just!

I didn't shout at the kids at all to do their homework. I just calmly explained that it had been creeping later and later (give them an inch!!!) and that I had to be firm about it. Homework had to be done. So it was, with very little fuss or palaver, and in half the usual time!

So, stress free mum equals stress free everything else!!! Why didn't I work that one out sooner?????

Gratefully yours.
xx

Great day

I like Sunday!

K was golfing and Maggie fancied going to the cinema. We went to see Hotel Transylvania at the Sunday kids club!!

Why do we not do this more often??? Half the price of normal cinema, free tea and coffee for the adults and complimentary lolly-pops for the kids!! Just what was needed after a freezing cold walk to the cinema - well, the tea...not so much the lolly-pops!

We had a lovely couple of hours, and finished it off with a browse in Smyths (toy shop!) and a wet walk home in the rain!!!

Must watch what's coming to the cinema in the next few weeks!!! Great fun!

Gratefully yours.
xx

Pure and simple

I was working today. So, Megan agreed to go with her Dad and brother to the big stadium in Limerick to watch the rugby!!!

It was a freezing cold, damp day, and I worried that she would hate it! I knew K had both the kids well wrapped up, and that they had seats under cover, but I really thought Meg would be bored to tears.

I came home from work to an empty house - they weren't due back till towards the end of Strictly. I lit the fire and put my feet up.

Well....today I am grateful for the three red faces that came in to me at 8 o'clock! Flushed with the cold and the excitement of it!

Meggie enjoyed her "boys day"!

Just the wee red, cold face brightened my whole day!

Come on the boys!!!

Gratefully yours.
xx

The LBD 2012

I had an idea in my head of the perfect little black dress for the coming Christmas season...although why I need it, I don't know!! I might get a couple of nights out if I'm lucky! I just like the idea of having something new and sparkly for the season.

So, I headed off to the shopping centre this morning, with this idea in my head, and the desire to get the job done.

Now, I'm sure you know, that the law states that when you know exactly what it is you are looking for, there is no way you are going to find it. Well....today I was the exception that proves the rule!!!

I found the perfect dress, well within the budget I'd set myself (yes, K, I did say that I'd set myself a budget!! And, more importantly...I did say that I stuck to it!!). Job done. Happy camper!

Today I am grateful that sometimes, just sometimes, you CAN find what you're looking for!!

Gratefully yours.
xx

Unsprung hero

I've come to the conclusion that I operate like a clockwork toy.

I get more and more wound up, working away, but getting faster and faster, until all hell breaks loose and I explode, springs flying everywhere.

Today I realised that I could actually feel that happening. I've been getting wound up a little bit more each day, and I was getting close to explosion point. So, I decided to slow down! To not let things wind me up any tighter.

Life is going to carry on around me, whether I am wound up or not. So why let myself get overwound?

Not worth it. And in the end, if I'm not so wound up then things don't seem to wind me up so much!! A bit confusing!! A vicious circle really.

Anyway, today I am grateful to be unwound, springs just hanging loose!!

Gratefully yours.
zz

Christmas 24

Okay....last month we has Sky 007 - a whole month of James Bond. I was addicted!

Now we have Christmas 24 - 24 hours of Christmas films every day till Christmas!!!

How can you not get into the Christmas spirit with that?? Even if they do repeat the films interminably and show all the same films they did last year!!! Perversely, I enjoy that!! You can have the film on, listen to all the jingle bells and Christmas songs, but not have to actually sit and watch the film!!! Win/win, I think!!!

Today I am grateful for re-runs that I don't have to sit and watch, but can have on in the background while I do stuff!!!

I know...I could just switch the telly off....but where would be the fun in that??

Gratefully yours.
xx

Patchwork

It really is hard to be depressed, when you're walking on a patchwork blanket of orange, yellow and red leaves, that are falling like snow at the moment.

It was a very mild day today, although it was very wet and windy, and I had a lovely walk into work. I even saw Mr Heron, standing very regally on the rocks just at the edge of the slipway down onto the river. He looked as he was surveying his kingdom, with his neck stretched up and his nose in the air. The ducks and gulls were his loyal subjects, floating about at his feet.

Yes, I have to say that the walk makes it worthwhile going to work!!

Today I am grateful to Mother Nature, for surpassing herself, yet again, and giving me a boost of energy and a smile on my face, ready to face the day!

Gratefully yours.
xx

Perfect harmony

OMG!

Today I am grateful for the recording feature on my phone! Without it, I would be snookered!

We are learning a song at choir at the moment that splits into 7 part harmony in one verse!

That's descant and mezzo soprano, tenor, bass, baritone and first and second alto! And I have just spent two and a half hours at choir learning 4 lines!

By the time he had taught each part just one line, the first couple of groups had lost it again!

On the plus side....by the end of the two and a half hours it was starting, only in places, to sound amazing!

So, I will have to spend the next week glued to my phone, listening to the mezzo part over and over again, and singing it, of course, in the hopes that by next week it will have stuck!!!

We have a concert in 5 weeks, and have several songs that we have only started to learn!!! Oh, the pressure!!! (I love it!!)

Gratefully yours.
xx

Time traveller

I had a revelation today (yes, another one!).

I was sitting on the loo, minding my own business, when the thought struck me. It didn't hurt, but it did give me a bit of a shock, as revelations usually do!

You know how holidays seem to go along nicely till the last few days and then they just disappear, and before you have time to say "Costa del Sunshine", you're home in the cold and rain? Well, it occurred to me that this is because you spend so much of the last few days thinking that this is your last few days, that you are not present enough to actually be aware of the time passing. Blink and you miss it, as it were.

So, thought  for the day is....enjoy every moment! Do not wish it away, or forget about it. Live it!

Today I am grateful that I have such a wonderful sanctuary of peace and contemplation in my own house, that I didn't realise I had!!!

I must spend time in peaceful contemplation more often. Note to self....buy an "Engaged" sign for bathroom door!

Gratefully yours.
xx

Reminiscing

Mam and I did a wee bit of reminiscing this evening (only a little bit, mind you, squished in between Merlin and bed!!), and I've come to the conclusion that it can be a good thing. A reminder, if you like, of how you got to where you are, even if it isn't where you thought you'd be when you were trying to get there!!!!!

Now don't get me wrong...I don't think there is any place for regrets, or dwelling on the past, but it can be nice to realise that if some of the yucky stuff hadn't happened, you would not be the you you are, in the place you are. And, if some of the stuff you thought you wanted to happen had happened, you'd be in a very different, and not so enjoyable place as you are thanks to the fact that they didn't happen! Confused? I am!!!!

And if you believe in fate, then it's nice to follow all the twists and turns on the way and see that you were really heading in the right direction all along!!

So today I am grateful for who I am, where I came from, and how I got here!!!

And now I will take a few deep breaths and be grateful for right now.

Gratefully yours.
xx

Two more sleeps

Unfortunately Mam's visit is nearly over. Only two more sleeps, and I'm very, very sorry that I have to work tomorrow!

So, today I am grateful that we managed to slip in one more coffee at Costa.

News headlines for next week are sure to include the sudden and unexplained slump in coffee sales. Maybe even a worldwide crash in coffee prices...devastation!

I will, of course, try may hardest to keep sales up, but it won't be the same all on my own!!!

We do still have one more Strictly experience together though, before Mam goes home. I should be home from work just in time to fall into my chair, be handed a glass of wine and on with the show!!! No need to worry about texting after every dance!!!

Gratefully yours.
xx

The mindful cuddle

It doesn't matter what kind of day I've had. It doesn't matter how many times I've been rowing with the kids. It only matters that it's bed-time, and cuddle time.

It's an instant lift to a drooping spirit. An instant reminder that there are things in life more important than clothes under the bed or towels all over the bathroom floor.

The mindful bell is a useful reminder through the day to breathe and be present, but I think a mindful cuddle every hour should be mandatory!!

Today I am grateful for bed-time and mindful cuddles.

Gratefully yours.

xx

You know when you're getting old....

I got two new things today. A dress, and a frying pan.

The sad fact is, I think I got more thrill, and, so far, more pleasure from the frying pan!!!

I did have some fun though, trying on the dress with various colours of tights, different shoes and jewellery, but I'm afraid I have to say that the pan was the better buy!!!

That's it.....I must be getting old!!

Today I am grateful for my shiny new all singing, all dancing, steel bottomed, oven and dishwasher-safe, non-stick, deep sided frying pan!!

Just think of all the delicious dinners!!!

Gratefully yours.
xx

Keep an eye on your geese

I'm sorry if it's too early....but the truth is Christmas IS coming and the geese will start getting fat very soon!!

I know this because I got the urge today.....the urge to make Christmas cards!!! Dun, dun, duuuun!!!

Three down, forty seven to go!!!

The first of many!

Today I am grateful for the creative urge. It gives me such pleasure!

At the rate of three a day, I should have enough by the time last postings come round!!!

Now....if only I could find my address book!!!!!

Gratefully yours.

xx

The Buddy System

Now, you may think that living in a different country would make me homesick...and you'd be right. But, just think about it for a minute....I reckon that I see just about as much of Mam as the rest of the family does. And I get to keep her for longer!

As well as the obvious advantage of cuddles on tap, there is also the marvellous Buddy System that I have mentioned in previous posts.

Now, my Mam is a great ironing buddy, a brilliant shopping buddy, and her coffee buddying skills are second to none, but today she added yet another string to her buddying bow!!!

I had to go out to the doctor this morning....nothing serious, just organising an MOT really. And when I came home, I was met by the most wonderful smell....you guessed it....there was a pan of gorgeous lentil soup on the stove, waiting for my return. Now, how good a buddy is that???

Nobody in the world makes soup as good as my Mam...not even me!!!

So today, obviously, I am grateful for my souper best buddy!

Is there no end to this woman's buddying talent???

Gratefully yours.
xx

What? Where? Why?

I still find that some nights I sit here for ages staring at the computer, no clue what I'm going to be grateful for, no idea what I'm going to write.

I've been sitting wondering what I'm going to do when the year is up! Will I keep going? Will I just do it when I feel like it?

The only thing is, when it's difficult to decide what to write, I don't feel like it at all! So if I was only doing it when I felt like it...

It's the commitment to do it that keeps me going.

Today I am grateful for all of you reading this, and commenting on it. It give me purpose and motivation..

I'm actually dreading the year being up!

On to bigger and better things!!! Any ideas???

Gratefully yours.
xx

The other side

Today I am just grateful for the way my life has turned out.

At work, I often get glimpses into a different world. The other side of the tracks, if you like. And it is scary.

It often seems like, thanks to drugs, alcohol and general abuse, life is just a pit of misery, and fear, with little or no chance of crawling your way out.

I am so grateful to have escaped that kind of life.

I know that it is possible to raise yourself higher. To dream big and reach for the stars. But some of the people I come into contact with seem to have little chance of that. I don't think that they even know they have that option!

It is sad and it is depressing...but it makes me value what I have, even more.

Gratefully yours.
xx

Easy pleased

Useful morning.

I booked Mam into my hairdressers for a wee cut, 'cos her hair was buggin' her since she got here....the water here makes her hair really soft and she can't do a thing with it!

While she was there I took the opportunity to take the kids shopping for shoes.

This usually involves several visits to several shops, with several huffs, temper tantrums and screeching....and that's just me!!!

Well, today, while mam was getting pampered, we visited two shops, got three pairs of footwear (unfortunately that was one for Thomas and two for Megan...none for me!), and all managed to stay calm and smiling.

I told the kids I was delighted that they were both happy with their new shoes, and Grandma didn't have to traipse with us, but wasn't left at home alone, so she was also happy!

Thomas said "But what about you?"

Well, two happy kids and a happy Mammy....what do you think???

Today I am grateful for cunning solutions and happy outcomes!!!

Gratefully yours.
xx

Complimentary

I can't remember what the conversation was about, but someone told me today that I was a "glass half full" kind of person!

I was absolutely delighted! And very proud of myself! That someone else should think that about me is just great!

My blog, my quest to find a more positive outlook on life, must be working!

I'm so pleased!

But, d'ye know what??? Whether it is working or not, I am so glad I started to do this. I feel more in touch with you all than I have in a long time!

I know we talk on the phone, but no-one ever just talks about the dreary day-to-day stuff, and really, it's not dreary at all! It's my life, or your life. The ins and outs, the nitty-gritty. I feel that I am sharing more of me than I have ever done before, and it feels good!!

So, today I am grateful for that half full glass!

Mind you....glasses don't tend to stay half full very long when I'm around!!!

Gratefully yours.
xx

Double or nothing

Today I am grateful that I have a group of friends who like to discuss and debate everything from politics to education and the health system, even when playing poker!

I was lucky enough to get to go with K to his regular, bi-weekly poker game at Jim's. Mum volunteered (yes, really! I did not twist her arm or bribe her!) to baby-sit...sorry, child mind...Megan to let K and I both out for the evening.

So, thanks to the fact that I am neither a discusser nor a debater, I have come home with a wad of winnings in my purse! I think I was the only one there who was actually concentrating on the cards!!

I wonder if that's why they prefer when K goes on his own?????

Gratefully yours.
xx

Delegation

Today I am grateful that I utilised the fine art of delegation to good effect, for a change!

Megan tidied and dusted the lounge (her choice, 'cos she likes dusting the piano - I know....what planet does she come from???).

Thomas hoovered the downstairs - after far too much cajoling on my part and whinging on his! But, he did it, and did it well.

Grandma did the ironing. Again, her choice, because she also comes from a different planet, and on her world ironing shirts is a pleasant and fulfilling pass-time!!!

I drew the short straw and had to clean the bathrooms. But, I guess if I had the choice of my favourite bit of housework to do, none of it would get done!!!

So, jobs done, feet up for the afternoon....who knew that crocheting squares could be such fun....or that delegation could prove so useful???

Must remember how it's done, and do it on a more regular basis!!! Might save the "panic clean" when expecting visitors!!!

Gratefully yours.
xx

Autumn mist

I went out for an early morning walk today and was rewarded with some beautiful photos.

Mist and reflection

Not only that, but I really enjoyed walking in daylight again, even though it was early!! Pity that won't last much longer! The hour of morning light we gained at the weekend will be swallowed up pretty quickly!

Today I am grateful for grabbing the opportunity while it was there!!

Gratefully yours.

xx

Creamy

Today I am grateful for giant pots of Ambrosia creamed rice!!

Rice pud has always been a favourite comfort food for me, so I was delighted when they brought out the giant pot!! The only problem is that it would be so easy to scoff the lot at one go...and then feel sick!

I've been very good so far and only have a droppy at a time. The pot sits in the fridge and I just have a nibble every now and then when the mood takes me.

Like tonight, when we got home from seeing the new James Bond film!

Not sure if I liked it or not! Not your typical James Bond! A good film, but not really like James Bond.

Anyway...nice to come home to a few spoonfuls of rice pud while I waited for the computer to get going!!

Some folk are easy pleased!!!

Gratefully yours.
xx

Boys, boys, boys

We had Thomas's birthday party today....Quasar and bowling.

The invitations said 3.30pm but we had a house full of boys (and Megan) from about 11.30am!

They just kind of came and went as the mood took them all day! Megan was in the midst of it all, delighted with her big brother!

Grandma, Megan and I did manage to get a bit of a girls morning before the boys took over the day. I know....you wouldn't expect anything less!!

The party itself was great fun. They ended up with soccer as well as the bowling and quasar and they all seemed to have a ball. In fact, Megan has decided that she wants her birthday party there as well....and she's inviting all the boys!! Should we start to worry?????

Today I am grateful for 9 very red, sweaty and smiling faces. They mean more than all the money in the world!

Which reminds me....I bought lottery tickets today!!! I'm off to check!!!!

Gratefully yours.
xx

Time well spent

Today I am just grateful for the time I'm getting to spend with my mam.

When I say "just", I mean that there really is just nothing I'm more grateful for at the moment.

It's great to just "hang out" with her.

Browsing shops, coffeeing, crocheting!!!

The kids are really glad to have Grandma here to cuddle too. I think that recent events have made them realise that just because you love someone, it doesn't mean they will be around forever! So they are certainly not taking Grandma for granted!

It's a shame that we have to lose someone to remember that not so pleasant fact of life. It is, however, a good reminder that life is unpredictable, so we should not take those we love for granted. We should show them how much we love them...every single chance we get!

I am sending love and hugs through cyber-space to each and every one of you!

Gratefully yours.
xx

Twelve years and counting

Twelve years ago today, at a few minutes past four in the morning, I gave birth to the light of my life, my wee baby boy, Thomas.

Who would have thought that twelve years would go by so fast or that he would grow into such a cheeky wee monkey!!!

He takes after both his Granddads. You can see the twinkle in his eye before he even opens his mouth! And he has an immediate answer for everything!! I can also see the beginnings of the ability to waffle, with seemingly endless knowledge, on any topic you care to throw at him (whether he actually knows what he's talking about, or not!!)!

He is also a sensitive wee soul, full of compassion and empathy, always supporting the under-dog. He is always the first in the area to welcome a new boy and make sure he doesn't get left out of any games that may be going on. And he is, by his own admission, the coolest boy in school!

Of course, he sings like an angel. He is incredibly able and intelligent....and did I mention how handsome he's getting?? In fact, I could sum him up in a few short words....witty, erudite and boyishly handsome!.....Gosh, now who does that remind me of????

Before I get completely carried away (by the little men in white coats!!!), I should just say that today I am grateful for my darling boy, Thomas George Joyce.

Gratefully yours.
xx

I'm alright Jack

When I went to pick Megan up from Brownies tonight, there was a bit of a traffic jam.

People coming up the hill into the small car park to collect girls, and others, those who had arrived early, trying to get back out of the car park and down the hill.

Now, there is a second area, a bit out of the way, that could have accommodated a couple of cars and eased the congestion, but instead I witnessed the most ridiculous to-ing and fro-ing, 8 or 9 point turns and near collisions as people were determined that they were not going to give way to anyone else.

The true meaning of selfishness...putting the self first, irregardless of how it affects other people.

What a different world we would be living in if a few more people would stop to think about what action might be best for everyone, including themselves. I'm not suggesting that everyone should put others ahead of themselves, but seeing other people as just as important as themselves, with reasons that are just as valid as theirs, might just ease the traffic problems of the world!!!

Today I am grateful for those people who do stop and think before they rush into the breach.

Gratefully yours.
xx

Moments of clarity

There are moments when you just realise that some things are more important than others in the larger scheme of things.

Megan is the Queen of making mountains out of molehills, and I get very frustrated with her sometimes for over-reacting to the most insignificant things.

But then I remember (well, when I say "then", I really mean a good while later when we've both had time to calm down and mull things over a bit!), I remember two things.

Firstly I remember that in the larger scheme of things, Megan is what's important to me!

And secondly, I remember that what seems small and insignificant to me may be quite large and overwhelming to her!!

Today I am grateful for remembering what is really important in my life - the people in it!

The rest is just stuff that we can work around!

Gratefully yours.
xx

Ironing buddies

I have come to the firm belief that everyone should have an ironing buddy. Someone to step in and iron a shirt or two when you just can't face another one, and then let you step back in again, so that you can truthfully say that you emptied the ironing basket!

I actually found trousers at the bottom of the basket that I had forgotten I had, they've been in there so long!!!

I tend, normally, to get the necessities done, and then the will fizzles out before the basket is finished.

Step in the ironing buddy!!!

So, today I am grateful for my ironing buddy.

And, come to think of it, she's a pretty good shopping buddy too!!!

Gratefully yours.
xx

Lost without you

Today was going to be an easy blog....I am grateful that I have my mammy here for three whole weeks!!

Then I sat down to write the blog, and, as usual, it took me nearly 20 minutes to get the computer on-line and ready to go!!!

After I stopped swearing at it, it dawned on me that I would be totally lost without it!!! As far as communicating with my family and friends in Scotland is concerned, it would have to be the phone or nothing. And after being able to use Skype, and see all their lovely faces, or Facebook for daily (or, if you are of the younger generation, hourly) updates, including photos and videos, the phone just doesn't cut it!!

So, today I am actually very grateful for my slow, annoying, frustrating, and indispensable computer.

I shall try to use the time it takes to get itself going to slow down, breath and be grateful from now on!

Gratefully yours.
xx

Boogie-oogie-woogie

Today I am grateful to have had a great auld boogie!!

I went on straight from work today to a friend's wedding. Arrived just in time for a lovely meal and then a night of dancing!

Great fun!

Feet may not think so in the morning, but I really enjoyed myself.

Almost, but not quite, as much fun as singing in the choir!

Off to bed now....must creep because the whole house, including the cat, is fast asleep!!!

Gratefully yours.
xx

Double-oh heaven

Today I am grateful to Sky for airing all the Bond movies on a special 007 channel for the month of October.

I must admit that when I heard about it, I thought what a waste of time! All the James Bond films on one channel!!! Who'd be interested in that?

But there are some bloomin' good films!! I'm afraid I've become slightly addicted to them over the last week or so!!

There is something decedent about sitting with your feet up, brandy in hand, all evening watching Bond on telly!!!

I do hope it's just for one month though!!!

And then, of course, there's the new on, "Skyfall", out next week in the cinema....and we'll have a chance of a baby-sitter!!!! If I'm very good to my mammy, that is!!!

Gratefully yours.

xx

Stress-less

You know...it really isn't worth getting all stressed about something you can do nothing about!!!

That is my gem for today!

Where do I come up with such pearls of wisdom, I hear you ask!

Just years of being wise, I guess! .........NOT!

Why, oh why, do we still stress about stuff when we know it is not only a complete waste of time, but bad for our health too???

At least being aware that I am stressing in time to stop it in it's tracks, or at least de-rail it slightly, is a step in the right direction! And you know what they say.....every journey begins with a single step, preferably in the right direction!!!

Today I am grateful for baby steps! Each one in the right direction!!!

Gratefully yours.
xx

Productivity

There really is nothing better than getting stuff done!

And I find that, really, it's a case of  "the more the merrier".

When I have lots to do, I tend to get lots done....if you know what I mean.

Let me explain.....If I have a couple of things to do in a morning, I tend to pfaff about and not get much of anything done. However, when I have a pile of things I need to do of a morning, I tend to get most (not all....I'm only human after all!!) of it done.

I seem to dot back and fore....maybe that's it!

It's just dawned on me that maybe I'm just not good at starting a job and finishing it before I move on to the next one. I find it more stimulating to be juggling three or four things at a time!

Gosh, maybe I am Super-woman after all!!!

Today I am grateful for these wonderful insights into my life, that are coming to the fore thanks to my blog!!!

And on that note....Meggie's looking for a "Good night" hug....must fly!!!!!!!

Gratefully yours.
xx

Perfect peace

It lovely to come home after an evening out to a quiet, peaceful house.

Kids in bed asleep, K in the living room...nearly asleep!

I would like to think that it had been a nice peaceful house when I was out too....but I know better!

I think K's quiet comment when I went up to kiss my sleeping darlings goodnight, says it all..."Knock their heads together while you're up there!!"

Well, all I can say is, today I am grateful that I had to go out to a CPD course tonight and have come home to a lovely, peaceful house!!!

You see...there is even a silver lining to the cloud that is Continuing Professional Development!!!

Gratefully yours.
xx

Cheese please Louise

There comes a time when really the only thing that will do it is cheese!!!

That time is now!

I was working today, and then straight out to choir....literally straight out! I only came home to get my music and put on a pair of socks and my boots so my feet didn't freeze!! (Yes, winter has arrived! Whatever happened to Autumn!!!)

Anyway, I am now home, and like I say, only cheese on toast will do it!!!

So, today I am grateful to the humble cows who give us the milk to make the cheese.

Without their help, my life would be a much sadder place.

Gratefully moo-rs.
xx

Smart energ

Today I am grateful to Airtricity for the gift of a free Energy Monitor, that I got on Friday when the man came to service my boiler.

It's a great wee device that tells you exactly how much energy you are using at any time, and how much it is costing you!!

We have already discovered that if K spends less time lounging about in the shower every morning we can save about €175 a year!!! Mam, please note that your 3 minute showers are what we are aspiring to!!!

We are, of course, at risk of becoming obsessive about it! But I'm sure the novelty will wear off soon enough!

Still, it is good to be able to see what's what and encourage the children, with something tangible, to switch of lights, tv's etc!!!

Gratefully yours.
xx

Turn that frown...

...upside down!

Today I am grateful for the reminder that things are never as bad as they seem.

I truly believe that whatever the situation, you can re-think it, look at it from a different perspective, a different point of view, and find something positive in it.

I guess the difficulty is being able to step out of the situation to do that.

But, in a year of positivity, it is something that I am trying to do more often.

I think, with some practice, it may become easier.....but even if it doesn't, it is well worth trying to do it anyway!

So, smiley faces all round please!

Gratefully yours.
xx

The concert

Well...tonight was my first performance in the choir. We rocked it!!!!!

There were six choirs in total. Two choral types, one gospel, one almost tribal music, one small but mainly churchy...and us.

We sang a mixture of songs, from The Songbird, by Fleetwood Mac, to Danny Boy.

At choir practice I sit in the back, out of the way. So where did I end up tonight??? You guessed it...right at the front! Thank goodness I can learn song words quickly!!

I was shaking like a leaf at the beginning, but watching our conductor having kittens, trying to slow the tempo of one song, and trying to get us all to smile had me more relaxed as we went on. By the last song I was well in my stride and belting it out with the rest....reaching notes I don't normally reach!!!

On the whole I think it's safe to say I enjoyed it!!!!!

Today I am grateful that I joined the choir!!

Gratefully yours.
xx

The cheek of him

Today I am grateful that my son is not quite as cheeky as his dad....yet!!!

One is bad enough! Two will be hell and all to live with!

It's no wonder really that Meggie just loses the rag and shouts....it's the only way she can cope with the cheekiness!!!

Maybe I should try it!!!

Gratefully yours.
xx

Mobile magic

Today I am grateful for my mobile phone!!

Well, to be more precise, I am grateful for my smart phone, which has a super voice recorder app on it.

It has enabled me to learn the mezzo-soprano parts for five different songs in the space of as many weeks, which means that I can sing in the concert on Friday night, knowing all the songs with confidence!

We had an extra rehearsal this evening, and boy! do we sound good!!! (Though I say so myself!!!)

So, a couple more days, singing along with my phone, and I'm set!

Gratefully yours.
xx

Autumn colour

Don't you just love the Autumn?

It was a lovely day today. Dry and bright enough, with not much wind and lots of chill factor! Just a perfect Autumn day.

The colours on the trees on my walk to work along the river are just stunning. It lifts the spirits.

Wouldn't it be great if we could all just tap into the inner, primal aspects of our being and really go with the flow of the seasons?

I think there is a lot to be grateful for at this time of year. It is a time to slow down and take stock. To slow down and take notice, of where we are now and where we are going. A time to start planning and dreaming - the plans and dreams that will keep us warm through the long, cosy winter months!

Today I am grateful for the opportunity to slow down and take a good look at myself and my life.

Gratefully yours.
xx

A good day

What a good day I've had!!

The clouds of the last few weeks are dissipating, and the general mood is brighter and calmer! Thanks be to the wee man upstairs!!! (No, I don't mean Thomas!!)

I got lots of bedroom tidying done today. Just took my time and mixed in plenty of wee breaks and a trip out to do a few bits. No biggy!

Nice, quiet afternoon. Meggie had piano, but that's only 3 doors up, and Thomas had choir at the school, which just needs a slightly later pick-up. Homework went well, dinner was tasty, dishwasher was emptied earlier so kitchen was tidied very quickly after dinner!! Result!

And then....choir!!

We are performing in the biggest, oldest cathedral in the city on Friday!!!!! I know I've only been going a few weeks, but we are all encouraged to go...so I'm going!! Can't wait!

We are singing 5 songs and they are all gorgeous. I have them all taped on my phone, so will be singing all week!!

So, today I am grateful for the good day. I enjoyed every minute.

Gratefully yours.
xx

Mrs Motivator

Why, oh why is motivation such a hard thing to come by???

Today I am grateful for visitors....without them my house would be a constant tip!!

K's mam was invited for Sunday lunch, so I spent the morning tidying and dusting (yes, I actually dusted!!!).

Now, it wasn't a hard slog, and I wasn't rushing around getting in a lather. It was just a nice calm go around, picking things up and putting them away, then giving a wee squirt and rub with a duster. It doesn't take long and it doesn't kill me, but the end result is lovely!!

This is what is so annoying, and so hard to fathom! I really do love a clean and tidy house, but trying to get motivated on any sort of regular basis is just impossible.

So, I say again, thank goodness for visitors!!

And, I mean, Mam is coming over in two weeks....what more motivation does a body need!!! My house won't know what's happening over the next two weeks!!!! (Nor will the kids!! Their rooms are only half done, so the whip will be coming out!!!)

All I can say is, thank goodness I know when to expect Mam...the day she starts surprise visits I'll be in trouble!!!

Gratefully yours.
xx

Satunday

Today I am grateful that it is only Saturday!!

I'm so used, these days, to working on a Saturday, that it's felt like Sunday all day today......so I get to do it all again tomorrow!!!

Only problem is, there will be no Strictly tomorrow!            :(   - that's a sad face!!

Ah well, I'll get over it!

Gratefully yours.
xx

That time of year.

There really is only one thing to be grateful for today...

...sequins and dresses and music and fake tan and Craig and Len and the whole kit and caboodle!!

Yes, today I am grateful for the return of Strictly.

I think, apart from all of the above, I love Strictly because it's one of the few things on the telly these days (hark at Old Mother Hubbard here!!) that we can sit and enjoy as a family! Usually with the telly it's them or us, so it's nice to be able to enjoy it together.

So, let the competition begin!!
Bring it on!!!

Gratefully yours.
x x

Autumn mist

Mist rising up from the river

Leaves change to orange and red

Sun shining low in the misty glow

And summer flowers all but dead

The key now is guessing just what to wear

when weather can change just like that

It's handy to know that wherever you go

you need brolly, sunglasses and hat

Autumn is slow but not sleepy

It's taking the time to take stock

It's gathering nuts, not stuck on our butts

So that winter is not such a shock

So with mist rising up from the river

and the trees showing off their best side

I am ready to face the next stage of the race

and am taking the change in my stride.

Autumn - by Megan Joyce

Getting it done

Don't get me wrong now...I didn't do a whole heck of a lot today, but I did get some stuff done!!

It's great to be feeling better and have some energy to do anything!

Today I am grateful for the health that I really do take for granted!

When you have your health, anything is possible. The sky's the limit and you can go just as far as your energy will take you...which in my case was into town for a bit of shopping!!!

Now, however, it's time for bed! Thank goodness!!!

Gratefully yours.
xx

That loving feeling

Firstly, let me assure you all that I am still alive and kicking!

Thankfully my bug was a 24hour one, and I am feeling much more like myself today.

Today I am grateful that 20 years ago today I met the love of my life, and managed, somehow, to convince him that I was the love of his life too!!!

20 years!!! That's a long time!

And he still surprises me all the time! I came home to a lovely bouquet of flowers and a card today to mark the occasion! And I was too busy feeling sorry for myself to even remember what day it was!!!

I really am one lucky lady, and I have someone amazing to be grateful for every single day.

Gratefully yours.
xx

sick as a dog

Sorry, this is a quicky!

Today I am grateful to have got through the day.

I have a tummy bug which just totally wiped me out. Been asleep almost all day.

Couldn't miss another blog though!! Thank goodness for smart phones!!!

Gratefully yours.
XX

Breathe deeply

Today was a nice relaxing Sunday.

Shopping, fairy cakes and lasagne.

Looking forward to Downton tonight, and a nice long sleep.

Looking forward even more to getting up early tomorrow and having a walk!! I hope to goodness it's not pouring rain!

And, best yet, a nice clear diary for the coming week! Only two mornings work and no late nights out!

Today I am grateful for the chance to breath deeply and recharge.

Gratefully yours.
xx

Two strikes

Well....it would appear that I have done it again!!!

No blog yesterday 28th September....I blame the shock of learning that not one, but both of my wonderful nieces are expecting on or around my Meggie's 10th birthday!

For that fact I am, of course, most grateful!

In all honesty though, I think the events of the last couple of weeks, and my debilitating cold (I'm still awaiting the sacks full of "get well soon" cards, by the way!!) have just drained me. I've been going to bed early and still not feeling awake enough to get up for my walk in the morning....and that, I think, is the problem.

So, I must get back into my early morning walks and hopefully get my energy flowing again. That will, I hope, then stop me from forgetting my blog!!!

Today I am grateful that my cold has now left the building, and I can get back to being grateful!!!

Gratefully yours.
xx

The will to live

You will all be pleased to hear that the worst is over! I was feeling much better today...yes, Mam, I should have taken your advice on the hot rum toddie sooner!!!

So today I am grateful that I no longer have a nose to rival that well known Reindeer that leads the sleigh driven by that well known jolly figure who will not be named at this point in the year, on pain of death!!!

Yes, I think it's safe to say that my will to live has returned and I actually enjoyed the day, warts and all.

That is not to say that it's not safer to have another hot rum toddie...well, better safe than sorry!!!

Gratefully yours.
xx

Feeling sorry

I'm glad I wasn't working today!

It gave me time to feel miserable and sorry for myself in my own house, getting in nobody's way! I had a stottin' headache and was stuffed up and coughing! Didn't move off my chair all morning...well, I couldn't! My head was thumping!! No sympathy, please! I can cope!

But, today I am most grateful that by "picking up the kids from school" time I was feeling a bit better and was able to carry out my motherly duties for the afternoon and evening.

Which was just as well, 'cos Wednesday seems to have become the new Tuesday! What with piano, Gaelic football, singing and brownies, and not forgetting homework and cooking the dinner, I'm niver af the heid o' the road!!!

Ah, the joys!!!

But, as I said, I am feeling better, thank goodness, and am planning a rum and milk toddie tonight...thanks Mam!!! (Any other toddie suggestions will be gratefully received and sampled over the next while, even if the cold clears up!!!)

Gratefully yours.
xx

Whisky galore

Today I am grateful for hot whisky!!!

I'm absolutely stuffed with the cold. Thought I was over the worst yesterday, but am really stuffed today.

So, I've just had a lovely hot whisky and I'm off to bed to sweat it off!!!

Any other suggestions for a quick and painless resolution will be gratefully received.

Gratefully yours.
xx

Give and take

Well, more like give and receive.

I'm sure I'm preaching to the converted here, but the old saying really is true...no matter how you choose to phrase it!

You reap what you sow. You get back what you put in. And then some!!

I'm stuffed with the cold (everybody say aaaw), I was at work all day (another aaaw) and I had choir in the evening, straight from work (anybody got a "poor soul" for me? No? I thought not!!).

At about 5pm I was seriously considering ditching choir practice because I was feeling lousy and tired, but, as I have to miss next week due to an open night at Thomas's intended secondary school, I thought I'd better go.

Well...after putting in a small amount of energy and effort to get myself there, I'm now feeling better than I have all day! Even if I was too croaky to hit any of the even vaguely high notes!! (Go, on then. One more aaaw! You know you want to!!)

Now if only I could bottle the feeling, and sniff it every time my will-power was low!!

Ah well...I've got you guys to remind me!!

Gratefully yours.
xx

Easy does it

Thank goodness for a quiet day.

A day to take stock and re-group before returning to real life after our hiatus.

It really feels like we were lifted out of our real lives and put on the side-lines for a week. Now it's time to jump back into the game and hope we didn't miss too much.

So it was nice to just be at home today and get re-organised. It's amazing how much washing accumulates in a week. It's just as well I have two large clothes horses!!

The kids were both out with friends this afternoon, which was great for them, and K went out with his mam and sisters. I had thought that I might get a nice quiet seat, but what with Skyping, washing and cooking, not much chance of that!! But, d'you know what? It was great just to be doing ordinary household stuff>

So, today I am grateful to be back in the game!

And I really mean it! I am glad to be back to washing and cooking and shopping....ironing I'm not so sure about, so I'm not going there today!!!

Gratefully yours.
xx

The missing blog

OMG!!!

I can't believe I missed a day!!

I went up to lie and read with Meg last night at just after 8pm (the boys were out at a rugby match), and the next I knew was the boys coming in at after 10pm!

I'm so sorry!

Today, well, yesterday, I was grateful for a busy day at work.

Unusual for a Saturday, but the shop I was working in has a doctor's surgery very close by and he opens on a Saturday morning.

It meant that the day went quickly.

Once more, I apologise for my tardiness!!!

Gratefully yours.
xx

Sigh of relief

A was able to heave a huge sigh of relief today....

I was at the dentist this morning. I have been suffering very, VERY sensitive teeth on one side of my mouth for the last few weeks. I was absolutely sure that I needed, if not one, then at least two fillings!

Well, after x-raying both top and bottom, my dentist assured me that my teeth were absolutely perfect, in fact, that they would out-live me. He said that my bone level was excellent, meaning that I was nowhere near gum disease, and there was definitely no sign of a cavity next nor near my teeth!

Enter one huge sigh of relief!!!

Okay, so the bad news is I still don't know why I have the pain! But I'm so delighted that I don't need fillings that I will cross that bridge when next I come to it!!!

Today I am grateful that I have good genes!!!

Dad had "teeth like a horse" (which I have always assumed was a good thing!) and mam still has a great mouthful of her own teeth.

What more can I say!!

Gratefully yours.
xx

Goodbye Tom

Today I am grateful that Tom got the send-off he deserved.

So many people came to pay their respects to a man that once met, will never be forgotten.

The day was sad, but was a celebration of the man that was Tom Joyce, and the legacy that he has left behind him.

I am grateful that I knew him.

Wherever he went, he left behind a smile.

Gratefully yours.
xx

You're never alone

I've been overwhelmed again by all the support being given to Kieran and his family.

I'm especially grateful today that my sister Susan and lovely Lawrie have come over to add their support.

But it is honestly amazing how many people have come to Nancy's house and to the funeral home to pay their last respects to Tom and give support to the family. And it really does support them, literally holding them upright when they want to give up.

I'll tell you, I will never feel awkward at a funeral again! Every hand-shake, every show of sympathy helps ease the way.

Gratefully yours.
xx

Support network

I've said it before, so I shall bore you all again!!!

Where would we be without friends and family?

The Irish wake is under way, and has, so far, been filled with both tears and laughter. The house has been full of friends and family. Some just passing through, and some lingering a while. All reminiscing and sharing happy memories of Tom. A true celebration of his life.

I think it has been good for the kids to see that death is part of life. It takes some of the fear and mystery out of death for them. It is not dark and frightening and scary. It is not something to be whispered about and never explained. It is a part of life that we must all face time and time again, and we should not have to hide from it.

Today I am grateful for the way today felt right.

Gratefully yours.
xx

Rest in peace

Kieran's Dad died this morning.

Today I am grateful that his last few hours were peaceful, and that Kieran, his Mam and two of his sisters were able to be there with him.

May he rest in peace.

Gratefully yours.
xx

Feet on the ground

Today I am grateful for the kids.

Whatever else is going on, they keep our feet on the ground.

Life goes on for them, just as it always does. Soccer matches, over at pals houses, making fairy cakes.

So I am grateful for the normality of having them around, forcing me to have a normal day and keeping me grounded.

Gratefully yours.
xx

Repeat that please

I've said it before, and I'll say it again....today I am grateful for a nice glass of ice-cold rose at the end of a difficult day!

Sometimes, when emotions are hard to handle, you just need to have a good cry...or a nice glass of ice-cold rose!

Meggie prefers a good cry! Even if, most of the time, she's not sure why she's crying!

I can quite easily manage both!

Life can be a bitch...or it can be a beach! It's up to us to make of it the best we can.

Cheers!

Gratefully yours.
xx

Hairdressing heaven

Today I am grateful for hairdressers - the actual place, as well as the girls!

Fancied a wee treat this morning as I'm a bit under the weather (big aaaw!!!). So, I phoned and got an appointment for a haircut.

I just love the whole experience: the coffee when you go in, the lovely smelling shampoo, the gorgeous scalp massage while they wash your hair, the brushing and drying! Total bliss!

And nothing else to worry about for the whole hour. Just enjoy the pampering!! I've even discovered that if you only give one word answers, the hairdresser gives up trying to talk to you!!!

I'm never totally happy with the end result (can dry it better myself at this stage!). But, it's not the destination that's important...it's the journey!!

Gratefully yours.
xx

The butterfly effect

A couple of days ago, on one of the nice summery afternoons, a beautiful butterfly flew into the shop. The lady I was working with nearly lost her life! She was amazed when I said that I loved butterflies!

After I gently managed to persuade said butterfly to leave, we were speaking about our likes and hates in the insect kingdom. I admitted that while I loved butterflies, I really couldn't take to moths at all! Definitely the poor relations!

This morning, I was out walking, and at this stage, it is pretty much still dark when I go out, so I'm walking in the light of the street lights. I kept seeing these beautiful white butterflies dancing around the bushes like little ballerinas in pure white tu-tus. It took me a while to realise that they were, of course, moths!

So I must apologise to the moths for not looking beyond first appearances and seeing them for the beauties they really are.

Today I am grateful for the gentle reminder not to be judgemental, but to accept things the way they are.

Gratefully yours.
xx

Not just a pretty face

Wonderful walk

I had a wonderful walk this morning.

We walked to school (decided this year that petrol has gone far too expensive to be using the car for short runs) and then I just kept on walking.

I must have been about half way round when my Mindful Bell sounded, so as I walked, I really tried to experience everything around me.

How my feet felt against the pavement, the cool air on my arms, the warm, damp feel of the sweat on my back, the smell of lilac and honeysuckle from the bushes along the side of the walk, the sound of the birds, and the traffic rushing by on the main road.

And I smiled. If all there is is this moment, then life is wonderful. I really felt peaceful and happy.

Today I am grateful for taking the time to really be in the moment.

Note to self...remember to set Mindful Bell to start sounding from earlier in the morning. It doesn't usually go off when I'm walking 'cos I'm out too early!

Gratefully yours.
xx

A change of pace

Tuesday...the dreaded Tuesday!

New schedule though! And it looks like it will be a bit easier than last term!

Ballet is now not on till 5.30, giving both kids time to do homework (which is still going very well...yes, I know it's only been  a week!!), me time to make dinner, and K time to get home before I leave with Meggie, meaning that Thomas is a happy camper!

By the time we get home from ballet, Thomas has gone to soccer training, and as I am not usually needed for collecting from soccer, I'm done!!!

Ta da!!!

Tuesday is no longer the worst day of the week!!!

Today I am grateful for ever changing schedules!

They do say, a change is as good as a rest!! Well, almost!!!

Gratefully yours.
xx

A choir of angels

I joined a choir tonight....and I do believe that I have found my spiritual home!!

The choir is connected to the music school where I have my singing lessons. In fact it was my teacher who suggested I might like to try it, when I told him I felt a bit lost about where I was going with my singing.

Well....what a choir! There are about eighty to a hundred people there, They were only formed a year or so ago, and have already performed in Poland! There was talk of entering some competitions next year, in Ireland and abroad! They are, in fact, a fabulous choir.

I really love all the harmonies involved in choral singing, and these guys do it well.

So, the question is, if I feel at home in such a great choir, full of great singers....why am I so nervous and scared about singing in front of people??? Strange!!!

Anyway, today I am grateful that I have finally found the creative outlet that I have needed for so long!

I am, as they say, a very happy camper tonight!!

Gratefully yours.
xx

Home sweet home

My two babbies are asleep upstairs, and all is right with the world.

Meggie is home after her stint at Brownie Camp. Two whole nights away from home! That's all of, oh, about 6 hours sleep!

She was exhausted! Happy, but exhausted.

And, you know, it's funny, but I missed her usual non-stop chatter! I picked her up at lunch time, expecting a blow-by-blow account of the weekend...and she hardly said a word all the way home! Just too much effort to speak!

So, today I am glad that I have my wee family all back together again.

Mammy hen can sleep easy tonight!!

Gratefully yours.
xx

The sweetest sound

I was out at work all day today.

Came home, had dinner, watched a couple of rubbishy films on the TV.

Then Meggie phoned from camp!

She was absolutely wired to the moon! They didn't sleep till the early hours of the morning, and, by the sounds of it, were out hiking in the woods most of the day!

She sounded wonderful! Full of energy and excitement!

I'm so glad she went and is having this experience.

But I miss her!!!

Today I am grateful for hearing her wee voice before I go to bed!

Gratefully yours.
xx

Baby blues

My baby's gone off to Brownie camp!!

Two nights away in a lovely converted stone cottage, at the edge of a forest, at the foot of a bunch of hills!

And, to get herself into the mood, she announced this morning that she wanted to walk home from school with "the girls" today, so I needn't bother going to the school at lunch time.

OMG!!! She's growing up!!! Stop the bus!!!

I really have to make the most of every minute, 'cos the time is coming, faster than I care to admit, when I will be surplus to requirements!!

Today I am grateful for the here and the now. I am grateful for my two babies, exactly as they are...warts and all!

Note to self....remember the above the next time Meggie starts arguing or Thomas starts being cheeky!

Gratefully yours.
xx

Mindful Bell

I downloaded the mindful bell onto my phone the other day.

It sounds once during every hour, not at the same time, which is good, because I can't use it to tell me the time!!

I absolutely love it! Every time I hear it, I just smile. It just reminds me to be grateful for whatever is going on around me at the time, whether I'm at work, at home, or out and about.

Today I am grateful for that little reminder.

I think it is really helping to make me a little bit more mindful, and aware of where I am and what I am doing.

Gratefully yours.
xx

Songs of praise

What did I say about back to routine???

What a rush this afternoon!

Pick up kids from school and cook a dinner while Thomas did his homework. Out the door just over half an hour later, to singing. Both of us are going on a Wednesday afternoon now, 'cos it makes more sense than driving out there twice. Meggie sat in one of the music rooms and did her homework, while Thomas and I sang our hearts out.

Thomas then did a quick change in the car (found out later that he seems to have left his shoes in the car park outside the music school!!) and I dropped him off at Robert's house on our way home. Robert's dad was waiting to take the boys to a soccer match, hence the need for dinner before the singing!

Home and dished up dinner for K and myself, then out the door with Meg for brownies...and back to collect her an hour later!!!

Today I am grateful for that half an hour of wonderful, heart-lifting, purely indulgent me-time that is my singing lesson!

I'm going to join their choir too!

Gratefully yours.
xx

Good 'nuf reason

I'm in work every day this week.

It's hectic!!

Today I am glad I'm only working half days!!!!!

I'm also very glad that I am only an employee. I can only imagine the stress the bosses have been under in the last while, trying to keep staff levels up to the necessary levels for a busy shop.Good enough reason for sticking with the part-time locum work!!!

So, work, stress and sore feet till 1pm...then home to the full time job! It's much less stressful!!

Gratefully yours.
xx

'ice to be back

Can I firstly say "thank you" for all the recent comments. I do appreciate the feedback. Can't believe I am still doing this after 8 months! Thank you for sticking with me!!!

I was back at work in Adare today. First time since before the "summer" break!

It's a lovely shop. One wall is almost completely glass, and in the afternoons, assuming there is any sun at all, it shines straight in, heating up the entire shop like a wee oven.

This afternoon was one such sunny one....well, it would be, the kids are back at school!

My assistant excused herself for a few minutes to go into the Centra next door. When she came back, she handed me a gorgeous looking soft ice-cream cone, complete with flake. Just what the doctor ordered!!

"I didn't ask you, because I knew you'd say no. But here's a treat for your first day back!"

Today I am grateful for thoughtful gestures.

And she was right...I would have said no! So I'm very glad she didn't ask!!!

Gratefully yours.
xx

Normal Norman

Here we are again. School is looming!

Thomas is back tomorrow for his first day, Meggie is looking forward to homework tomorrow!!!

At this stage (quarter to 10) Thomas is asleep and Meggie almost! Amazing! Mind you, Thomas played 18 holes of golf with K today in the Parent/child competition at the golf club! I'd say K will asleep fairly soon also!!!

I can feel normality and familiar routine setting in already!

And, of course, the weather forecast is showing only bright sunshine for the next week and a half!!! After summer holidays full of nothing but rain! Typical!!

Today I am grateful for life as we know it.

Don't get me wrong. I love the change of seasons too. But I do like my routine!!

Mind you....all the after-school activities will be starting up again soon too!!!!!

Gratefully yours.
xx