Dear Mum, I love you

It's Mother's Day once again. A day I am blessed to celebrate both as a mum and with my mum. I'm aware that one day this may not be the case so I am going to drink in all it entails and feel lucky. 

My two little ones appeared this morning with homemade cards created at Grandma's house while I was at work. I love the thought that has gone into them and Madeline's little poem she wrote, reduced me to tears. 

" Mum is the best

Without any rest 

She runs around

And makes everyone proud

She multitasks everyday

I don't think anyone else could do it this way.

She cooks brilliant food

And she's never in a mood 

Mum is the best

Mum is the best

She welcomes every guest

But the most thing I love about her is that her love never runs out."

Fin drew a beautiful rose for me. 

My parents had taken the children to buy me a small gift for which I am so grateful, but the best gift has to be the squashed cupcake that Madeline had hidden in her school bag since Friday. She had bought it at the comic relief cake sale. I have to be honest, I'm not sure I'll eat it- but I love it and all it symbolises about the sweet girl that is my daughter. 

Today we will head out to one of our favourite little spots, quiet and peaceful, and I will enjoy the company and presence of my two little joys who really are the essence of who I am. This past two years have been a tough journey, sometimes so painful that it has taken all that I am to keep smiling and carry on but my conviction to give the children a happy, loving childhood has kept me going alongside my family and some very special friends who have supported me relentlessly.  

While I am blessed today, I am aware of the pain and sorrow some will also be feeling. 

There are those who have lost their  mum and today will feel lost and sad, it's a day to endure. Go to a place that you feel close to your mum, close your eyes, see her smile and remember all that she was and all that she had helped you become. Say her name, remember her and don't be afraid to let the tears roll. If your babies have lost their mummy, bring her alive with photos and stories about her. Write her a letter, draw her a picture. I love this poem and think it will resonate with lots of people today 

There are those who have lost their children, what pain as a mother could be greater? I know of a mummy today who's heart will be heavy and eyes will be full, I am interviewing her soon for an article about her beautiful girl, my past pupil who died two years ago. Sarah, the little girl with the chocolate button eyes and the sweet smile. I know there are a lot of mummies out there in the same situation and my heart aches for you. I will not take my children for granted today. 

Wishing you all a happy Mother's Day however it is spent and wishing peace to those who need it today.

X X X

A hidden gem on your doorstep.

Last Saturday I had the pleasure of calling into Washington's new little gem, "The Green".   Florist come tea shop come delightful gift emporium, The Green has something to offer everyone. With a rustic, vintage vibe, The Green owners Kelly and Wayne have recycling, up cycling and promoting local craftsmen and artists at the heart of their business. 

Once home to The Washington Green Library, many locals have fond memories of childhood days spent in the beautiful building choosing the next great adventure to take home. When the library closed it's doors, Kelly and Wayne were drawn to its deep history and the village that was once the heart of the town. 

Their aim was to create somewhere to bring back the community spirit, it certainly has done that in the few weeks it's doors have been open. Local artists, crafters and makers have all brought in their products to sell in the shop, it really is a treasure trove of goodness.

As a tea lover I was thrilled to find that the tea of choice was ' storm tea',  I opted for a fruity herbal while the children enjoyed lemonade in old school milk bottles and a piece of Victoria sponge cake, freshly home baked.  A good selection of coffee is also served. In keeping with the recycling theme,  all the coffee and tea is given away as compost to anyone who would like it! It doesn't get much better than that for keeping your carbon footprint low! 

  Not only are there gorgeous gifts, pretty home accessories,delicious teas and cake on offer but also a stunningly different florist. I love to photograph flowers so  It was like Christmas Day for me with all the vintage style flowers and beautiful arrangements.

  With Mother's Day around the corner, there is an amazing choice to put a smile on her face. 

  Any lady would be thrilled with any of the flowers or arrangements from here, so pretty and individual. 

 

  

 The green have some really exciting plans in the pipeline including           'crafternoon tea' which as the name suggests is a good helping of tea and cake alongside learning a new craft. Keep an eye out for upcoming events. It sounds very exciting! 

Kelly and Wayne's enthusiasm is infectious and they have big plans for the future. I have a funny feeling The Green will soon earn a reputation for itself well outside of Washington Village. I can highly recommend a visit. 

You can follow The Green on Facebook and Instagram by searching "The Green".

   

   I think this seat has your name on it.....