I've just been saying goodnight to the kids. You know the drill - kisses, cuddles, putting lights off, fending off requests to "come in to my bed...just for a wee while!"
When I told Thomas I was trying to write my blog, his reply was that I really needed to stay with him for a while, because he is my inspiration!
He certainly makes me laugh!
And in fairness to him...I was actually going to write about him tonight, because we had the morning together, just the two of us. There was a referendum today, and his school is a polling station.
We had a great time! He loves Costa as much as I do (well, he loves their white chocolate and raspberry muffins!) and he actually quite enjoys clothes shopping too! And no...I didn't drag him along doing what I wanted to do! It was his suggestion!!!
He tried on a fabulous pair of skinny jeans...they made him look so grown up, and with his hair down over his eyes he really did look like a teen idol pop star! (Who says I'm biased???) Unfortunately, he's like his mam...needs his comfort too much to bother with skinny jeans!! So it's back to the track suit bottoms!!
I'm just glad he's still happy to be seen in public with his mam!!!
Today I am grateful for my inspirational son! He's a one-off.
Meggie is off school tomorrow for the bank holiday weekend and poor Thomas is back at school, so look out for inspiration part two!!!
Gratefully yours.
xx
Thursday, 31 May 2012
Wednesday, 30 May 2012
Love is...
Undeniable...
I very nearly put my hand on top of them to lean over the wall, looking at the swans!
 |
| Can you spot the love-heart? |
I very nearly put my hand on top of them to lean over the wall, looking at the swans!
Today I am grateful that I had my phone with me and have figured out how to take close-up photos with it!!
That's it! I don't think I need to say any more...so I won't!
Gratefully yours.
xx
PS. Have just discovered that if you click on the photo you will get a bigger view of it! xx
PS. Have just discovered that if you click on the photo you will get a bigger view of it! xx
Tuesday, 29 May 2012
Peace and quiet
stop
breathe
be still and calm
let the sounds of the world carry on
without you
they will not stop, you cannot silence them
so just let them be
stop
breathe
be here and now
let the thoughts in your head
wander out of your consciousness
they will not go far, so you need not follow
stop
breathe
for you are alive
listen to the silence within
and hear
the sound
of peace
Today I am grateful for remembering that to find a bit of peace, I have to find a bit of quiet...inside as well as out.
Gratefully yours.
xx
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| A stairway to heaven? |
xx
Monday, 28 May 2012
The challenge
Today I am glad that I have been given a challenge, and have found that I am rising to it!
I have, due to some very sad circumstances, found myself working more or less full time over the last week. The last time I did that I was 6 months pregnant with Megan!
I must admit that my legs are finding it tough. Bad enough being on my feet all day, but then I have a 20 minute walk back to the car!
What I have found though, is that I am well capable of looking after the shop - taking care of things that I would normally leave to the bosses. It has been busy, but I have stayed calm and the work has all been done.
I am very glad that I have been able to help in this way. It's a good feeling to know that I have been of some use, that I have been able to take a little weight off shoulders that have had more than their fair share of worry and stress recently.
Gratefully yours.
xx
I have, due to some very sad circumstances, found myself working more or less full time over the last week. The last time I did that I was 6 months pregnant with Megan!
I must admit that my legs are finding it tough. Bad enough being on my feet all day, but then I have a 20 minute walk back to the car!
What I have found though, is that I am well capable of looking after the shop - taking care of things that I would normally leave to the bosses. It has been busy, but I have stayed calm and the work has all been done.
I am very glad that I have been able to help in this way. It's a good feeling to know that I have been of some use, that I have been able to take a little weight off shoulders that have had more than their fair share of worry and stress recently.
Gratefully yours.
xx
Sunday, 27 May 2012
You know it's summer...
You know it's summer when you have to clear all the jumpers and long sleeved tops out of your drawers to make room for thin, short sleeved, brightly coloured creations.
You have to wear your sunglasses for your early morning walk!!
The house breathes a sigh of relief because all the windows are opened in the attempt to tease in some cooler air from outside.
You decide to attempt a fake tan, and then scrub most of it off again in fear of looking like an Umpa-Loompa!
You can't keep the kids dry - think paddling pools, basins, buckets, water-pistols and water-balloons!! Basically anything that will hold and release water!!
The shopping list includes lettuce, peppers, tomatoes and cucumber instead of carrots, turnips and parsnips!
The first rose blossoms with grace and dignity, giving just a hint of the wonderful aroma that will fill the garden in a few weeks time.
You can hang up the washing outside!!!
Every one is smiling.
Today I am grateful that, for however long it lasts, summer has arrived!
Gratefully yours.
xx
You have to wear your sunglasses for your early morning walk!!
The house breathes a sigh of relief because all the windows are opened in the attempt to tease in some cooler air from outside.
You decide to attempt a fake tan, and then scrub most of it off again in fear of looking like an Umpa-Loompa!
You can't keep the kids dry - think paddling pools, basins, buckets, water-pistols and water-balloons!! Basically anything that will hold and release water!!
The shopping list includes lettuce, peppers, tomatoes and cucumber instead of carrots, turnips and parsnips!
The first rose blossoms with grace and dignity, giving just a hint of the wonderful aroma that will fill the garden in a few weeks time.
You can hang up the washing outside!!!
Every one is smiling.
Today I am grateful that, for however long it lasts, summer has arrived!
Gratefully yours.
xx
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| My first rose of the summer. |
A good night out
Today I am grateful for the good things in life - good food, good company and good conversation.
We are just back, all four of us, from a lovely night out with our gang.
I was very tired, hot and up to high-doe earlier and couldn't face going out. But after a cool shower and a 5 minute breather, we gathered up our bits and pieces (including 2 home-made pavlovas!! YUM) and headed out.
And, of course, it was well worth it. Reminded me of what is really important!
Gratefully yours.
xx
We are just back, all four of us, from a lovely night out with our gang.
I was very tired, hot and up to high-doe earlier and couldn't face going out. But after a cool shower and a 5 minute breather, we gathered up our bits and pieces (including 2 home-made pavlovas!! YUM) and headed out.
And, of course, it was well worth it. Reminded me of what is really important!
Gratefully yours.
xx
Friday, 25 May 2012
We're havin' a heat wave...
... a tropical heat wave!!
I'm just not built for this weather! Working all day in an oven (even with a fan blowing all day, there's just no air!) and then home to a house that's wonderful at retaining the heat!!!
But as usual, my wonderfully talented daughter came up with the solution.
Our very own indoor pool!
Just as well Thomas was out...'cos there just wouldn't have been room for any more!!!
Of course, the pool had to be brought outside and then Meggie donned her swimming togs!
Thomas was brought home for bed time... and it escalated from there!!!
By the time I got them in for bed, they were both soaked through, and I wasn't far behind!!
I don't know what the neighbours thought (do I care???) because the hilarity was not quiet!
Today I am grateful for the opportunity to behave like a child, and have some real fun!
And at 26 degrees...it certainly cooled us down!!
Gratefully yours.
xx
I'm just not built for this weather! Working all day in an oven (even with a fan blowing all day, there's just no air!) and then home to a house that's wonderful at retaining the heat!!!
But as usual, my wonderfully talented daughter came up with the solution.
Our very own indoor pool!
Of course, the pool had to be brought outside and then Meggie donned her swimming togs!
Thomas was brought home for bed time... and it escalated from there!!!
By the time I got them in for bed, they were both soaked through, and I wasn't far behind!!
I don't know what the neighbours thought (do I care???) because the hilarity was not quiet!
Today I am grateful for the opportunity to behave like a child, and have some real fun!
And at 26 degrees...it certainly cooled us down!!
Gratefully yours.
xx
Thursday, 24 May 2012
The early bird
I didn't have to go far today, or far into the day, to find a "wow" moment...something to lift the spirits.
The first thing I was when I stepped out the front gate this morning for my walk was this amazing sky. A wonderful example of the beauty achieved when man and nature collaborate.
I'm not sure the photos do it justice. But I walked further than normal this morning trying to get the perfect view for a photo. I could see it, but really I guess I needed a panoramic shot, and my phone just doesn't quite get there.
Anyway, today I am grateful for the wonderful things that are possible when two unlikely sources join forces!
Thought for the day!!!
Gratefully yours.
xx
The first thing I was when I stepped out the front gate this morning for my walk was this amazing sky. A wonderful example of the beauty achieved when man and nature collaborate.
Anyway, today I am grateful for the wonderful things that are possible when two unlikely sources join forces!
Thought for the day!!!
Gratefully yours.
xx
Wednesday, 23 May 2012
Missing in action
Today I was grateful to have been kept very busy at work all morning.
Gorgeous always comes and goes in the morning. She goes out to do her morning business, then comes in for breakfast. Then she goes out for a stroll round her domain (magpies permitting!), then she comes in and goes up into her bed as we head off out to school and work. If we are ready for off before she has come in, a quick shake of her treat box brings her home double time.
Well...not today! There was no sign of her as we prepared to get out to school. Meggie shook the box until half of Limerick was wondering what the noise was, but to no avail. In the end I decided to drop the kids at school and come home again before heading off again for work!
Still no sign of our errant pussy cat. I shook the treat box till the treats were mush. I shouted and cajoled, clapped and kissed the air. No joy.
So, for the first time ever Gorgeous had to stay out all morning!
Like I say...I've never been so glad to be busy! If I had had time to think, I would have worried my way to lunch-time!
She was, of course, waiting at the door when I came home, and none to pleased at being left out!
I think I'm just about forgiven, but her favour is hard won today, I must say! You'd think that I'd deliberately abandoned her to a fate worse than death!
I'm just glad she's home!!!
Gratefully yours.
xx
Gorgeous always comes and goes in the morning. She goes out to do her morning business, then comes in for breakfast. Then she goes out for a stroll round her domain (magpies permitting!), then she comes in and goes up into her bed as we head off out to school and work. If we are ready for off before she has come in, a quick shake of her treat box brings her home double time.
Well...not today! There was no sign of her as we prepared to get out to school. Meggie shook the box until half of Limerick was wondering what the noise was, but to no avail. In the end I decided to drop the kids at school and come home again before heading off again for work!
Still no sign of our errant pussy cat. I shook the treat box till the treats were mush. I shouted and cajoled, clapped and kissed the air. No joy.
So, for the first time ever Gorgeous had to stay out all morning!
Like I say...I've never been so glad to be busy! If I had had time to think, I would have worried my way to lunch-time!
She was, of course, waiting at the door when I came home, and none to pleased at being left out!
I think I'm just about forgiven, but her favour is hard won today, I must say! You'd think that I'd deliberately abandoned her to a fate worse than death!
I'm just glad she's home!!!
Gratefully yours.
xx
Tuesday, 22 May 2012
To health and hapiness
Today I am grateful for my health.
All around me, friends are having a hard time due to ill health of one sort or another.
It brings in home just how important it is to look after your health, both physical and mental. You just never know how long you will have it!
So, yet another good reason to live mindfully now. Make the most of every moment.
Gratefully yours.
xx
Monday, 21 May 2012
Sleeping Beauty
I phoned up this morning and got tickets for Megan, Thomas and me to go and see Sleeping Beauty, by Ballet Theatre UK this evening.
It was brill!
I wish I was a ballerina!!! I wanted so much to be one when I was young, but my ballet teacher said that my tea-tray-like-bum was going to prevent my dream from coming true! How cruel!! True, but cruel!
Both the kids seemed to really enjoy it.
Thomas says very little, other than that he doesn't see a career in ballet for himself! He reckons it looks like it's far too hard for him!
Meggie said that she wanted to see lots of ballets to inspire her in her own dancing. She was, however, not impressed with the male dancers attire! I mean white tights don't hide a lot!! Not that I noticed, of course!!
So, today I am grateful that I am able to enjoy part of my childhood with my own bairns. Special!
Gratefully yours.
xx
It was brill!
I wish I was a ballerina!!! I wanted so much to be one when I was young, but my ballet teacher said that my tea-tray-like-bum was going to prevent my dream from coming true! How cruel!! True, but cruel!
Both the kids seemed to really enjoy it.
Thomas says very little, other than that he doesn't see a career in ballet for himself! He reckons it looks like it's far too hard for him!
Meggie said that she wanted to see lots of ballets to inspire her in her own dancing. She was, however, not impressed with the male dancers attire! I mean white tights don't hide a lot!! Not that I noticed, of course!!
So, today I am grateful that I am able to enjoy part of my childhood with my own bairns. Special!
Gratefully yours.
xx
Sunday, 20 May 2012
Doin' stuff
Meggie always wants to be "doin' stuff".
Today the requests were baking, gardening and swimming.
Baring in mind that we had to go to Family Mass this morning, I had a weeks food shop to do, and Thomas's soccer club had a fun day organised for this afternoon, I did warn her that it would not be possible to do everything! Something had to give!!
So the swimming was knocked off the agenda! Baking and gardening remained, and as I could find no acceptable excuses, and the fun day turned out only to be fun for boys....baking (with "fake" sugar so Daddy can eat it) and gardening (blooming ant bites are sore!!!) it was.
And a very enjoyable afternoon it was too (not counting the ant bites! I'm not kidding! They are really sore! Good tip though...I put lemon juice on them straight away so they didn't sting for too long, and I'm hoping they don't come up like midge bites tomorrow!!).
Today I am grateful for stuff to do with my girl. I don't always feel like doing whatever stuff she has in mind, but it always seems to be worth it in the end!
Gratefully yours.
xx
Today the requests were baking, gardening and swimming.
Baring in mind that we had to go to Family Mass this morning, I had a weeks food shop to do, and Thomas's soccer club had a fun day organised for this afternoon, I did warn her that it would not be possible to do everything! Something had to give!!
So the swimming was knocked off the agenda! Baking and gardening remained, and as I could find no acceptable excuses, and the fun day turned out only to be fun for boys....baking (with "fake" sugar so Daddy can eat it) and gardening (blooming ant bites are sore!!!) it was.
And a very enjoyable afternoon it was too (not counting the ant bites! I'm not kidding! They are really sore! Good tip though...I put lemon juice on them straight away so they didn't sting for too long, and I'm hoping they don't come up like midge bites tomorrow!!).
Today I am grateful for stuff to do with my girl. I don't always feel like doing whatever stuff she has in mind, but it always seems to be worth it in the end!
Gratefully yours.
xx
Saturday, 19 May 2012
Warning - smile inducers at work
Today I am grateful that after a long, boringly quiet day at work, I can come home and be absolutely bombarded with smile-inducers!
In the blue corner we have Thomas, Fergus and Upwards. Still practising away and expanding their repertoire daily.
In the pink corner we have Meggie, dropping everything for a hug and "bagsing" the space next to me when I go to bed, to read her book.
In the low down soft and fluffy corner we have Gorgeous the wonder cat, head-butting and purring her welcome home, and then demanding snackies! (You'd think no-one else fed her all day!!)
And in the forth and final corner we have K, cooking me a lovely dinner, not giving out to me for forgetting to bring home a bottle of wine and making rude and cheeky comments when I wondered aloud what I could be grateful for today!!!
I have no choice but to surrender to superior forces...and smile!
Gratefully yours.
xx
In the blue corner we have Thomas, Fergus and Upwards. Still practising away and expanding their repertoire daily.
In the pink corner we have Meggie, dropping everything for a hug and "bagsing" the space next to me when I go to bed, to read her book.
In the low down soft and fluffy corner we have Gorgeous the wonder cat, head-butting and purring her welcome home, and then demanding snackies! (You'd think no-one else fed her all day!!)
And in the forth and final corner we have K, cooking me a lovely dinner, not giving out to me for forgetting to bring home a bottle of wine and making rude and cheeky comments when I wondered aloud what I could be grateful for today!!!
I have no choice but to surrender to superior forces...and smile!
Gratefully yours.
xx
Friday, 18 May 2012
Rehearsals
Upwards are in rehearsal for their first concert tour!!
The boys have decided, I believe, to go down the route of all good "boy bands", and ditch the musical instruments. Good choice when they can't play them and don't have the patience to wait until they can!
I was privy to their rehearsals today and have to say that I was quite impressed. Fergus may not have the oomph that Thomas has when singing (could be singing in front of someone else's mum, not his own!), but he has a lovely voice, and certainly has soul!
I actually felt quite honoured!
Today I am grateful to have been allowed to hear them.
Now, don't misunderstand me...I don't expect to see them on Top Of The Pops any time soon, but they are living the dream, giving it 200 per cent (I would expect nothing less of Thomas!), and having a ball.
Sure, isn't that what it's all about???
Gratefully yours.
xx
The boys have decided, I believe, to go down the route of all good "boy bands", and ditch the musical instruments. Good choice when they can't play them and don't have the patience to wait until they can!
I was privy to their rehearsals today and have to say that I was quite impressed. Fergus may not have the oomph that Thomas has when singing (could be singing in front of someone else's mum, not his own!), but he has a lovely voice, and certainly has soul!
I actually felt quite honoured!
Today I am grateful to have been allowed to hear them.
Now, don't misunderstand me...I don't expect to see them on Top Of The Pops any time soon, but they are living the dream, giving it 200 per cent (I would expect nothing less of Thomas!), and having a ball.
Sure, isn't that what it's all about???
Gratefully yours.
xx
Thursday, 17 May 2012
The hardest job
Parenting is the hardest job in the world...and you get little or no training for it!
We do the best that we can but often it doesn't seem to be good enough. And the scariest thing of all is that if we get it wrong, then our kids have to live with it for the rest of their lives!!
I need to try very hard to step away from tense situations, and calm down before moving forward. Otherwise things just escalate and then we all end up feeling awful. I can really see how being mindfully present could help, but actually doing it is a whole different ball game. I can see how compassion and understanding could help, but in the heat of the moment it is so hard to see anyone else's point of view.
But if I don't try, try and keep on trying, then how can I expect my babies to learn compassion and understanding? How can I teach them to be loving, tolerant human beings if I don't act that way myself?
I'm being hard on myself tonight because I am angry with myself for losing my temper. It only makes things worse, and I can see that!!
So, today I am grateful that after a good night's sleep, I get a whole new 24 hours to try again to get it right, or at least do it better!!!
Gratefully yours.
xx
We do the best that we can but often it doesn't seem to be good enough. And the scariest thing of all is that if we get it wrong, then our kids have to live with it for the rest of their lives!!
I need to try very hard to step away from tense situations, and calm down before moving forward. Otherwise things just escalate and then we all end up feeling awful. I can really see how being mindfully present could help, but actually doing it is a whole different ball game. I can see how compassion and understanding could help, but in the heat of the moment it is so hard to see anyone else's point of view.
But if I don't try, try and keep on trying, then how can I expect my babies to learn compassion and understanding? How can I teach them to be loving, tolerant human beings if I don't act that way myself?
I'm being hard on myself tonight because I am angry with myself for losing my temper. It only makes things worse, and I can see that!!
So, today I am grateful that after a good night's sleep, I get a whole new 24 hours to try again to get it right, or at least do it better!!!
Gratefully yours.
xx
Wednesday, 16 May 2012
That extra hour
I'm tired.
I was working today and it was a slow, long day. One of those energy sappers.
I've been getting up early now for about a month, and it's not a chore! On a couple of mornings I have toyed with the idea of turning over and going back to sleep, but the benefits are far outweighing the risks, so up I get.
I find I'm sleeping better too. I mean head, hitting and pillow don't even come in to it! Out like a light. And if I get woken through the night, which (thanks and praise to all that is holy) is rare these days, I go straight back to sleep.
But I do get very droopy by about 10pm...then again, I guess I always did!!!
So what, you may ask, is the point in all this???
Good question! Not quite sure really, other than to shout in praise of getting up early and having a walk and some quiet time before launching into the blue.
Today I am grateful for my extra hour.
Eat your heart out British Summer Time!!!
Gratefully yours.
xx
I was working today and it was a slow, long day. One of those energy sappers.
I've been getting up early now for about a month, and it's not a chore! On a couple of mornings I have toyed with the idea of turning over and going back to sleep, but the benefits are far outweighing the risks, so up I get.
I find I'm sleeping better too. I mean head, hitting and pillow don't even come in to it! Out like a light. And if I get woken through the night, which (thanks and praise to all that is holy) is rare these days, I go straight back to sleep.
But I do get very droopy by about 10pm...then again, I guess I always did!!!
So what, you may ask, is the point in all this???
Good question! Not quite sure really, other than to shout in praise of getting up early and having a walk and some quiet time before launching into the blue.
Today I am grateful for my extra hour.
Eat your heart out British Summer Time!!!
Gratefully yours.
xx
Tuesday, 15 May 2012
A moment of clarity
I had a moment of clarity this morning when I was out walking. Now, don't mock! I know it doesn't happen very often but the early morning air seems to really get the old brain cells working!
Since my retreat in Killarney I have been pretty good at "waking up with a smile", and it certainly does start the day in the right frame of mind. But it doesn't always come easily. I often feel like I'm on a treadmill, one day pretty much like the last, with no end in sight.
Well, as I said, today I had a moment of clarity! I am still looking for "something", and in the looking I am missing the real deal! I am by-passing life in order to look for how I think life should be!
So all I have to do now is figure out how to stop doing that and I'll be quids in!!!
I think that I am basically a lazy kind of an individual...no, don't disagree with me! Oh, you were agreeing!!! Again, I think it takes a rare moment of clarity to recognise that I'm not just going to wake up tomorrow and be living a wonderfully mindful life...I am going to have to work at it!
But hey...if it's worth having...
And it most certainly is!
Today I am grateful for rare moments of clarity in my normally foggy brain!
And I think it's back to reading Thay's books for me!!!
Gratefully yours.
xx
Since my retreat in Killarney I have been pretty good at "waking up with a smile", and it certainly does start the day in the right frame of mind. But it doesn't always come easily. I often feel like I'm on a treadmill, one day pretty much like the last, with no end in sight.
Well, as I said, today I had a moment of clarity! I am still looking for "something", and in the looking I am missing the real deal! I am by-passing life in order to look for how I think life should be!
So all I have to do now is figure out how to stop doing that and I'll be quids in!!!
I think that I am basically a lazy kind of an individual...no, don't disagree with me! Oh, you were agreeing!!! Again, I think it takes a rare moment of clarity to recognise that I'm not just going to wake up tomorrow and be living a wonderfully mindful life...I am going to have to work at it!
But hey...if it's worth having...
And it most certainly is!
Today I am grateful for rare moments of clarity in my normally foggy brain!
And I think it's back to reading Thay's books for me!!!
Gratefully yours.
xx
Monday, 14 May 2012
A fresh start
We seem to be on a bit of a theme here. I've been tidying again. Well, more like clearing out.
Every year (well, I think it happens about once a year) we get a bag through the door for Cancer Research, looking for clothes and the like. Unlike all the stickers that come on a more or less daily basis, from less reputable sources (well...they don't even give you a bag!) I feel that Cancer Research is a good cause, and deserving of my support.
Pity they only give one bag though...I needed three!! Well, when you take into account kids clothes and a few pairs of shoes that were really never comfy in the first place!!!
But do you know what's better than the satisfaction of knowing that I am helping a good cause?? The satisfaction of opening my knicker drawer and being able to find what I need without rummaging!!!
No, don't worry, I didn't give all my faded and ripped undies to the charity!! But while I was on a roll, I kept on going!
My wardrobe is now colour-blocked, running from blacks, to blues, to turquoises...you get the picture! My chest-of-drawers is no longer stuffed to overflowing - I can put my hand in and pull out whatever I need whenever I need it! From now on it's going to be one item in - one item out. Well, that's the plan anyway!!!
But what's really made me stop and take stock is the fact that my wardrobe is still by no means empty. Neither is my chest-of-drawers! Why do I need so many clothes? This needs more thought.
Today I am grateful that being helpful to others has also proved to be very helpful to myself too!
Gratefully yours.
xx
Every year (well, I think it happens about once a year) we get a bag through the door for Cancer Research, looking for clothes and the like. Unlike all the stickers that come on a more or less daily basis, from less reputable sources (well...they don't even give you a bag!) I feel that Cancer Research is a good cause, and deserving of my support.
Pity they only give one bag though...I needed three!! Well, when you take into account kids clothes and a few pairs of shoes that were really never comfy in the first place!!!
But do you know what's better than the satisfaction of knowing that I am helping a good cause?? The satisfaction of opening my knicker drawer and being able to find what I need without rummaging!!!
No, don't worry, I didn't give all my faded and ripped undies to the charity!! But while I was on a roll, I kept on going!
My wardrobe is now colour-blocked, running from blacks, to blues, to turquoises...you get the picture! My chest-of-drawers is no longer stuffed to overflowing - I can put my hand in and pull out whatever I need whenever I need it! From now on it's going to be one item in - one item out. Well, that's the plan anyway!!!
But what's really made me stop and take stock is the fact that my wardrobe is still by no means empty. Neither is my chest-of-drawers! Why do I need so many clothes? This needs more thought.
Today I am grateful that being helpful to others has also proved to be very helpful to myself too!
Gratefully yours.
xx
Sunday, 13 May 2012
Onwards and upwards
Thomas and his best bud Fergus have started a band.
Nothing is impossible. They have printed t-shirts with the band's name on in - Upwards. They have fabulously funky neon posters made up. They have printed out tickets for their first gig (time and place are yet to be decided, but there is an option to buy VIP tickets if desired!). The writing of new songs did prove a little difficult, so they have decided to concentrate on cover versions for the time being. K has been roped in as manager, Megan as security (!!!) and I think my talents as writer of top-ten pop songs is to be called into play! Both of them have guitars.....but, unfortunately, neither one can play it...yet!!!
When do we lose it? When do we lose the faith that anything and everything is possible???
I have come to the firm conclusion that it is not only a parent's job to teach their children, it is also their job to learn from them!!
We forget so much of the joy and wonder of being alive as we "grow up". And losing that makes us lose faith in ourselves and what we are capable of. I know that living mindfully helps to bring that back to us, but if ever we need a reminder...!!!
Today I am grateful for my wonderful teachers!
Gratefully yours.
xx
Requests for autographs will be treated in the strictest confidence!!
Nothing is impossible. They have printed t-shirts with the band's name on in - Upwards. They have fabulously funky neon posters made up. They have printed out tickets for their first gig (time and place are yet to be decided, but there is an option to buy VIP tickets if desired!). The writing of new songs did prove a little difficult, so they have decided to concentrate on cover versions for the time being. K has been roped in as manager, Megan as security (!!!) and I think my talents as writer of top-ten pop songs is to be called into play! Both of them have guitars.....but, unfortunately, neither one can play it...yet!!!
When do we lose it? When do we lose the faith that anything and everything is possible???
I have come to the firm conclusion that it is not only a parent's job to teach their children, it is also their job to learn from them!!
We forget so much of the joy and wonder of being alive as we "grow up". And losing that makes us lose faith in ourselves and what we are capable of. I know that living mindfully helps to bring that back to us, but if ever we need a reminder...!!!
Today I am grateful for my wonderful teachers!
Gratefully yours.
xx
Saturday, 12 May 2012
Just smile
As I was driving home tonight, after a day's work, I stopped at a junction, to let some people cross the road in front of me. It was a couple, out for a walk, pushing a double-buggy with two toddlers.
As the mother raised her hand to say thanks for stopping, one of the toddlers - a wee angel with a black face and curly hair - looked over at me, waved, and gave me a 2000mega-watt smile.
There is nothing you can do under those circumstances except smile back!! No thinking necessary.
It makes my heart swell just recalling it!
Today I am grateful to that wee tyke for making my day by simply doing what, to him, came totally naturally!
Gratefully yours.
xx
As the mother raised her hand to say thanks for stopping, one of the toddlers - a wee angel with a black face and curly hair - looked over at me, waved, and gave me a 2000mega-watt smile.
There is nothing you can do under those circumstances except smile back!! No thinking necessary.
It makes my heart swell just recalling it!
Today I am grateful to that wee tyke for making my day by simply doing what, to him, came totally naturally!
Gratefully yours.
xx
Friday, 11 May 2012
A rose by any other name
Today I decided to change the way I think about things, by changing the wording!
I've never been what you would call a dedicated house-wife. My house gets a good spring clean...when I have visitors coming!!! I just hate house-work!
It's the sound of it, isn't it? House work.
But it's my day off! I don't want to have to work!
So, today, in the spirit of positive thinking, I decided to do some home-caring!!!
As Judy said...I went round the house, telling it how much I loved and cared for it!!
No, seriously, I just kept telling myself that I was caring for my home as I cleaned, and the time flew! And I didn't feel resentful, or stressed, or over-worked. And - bonus - my house looks tidy and (mostly) clean!!!
I shall try this technique again! I actually quite enjoyed home-caring, and I certainly like the results.
Today I am grateful for the power of words.
Gratefully yours.
xx
I've never been what you would call a dedicated house-wife. My house gets a good spring clean...when I have visitors coming!!! I just hate house-work!
It's the sound of it, isn't it? House work.
But it's my day off! I don't want to have to work!
So, today, in the spirit of positive thinking, I decided to do some home-caring!!!
As Judy said...I went round the house, telling it how much I loved and cared for it!!
No, seriously, I just kept telling myself that I was caring for my home as I cleaned, and the time flew! And I didn't feel resentful, or stressed, or over-worked. And - bonus - my house looks tidy and (mostly) clean!!!
I shall try this technique again! I actually quite enjoyed home-caring, and I certainly like the results.
Today I am grateful for the power of words.
Gratefully yours.
xx
Thursday, 10 May 2012
It's complimentary
Isn't it nice to get an unexpected compliment?
It gives you a boost, makes you smile. Just for a minute, you feel on top of the world.
And, strangely, I find it even more uplifting when it comes from a stranger. For someone you don't know to go to the bother of saying what's on their mind makes it even more valuable. I suppose that, as they don't know you from Adam, they are not just saying it because they feel they should, or because they think it will make you feel better...they are saying it because they mean it.
I bring this up because I got one such compliment this evening.
I was at the hairdresser getting a cut and blow dry. My stylist was spreading herself thin, so a less experienced girl was asked to dry my hair. Half way through drying, she said that she loved my colour. I was delighted to tell her that it was all natural, that I hadn't coloured my hair for a couple of years now and was embracing the grey. She replied that she knew that it was natural, but that she just thought it was a wonderful, warm and vibrant colour.
What a feeling!!
You should try it sometime. I told a customer at work the other day that she had amazing eyes...well she did!! The irises were completely speckled, and they looked, well, amazing! She seemed genuinely delighted, if a little bit worried that I should have noticed in the first place!
And the best thing about compliments is that the giver gets just about as much pleasure from it as the receiver!
Today I am grateful to the girl in the hairdressers for making my day!
Who's day will you make tomorrow???
Gratefully yours.
xx
It gives you a boost, makes you smile. Just for a minute, you feel on top of the world.
And, strangely, I find it even more uplifting when it comes from a stranger. For someone you don't know to go to the bother of saying what's on their mind makes it even more valuable. I suppose that, as they don't know you from Adam, they are not just saying it because they feel they should, or because they think it will make you feel better...they are saying it because they mean it.
I bring this up because I got one such compliment this evening.
I was at the hairdresser getting a cut and blow dry. My stylist was spreading herself thin, so a less experienced girl was asked to dry my hair. Half way through drying, she said that she loved my colour. I was delighted to tell her that it was all natural, that I hadn't coloured my hair for a couple of years now and was embracing the grey. She replied that she knew that it was natural, but that she just thought it was a wonderful, warm and vibrant colour.
What a feeling!!
You should try it sometime. I told a customer at work the other day that she had amazing eyes...well she did!! The irises were completely speckled, and they looked, well, amazing! She seemed genuinely delighted, if a little bit worried that I should have noticed in the first place!
And the best thing about compliments is that the giver gets just about as much pleasure from it as the receiver!
Today I am grateful to the girl in the hairdressers for making my day!
Who's day will you make tomorrow???
Gratefully yours.
xx
Wednesday, 9 May 2012
No comment
I am tired tonight.
I really wanted just to crawl up to bed, but knew that I had to do my blog first. I think for the first time since I started, I really had to push myself to sit down.
But what do I see when I turn on Gratefully Yours?
Comments!!!
There have been none for over a week...yes I notice these things!!!
So, just when I needed a kick...there it was. A reminder that I am not alone in this venture. I am not the only one looking for the more positive side of life.
So, today I am grateful for the reminder that I am never alone. Someone has always got my back!!!
Thank you, thank you, thank you.
Gratefully yours.
xx
I really wanted just to crawl up to bed, but knew that I had to do my blog first. I think for the first time since I started, I really had to push myself to sit down.
But what do I see when I turn on Gratefully Yours?
Comments!!!
There have been none for over a week...yes I notice these things!!!
So, just when I needed a kick...there it was. A reminder that I am not alone in this venture. I am not the only one looking for the more positive side of life.
So, today I am grateful for the reminder that I am never alone. Someone has always got my back!!!
Thank you, thank you, thank you.
Gratefully yours.
xx
Tuesday, 8 May 2012
Listen
I went out into the sitootrie this evening to enjoy the warmth and do a wee bit of crocheting...I'm nearly finished my bag!! I know it's taking a while, but I am really enjoying it, and feeling very proud of myself!
Gorgeous, however, had other ideas. She plonked herself in her favourite place...on my lap, front paws either side of my belly, and head resting right in the middle. (Who says I don't have the cuddliest belly around???)
I did try to carry on crocheting, but she was having none of it, planting her paw firmly over the wool, so I had to give up and just sit.
I closed my eyes and just sat, listening to all the sounds outside:
The small birds, chattering away to their neighbours in the hedges.
The magpies, shouting angrily, as usual, at anything and anyone.
The wood-pigeons crooning love songs to each other.
Cars on the by-pass, way in the distance...just a dull rumble really.
Someone diligently mowing the lawn...maybe with the promise of a cold beer afterwards!
The wee dog next-door yapping.
The big dog behind us wuff-ing in response.
Kids in a garden, laughing and screeching.
Teenagers over the wall, plotting who knows what!
Today I am grateful for that little bit of idle peace, allowing me to focus on nothing but the wonderful sounds of the world I live in.
Gratefully yours.
xx
Gorgeous, however, had other ideas. She plonked herself in her favourite place...on my lap, front paws either side of my belly, and head resting right in the middle. (Who says I don't have the cuddliest belly around???)
I did try to carry on crocheting, but she was having none of it, planting her paw firmly over the wool, so I had to give up and just sit.
I closed my eyes and just sat, listening to all the sounds outside:
The small birds, chattering away to their neighbours in the hedges.
The magpies, shouting angrily, as usual, at anything and anyone.
The wood-pigeons crooning love songs to each other.
Cars on the by-pass, way in the distance...just a dull rumble really.
Someone diligently mowing the lawn...maybe with the promise of a cold beer afterwards!
The wee dog next-door yapping.
The big dog behind us wuff-ing in response.
Kids in a garden, laughing and screeching.
Teenagers over the wall, plotting who knows what!
Today I am grateful for that little bit of idle peace, allowing me to focus on nothing but the wonderful sounds of the world I live in.
Gratefully yours.
xx
Monday, 7 May 2012
Sunday only better
I like holiday Mondays. It's like a Sunday, only better!
You've had Saturday, which is, more often than not, a nice quiet day at work. Then you get Sunday. Lazy day. Maybe a walk, a bit of light housework, a relaxed dinner....and then, pow! Another day to relax!
No rushing to get the kids out to school. No shopping that has to be done. Not even any housework...you did that yesterday, remember?
So, just a lovely, lazy, recharging the batteries day. And all the better if the weather is fine.
Now, we got sunshine and showers today, but the showers, although heavy, were few and far between. So, I had a lovely walk with the kids, Kieran got his game of golf, and stayed dry, and the kids had pals round in the afternoon, and were able (thank goodness!) to play out the back!
I did a bit of cooking, a bit of reading and a bit of crocheting. Nothing to strenuous or over-taxing...and I enjoyed every minute of it!
Today I am grateful for the time to re-generate, re-fuel and re-focus.
Bring on the June bank-holiday!!!!
Gratefully yours.
xx
You've had Saturday, which is, more often than not, a nice quiet day at work. Then you get Sunday. Lazy day. Maybe a walk, a bit of light housework, a relaxed dinner....and then, pow! Another day to relax!
No rushing to get the kids out to school. No shopping that has to be done. Not even any housework...you did that yesterday, remember?
So, just a lovely, lazy, recharging the batteries day. And all the better if the weather is fine.
Now, we got sunshine and showers today, but the showers, although heavy, were few and far between. So, I had a lovely walk with the kids, Kieran got his game of golf, and stayed dry, and the kids had pals round in the afternoon, and were able (thank goodness!) to play out the back!
I did a bit of cooking, a bit of reading and a bit of crocheting. Nothing to strenuous or over-taxing...and I enjoyed every minute of it!
Today I am grateful for the time to re-generate, re-fuel and re-focus.
Bring on the June bank-holiday!!!!
Gratefully yours.
xx
Sunday, 6 May 2012
The great Limerick run
Today saw the great Limerick run take place in glorious sunshine.
I would love to be able to tell you that I took part in it, maybe not in the marathon or half marathon, but maybe in the 6K fun-run...but I'm afraid I didn't even do that!
It did, however, shape my day (well, part of it anyway!)...
I had actually forgotten the run was on today when I went off, as I usually do on a Sunday, to do my food shopping for the week. I realised when I got to the main road and saw the runners and walkers passing down the road in their hundreds!
The road was open enough to let cars pass in both directions, as we had been led to believe that it would be, so I headed up the road the four or five hundred yards to the supermarket.
When I came out again about 3/4 of an hour later, I was very happy with myself because the supermarket had been uncommonly quiet, so I got round faster than usual.
It didn't take me too long though to realise that the road home was now closed! There were still hundreds of people, mostly walkers now, on the road and the Gards had, in their wisdom, decided to close the road completely to cars.
I had two options...one was to head in the opposite direction, pay the toll charge to go through the tunnel and come into town from the other end, hoping that the main road would be open coming in from that direction, to let me into the housing scheme...which was doubtful, as the route for the run was heading in that general direction. This would hopefully take no more than half an hour.
The second option, which I took, was to park the car and walk home with, at least, my bag of frozen goods! It only took 10 minutes, but the bag was not light!!
By the time I headed back with K to help with the rest of the bags, the road was open again and there was not a single walker in sight!!!
Today I am grateful that I live so close to the supermarket!!!
Gratefully yours.
xx
I would love to be able to tell you that I took part in it, maybe not in the marathon or half marathon, but maybe in the 6K fun-run...but I'm afraid I didn't even do that!
It did, however, shape my day (well, part of it anyway!)...
I had actually forgotten the run was on today when I went off, as I usually do on a Sunday, to do my food shopping for the week. I realised when I got to the main road and saw the runners and walkers passing down the road in their hundreds!
The road was open enough to let cars pass in both directions, as we had been led to believe that it would be, so I headed up the road the four or five hundred yards to the supermarket.
When I came out again about 3/4 of an hour later, I was very happy with myself because the supermarket had been uncommonly quiet, so I got round faster than usual.
It didn't take me too long though to realise that the road home was now closed! There were still hundreds of people, mostly walkers now, on the road and the Gards had, in their wisdom, decided to close the road completely to cars.
I had two options...one was to head in the opposite direction, pay the toll charge to go through the tunnel and come into town from the other end, hoping that the main road would be open coming in from that direction, to let me into the housing scheme...which was doubtful, as the route for the run was heading in that general direction. This would hopefully take no more than half an hour.
The second option, which I took, was to park the car and walk home with, at least, my bag of frozen goods! It only took 10 minutes, but the bag was not light!!
By the time I headed back with K to help with the rest of the bags, the road was open again and there was not a single walker in sight!!!
Today I am grateful that I live so close to the supermarket!!!
Gratefully yours.
xx
Saturday, 5 May 2012
Me and my girls
There are a few things which are essential to a good Girls Night in the Joyce household...
A big bottle of fizzy (even though we only ever drink a wee glass each..its usually lasts all week!)
A tub (or two) of pringles.
A bag of sour jellies.
A good DVD.
A large fluffy blanket.
Once these essentials have been gathered, it's just a case of arranging ourselves on the couch, under the blanket, in an orderly fashion...then getting up again to switch on the DVD - our remote doesn't work any more!
So, it's usually me in the corner seat of the couch, Meg cuddled up beside me and Gorgeous sprawled across one or either or both laps! She doesn't like the fizzy or the eats, and is not usually interested in our choice of movie, but she doesn't like to be left out!
After the DVD, we adjourn to my bed to read and snuggle.
Gorgeous was first to call it a night (the wimp!). She disappeared off through to Meggie's room (she's taken to sleeping through with her "big sister"), leaving us both reading. Then Meggie fell asleep. Just as well Daddy is still able to carry her through to her room...I doubt if I could any more!
So, now I am here writing my blog, hoping my bed will still be cosy when I go back up, now that the other occupants have deserted me!!
Today I am grateful for having had some lovely girly time with my darling girl(s).
Viva la Girls Night!!
Gratefully yours.
xx
A big bottle of fizzy (even though we only ever drink a wee glass each..its usually lasts all week!)
A tub (or two) of pringles.
A bag of sour jellies.
A good DVD.
A large fluffy blanket.
Once these essentials have been gathered, it's just a case of arranging ourselves on the couch, under the blanket, in an orderly fashion...then getting up again to switch on the DVD - our remote doesn't work any more!
So, it's usually me in the corner seat of the couch, Meg cuddled up beside me and Gorgeous sprawled across one or either or both laps! She doesn't like the fizzy or the eats, and is not usually interested in our choice of movie, but she doesn't like to be left out!
After the DVD, we adjourn to my bed to read and snuggle.
Gorgeous was first to call it a night (the wimp!). She disappeared off through to Meggie's room (she's taken to sleeping through with her "big sister"), leaving us both reading. Then Meggie fell asleep. Just as well Daddy is still able to carry her through to her room...I doubt if I could any more!
So, now I am here writing my blog, hoping my bed will still be cosy when I go back up, now that the other occupants have deserted me!!
Today I am grateful for having had some lovely girly time with my darling girl(s).
Viva la Girls Night!!
Gratefully yours.
xx
Friday, 4 May 2012
One of those days
It's been a while since I've sat here, not knowing what to write.
It's been one of those days. Nothing startling, nothing strange, nothing to blow your socks off.
So, I guess today is one of those days when I just have to sit back and do it the old fashioned way....and count my blessings.
Because when all else fails, when inspiration refuses to come running, when everything seems a bit flat, all you have to do is start counting.
Count on your fingers, get your socks off and count on your toes. Count forwards or backwards, but don't lose count. Count the big things, but most of all count the little things. Count the things you'd forgotten about, count the things that never dawned on you before...just keep counting!
And before you know it, it's one of THOSE days!!!
Today I am grateful for one of those days!
Gratefully yours.
xx
It's been one of those days. Nothing startling, nothing strange, nothing to blow your socks off.
So, I guess today is one of those days when I just have to sit back and do it the old fashioned way....and count my blessings.
Because when all else fails, when inspiration refuses to come running, when everything seems a bit flat, all you have to do is start counting.
Count on your fingers, get your socks off and count on your toes. Count forwards or backwards, but don't lose count. Count the big things, but most of all count the little things. Count the things you'd forgotten about, count the things that never dawned on you before...just keep counting!
And before you know it, it's one of THOSE days!!!
Today I am grateful for one of those days!
Gratefully yours.
xx
Thursday, 3 May 2012
Me time
Today I am grateful that I got a wee oasis of calm and tranquillity in the middle of the afternoon.
I didn't get my walk this morning, because K was still in Dublin. I could just imagine the kids waking up early and discovering that there was neither a mummy nor a daddy in the house!! And d'ya know what??? I spent the day trying to catch up on the space! Chasing my own tail in search of some peace.
See, my mistake was not still getting up at 6. I thought I may as well leave it till a quarter to 7. That still gave me a wee 15 minutes to myself before Thomas got up. But I've got used to my hour in the morning, and 15 minutes just didn't cut it!
Anyway...this afternoon, both the bairns went out to a club for an hour, so I had the house to myself! Feet up, mocha in one hand, crocheting in the other (well, not literally, you understand, I'm not that good yet!).
I know that some people say the secret is telling yourself that time with the kids, or time cleaning the house IS me time...but that's absolute balderdash!!! Me time is ME time. No exceptions, I'm sorry! But once I've had some me time...I'm all yours!!
I was in the right frame of mind then when Meggie came in asking if we could bake something! Chocolate-chip rock buns...yum!!!
Gratefully yours.
xx
I didn't get my walk this morning, because K was still in Dublin. I could just imagine the kids waking up early and discovering that there was neither a mummy nor a daddy in the house!! And d'ya know what??? I spent the day trying to catch up on the space! Chasing my own tail in search of some peace.
See, my mistake was not still getting up at 6. I thought I may as well leave it till a quarter to 7. That still gave me a wee 15 minutes to myself before Thomas got up. But I've got used to my hour in the morning, and 15 minutes just didn't cut it!
Anyway...this afternoon, both the bairns went out to a club for an hour, so I had the house to myself! Feet up, mocha in one hand, crocheting in the other (well, not literally, you understand, I'm not that good yet!).
I know that some people say the secret is telling yourself that time with the kids, or time cleaning the house IS me time...but that's absolute balderdash!!! Me time is ME time. No exceptions, I'm sorry! But once I've had some me time...I'm all yours!!
I was in the right frame of mind then when Meggie came in asking if we could bake something! Chocolate-chip rock buns...yum!!!
Gratefully yours.
xx
Wednesday, 2 May 2012
Getting to the finishing post
Today I am grateful that bed-time has arrived for small people and I have not committed murder.
I don't know if it's hormones, the sudden and unexplainable heat-wave, or the fact that K is in Dublin and I have had the kids all to myself since 2.30, but I'm glad it is nearly the end of the day!
Because it doesn't matter how cross I am or how cross the kids are...at bed-time we have hugs and kisses and all is forgiven (if not quite forgotten). Mind you, kids are great at just having a rant and then letting go of it. I find it quite frustrating at times (how can they just go on as if the last 10 minutes of ranting and raving never happened??), but, really it is something we could all learn from.
They don't hold on to things. Their emotions are strong, and a little hard for them to understand, but they unleash them and then wave them good-bye. The unleashing part might need some work(!!) but on the whole I think the letting go part is commendable!
I think that children are really just Nature's way of reminding us of how far we have strayed! We think that as adults, we know best...been there done that...but who's to say that it's not the other way round...the further we get from childhood, the further we get from getting it right???
Note to self...yet another reason to look after my inner child.
Gratefully yours.
xx
I don't know if it's hormones, the sudden and unexplainable heat-wave, or the fact that K is in Dublin and I have had the kids all to myself since 2.30, but I'm glad it is nearly the end of the day!
Because it doesn't matter how cross I am or how cross the kids are...at bed-time we have hugs and kisses and all is forgiven (if not quite forgotten). Mind you, kids are great at just having a rant and then letting go of it. I find it quite frustrating at times (how can they just go on as if the last 10 minutes of ranting and raving never happened??), but, really it is something we could all learn from.
They don't hold on to things. Their emotions are strong, and a little hard for them to understand, but they unleash them and then wave them good-bye. The unleashing part might need some work(!!) but on the whole I think the letting go part is commendable!
I think that children are really just Nature's way of reminding us of how far we have strayed! We think that as adults, we know best...been there done that...but who's to say that it's not the other way round...the further we get from childhood, the further we get from getting it right???
Note to self...yet another reason to look after my inner child.
Gratefully yours.
xx
Tuesday, 1 May 2012
This porridge is just right
Once upon a time there lived a very beautiful princess pussycat called Gorgeous.
One day she lost her way in the deep dark woods, and thought that she would never find her way to safety. She was lonely and scared as she made her way through the woods, frightened by every sound she heard and unsure of what she would find around every tree.
After several days of wandering, and eating only what she could catch (mainly frogs and worms), she was overjoyed when she came across a small 4-bed semi in the middle of a sun-dappled clearing. Two magpies, dressed in beautiful black and white tail-coats, sat on a nearby wall. They seemed to be friendly, and only watched silently as she made her way over to look in the grimy windows.
Inside the 4-bed semi it was a little untidy and very dusty. Gorgeous wondered what creatures could live in such a dwelling. She promised herself that after she had found something to eat, and had a cat-nap, she would clean the house from top to bottom, so that when the occupants came home, they might invite her to stay.
She followed her nose to the sink, where she found a bowl which had been used to make porridge. It was half full of water, sitting in the middle of a basin - like an island oasis, calling to her.
She would have to stand in the basin, which had water in it, to reach the porridge, but she knew that it would be worth getting her feet wet.
And she was right. The congealed porridge tasted like nectar. Whoever lived here certainly knew how to make porridge!
Princess Gorgeous decided there and then that she was going to stay in the 4-bed semi for ever and ever, so she found herself a lovely warm airing cupboard to have her nap, leaving the housework for another day!
One day she lost her way in the deep dark woods, and thought that she would never find her way to safety. She was lonely and scared as she made her way through the woods, frightened by every sound she heard and unsure of what she would find around every tree.
After several days of wandering, and eating only what she could catch (mainly frogs and worms), she was overjoyed when she came across a small 4-bed semi in the middle of a sun-dappled clearing. Two magpies, dressed in beautiful black and white tail-coats, sat on a nearby wall. They seemed to be friendly, and only watched silently as she made her way over to look in the grimy windows.
Inside the 4-bed semi it was a little untidy and very dusty. Gorgeous wondered what creatures could live in such a dwelling. She promised herself that after she had found something to eat, and had a cat-nap, she would clean the house from top to bottom, so that when the occupants came home, they might invite her to stay.
She followed her nose to the sink, where she found a bowl which had been used to make porridge. It was half full of water, sitting in the middle of a basin - like an island oasis, calling to her.
She would have to stand in the basin, which had water in it, to reach the porridge, but she knew that it would be worth getting her feet wet.
And she was right. The congealed porridge tasted like nectar. Whoever lived here certainly knew how to make porridge!
Princess Gorgeous decided there and then that she was going to stay in the 4-bed semi for ever and ever, so she found herself a lovely warm airing cupboard to have her nap, leaving the housework for another day!
When the family came home, they were delighted to welcome Princess Gorgeous, although they were a little disappointed that she hadn't cleaned the house for them before having her cat-nap!!!
Today I am grateful for the inspiration that is my baby-cat. There is simply never a dull moment with her around, whether she is sitting on my knee helping me to meditate, or purring around my head at 5.30 in the morning in the hopes of getting me up early!
Gratefully yours.
xx
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