tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-57401815484584830572024-02-07T17:38:18.502-08:00Some kind of wonderful Adventuring through life in the post baby years........ My boy, my girl, my camera, my life.
Maria Davisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14202031301346647651noreply@blogger.comBlogger16125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5740181548458483057.post-87808425895566443462016-02-21T12:45:00.001-08:002016-03-10T14:01:19.854-08:00Death is nothing at all<div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Death is nothing at all until it happens to someone you love and someone who occupies a space in your life and in your heart. Bereavement, grief, dying - are all words we use and hear daily but what does it really mean when those words are part of your repertoire and have deep, emotional undertones.</span></div><div>September brought the bombshell that my babies were going to loose their beloved grandpa, that cancer had come knocking on his door and it wouldn't take no for an answer. </div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxJ9Fo5ZK5fNqZv8ToVrkukDqDgJ_O0a3AFl-sKDclmAzP6qCVRZT7aqJrn27TbiFTDBCN3As7E4NIwUPAbbQuEZtrLhmqMl5WHOcUKWI6ZKkgnQV6vAeE3rh1k-f-HDKuLXHjwacHY8M/s640/blogger-image-291022134.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxJ9Fo5ZK5fNqZv8ToVrkukDqDgJ_O0a3AFl-sKDclmAzP6qCVRZT7aqJrn27TbiFTDBCN3As7E4NIwUPAbbQuEZtrLhmqMl5WHOcUKWI6ZKkgnQV6vAeE3rh1k-f-HDKuLXHjwacHY8M/s640/blogger-image-291022134.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>By October we knew he wouldn't see the spring bulbs push their delicate shoots above ground and burst into bloom. </div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-Y6_nY2FuB7o-dgsDJEKe8KRM2eegmNyy0X_ATJj7dcq0PQsv1g5Wj4SMb2okYix2AHYAEX18dVsxa7z_-zATWnwSHpqhaEl-RGamB0WV8RrpTFoKITHupjKtBYE1X0AY5asQnkCU2So/s640/blogger-image--813579178.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-Y6_nY2FuB7o-dgsDJEKe8KRM2eegmNyy0X_ATJj7dcq0PQsv1g5Wj4SMb2okYix2AHYAEX18dVsxa7z_-zATWnwSHpqhaEl-RGamB0WV8RrpTFoKITHupjKtBYE1X0AY5asQnkCU2So/s640/blogger-image--813579178.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div>The devastation was like a black, weighted curtain that no one could see but it smothered us silently. The children struggled to comprehend that he would not be there to see the summer sun and to do the everyday things they now cherish. " if I just say my prayers, Jesus will help, he can't die." Madeline would say. By November the move to the hospice was the only option and that in itself takes a certain kind of acceptance, you know the finish line of life is in sight and there isn't anything you can do other than watch your loved one move closer and closer to it. To our surprise, the hospice proved to be a beautiful haven where, what little time is left could be enjoyed with a hint of normality and privacy. During this time the children suffered with a lot of heartache as they had a cruel introduction to the reality of cancer ravaging someone's body and the crushing pain of knowing time is slipping away. Our visits consisted of picnics, Madeline dancing her latest ballet steps, Fin watching the football match with grandpa on his laptop, the occasional tear on hearing another of the poems Madeline had written about the best Grandpa in the world and all that she loved about him. </div><div>The plan was to spend Christmas Day at home, a last meal. Madeline said her prayers every single night. </div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh001mA5QRJZnHaNzgQHZe-KZGzM1z5KhtED-Bmht8hEEXRHXr5Zf16EivlIfttvy8tNX5jL6zn7MDyfBL9nO9jpC_ph0eBphpnTFbNEBNhbZ3C-4MNq5ZI4MJS2plItmpoHacj6r6dg2w/s640/blogger-image--1102687669.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh001mA5QRJZnHaNzgQHZe-KZGzM1z5KhtED-Bmht8hEEXRHXr5Zf16EivlIfttvy8tNX5jL6zn7MDyfBL9nO9jpC_ph0eBphpnTFbNEBNhbZ3C-4MNq5ZI4MJS2plItmpoHacj6r6dg2w/s640/blogger-image--1102687669.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>The day before Christmas Eve we drove excitedly to the hospice planning Christmas Day and all we would do. Madeline said her prayers had been answered as we were almost at Christmas Day and grandpa was doing great! </div><div>We arrived and were greeted with a sign on the door " do not disturb". The next minutes were all of a blur as a doctor and nurse appeared and the children and I were taken in opposite directions. </div><div>Turns out, completely unexpectedly their beautiful Grandpa had passed very quickly as we were on our way. My initial reaction was to calmly ask the nurse if I was dreaming. It just couldn't be true because he was ok yesterday and he was coming home the day after tomorrow - his gifts were under the tree. </div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbFOt37rEcNhozK1bhd-lVnBy0W2M-wgh2JewjC7zQEa8SeOFIxxW6_SogX_fExqmeovWmDgppTm7F8jAr6_ZeHKTQQrZ_-Qhjm50tMMHi8zQ0mfLRih_J4_uMbzYcxU0cL2PTZ-1HkvQ/s640/blogger-image-1201205166.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbFOt37rEcNhozK1bhd-lVnBy0W2M-wgh2JewjC7zQEa8SeOFIxxW6_SogX_fExqmeovWmDgppTm7F8jAr6_ZeHKTQQrZ_-Qhjm50tMMHi8zQ0mfLRih_J4_uMbzYcxU0cL2PTZ-1HkvQ/s640/blogger-image-1201205166.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>My second thought was that I had to get to the children who were sitting playing frustration with the doctor completely unaware of what was about to be bestowed upon them.</div><div> Fin went white and very quiet, Madeline was hysterical and said " I need him he can't go...." A blank space follows and I can't remember <span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">driving home.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Christmas as you would imagine was so hard, but I was immensely proud of my little beauties who through their grief still manage to think of the feelings of those around them. They reveived a telescope so that they could always look for the brightest star - and they do, everynight they look out to the sky and find Grandpa. Some may think we are mad but it brings them comfort and that's all that matters right now.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwYEJXnODZ1ctUd6utRs2I9X9nvsby1TCVZRMxLK_RjqMCf5qD07z3nxC99yMSs7j82hyphenhyphen7WUHYZNbIHLqjRcHMJ_0-ZhkBq1qFj0NmR6aYb9Gf5a3u_fY3gHSQ1E9uhgrwtKx-7jc-MdQ/s640/blogger-image--98177078.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwYEJXnODZ1ctUd6utRs2I9X9nvsby1TCVZRMxLK_RjqMCf5qD07z3nxC99yMSs7j82hyphenhyphen7WUHYZNbIHLqjRcHMJ_0-ZhkBq1qFj0NmR6aYb9Gf5a3u_fY3gHSQ1E9uhgrwtKx-7jc-MdQ/s640/blogger-image--98177078.jpg"></a></div></div></div></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">We've since celebrate his birthday and this week Madeline celebrated her birthday - and yes she cried and said she wanted to go back in time because she needed him. Needed to see him, hear his voice . She misses sitting on his knee to eat her porridge while he brushed her hair on a morning before school. It really is the little moments . </span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Moving forward a few weeks and the children have organised a sponsored event to raise money for St, Benedicts hospice. It's a good idea I think, a way to channel their grief. So on Saturday 19th March, Fin will walk the Roman wall to the Kevin Costner tree and hang a small bird feeder on in memory of his Gramps, his best friend. ( they used to love watching the birds in the trees in the garden.) </span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLH6xUHEOoHyMYoKu8ze9ieRZnax_qmpjSUmAhU9ZUG9kZ79RAqN5PQNL4EkXukGcoceNjLmBKoNeRqSw1CW6ui-Pp-PklJT9M_8dfWf1r592fggR2iU4jAmCaXmLpWbGJDPnX2ePpcKI/s640/blogger-image--1558944918.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLH6xUHEOoHyMYoKu8ze9ieRZnax_qmpjSUmAhU9ZUG9kZ79RAqN5PQNL4EkXukGcoceNjLmBKoNeRqSw1CW6ui-Pp-PklJT9M_8dfWf1r592fggR2iU4jAmCaXmLpWbGJDPnX2ePpcKI/s640/blogger-image--1558944918.jpg"></a></div><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Meanwhile Madeline is holding a cake and coffee afternoon for them to arrive back to after the walk. It will be 2-4 at the parish rooms at St Joseph's school in Washington village. We hope as many people as possible will drop in and help us raise some money to help more people enjoy their final days in comfort, peace and love with their loved ones around them. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">When someone is gone, they aren't really GONE. We can feel the empty void left behind. We can hear him in the sound of the rabbit food bouncing into the ceramic dish because that's a job the children and him did together. We can smell the wonderful, comforting smell on his clothes and in the house. It is the little moments. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXzmFf1q5VaaTKcbzWsj1yL-zPufoLZIFSkpTLdXQydBQ_pnkn94WTuvU27WYnFG3h2hEa-dnhTdspq42FJquEYhdxxpajgCghfp540qDEGyWBV77mZsEQcW796iXmuyxKytOGCjVWrSY/s640/blogger-image-1470644326.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXzmFf1q5VaaTKcbzWsj1yL-zPufoLZIFSkpTLdXQydBQ_pnkn94WTuvU27WYnFG3h2hEa-dnhTdspq42FJquEYhdxxpajgCghfp540qDEGyWBV77mZsEQcW796iXmuyxKytOGCjVWrSY/s640/blogger-image-1470644326.jpg"></a></div><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">We don't remember days, we remember moments.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> I remember him when I go to get a black bin bag from the cupboard and realise it's the last one because he always made sure I was stocked up. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">So what have we learned? We really cherish the moments more than ever because you really don't know when you will hear those words ...... " I'm sorry there's nothing we can do, you're looking at a couple of months." Life is about love and people. You loving people and them loving you.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> In those final weeks I witnessed a love so deep and a devotion so strong that I don't think I'll ever forget it or recover from the depth of it. To have someone in your final days to hold your hand and love you is all you really need and if you find that, if you have that now, cherish it, it's a rare and beautiful thing. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr246UwzmUet156nOZbVJ8CuMIGf3GKj2qNI9MA_HPpSVZNdg5xv71yuQmUs8WMrpqsHoftPqctkj2xd5fls6KXsCFQlbRp4yiK3DhnC1NVBXhKJpz6bdzhy7TRRmrTQRTOAEpHEZvUE8/s640/blogger-image--1574257208.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr246UwzmUet156nOZbVJ8CuMIGf3GKj2qNI9MA_HPpSVZNdg5xv71yuQmUs8WMrpqsHoftPqctkj2xd5fls6KXsCFQlbRp4yiK3DhnC1NVBXhKJpz6bdzhy7TRRmrTQRTOAEpHEZvUE8/s640/blogger-image--1574257208.jpg"></a></div><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div>Maria Davisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14202031301346647651noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5740181548458483057.post-31440888601423005302015-10-27T15:43:00.001-07:002015-10-27T15:45:17.076-07:00What's in a photograph?<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Those who know me well know that where ever I am, I'm always snapping away with my camera. Spotting the perfect picture or capturing a moment that I need to snap as it will help me remember the moment. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div>I adore taking photos, for me they are an investment for the future, for a time when I wake up and realise I'm in the later years, I want to be able to sit and be lost in the beautiful days I was blessed to have with my children, family and friends. I know I'll smile, I'll cry and I'll remember the days when I really did have it all. They're also capturing memories, emotions and more poignantly - people. </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc6TelVFgEcn-FrC9alq_cF0DPGkO6Af0_SoFcbXbwAa2aniSY2D-ZL43wenpUimetyDZ83LVWiLYpnsP_PLAPl3dORMclgSFXQ5Ztw3tNxyjuGRpdJVzFSfhbJ9PP0QevQ10uQYIunPg/s640/blogger-image-1317866434.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc6TelVFgEcn-FrC9alq_cF0DPGkO6Af0_SoFcbXbwAa2aniSY2D-ZL43wenpUimetyDZ83LVWiLYpnsP_PLAPl3dORMclgSFXQ5Ztw3tNxyjuGRpdJVzFSfhbJ9PP0QevQ10uQYIunPg/s640/blogger-image-1317866434.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div>Some photos have that little bit more significance because they capture a really strong emotion, this photo is one of those. It gets me everytime. ❤️</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOEDrKffPWGcFJzNISNd4Ws-kY_ISbTxB-Jh9mJixrLI07FahDzAO75G6-nnjir2ntxNM9RCzhqCy8nOFsoGEWFUtTzZ9e45XBDNQ_EvT594PBmvJmarn2tZIMpvlZR03pY_pzQFx4Lfk/s640/blogger-image--1482468499.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOEDrKffPWGcFJzNISNd4Ws-kY_ISbTxB-Jh9mJixrLI07FahDzAO75G6-nnjir2ntxNM9RCzhqCy8nOFsoGEWFUtTzZ9e45XBDNQ_EvT594PBmvJmarn2tZIMpvlZR03pY_pzQFx4Lfk/s640/blogger-image--1482468499.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I remember everything about this day. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">That's my boy, right there - with his Grandpa who'd just found out that week he had cancer. They'd gone for a little walk to watch the boats go by in the harbour and I was inside with grandma and daddy, pregnant with our daughter. It was tough. You wonder how it'll all work out and how you'll cope, but somehow you do. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhCiBNUJXqPn9I-yhey6bMfzmmV8rzp2CJS1FqyeeH27bDQAOmqEiG0E0CPSskewSvp-65ddWnFHNbLOSUmRjELAPiMj8SQlcVoao6dAQ-lZ0T3tgTFYskjlhAZcZ-ofAD65tA2jV7r88/s640/blogger-image-1263080463.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhCiBNUJXqPn9I-yhey6bMfzmmV8rzp2CJS1FqyeeH27bDQAOmqEiG0E0CPSskewSvp-65ddWnFHNbLOSUmRjELAPiMj8SQlcVoao6dAQ-lZ0T3tgTFYskjlhAZcZ-ofAD65tA2jV7r88/s640/blogger-image-1263080463.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The months rolled by, my baby arrived early as hoped so Grandpa got to hold her before his treatment began. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Eight months later and things picked up and life carried on, not the same, but mostly the same. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The happy, baby filled years of wonder and sleep deprivation rolled by......... Then that beautiful, sweet bubble of love and happiness burst, not with a loud, astounding pop, but with more of a slow puncture. A crack, that slowly opened and swallowed up everything I knew and loved. From the outside no one else really noticed until somehow life was how I had never imagined it could be yet I hid it - mostly behind the picture of a perfect family life because from the outside we had it all. On the inside it was a living nightmare.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjaQYtvpoCyHBmoszrmECI1wmXGFs4fyJOB6vgVcAhvVEsu3Ed3jZcw_t39CKQOn9dkKZ_J6Xp6pr3d0YDSLQTxLaHLPnI-2Ot_M0mBt264FHqJtiN-7785kHLS89oDVjMlXFXmJcX1lY/s640/blogger-image--1731183203.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjaQYtvpoCyHBmoszrmECI1wmXGFs4fyJOB6vgVcAhvVEsu3Ed3jZcw_t39CKQOn9dkKZ_J6Xp6pr3d0YDSLQTxLaHLPnI-2Ot_M0mBt264FHqJtiN-7785kHLS89oDVjMlXFXmJcX1lY/s640/blogger-image--1731183203.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">And it was in this chapter that my camera saved my life. I began to take pictures of everything. People, flowers, natural beauty and mostly my children who saved my heart and my soul. And so my blog " some kind of wonderful was born". It wasn't that I was always happy and living in some kind of fairytale as it may have appeared but more that I was living in some kind of hell and the only way I knew to survive was to look for small glimmers of beauty, love and hope. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMuJXk0gHm8AvitkyxXjjotuXL4n_ZUfVP-_eL7RYEohRkOwsnhCx0V1QG9ayGD9u-XGgQ2Fq8vRAqv1EGGv45Ct-gUFTR3xSbedmte-LK1xCF7xT9SilAWFHegPUkGiyjOLUzlSoEw6Q/s640/blogger-image--850412840.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMuJXk0gHm8AvitkyxXjjotuXL4n_ZUfVP-_eL7RYEohRkOwsnhCx0V1QG9ayGD9u-XGgQ2Fq8vRAqv1EGGv45Ct-gUFTR3xSbedmte-LK1xCF7xT9SilAWFHegPUkGiyjOLUzlSoEw6Q/s640/blogger-image--850412840.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I saw beauty in the small things that were all around me and slowly, so very slowly the heartache became lighter and from the outside, normal life resumed although very different to the perfect life I'd once known. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">It's now a different normal, one I wouldn't have chosen but nonetheless it's our normal and it's happy. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Taking photos for me allows me to see beauty and realise that when you look closely enough, it really is all around and in the least expected places. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I feel blessed to have such a strong, supportive family and the most wonderful friends - this lot have been there through thick and thin and I feel blessed to have them in my life. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW-2ul6VDu4DU6OXCmNuc4SXquM793m3jcenTgXgM9yX4dQ3ufpELBbJFXFLpyPF4sdgZZJ01qIA7PjhCJpV3RuKkWUeFgEXFHYIhDoH9Yd2bD9SZMGWUv8t6a8zlJrQ5QrqExaFV3pfQ/s640/blogger-image-1511505532.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW-2ul6VDu4DU6OXCmNuc4SXquM793m3jcenTgXgM9yX4dQ3ufpELBbJFXFLpyPF4sdgZZJ01qIA7PjhCJpV3RuKkWUeFgEXFHYIhDoH9Yd2bD9SZMGWUv8t6a8zlJrQ5QrqExaFV3pfQ/s640/blogger-image-1511505532.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">They <span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">are like family to me and have helped me ride the stormy seas.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> I always described those toughest of days, weeks, months ( years) as feeling I was on the smallest boat in the middle of a stormy sea with no sight of the shore. Alone. As the past two years have rolled by, the shoreline has become slowly visible and nowadays I can feel the sand between my toes as I step ashore. Gently ready for a new chapter, to share new adventures and see what life has to offer. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">When I think of that I can't help but smile, I just wonder what my camera will see in the coming years, what memories it will create - it's exciting and I can't wait!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijIZjsEsckihCsVAyYGVO380cnT1rAJaqYii5me_O4BMENOtFLZpZQuJ_E0VsxLIzJp0bXRhm7m3K6ZzYQ3hmYLTxVVS9jMDSKGb10uSSY_o7WxPHU7eFCkqnBRJQIYrvSeDY5hj4mNXY/s640/blogger-image--123575942.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijIZjsEsckihCsVAyYGVO380cnT1rAJaqYii5me_O4BMENOtFLZpZQuJ_E0VsxLIzJp0bXRhm7m3K6ZzYQ3hmYLTxVVS9jMDSKGb10uSSY_o7WxPHU7eFCkqnBRJQIYrvSeDY5hj4mNXY/s640/blogger-image--123575942.jpg"></a></div><br></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> </div><br></div>Maria Davisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14202031301346647651noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5740181548458483057.post-34903770447721575482015-08-08T12:55:00.001-07:002015-08-09T15:19:21.872-07:00Sweetpeas for summer<div><br></div>Sweetpea are one of my all time favourite summer flowers. Delicate, simple and beautifully fragrant. So finding Manor Gardens near Darlington, were holding a pick your own sweetpea open day was an invitation I coudn't resist! <div><br></div><div><br></div><div> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3Vv_uF_cYiO0MIpX0WNoi1i0aGyIJzsQ8E9ZYHI1YRvBOocr4JG0PCP6XoCtO3HLhr2lhud_m8aogvcgYi0oeQlwLUXofNSVD4r1Mhjkg4r_f4dA4W5ik24OvMf5PEim_vNHRsWrNj_o/s640/blogger-image-1584264895.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3Vv_uF_cYiO0MIpX0WNoi1i0aGyIJzsQ8E9ZYHI1YRvBOocr4JG0PCP6XoCtO3HLhr2lhud_m8aogvcgYi0oeQlwLUXofNSVD4r1Mhjkg4r_f4dA4W5ik24OvMf5PEim_vNHRsWrNj_o/s640/blogger-image-1584264895.jpg"></a><div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><br></div><div> Arriving at Manor Gardens I was met by owners, Barney and Clarey with their three young children. <span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">They are so friendly and warm and instantly made me feel like we were old friends. Their gardens are such a haven away from the hussle and bustle of life. I did wonder if they'd notice if I just moved in. </span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxHEHBb37zcYLoPZSZLth_Jt7bVgbTwhW-jjxp59HfSXbfJHVoi6ldzIV_KB9mJrolXkWtDqWTjfzCxNsXYph6LA3Vb3MzbBMCIIrga09pR2IvTfp5t8gdp3UHOGzxGDMJoqxG0arTm3k/s640/blogger-image--619999979.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxHEHBb37zcYLoPZSZLth_Jt7bVgbTwhW-jjxp59HfSXbfJHVoi6ldzIV_KB9mJrolXkWtDqWTjfzCxNsXYph6LA3Vb3MzbBMCIIrga09pR2IvTfp5t8gdp3UHOGzxGDMJoqxG0arTm3k/s640/blogger-image--619999979.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We collected our scissors and headed toward the sweetpea garden, the smell was heavenly and the colours stunning. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6-AX-ovCSoawvNyHtCX-mfafbMYEnJyTgAL_9ML4uKoWElWWmp4WPq5vWr0LpJ0SvsqWvkBacpCoAdU56gJ81iSPWYaIuKLON4HwbVfanb3JI7kjcVz1GtEou1YWRFTyLGJ4HEd-z3Ng/s640/blogger-image--60435956.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6-AX-ovCSoawvNyHtCX-mfafbMYEnJyTgAL_9ML4uKoWElWWmp4WPq5vWr0LpJ0SvsqWvkBacpCoAdU56gJ81iSPWYaIuKLON4HwbVfanb3JI7kjcVz1GtEou1YWRFTyLGJ4HEd-z3Ng/s640/blogger-image--60435956.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Madeline adored choosing her own colour scheme and hunting for the perfect stems to complete her bunch. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxzIU1P7Sv0g70r_65qJlL1-cSfw8JEonEwbt4BzgdNdbcyt2vNYiATrYLq2LWgGMEIWdxPFeOGEJ4mZ0q0wuAmckeOMNLyh0VoTT20EMH0qxefY9_XIFUTLueDob68yK-hNwn3lX3IfQ/s640/blogger-image--1001662223.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxzIU1P7Sv0g70r_65qJlL1-cSfw8JEonEwbt4BzgdNdbcyt2vNYiATrYLq2LWgGMEIWdxPFeOGEJ4mZ0q0wuAmckeOMNLyh0VoTT20EMH0qxefY9_XIFUTLueDob68yK-hNwn3lX3IfQ/s640/blogger-image--1001662223.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">There were lots of other beautiful flowers to choose from including Delilah and sunflowers. Clarey was so welcoming and we had a few lovely chats about her venture here in the North East. It's one of a kind and a beautiful, relaxing way to spend a summer morning. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Apart from the pick your own flower days, Manor Gardens provide flowers for all occasions including weddings, special events and venue decor. They can personalise a display or bouquet for you or take you round the flower gardens and help you pick and mam your own. I couldn't think of anything more thrilling as a bride than to choose your own fresh flowers for your wedding.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px;"><br></span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidlz0r2x4otUNI5u5kiF6WbfK-vJcMaxNoONvG42DAlzsUyL7T0iteFnGzyV1ruFO4DfiwgoaUS4wPL97esMCvLi4SmASOBnx1iWlUVeKWZabUVwsV0h1AM1CZ8XGLlei4TdeJ8M4ecQg/s640/blogger-image-525500066.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidlz0r2x4otUNI5u5kiF6WbfK-vJcMaxNoONvG42DAlzsUyL7T0iteFnGzyV1ruFO4DfiwgoaUS4wPL97esMCvLi4SmASOBnx1iWlUVeKWZabUVwsV0h1AM1CZ8XGLlei4TdeJ8M4ecQg/s640/blogger-image-525500066.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">After all that picking we were ready for some refreshments, a beautiful selection of drinks and homemade cakes were available - the children even had a choice of popcorn in a cup or homemade cheese stars and hearts. Even the refreshments stand was beautiful! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh-qn-OFBCS_wyn_yAURamD-bgra5IL6v8ZUzPYP3GZ9emkz828R62QUNVo7KbrRPlv8Ve8_QbFsVtEBSFQCGfsTadN7E1SOIVS8t3suZkYBhwKdw2CkH4nxRRoW8aW0OPQ_k6v8QkyMI/s640/blogger-image-1099612030.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh-qn-OFBCS_wyn_yAURamD-bgra5IL6v8ZUzPYP3GZ9emkz828R62QUNVo7KbrRPlv8Ve8_QbFsVtEBSFQCGfsTadN7E1SOIVS8t3suZkYBhwKdw2CkH4nxRRoW8aW0OPQ_k6v8QkyMI/s640/blogger-image-1099612030.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Everything about Manor Gardens was stunning. It's an idea like no other here in the North East. Clarey and Barney have lots of ideas and plans so watch this space ................ </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">You can follow Manor Gardens on Facebook, Twitter an Instagram to keep up to date with their plans. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Keep an eye out for their pick your own open days! It's one not to miss! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitHGsRnjRBnsaviwFA74q2XaJCHC9KZm3EA-V9Do4OP6kEXGzhCYV7Hpc6FsStfiSIb1XcyOazYCOjN2kUeEsV0nuYVMOr10_14bQW_xb4Nmop0nxpdpqG_eE_8ABamDgOllzWoJC5r2o/s640/blogger-image-828358622.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitHGsRnjRBnsaviwFA74q2XaJCHC9KZm3EA-V9Do4OP6kEXGzhCYV7Hpc6FsStfiSIb1XcyOazYCOjN2kUeEsV0nuYVMOr10_14bQW_xb4Nmop0nxpdpqG_eE_8ABamDgOllzWoJC5r2o/s640/blogger-image-828358622.jpg"></a></div><br></div>Manor gardens August 2015</div><br></div><br></span></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Maria Davisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14202031301346647651noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5740181548458483057.post-8563428331294662522015-03-15T02:59:00.001-07:002015-03-15T03:05:18.541-07:00Dear Mum, I love you<span style="color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 19px; -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0980392); text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">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. </div></div></span><div style="color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 19px; -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0980392); text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">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. </div><div style="color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 19px; -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0980392); text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;"><br></div><div style="color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 19px; -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0980392); text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">" Mum is the best</div><div style="color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 19px; -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0980392); text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">Without any rest </div><div style="color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 19px; -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0980392); text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">She runs around</div><div style="color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 19px; -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0980392); text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">And makes everyone proud</div><div style="color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 19px; -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0980392); text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">She multitasks everyday</div><div style="color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 19px; -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0980392); text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">I don't think anyone else could do it this way.</div><div style="color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 19px; -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0980392); text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">She cooks brilliant food</div><div style="color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 19px; -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0980392); text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">And she's never in a mood </div><div style="color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 19px; -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0980392); text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">Mum is the best</div><div style="color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 19px; -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0980392); text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">Mum is the best</div><div style="color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 19px; -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0980392); text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">She welcomes every guest</div><div style="color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 19px; -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0980392); text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">But the most thing I love about her is that her love never runs out."</div><div style="color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 19px; -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0980392); text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;"><br></div><div style="color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 19px; -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0980392); text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">Fin drew a beautiful rose for me. </div><div style="color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 19px; -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0980392); text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbdSJZqr1pl4LMQUiC_GJyWhcKzJQq2IGTW23o0HQ8L9mAMuCIv3JU2KXczfW2fe7GwlrdQNikI5yVxBUYT9Q4RpkMB5OX6aLhN0TX2UvxJNomb_ZAd3IGXXAMk5_sYl_m6iZZcCORQYs/s640/blogger-image-864359899.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbdSJZqr1pl4LMQUiC_GJyWhcKzJQq2IGTW23o0HQ8L9mAMuCIv3JU2KXczfW2fe7GwlrdQNikI5yVxBUYT9Q4RpkMB5OX6aLhN0TX2UvxJNomb_ZAd3IGXXAMk5_sYl_m6iZZcCORQYs/s640/blogger-image-864359899.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div style="color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 19px; -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0980392); text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">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. </div><div style="color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 19px; -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0980392); text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEy00Fuz3JVFxwSgYM6sWhErK9G5c5zqYc7ceIJFgBSz2l1cdAgjUZLa2l0gxu_LAdkoTeHBvNRJWT9Y3fKGHONU-eT2sIt7djpK5_ABvfhNePBeEgvoBAuFpzA12r6vqIlNJu3p9R_zs/s640/blogger-image--1997517345.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEy00Fuz3JVFxwSgYM6sWhErK9G5c5zqYc7ceIJFgBSz2l1cdAgjUZLa2l0gxu_LAdkoTeHBvNRJWT9Y3fKGHONU-eT2sIt7djpK5_ABvfhNePBeEgvoBAuFpzA12r6vqIlNJu3p9R_zs/s640/blogger-image--1997517345.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div style="color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 19px; -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0980392); text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">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. </div><div style="color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 19px; -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0980392); text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmCjWBpR3-YGzs_IEj_swc3uT3v6Y28eaQpyRkc2JQKkZnvV8TlZzdOePUSqyZ1lYlx958VaIi-XEKbmdkdlBg1AiUBLBch8dNidjWtzMSMEVQ5Bh2pgJOrDaEgn7j9oQ6Z9CHxwYshjA/s640/blogger-image-1195239474.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmCjWBpR3-YGzs_IEj_swc3uT3v6Y28eaQpyRkc2JQKkZnvV8TlZzdOePUSqyZ1lYlx958VaIi-XEKbmdkdlBg1AiUBLBch8dNidjWtzMSMEVQ5Bh2pgJOrDaEgn7j9oQ6Z9CHxwYshjA/s640/blogger-image-1195239474.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div style="color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 19px; -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0980392); text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">While I am blessed today, I am aware of the pain and sorrow some will also be feeling. </div><div style="color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 19px; -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0980392); text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">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 </div><div style="color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 19px; -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0980392); text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;"><br></div><div style="color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 19px; -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0980392); text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUl5tLzHoVKXWD-oR-VuNiJBKT2ZyxFAT4GfkSDt206bAn7_D0OUhe-tBWIpqOy_7c34fJo1xD0zb4wuyvuYoT2XmWb_wGnn4WBORZVjwc_jkttDXp6rvITbFLjVqDrB5arMN_FmTn04s/s640/blogger-image--1456068551.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUl5tLzHoVKXWD-oR-VuNiJBKT2ZyxFAT4GfkSDt206bAn7_D0OUhe-tBWIpqOy_7c34fJo1xD0zb4wuyvuYoT2XmWb_wGnn4WBORZVjwc_jkttDXp6rvITbFLjVqDrB5arMN_FmTn04s/s640/blogger-image--1456068551.jpg"></a></div><br></div><br></div><div style="color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 19px; -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0980392); text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">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. </div><div style="color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 19px; -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0980392); text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;"><br></div><div style="color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 19px; -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0980392); text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">Wishing you all a happy Mother's Day however it is spent and wishing peace to those who need it today.</div><div style="color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 19px; -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0980392); text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">X X X</div><div style="color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 19px; -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0980392); text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;"><br></div><div style="color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 19px; -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0980392); text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;"><br></div>Maria Davisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14202031301346647651noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5740181548458483057.post-35246243684549953452015-03-10T15:37:00.001-07:002015-03-12T05:30:25.215-07:00A hidden gem on your doorstep.<div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">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. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDvHSPp08jqTOMZwnChj8v2zOk-TA1VOgf3U9xhixIbZSdZEb1R4ApbwpTQFBzik2JJHwORaJ3PPUOb_E1IikCKeXKjm9mpBgzit4iPWlAxjndnRT4ZptCUypi7zs8lYNQvSpFwFW5JlY/s640/blogger-image--580994940.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDvHSPp08jqTOMZwnChj8v2zOk-TA1VOgf3U9xhixIbZSdZEb1R4ApbwpTQFBzik2JJHwORaJ3PPUOb_E1IikCKeXKjm9mpBgzit4iPWlAxjndnRT4ZptCUypi7zs8lYNQvSpFwFW5JlY/s640/blogger-image--580994940.jpg"></a></div><br></span></div><div>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. </div><div>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.</div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaaJfke32ggMdtcsJtcfew9YzZV6OjZU2RSZZ1ZILsQVD3Kf_1r0Qbi-AqhZElxFETjzBRGqS47kf_itPcwNjd-lyZZmE6mT5sLZ44ys-qnDF_knBM207q3h8bAhRLAqFzrtLKnxeKdRY/s640/blogger-image--553169170.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaaJfke32ggMdtcsJtcfew9YzZV6OjZU2RSZZ1ZILsQVD3Kf_1r0Qbi-AqhZElxFETjzBRGqS47kf_itPcwNjd-lyZZmE6mT5sLZ44ys-qnDF_knBM207q3h8bAhRLAqFzrtLKnxeKdRY/s640/blogger-image--553169170.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">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! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxT4nBh1iFT6YEhPpeTlClsst4oG6WmKUwZNh2xGl-vcxB8dDZSEKRcDYAThbBQJkmnhMOAC1_B1eftBCUZLFDkbSsfV28IIC-D8dicGMSOw2MVAYFjVgpQi7UI0tPgNheQUMA4EMntvA/s640/blogger-image--1221740441.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxT4nBh1iFT6YEhPpeTlClsst4oG6WmKUwZNh2xGl-vcxB8dDZSEKRcDYAThbBQJkmnhMOAC1_B1eftBCUZLFDkbSsfV28IIC-D8dicGMSOw2MVAYFjVgpQi7UI0tPgNheQUMA4EMntvA/s640/blogger-image--1221740441.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> 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.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfOilYu8BQ-rEDWTIAzteKik7gOSCyXyOKArZoei0_pIzl7DCRWIpkXAwsQx5IFnVvmo0qTv9oEK4sJrdZeq9qFyIIz-wMnBM9lM-d7w7UwdledFNoonWqfZJLyYhVTyyeGXxzrJ22YOo/s640/blogger-image--1106383402.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfOilYu8BQ-rEDWTIAzteKik7gOSCyXyOKArZoei0_pIzl7DCRWIpkXAwsQx5IFnVvmo0qTv9oEK4sJrdZeq9qFyIIz-wMnBM9lM-d7w7UwdledFNoonWqfZJLyYhVTyyeGXxzrJ22YOo/s640/blogger-image--1106383402.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> With Mother's Day around the corner, there is an amazing choice to put a smile on her face. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> Any lady would be thrilled with any of the flowers or arrangements from here, so pretty and individual. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0s-ceVtNOqhHZIikJzyk7V5Mh0Ck62pGbwkGhuU79q89z8hyphenhyphen5b7GephfRDiDvifYCd-pAb371Aaxf99CJE3rxOaMF0lWaRFWzcgwflMvuIDz70uvUWBEmAupCeAu_bq54dP4XAUOnRWs/s640/blogger-image--1087596483.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0s-ceVtNOqhHZIikJzyk7V5Mh0Ck62pGbwkGhuU79q89z8hyphenhyphen5b7GephfRDiDvifYCd-pAb371Aaxf99CJE3rxOaMF0lWaRFWzcgwflMvuIDz70uvUWBEmAupCeAu_bq54dP4XAUOnRWs/s640/blogger-image--1087596483.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> 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! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">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. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">You can follow The Green on Facebook and Instagram by searching "The Green".</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRYye0jrbluiU2G26V0BLTeaLj0ercxhi7tItfO9x48vufxWqYVivEKmyL6xpNnkbrJcz7EiMxT5f4CDE9Vcth7pp-BIz1krGQ5mAXM0fqGWwJgVFJOMRBh29f8IozdjPOEXEG5mGgRD4/s640/blogger-image-2009781924.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRYye0jrbluiU2G26V0BLTeaLj0ercxhi7tItfO9x48vufxWqYVivEKmyL6xpNnkbrJcz7EiMxT5f4CDE9Vcth7pp-BIz1krGQ5mAXM0fqGWwJgVFJOMRBh29f8IozdjPOEXEG5mGgRD4/s640/blogger-image-2009781924.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> I think this seat has your name on it.....</div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> </div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><br></div>Maria Davisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14202031301346647651noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5740181548458483057.post-42680435614366864252015-02-25T15:37:00.001-08:002015-02-25T15:51:10.937-08:00Corbridge - the best things come in small packages.Half term arrived and it was time for my yearly R&R trip to Corbridge, the small town with the big heart. <div>For the past few years my family and I have made the short trip to Corbridge to the cottage we now see as our second home. Dilston Garden Rooms is owned by the most welcoming lady and from the moment I arrived I felt right at home. </div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha9_EB6MM5229QBLCHMJrgs4wIavLdGgD2VniCnUHk_iHp6zm1qRB0bFxwJT4TMRXG4Vk-tH_QkKde52NGp7G9V73J38zNSg-Wzzxrz6LQwRZrZEQkPtcSmbBaEKznrktIp0qvRohdOhM/s640/blogger-image-2119470616.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha9_EB6MM5229QBLCHMJrgs4wIavLdGgD2VniCnUHk_iHp6zm1qRB0bFxwJT4TMRXG4Vk-tH_QkKde52NGp7G9V73J38zNSg-Wzzxrz6LQwRZrZEQkPtcSmbBaEKznrktIp0qvRohdOhM/s640/blogger-image-2119470616.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> I was thrilled to catch up once again with Alan and his six hens. They happily followed us around the beautiful gardens and visited our cottage early morning to let us know the eggs were ready to collect. My children and I padded bleary eyed, dressed in our PJ's to gather eggs for breakfast, a perfect morning ritual.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">At the end of the garden was what I can only describe as a hobbit House. Dressed in glowing fairy lights and with a cosy open fire pit and goat skin throws, we spent many an evening slowly toasting marshmallows while planning the following day's adventures. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6F-YzzOBm3P-PCLUAeVKldK55GBEfdnTIXXJuOt2SakNkX0FTi4c6eMzVzw8f7rpFDliWov1jQIYnZKBtuCgGRcvvZUjKAzkeQ_4dfwmXwsDdAk9ml7p3zsskpSmfWdavh6Wge16X5gw/s640/blogger-image--1003939850.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6F-YzzOBm3P-PCLUAeVKldK55GBEfdnTIXXJuOt2SakNkX0FTi4c6eMzVzw8f7rpFDliWov1jQIYnZKBtuCgGRcvvZUjKAzkeQ_4dfwmXwsDdAk9ml7p3zsskpSmfWdavh6Wge16X5gw/s640/blogger-image--1003939850.jpg"></a></div><br></div> Each morning after breakfast we would make the 15 minute walk in to Corbridge to meander around the shops and enjoy a coffee at one of the many tea shops. </div><div>I have to say my most favourite shop is the brand new children's book emporium on Watling Street - Forum Books kids! </div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivRyWoUWc6jCc41YrpN6secCXfV6kYo82p74RkMo7YUuN7E4093GkBVBBPx-tlcw1b_f370Va88KDznlVv52yB7jj1xkfyuUHSXyAiB6_3i1jYlVLRA1iZtSwRI4iTi-KwGhxlKXNdSC8/s640/blogger-image--1649851585.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivRyWoUWc6jCc41YrpN6secCXfV6kYo82p74RkMo7YUuN7E4093GkBVBBPx-tlcw1b_f370Va88KDznlVv52yB7jj1xkfyuUHSXyAiB6_3i1jYlVLRA1iZtSwRI4iTi-KwGhxlKXNdSC8/s640/blogger-image--1649851585.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>This is a must visit if you have children, grandchildren or simply a love of books. Owned by Helen Stanton, it is sister to - forum books which is, in my opinion, the best book shop in the North East. Helen is so knowledgeable and has a wealth of experience in this field. Forum Kids is a place for children to really love books, there are so many fantastic books that you won't find in other mainstream stores and children are actively encouraged to pick up and read the books. During half term there was a wonderful variety of <span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">craft activities and story times. </span></div><div>Helen has some fantastic plans for the shop including revamping the magical garden, I can't wait to see it! I highly recommend a visit, you won't be disappointed - just make sure you clear your bookshelves before you visit as you will certainly not return home empty handed. </div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEito1kuu0ZtxBkkvQFkAOWz9eSaFYd0A2W8YPC7aqAtHMAULo9uuTqIkT8GpcWBlfBGqndyLfdc6DwS_xtxKzTJ8O4zAAFqgVIeZPboBObNmfN5TBnihqReeCo3Avjx736lTPLuzyGGqDw/s640/blogger-image-624514144.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEito1kuu0ZtxBkkvQFkAOWz9eSaFYd0A2W8YPC7aqAtHMAULo9uuTqIkT8GpcWBlfBGqndyLfdc6DwS_xtxKzTJ8O4zAAFqgVIeZPboBObNmfN5TBnihqReeCo3Avjx736lTPLuzyGGqDw/s640/blogger-image-624514144.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div> I had heard very good reports about " Il Piccolo" and decided to visit for lunch on my daughters ninth </div><div> Birthday.</div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEwLrXf_wo0xCstkwpJSg9vI0WK3dshJS19Icf625R5p_w7q7h1eS1LBOO64j3SW8MnvKKJ5fsBB99_SeC2PZK14Gnhz4s1f36UXMz0xcpW9OrtpPiz9r1hYdEnLJsAbiS0TcS3hOP-cI/s640/blogger-image-1994476310.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEwLrXf_wo0xCstkwpJSg9vI0WK3dshJS19Icf625R5p_w7q7h1eS1LBOO64j3SW8MnvKKJ5fsBB99_SeC2PZK14Gnhz4s1f36UXMz0xcpW9OrtpPiz9r1hYdEnLJsAbiS0TcS3hOP-cI/s640/blogger-image-1994476310.jpg"></a></div><br></div><br><div> Il Piccolo is an authentic, friendly Italian restaurant run by Sicilian born chef Manuele Orto and his wife Pam. From the moment we arrived I felt very well looked after and very much at home. The decor is warm and inviting and the choice of food was exceptional. I must add that while we were there my childhood hero happened to stop by for lunch. Yes, non other than Steve Cram!! I was so tempted to ask for a photo but was well aware that he was out to relax and so I managed to contain myself - I guess I could, at a push say I've had lunch with Steve Cram. </div></div><div>Pizza all round was the chosen dish and it was delicious, thin and crispy with just the right amount of topping, following this a visit to the in house ice cream parlour was a must. After the children had chosen their three scoops, the sundaes arrived and Madeline was even treated to a birthday candle. The pear sorbet has to be the most delicious thing I've tasted. </div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX3XrOyg5V-uUbs7U5nsOxaiE_NxMo0L7g2ShlGt-eB63oX33K2Lrgvpd1uhMLK-8HWpQCTX_dBa37YCLToAXRVymZnC_hvJvEP7KsgREhBU-NPrOjRhQuQeTg6LwW2uJ7Awz0Q49FXAw/s640/blogger-image-740779766.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX3XrOyg5V-uUbs7U5nsOxaiE_NxMo0L7g2ShlGt-eB63oX33K2Lrgvpd1uhMLK-8HWpQCTX_dBa37YCLToAXRVymZnC_hvJvEP7KsgREhBU-NPrOjRhQuQeTg6LwW2uJ7Awz0Q49FXAw/s640/blogger-image-740779766.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> </div> <span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">After a little visit to the deli to pick up a few Italian delights we left well fed and having thoroughly enjoyed the whole Italy meets England experience. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">If a take home lunch is what you need there are more than enough choices, all of which are delicious. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Grants Artisan Bakery is mouth watering, everything is displayed beautifully and I have never been dissappointed with any of the food I have sampled. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPJtYlLgsMrv1sW_-pOdk2YYkLYYkZv5iwAx4CggHlMoPQOuiL3DJk-o-t997-MbeBse6GQFG3dsGMV0XAIo3vunCh6bTcU3FaZ3OGgipkxHoCNb6iapVN1x-hxVCcgsiONMVYVR9xFHU/s640/blogger-image--1724040223.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPJtYlLgsMrv1sW_-pOdk2YYkLYYkZv5iwAx4CggHlMoPQOuiL3DJk-o-t997-MbeBse6GQFG3dsGMV0XAIo3vunCh6bTcU3FaZ3OGgipkxHoCNb6iapVN1x-hxVCcgsiONMVYVR9xFHU/s640/blogger-image--1724040223.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I think they make the largest meringues I have ever seen! A couple of doors up is JA Stobo & Son, greengrocer and fruit shop. This is the place for the freshest, largest fruit in town. All the usual fruit and vegetables can be found alongside some more unusual items! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdOskqSAAsbCdScsrMp5iqN_LdvP4_ocI-Ijf9rzh2xipUl6fmCWX4AY9K8iOdD54-VetL1MKhMxO7FcOCq8LQML7mONSM569mN28RLiaBN3a0Caw0a3ex9WR-52R_gIbTVaCSKG-ZRPM/s640/blogger-image-989787242.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdOskqSAAsbCdScsrMp5iqN_LdvP4_ocI-Ijf9rzh2xipUl6fmCWX4AY9K8iOdD54-VetL1MKhMxO7FcOCq8LQML7mONSM569mN28RLiaBN3a0Caw0a3ex9WR-52R_gIbTVaCSKG-ZRPM/s640/blogger-image-989787242.jpg"></a></div> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> For more unusual food the Corbridge larder, a delicatessen and coffee shop is a Corbridge favourite. Stocking both local and continental foods it certainly has that something special. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAOwhTX7unEGzCrLk4WjWUS48vVPk3PxNYh8oM7ZnV2hjlWusjWHHya0MjJlW5Djl9HG0cILRB4hdqPxpb5D-MIANW2W60gb2gm93HJS9DkVk66UJ-GaBrM1GVbswauV9fk2rk3UhkBJk/s640/blogger-image-967537289.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAOwhTX7unEGzCrLk4WjWUS48vVPk3PxNYh8oM7ZnV2hjlWusjWHHya0MjJlW5Djl9HG0cILRB4hdqPxpb5D-MIANW2W60gb2gm93HJS9DkVk66UJ-GaBrM1GVbswauV9fk2rk3UhkBJk/s640/blogger-image-967537289.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> And of course to keep the children happy we had the obligatory visit to Skrumshus, the sweetshop in the heart of the town. It really is every child's dream. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpHScNABQy6ZPPpHmJZATS-7ScyKKCMzCP93eJ51m7ktdOGHtMODeQxiRiiAyZDyDaUbq58Lza2ZEaadW-SloWgLv6VVzXhXL6CjpMRC5oh6zh55JcJjvKGwZeuo-EnAdBBkC9d_7Embo/s640/blogger-image--2105882259.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpHScNABQy6ZPPpHmJZATS-7ScyKKCMzCP93eJ51m7ktdOGHtMODeQxiRiiAyZDyDaUbq58Lza2ZEaadW-SloWgLv6VVzXhXL6CjpMRC5oh6zh55JcJjvKGwZeuo-EnAdBBkC9d_7Embo/s640/blogger-image--2105882259.jpg"></a></div> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> For a little adventure, a short drive away is the Roman Wall. One sunny afternoon we headed off to find Sycamore Gap and the famous tree used in Kevin Costner's Robin Hood.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">It was a beautiful walk in the late afternoon sun, we quite literally stumbled upon the tree as we climbed up and over a hill. It is, after all just a tree, but for some reason it is quite breathtaking. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiF5OQn00DHnEL8jsu2-cCMci4Q7pJtYRfklhutpvsaAnHWRtL-iAkF-90AGwJn8I5ESJ5z0A27zXqH4qoqY1ddZJLfo2pHT9ZcFT2KeV1Zm54jDbhPyZM3ukIa_H0iFOV5k-qFnBPhPw/s640/blogger-image-179091767.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiF5OQn00DHnEL8jsu2-cCMci4Q7pJtYRfklhutpvsaAnHWRtL-iAkF-90AGwJn8I5ESJ5z0A27zXqH4qoqY1ddZJLfo2pHT9ZcFT2KeV1Zm54jDbhPyZM3ukIa_H0iFOV5k-qFnBPhPw/s640/blogger-image-179091767.jpg"></a></div><br></div> The tree stood completely alone, not a particularly big tree but it was magical. My camera worked really hard that half an hour, my boy took a little time out while he waited. This is a must see in my opinion and I will definitely return in the summer. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTonkZhM_hOg6vK8_FXhtUe6S_JxEPgdkA-zCKwF1PkS3gvB0uihGCDLdY8YrhA-2KgORMj5J1QRSaAWed9bl9L7eLdU_Qxfwixu-ejqU3ROudkEb2AkcgPR3d52-WKd9o1WePhaSPoIY/s640/blogger-image--677926550.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTonkZhM_hOg6vK8_FXhtUe6S_JxEPgdkA-zCKwF1PkS3gvB0uihGCDLdY8YrhA-2KgORMj5J1QRSaAWed9bl9L7eLdU_Qxfwixu-ejqU3ROudkEb2AkcgPR3d52-WKd9o1WePhaSPoIY/s640/blogger-image--677926550.jpg"></a></div><br></div><br></span></div><div>No trip to Corbridge would be complete without a visit to RE the renound store stocking all manner of REcycled, REscued and REstored items for the home. </div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwqbFsOSS9pGL8tBZwzEcvCbT-4pYxtXLP5F2O7ExwmPT-n9tBVKX8oWpsjMXy1C1kSJ_necso0VMeq7ynF1Pt-XCGkurXrw3gmYGUj8tbzcBMRZ6fMsXXc8eF18iVwGXKx6d46oQLJRA/s640/blogger-image-1547294355.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwqbFsOSS9pGL8tBZwzEcvCbT-4pYxtXLP5F2O7ExwmPT-n9tBVKX8oWpsjMXy1C1kSJ_necso0VMeq7ynF1Pt-XCGkurXrw3gmYGUj8tbzcBMRZ6fMsXXc8eF18iVwGXKx6d46oQLJRA/s640/blogger-image-1547294355.jpg"></a></div> </div><div> Think back to being a child in the best sweet shop you've ever been to and you will have some idea how It feels when entering the store. It is a feast for the senses and you will never leave without something and will always need to come back for more. </div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUo-Uw_x7DlTlTG32hf4OSKgmzUpV2DFgowddPAqeDFoQ21rT6o63EOY6_HJj8uAJ1c6aVbli369fQMl_Kqn2ZFljodNCJzrnRK5IdEZe3S3uC8ZN52tl2cSqdUOza9Kp90X718ALZ_uk/s640/blogger-image--2032934081.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUo-Uw_x7DlTlTG32hf4OSKgmzUpV2DFgowddPAqeDFoQ21rT6o63EOY6_HJj8uAJ1c6aVbli369fQMl_Kqn2ZFljodNCJzrnRK5IdEZe3S3uC8ZN52tl2cSqdUOza9Kp90X718ALZ_uk/s640/blogger-image--2032934081.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>RE opened in November 2003 and has gone from strength to strength gaining a strong following. For those who can't make the trip, there is an online store with lots of goodies to be had.</div><div><br></div><div>There are so many other fantastic independent sellers in Corbridge, from jeweller Kirsty Taylor who has made a few beautiful pieces of jewellery for me over the years to Aganthus, a gorgeous giftware, jewellery and soft furnishing store to name but a few. There are also some beautiful walks along the river bank at anytime of the year.</div><div>Corbridge is really a hidden gem in the heart of the North East but once you've visited you'll get the bug and will certainly want to return. </div><div>Hope to see you there soon. XOX</div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div>Maria Davisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14202031301346647651noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5740181548458483057.post-39179588230098390452015-01-03T15:29:00.001-08:002015-01-04T10:53:23.996-08:00New year Rest-olutions.<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><br></div>Christmas is such a busy and often stressful time. I was determined this year that Christmas would not enter my life until December 1st, that included gift buying, card writing, decoration planning and general Ho,Ho,Ho- ing. I planned to have a stress free christmas. So that was my first BIG mistake. With so many things happening, two weeks with no internet and a nice selection of bugs, my stress free christmas became a bit of a race and I never did get any cards written, never mind about posted out. <div>Note to self - start Christmas planning in August this year....... </div><div><br><div>That said we had some wonderful moments and I certainly treasured them. </div><div><br><div>The tradition I love the most is the annual choosing of the tree. Careful consideration needs to be given to the shape and sized the tree. It just has to be 'the one'. </div><div>We found ours at a gorgeous little nursery in Leamside, Durham. </div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicsXSMh5DxRj3UacINLu4tE3ya66yojYBW2az666vnHoqcSUq-y3GYRb_yY7nY0E5bVbagPIdI-zpWfqi6vNP3TwTXUMbc0lkCdRTkVX7CMS1js_Af4Rj1pjdZrcZy3ey5oXB8nnkGFNY/s640/blogger-image-326414273.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicsXSMh5DxRj3UacINLu4tE3ya66yojYBW2az666vnHoqcSUq-y3GYRb_yY7nY0E5bVbagPIdI-zpWfqi6vNP3TwTXUMbc0lkCdRTkVX7CMS1js_Af4Rj1pjdZrcZy3ey5oXB8nnkGFNY/s640/blogger-image-326414273.jpg"></a></div></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">This little tree came home with us for the holidays. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">Decorating one tree just wasn't enough. </font><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">We are lucky to have a gorgeous forest just next to us and we often go for adventures. On one of our walks we passed a little christmas tree and decided to decorate it with a few decorations to make a stranger smile. Lots of people walk their dogs through the forest and we all know we have days where we smile on the outside but we aren't smiling on the inside.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"> We did this with the hope that is might make someone smile, even just for a minute. </font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJYw3ov2Z26HS1o_eY7wqwaAMXxL7fq_QvHHJQmb1JM2ETGiDa661oX5uA9peq1bUGRcglLZWairMFllN3WBOj1fMckrIGSssuh8k0ldXXojVdimhu_zPzm3RRmOya1iVvtrNZDHcJJTs/s640/blogger-image-1620932714.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJYw3ov2Z26HS1o_eY7wqwaAMXxL7fq_QvHHJQmb1JM2ETGiDa661oX5uA9peq1bUGRcglLZWairMFllN3WBOj1fMckrIGSssuh8k0ldXXojVdimhu_zPzm3RRmOya1iVvtrNZDHcJJTs/s640/blogger-image-1620932714.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">This really got us in the spirit of Christmas and all that was left was to see the man himself - Father Christmas. After a few frantic phone calls it turned out that you really did need to plan ahead for your annual visit with Santa. Eventually, we managed to book a sleigh ride to a little hideaway, nice and understated, no crowds and our own slot in his gorgeous little lodge. This is one for the diary next year if you have little ones. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> Look up Knitsley Mill, it has a gorgeous restaurant attached so you can make an afternoon of it.<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihTuECwg4Wj4jZyUlTK35a89ApQhwbTepNmPPFPvz_LLcLTaQ5T-IJdlwHwGjLIMtl6pghxhTdv2k72H_RjPOqZ3FGUdZYSh0fQvGKKJKfnyXVQyjBcNjQsbxF8KHfvp5yq8qAseIHgnI/s640/blogger-image--616463397.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihTuECwg4Wj4jZyUlTK35a89ApQhwbTepNmPPFPvz_LLcLTaQ5T-IJdlwHwGjLIMtl6pghxhTdv2k72H_RjPOqZ3FGUdZYSh0fQvGKKJKfnyXVQyjBcNjQsbxF8KHfvp5yq8qAseIHgnI/s640/blogger-image--616463397.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The letter was written, and posted.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0h2P7iKrCyr9qk1-5J_1Mfm96MLdL_RMbsli_FxFJiCAOHxbcohvc6ZNseOt78GBnNxAh3KiKvynGVIg_hhslDR9y3bJNGNJO0ImQM2mCCta0kb3PBVW6AjIeUHFofodCxoLpPSDYnIw/s640/blogger-image--733199153.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0h2P7iKrCyr9qk1-5J_1Mfm96MLdL_RMbsli_FxFJiCAOHxbcohvc6ZNseOt78GBnNxAh3KiKvynGVIg_hhslDR9y3bJNGNJO0ImQM2mCCta0kb3PBVW6AjIeUHFofodCxoLpPSDYnIw/s640/blogger-image--733199153.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We were well on our way at last, tree up - check. Santa visited - check. Gifts wrapped- check. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">All that was left was to have fun and enjoy it! We enjoyed a lovely little celebration on Christmas Eve with special friends and the children made reindeer food, cookie Christmas trees and Christmas muffins. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We watched Santa fly past the moon as we walked to our local church for a family friendly carol service. So much fun.<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaAUGQ5vc5vj3H5Mf9kIqH-dMvDa9d2Mu6iJfTTdy00pvpFc-LCZODhEIok2OHDxuA6dCAnFTpSsU70_Siij6Hu6OnCzg7BHuCqRhIZp27H2UtwaKMNADVDYS6rU62pvRBNUgki3qK3p8/s640/blogger-image--286669359.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaAUGQ5vc5vj3H5Mf9kIqH-dMvDa9d2Mu6iJfTTdy00pvpFc-LCZODhEIok2OHDxuA6dCAnFTpSsU70_Siij6Hu6OnCzg7BHuCqRhIZp27H2UtwaKMNADVDYS6rU62pvRBNUgki3qK3p8/s640/blogger-image--286669359.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> All the children enjoyed making cookie Christmas trees. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK2lk21qeUC4RAWihZZgTCbaXRQuUXYY9UtVFvyDvHM0LKY75FX6NIljExZ-9971CibjFOUs80tF3naz-Ddl09CkfqV6O62PhOO_XJmcb7jRfkbWHB0Dv71hX9uQP_tN0b8oxTpQo_osw/s640/blogger-image--87104928.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK2lk21qeUC4RAWihZZgTCbaXRQuUXYY9UtVFvyDvHM0LKY75FX6NIljExZ-9971CibjFOUs80tF3naz-Ddl09CkfqV6O62PhOO_XJmcb7jRfkbWHB0Dv71hX9uQP_tN0b8oxTpQo_osw/s640/blogger-image--87104928.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> Lots of varieties of reindeer food were concocted! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZwT4LuZJhtpVAjNaE2buH3sA42_4cCjmO1TJUYvtpDDD7V5JHTcUu-oTkvzj5nHsM7xCMjAa7rfOTeCrp31mnVWpVLqVgpeblo48y4ng0qIA7MAfP93tM0zDLgGsXm3OODM5kwmtrPnw/s640/blogger-image-1706899210.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZwT4LuZJhtpVAjNaE2buH3sA42_4cCjmO1TJUYvtpDDD7V5JHTcUu-oTkvzj5nHsM7xCMjAa7rfOTeCrp31mnVWpVLqVgpeblo48y4ng0qIA7MAfP93tM0zDLgGsXm3OODM5kwmtrPnw/s640/blogger-image-1706899210.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> Finally the day itself arrived and we had a fantastic time, lots of fun, love and family time. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">As the new year approached I did what most people do and started to think about what I could do or change in 2015, I'm not one for resolutions as such, but my father came up with the best idea - a New Years 'rest-alution' - I loved it! I'm so bad at taking time out to rest and always find something that needs doing. So I'm really going to try hard to do this. I sat with my little notebook and a cup of tea and wrote down a few little things that would help me get more rest and relaxation but were also realistic. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I'm quite happy with my ideas so far but I'd love to hear some of yours - things that help you relax or time saving tips for a busy mum of two. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Leave your comments below, I look forward to adding some of your ideas to my list to ensure I do a lot more of this.............</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW5XpWb5c76-hcv9-AfOVd4ztWRLmPktEBwgNN4TraqnCnULoHClMxNWBrUx5AwnldGzWP7IxgNVyeE_14Dq_vGv8DCy64zRFMC8ESmHTvbTj-2pJKjQ0TeYvgg01ryVx23-0WapRNLFE/s640/blogger-image-2021800452.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW5XpWb5c76-hcv9-AfOVd4ztWRLmPktEBwgNN4TraqnCnULoHClMxNWBrUx5AwnldGzWP7IxgNVyeE_14Dq_vGv8DCy64zRFMC8ESmHTvbTj-2pJKjQ0TeYvgg01ryVx23-0WapRNLFE/s640/blogger-image-2021800452.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">A happy and healthy 2015 to you all!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">XXX</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><br></div><br></div></div></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><br></div></div><br></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><br></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><br></div></div></div>Maria Davisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14202031301346647651noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5740181548458483057.post-19845834366502968272014-11-09T02:01:00.001-08:002014-11-09T02:32:07.284-08:00I will remember him. 🌺<div>Remembrance Sunday is upon us and it is 100% years since WW1 began. For many of us alive today that really is another life time. For our children, it's history, a story about something that happened in the past made real by a few old photographs and the odd love letter between a young soldier and his lover back home. </div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">This year my daughter's homework was to prepare a timeline of events and people in our family over the past 100 years and gather any information about family that served in either war. </span></div><div><br></div><div>We are lucky that my uncle is an historian and has the most amazing family archives I've ever seen, including my Grandpa's life story ( reading it was life changing).</div><div>So he happily gathered some information and together Madeline and I began to read it.</div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6NICB6NKqfkwl1EQTHloBcPoHDIw-4l4aJbNsZUxkNYbeKd5YlrsR06OZKEGzRsTjWnSXPlE9BYqNkac2-pdfFvmUvI1rfhRDRlGDjW2NDSzRqYor0E0oO4-gnCNuEr2OM1VFzvJOe5k/s640/blogger-image--68148256.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6NICB6NKqfkwl1EQTHloBcPoHDIw-4l4aJbNsZUxkNYbeKd5YlrsR06OZKEGzRsTjWnSXPlE9BYqNkac2-pdfFvmUvI1rfhRDRlGDjW2NDSzRqYor0E0oO4-gnCNuEr2OM1VFzvJOe5k/s640/blogger-image--68148256.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> My Grandpa in WW2</div><br></div><div>That's when it hit me. These men that we are reading about are young boys, their whole life is in front of them. They have dreams, they have a wife, a mother, a daughter. They really aren't just a single red poppy in a field or a name on a list. </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP5L2B2rGYFc2iobvnasNP_rHSfF4RHCQjKGWY9zHmnEdthV8N0N4yP7mfdU1ovYhVI3yZfa9fEZjS4DTiQqpc4FF4B2zOY8rzvHM3QnYkSpDAj7cqppGTkSmIXrSIMZYc3acu8m8EODw/s640/blogger-image--1575926695.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP5L2B2rGYFc2iobvnasNP_rHSfF4RHCQjKGWY9zHmnEdthV8N0N4yP7mfdU1ovYhVI3yZfa9fEZjS4DTiQqpc4FF4B2zOY8rzvHM3QnYkSpDAj7cqppGTkSmIXrSIMZYc3acu8m8EODw/s640/blogger-image--1575926695.jpg"></a></div></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Close your eyes for a moment, think of the man closest to you in your life, the one you love with all your heart, there may be more than one. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">How old is your son? The boy you would lay your life down for? </span></div><div><br></div><div>Think about them for a moment. </div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN19Y9oI6xUICwm1wnoxZ8MWsWIaxF02pH0G63ZHpPhtgRBh2tRJ-phz-CgIBjSpA5xc5tSYOFWyJQlavcE_pHqGc28IkNdcdmE3PYv_ANlBTCdEzkDBwOj5uOPVxrgmjPL3dZgsFzrCI/s640/blogger-image-1859043741.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN19Y9oI6xUICwm1wnoxZ8MWsWIaxF02pH0G63ZHpPhtgRBh2tRJ-phz-CgIBjSpA5xc5tSYOFWyJQlavcE_pHqGc28IkNdcdmE3PYv_ANlBTCdEzkDBwOj5uOPVxrgmjPL3dZgsFzrCI/s640/blogger-image-1859043741.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">So tomorrow they are told they have to leave, you don't know how long for and you don't really know where they are going but they HAVE to go - and no, it doesn't matter that their wife is pregnant, their mother is ill, their baby will be one next week or they are in the middle of building you a new garden shed. </span></div><div><br></div><div>So off they go. Just like that..... Gone....... Only the void of emptiness left. The uncertainty of when you'll see them again. The fear of the unknown. Loosing a part of yourself. </div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">So here are the men I will remember today. </span></div><div>James Joy, my great Grandfather was born in Ireland in 1885. When war broke out in 1914 he became a solider in the 1st Battalion of Irish Guards, an old and proud regiment.</div><div>In 1915 he went to France and served in the trenches. (aged 30) Although he never talked about it we do think he served for the first few months at the Battle of the Somme in 1916. The cold, wet lonely trenches. At 30, he should have been out with his friends, enjoying life and dreaming big. He was lucky enough to survive the war, but what he didn't know as he served in the trenches was that he was almost half way through his life already. </div><div>Toward the end of 1916 he transferred to the Royal Military Police. And the rest is another story. </div><div><br></div><div>He died in 1951 aged 66.</div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFVeg4o7ZmAG3oJB4wnoJ-Wqg5mF1uffhKZ1yqlPJBU3e6qd9qxxA2KjiiU5j0Eevbfag8xUxWMQVWbxjxOl2pzcZiG8Yc9Hm2g8kt7ZGKUoMGt8ydAdMKBLZCUeFdwh-LbCmX7EGG51c/s640/blogger-image--674884614.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFVeg4o7ZmAG3oJB4wnoJ-Wqg5mF1uffhKZ1yqlPJBU3e6qd9qxxA2KjiiU5j0Eevbfag8xUxWMQVWbxjxOl2pzcZiG8Yc9Hm2g8kt7ZGKUoMGt8ydAdMKBLZCUeFdwh-LbCmX7EGG51c/s640/blogger-image--674884614.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><br></div><div>So me and Finlay and Madeline are living legacies of this battle he fought. He saved us, gave us the life we live. Gave us freedom. </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDGoS1FWhhMX4UehrCuMzD1N5zciYKuR4UEv5JZlT3lYtlIn-RJ8vXOq-oOiedHb7RkIvCYq1lwzUTO3eSm_lp7vQSJ8Xk7-vBHDWRK7LTjjmVTEHuJGtlf2ysmAeDaaQIfO7vCSQYwzg/s640/blogger-image-626511938.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDGoS1FWhhMX4UehrCuMzD1N5zciYKuR4UEv5JZlT3lYtlIn-RJ8vXOq-oOiedHb7RkIvCYq1lwzUTO3eSm_lp7vQSJ8Xk7-vBHDWRK7LTjjmVTEHuJGtlf2ysmAeDaaQIfO7vCSQYwzg/s640/blogger-image-626511938.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">My Grandpa.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Where do I begin with this man.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Without the war he was my hero. </span></div><div>He was called Ronald Joy or Ron as he was mostly known. He was born 1925, and was at school,when the war began. He was well over 6ft, so as a child he was very tall. People thought he was older than he actually was and thought he was opting out if going to war, this used to insult him terribly. </div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7u4nr4vdhikoGlZ25jtLI4i-6__gYWoza0dxxdD3fHWgfoWUUvmGtDawivdcF5sNZcGg1-xkngzIOWSfJ-bsmxprXtNYI0U_SfyKrB0mtXt3vIvZFZTsOajmkmcmAVJQ2458nBDporFM/s640/blogger-image--1768539490.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7u4nr4vdhikoGlZ25jtLI4i-6__gYWoza0dxxdD3fHWgfoWUUvmGtDawivdcF5sNZcGg1-xkngzIOWSfJ-bsmxprXtNYI0U_SfyKrB0mtXt3vIvZFZTsOajmkmcmAVJQ2458nBDporFM/s640/blogger-image--1768539490.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> Grandpa in 1940, aged 15. </div><br></div><div>In 1943 ( aged 18) he joined the Royal Navy where be eventually became a petty officer. </div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPxA0NwdSj7AFeQslgAHhAtlDY_HPB11PlBAydYs3IlrKjiDN6PcczbZiknLMbzvfHcv08znirlEcbRrgq8K46J98TK2zROqTb-JQXaicX07Y8ae7pRSoNJuQZ0jfaDgKu6ExDKO9kUW8/s640/blogger-image-1442465996.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPxA0NwdSj7AFeQslgAHhAtlDY_HPB11PlBAydYs3IlrKjiDN6PcczbZiknLMbzvfHcv08znirlEcbRrgq8K46J98TK2zROqTb-JQXaicX07Y8ae7pRSoNJuQZ0jfaDgKu6ExDKO9kUW8/s640/blogger-image-1442465996.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>He served in some scientific research places before joining HMS Devonshire. During this time he traveled to the Far East and Australia. His ship's job as a minesweeper was to clear old mines from the sea to make it safe for other ships. </div><div>After the war he never liked to travel far. He never talked much about that time either. In those days there was no councilling, no charities set up to support returning service men, help them with the traumatic experiences. They simply came home and carried on, at least on the outside but who knows the battles they fought inside their head for the rest of thier lives.</div><div><br></div><div>He died 2000 aged 75. Always a hero. </div><div><br></div><div>Writing this post, really remembering people who fought for us, has left me with a heavy heart, a sadness for those young men who really gave their lives for us, family they didn't even know yet. Such a selfless act. And pride, pride in family ties, the human spirit and mostly in love. </div><div> Today we remember their greatness, the great ones. The ones who saved us. We also remember those who continue to do just that.</div><div>Our troops around the world fighting for us and sacrificing their lives. </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqXSWXk300-5WEWVrCctwlaa1B636uAnd9ZRB-6IGZ47vT-ES6LwILd3L4u9_CtzKd5yskxYm4e1BSaFAN4yCihW0nX8ur1rmZ9Ft1-7tnBwt7QNXE4ddKfGmzfBCNBgmSTdkazE0YSnY/s640/blogger-image--857995747.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqXSWXk300-5WEWVrCctwlaa1B636uAnd9ZRB-6IGZ47vT-ES6LwILd3L4u9_CtzKd5yskxYm4e1BSaFAN4yCihW0nX8ur1rmZ9Ft1-7tnBwt7QNXE4ddKfGmzfBCNBgmSTdkazE0YSnY/s640/blogger-image--857995747.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> X🌺</div><br></div><div><br></div><div> </div>Maria Davisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14202031301346647651noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5740181548458483057.post-75221067005360796332014-09-13T09:35:00.001-07:002014-09-13T11:41:16.441-07:00Backpacks and those who help lighten the load.This post has a slightly more serious feel to it than usual. It has been inspired not by negativity but more by the pulling together and kindness of others in difficult times. I hope it will help us believe that there is hope..... Always.<div><br></div><div>I've had this idea for sometime now, about a backpack. It's what we wear to carry our troubles in big and small. We all carry pebbles. Some days they are heavier than others, the daily worries, juggling family life, work pressures, family pressures - you know the ones. But what happens when sometimes we carry rocks for a long time. Great big heavy rocks that take our breath away and cause physical pain inside. Cause our backs to ache and our hearts to break. </div><div>How does that impact on our daily lives and how is the burden made a little lighter.</div><div><br></div><div>Yesterday was a very sad day for a special friend. This friend is one of the most lovely people I know and means a lot to me. They had some tragic news. As I sat with another lovely friend making sense of it, I talked about the backpack analogy and how lots of us carry these unseen weights. We spent a little time just quietly being with each other and it was in those moments that I realised the key to helping carry a friends backpack isn't in trying to take it off and empty it, it's about walking beside them and holding the strap for a while as they catch their breath. The unsaid support can be the most powerful.</div><div><br></div><div>I am lucky. I have some special people who've helped me carry my backpack this past few years, some in ways so quiet that no one else would see. They've all helped me to make my backpack invisible in many ways to those not so close. </div><div><br></div><div>It's easy during these difficult times to feel alone, maybe that no one cares or understands because their lives appear to go on as normal, but if you step back and look carefully, you will often see the love and the help that your nearest and dearest offer. Tiny stars twinkling brightly in the darkest sky.</div><div><br></div><div>I am about to embark on a little project of interviewing people who carry these heavy backpacks every single day and yet somehow manage to carry on with life, appearing to the outside world that they are "ok." This, " I am ok" is important for self protection and to enable us to work through grief and other powerful emotions whilst also continuing a normal life for ourselves and most importantly for our children. </div><div><br></div><div>I hope these coming posts will do two things. Firstly allow those who are living with difficulties or who have been through difficullt times to express how they feel, to be heard, remember a loved one or tell their story. </div><div>Secondly, to give hope to people who maybe aren't as far on in their journey, to let them know there is hope, there is light. I think we all need to be reminded sometimes of the strength of the human spirit and the kindness of both friends and strangers.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWM9fuzEmQtBzPbgwyoEPkw2OkPZPo-tcMco5JPP8xjMlis30G230OHbc-kS6aEzz-oxVwIwXxf8tyHUh-AjfxiJz08pQDuZ7hF448MyALZ36ACyY9ScZ29cCJlVPnEtUI8qNEJe80eZo/s640/blogger-image--1722659405.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWM9fuzEmQtBzPbgwyoEPkw2OkPZPo-tcMco5JPP8xjMlis30G230OHbc-kS6aEzz-oxVwIwXxf8tyHUh-AjfxiJz08pQDuZ7hF448MyALZ36ACyY9ScZ29cCJlVPnEtUI8qNEJe80eZo/s640/blogger-image--1722659405.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div>If you feel you have a story to tell and would be happy to share it with others, please contact me via my email address maria101@sky.com</div><div>If you would like to leave a comment please do so on the FB page underneath the blog post.</div><div><br></div><div>X</div><div><br></div>Maria Davisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14202031301346647651noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5740181548458483057.post-90689090519531421152014-08-14T08:07:00.001-07:002014-08-14T08:07:47.332-07:00Precious moments for them....... And us!Hurray for the summer holidays again! I am lucky enough to have six whole weeks with my two partners in crime to enjoy some wonderful adventures. <div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIdCBtqlEAklgmDZnSgW9HST4VT2vng7xYgt1C5c4ypKxj9A87NB-bf_CxU1eqj0o8zjV3m8lYeeF9gPbWvLOpDgLgzNVV219jm0jkcfhAfTxmKKyOtZwFdbpsCbhrCrgwQ0FEEd3fUyI/s640/blogger-image-1440592970.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIdCBtqlEAklgmDZnSgW9HST4VT2vng7xYgt1C5c4ypKxj9A87NB-bf_CxU1eqj0o8zjV3m8lYeeF9gPbWvLOpDgLgzNVV219jm0jkcfhAfTxmKKyOtZwFdbpsCbhrCrgwQ0FEEd3fUyI/s640/blogger-image-1440592970.jpg"></a></div><div><div><br></div><div>My main aim this holiday was to slow things down and do less. Life has been pretty hectic and I felt time was passing by in recent months in a bit if a blur. </div><div>I felt my most said phrases had become "hurry up" and " if we have time". </div><div>Not great.</div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSrFUDl5LYBlyZyGaTIiYFnebVrMA-AiQlyx6mY5GavPaZnMbE6YsRENa8zUEX8hUnW6FGEpunrE5RBV_kydvTKDBE-ecNtGLSfqLG5u48FKKseO7EtR2Dczbqs0XtKvoflwPNNKI6fzI/s640/blogger-image--397586544.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSrFUDl5LYBlyZyGaTIiYFnebVrMA-AiQlyx6mY5GavPaZnMbE6YsRENa8zUEX8hUnW6FGEpunrE5RBV_kydvTKDBE-ecNtGLSfqLG5u48FKKseO7EtR2Dczbqs0XtKvoflwPNNKI6fzI/s640/blogger-image--397586544.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div>So with school out for summer we began our adventures, I was biting my tongue to stop the above mentioned phrases making an appearance.</div><div><br></div><div>We took time over breakfast and I asked my two questions, simple questions about what they had enjoyed the previous day and why. They began to teach me what I already knew in my heart. It really is the little things that make the wonderful, memorable moments. They loved the days in late July we had in the garden, the late evening strolls followed by hot chocolate, playing out in the street, meeting friends but mostly they loved the fact that they had their best vacation in the world this year. ( again)</div><div> "Where did you go?" I hear you ask..... We spent five days in the lake district, with lots of rain and a chilly August breeze. That melted my heart. </div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpKTaeM_wzh1rp1jwQV9XnG1tOroCgpvPjaxZx5hCqeSuA52-Quye5ViU5rFPdb1vE6U4KHIGSH0wQaZmBS2H9Phg8Bn3RnUVZPvXCDN_lZjovXqWtYuDlMnWZCcP4_B2XMQ2-SEkX7i4/s640/blogger-image-1452422733.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpKTaeM_wzh1rp1jwQV9XnG1tOroCgpvPjaxZx5hCqeSuA52-Quye5ViU5rFPdb1vE6U4KHIGSH0wQaZmBS2H9Phg8Bn3RnUVZPvXCDN_lZjovXqWtYuDlMnWZCcP4_B2XMQ2-SEkX7i4/s640/blogger-image-1452422733.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">All this aside, all these wonderful days, two happy children....... I am exhausted! I'm not complaining, but it is hard work being a mum 24/7. Anyone who says anything other isn't being 100% honest. It's the best thing and the hardest thing. </span></div></div></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">So what about us mums? When do we get five minutes to recoup?</span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> At this point I hear you snigger, especially those of you with under fives. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> </span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Here are my top ten tips for soothing body, mind and soul when time is of the essence. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">1. A cup of tea and a giggle </span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">friends. I'm really blessed to have some very special friends and we make time to do this on a regular basis. They probably don't realise but it always lifts my spirits. The tea helps too. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">2. Read a book. I'm guilty of doing this less when I'm busy. But actually it's a real soul soother, I find I disappear into the story and sometimes am genuinely upset when the story is finished!</span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">3. Excercise. I'd love to say I run four times a week and do Pilates.... If you'd asked me five years ago if have said I do. Now I lack time and energy BUT I do power walk as many days of the week as I can, for about an hour and until I'm breathing a little faster. My two go on their bikes or scooters so I have to work a little to keep up! Not the most intense workout but it helps me relax. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">4. Drink lots of water. I drink gallons of the stuff, I always have a bottle in the car, one on my desk at work and it's the first things I do when I wake on a morning. Try it. Not drinking enough can leave you tired and can cause headaches. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">5. Meditate. Just a few minutes a day can really help. Take a look at "headspace" they do a great APP and it's really easy to do. Helps you escape for just a few minutes a day. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">6. Pamper yourself. In an ideal world a massage every few weeks and a fortnightly facial and massage would be top of my list but it just isn't a possibility. So home pampering is the way forward. A face mask, an overnight hair mask, ( I'm really into using Lucy Bee coconut oil at the moment) and a file and polish. It's amazing how much better you feel just with painted nails! </span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">7. An early night, or two or more! This without a doubt makes you feel better. Lack of sleep and sleep deprivation really makes you feel bad. It's difficult when you have hungry babies that like to snack in the night! But little naps when you can will help just a little bit.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">8. Write. Even if it's a one line diary entry, a one off page about how you feel or a debut novel! I write all the time from poems to one off pieces to a few novels!! It really helps me switch off. After my beloved Grandpa died I was privileged to read his life story that he had written. It blew me away on so many levels. I'm sure it was used as an outlet to him too. My uncle also writes fantastic things. Writing is in my family's blood. I love it. Try it. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">9. Connect with nature. This is like marmite. You will either love this or truly hate it. Give it a try, you might surprise yourself. Take your shoes off at the beach and walk on the sand. Go into the garden in the dark and watch the moon and stars, walk in the forest. Paddle in the sea or a river. I know it's sounds cliched but you really do realise how small you are and a sense of calm washes over you. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">10. Take a break. This isn't always possible for various reasons. A night away can really clear the head. If this isn't possible a long day trip does the same thing. Pack up snacks, a camera and head off somewhere you've never been, take pictures of the things that interest you or of the people you are with. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Enjoy the journey and use it as a chance to converse. Leave all your troubles at home...... They'll be there when you get back! </span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I would love to hear your ideas- I'm always looking for quick and easy ways to clock off for short periods of time!</span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Happy relaxing after your summer adventures! </span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhng73T9JNe0OJR18nSE9mjxL3cVqcLK762lVi1kkaUEf_ak9UNnI6QcZjFS-bIVNfzA_5UQ19dTEt-aBtLt3t9mO6ZZejh72WLEY-5CZxPmZO6IlfR6ztSR7sl0Uak2P23dVsj7HH47BU/s640/blogger-image--64567541.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhng73T9JNe0OJR18nSE9mjxL3cVqcLK762lVi1kkaUEf_ak9UNnI6QcZjFS-bIVNfzA_5UQ19dTEt-aBtLt3t9mO6ZZejh72WLEY-5CZxPmZO6IlfR6ztSR7sl0Uak2P23dVsj7HH47BU/s640/blogger-image--64567541.jpg"></a></div><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div>Maria Davisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14202031301346647651noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5740181548458483057.post-46083030030254468402014-08-03T08:16:00.001-07:002014-08-03T08:16:30.641-07:00Sunshine a plentyAs we packed up the car Sunday afternoon and headed toward the beach I felt the weight of the working week bearing down on me and the apprehension of the busy week ahead film my soul. <div>"Mum, have we got the buckets?"</div><div>" shall I take my swimsuit?"</div><div>" have you got the snacks?" </div><div>And so it went on... All the while I rushed around the house grabbing everything we may possibly need and in the back of my mind dreaming of evening when I could climb back into my bed and shut off. </div><div><br></div><div>At last we were in the car, I breathed that sigh of relief.... You know the one..... It's almost like a relief to be finally headed off, a peaceful thirty minute journey began.</div><div>As we neared the chosen beach for the day, one we had never visited, my eyes saw a sight that made us all squeal withy just a little excitement.....</div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqTuMybB5msHracbw5xSlcKQpe5RDognC7g2YkngYhkO2S5uzmcgzdSd5jZ4zbWnMIwWGI-f9rXxiYp1CR90IoI2fSEai8mvA_pjuphm0liih1HZW6Irenbspiu-E0LYfXsW-Y6Wj009k/s640/blogger-image--1778683980.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqTuMybB5msHracbw5xSlcKQpe5RDognC7g2YkngYhkO2S5uzmcgzdSd5jZ4zbWnMIwWGI-f9rXxiYp1CR90IoI2fSEai8mvA_pjuphm0liih1HZW6Irenbspiu-E0LYfXsW-Y6Wj009k/s640/blogger-image--1778683980.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>There in the distance were two little rows of brightly coloured beach huts. </div><div>As we neared we decided we would have to have one for the day and promptly set about finding out how to obtain one. </div><div>Ten minutes later, keys in hand, we entered our little beach hut for the day and as we opened the door, I also opened my heart and packed up all the baggage I was carrying, looked around and knew right then this was going to be a good day.</div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKHdusP2EH45Z-4a1ZvqO9W2VQIvjUrvRyZJxe6doG45QkaCBkKwoyYPEIk6WAYiPQrp7073ui2N8oR2MKy82ZKksSp6c63d4saCn-Vcsa6gJeSgJJ097ijqpEehfuOBGidc03e-1l-_4/s640/blogger-image-1599720538.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKHdusP2EH45Z-4a1ZvqO9W2VQIvjUrvRyZJxe6doG45QkaCBkKwoyYPEIk6WAYiPQrp7073ui2N8oR2MKy82ZKksSp6c63d4saCn-Vcsa6gJeSgJJ097ijqpEehfuOBGidc03e-1l-_4/s640/blogger-image-1599720538.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>My two were quick to test the deck chairs and promptly gave them the seal of approval. </div><div>Fine minutes later we were running find to the sea, splashing each other and jumping waves. </div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEPU_z-096Y_ZzpJyIZo0NcghNnzBWIcZzgdxRatd1DjNvdOf13YwlbrIYsnQG7roW8rySz_U1FFaNEDVnB6gbWDxpSksQa53SYMTt789QkDAXSg7qOwGjdVPH9q3gDtQESH8ALqXqvzA/s640/blogger-image--1273753798.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEPU_z-096Y_ZzpJyIZo0NcghNnzBWIcZzgdxRatd1DjNvdOf13YwlbrIYsnQG7roW8rySz_U1FFaNEDVnB6gbWDxpSksQa53SYMTt789QkDAXSg7qOwGjdVPH9q3gDtQESH8ALqXqvzA/s640/blogger-image--1273753798.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We had such fun, had our lunch outside our beach hut and of course took many photographs. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHqmNLHFwG13YsuToSj3Zb3nHtmP7shu7JNErbnKSkg4R__mIkxY3M_DtdQLtoXghORZkTLSgJOTYZRzpWDdzbZHvWGZYoBaCqjOqRpS7WEXFaIdUSL6kpjCLSHxudQPVhfqbSJmyKNzg/s640/blogger-image-323162770.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHqmNLHFwG13YsuToSj3Zb3nHtmP7shu7JNErbnKSkg4R__mIkxY3M_DtdQLtoXghORZkTLSgJOTYZRzpWDdzbZHvWGZYoBaCqjOqRpS7WEXFaIdUSL6kpjCLSHxudQPVhfqbSJmyKNzg/s640/blogger-image-323162770.jpg"></a></div>We also met lots of lovely people who stopped as they passed, marvelling at the beach huts. " come inside, have a look" became my favourite line, " I should be on commission" I giggled. But for me, there is nothing sweeter than sharing something wonderful with others. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAApYR_RJzYtYIupAlxDYv6-t_uffqurxonr8aMRkBEG9a5bMRKHAVQ4e3NmAORyish8jJ4eZuntFoSedLEdupxW-r2rT_pd3mTU9iQFBpPtNNOMMD0CaM5CWVHS2lz995hYRt53lFjio/s640/blogger-image-1157252235.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAApYR_RJzYtYIupAlxDYv6-t_uffqurxonr8aMRkBEG9a5bMRKHAVQ4e3NmAORyish8jJ4eZuntFoSedLEdupxW-r2rT_pd3mTU9iQFBpPtNNOMMD0CaM5CWVHS2lz995hYRt53lFjio/s640/blogger-image-1157252235.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">By now I felt relaxed, had switched off from the weekly grind and was genuinely enjoying some quality time with my two. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">It is hard, when we are busy, to connect with our children, talk to them and most importantly listen to them. I am guilty of that all too often. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">As we drove home, the late afternoon sun hovered low in the sky, we all chatted about the day. The consensus was " we'll definitely go back" and guess what, in late August we are! X</div><br></div>Maria Davisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14202031301346647651noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5740181548458483057.post-83935645460533542182014-03-30T00:16:00.001-07:002014-03-30T00:35:12.730-07:00Mother's Day MusingsMother's Day......... A day of rest, relaxation, a day about me.... I'm a mother right?<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv0-yOn-HEp-ecpf3BtQP4Ls5BXgXRPFKUJVmjev2AIpoT14iprAwJF0tQ2KFTKQkbbcH7L5jPd4z2pB782BQ0VMxAal6AnnYrklgNW-i0I2WESiXnEalyN1ab8_xxjxu3miTyUgpSRvU/s640/blogger-image--478769534.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv0-yOn-HEp-ecpf3BtQP4Ls5BXgXRPFKUJVmjev2AIpoT14iprAwJF0tQ2KFTKQkbbcH7L5jPd4z2pB782BQ0VMxAal6AnnYrklgNW-i0I2WESiXnEalyN1ab8_xxjxu3miTyUgpSRvU/s640/blogger-image--478769534.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>But strange as it may seem, today is always about my own mother. That's where my heart and thoughts are. I don't feel I've yet qualified for the day to be all about me, I am, after all, still learning great lessons from her.</div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifHqIeUzB3TZsLKOlAwaqTd0VdFdSAl-L8gUOnRvQAtMLhzugrJzGUxCHq2EGurDHzMTNzFvD01CIWyq2WY540Qz_sGzVNuLSE8XzB1LB6vVTmKADRk-KQI5eVERR2vgnG2GbdEGV-3Lg/s640/blogger-image--471095108.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifHqIeUzB3TZsLKOlAwaqTd0VdFdSAl-L8gUOnRvQAtMLhzugrJzGUxCHq2EGurDHzMTNzFvD01CIWyq2WY540Qz_sGzVNuLSE8XzB1LB6vVTmKADRk-KQI5eVERR2vgnG2GbdEGV-3Lg/s640/blogger-image--471095108.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div>It isn't until you become a mother yourself that your eyes are opened to just how much you are actually loved by your mother. The unconditional love, the sacrifice, the putting you way way before themselves. Also the pleasure, the immense satisfaction and the utter, utter exhaustion.</div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div></div><div>I am, every day, still in awe of my mother. She still tends to me like a mother bird does to her young, she loves me unconditionally. I can honestly say, I don't know where I'd be without her.</div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidsadNnCh_bro3o-bhg0bgO6Xn0nOdkwK15_-qq85eqNbOBrzKPssmUKoYVW1GSK4dVMOdqcvJNoCOwpDRDuLlpNqDPdWKpO3__HAw9JJNPiZ61dH1YYetNLnQ7VnDQ0se51GdWA39beU/s640/blogger-image-1006116656.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidsadNnCh_bro3o-bhg0bgO6Xn0nOdkwK15_-qq85eqNbOBrzKPssmUKoYVW1GSK4dVMOdqcvJNoCOwpDRDuLlpNqDPdWKpO3__HAw9JJNPiZ61dH1YYetNLnQ7VnDQ0se51GdWA39beU/s640/blogger-image-1006116656.jpg"></a></div><br></div><br></div><br></div><div>They say beauty comes from within, it sure does show on her face, she radiates love and happiness.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivdWa1-gJa6raIwCzQnSbhrTgH5EQUH0QO75XtQvHaA-XP_wuztdgS7kCUI7TezkCPZ4dhT5TyEZPSvU8_c6oV3F5ji5pz9tCN9ocjfZkLzDXixruGuSY75bB2LnL45Vm-gAkx2MeiQos/s640/blogger-image--1522560877.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivdWa1-gJa6raIwCzQnSbhrTgH5EQUH0QO75XtQvHaA-XP_wuztdgS7kCUI7TezkCPZ4dhT5TyEZPSvU8_c6oV3F5ji5pz9tCN9ocjfZkLzDXixruGuSY75bB2LnL45Vm-gAkx2MeiQos/s640/blogger-image--1522560877.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>When I grow up, I want to be just like her.</div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div>Maria Davisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14202031301346647651noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5740181548458483057.post-12016538430587624692013-11-17T16:07:00.001-08:002013-11-17T16:07:58.818-08:00Pumpkins a plentyWinter always brings a sense of excitement, as the trees bare their branches and last rays of sunshine run heavy in the sky, my heart skips a beat at the thought of the fun that is to come. Halloween for us was a pumpkin fest, a chance to spend time with dear friends and make new ones who kindly invited us into their home for hot drinks after we were caught short in a sudden downpour. ☔️<div><br><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlOYvugkwUKsoUK81yO_pWPROWAa_e9dQSpPJGVrzVgY14LK-gkTWraSV5CzhXw0ngXgfN9i2uftUaUKOPjC70iRNqNMLzfTZz33zFnN7AiAbfyE9AhftS6DJqnHNwFsYkiBrXhU4AsjI/s640/blogger-image-314256207.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlOYvugkwUKsoUK81yO_pWPROWAa_e9dQSpPJGVrzVgY14LK-gkTWraSV5CzhXw0ngXgfN9i2uftUaUKOPjC70iRNqNMLzfTZz33zFnN7AiAbfyE9AhftS6DJqnHNwFsYkiBrXhU4AsjI/s640/blogger-image-314256207.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> This year he drew his plan and carved the pumpkin himself. A little owl no less! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5deMfpCTRWw-lAeCpOArrD9RzaQXtcCBfkgriEM24t3hS3AvzAXkie6U3hJeoSKy_QjHu6BKVKzW3iE8YDzEaayXA2Jvs9yRDiwF_StswhFDaOjYRo0e8yEUTGhBt-dWWqcnjLcKz7g8/s640/blogger-image--35300665.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5deMfpCTRWw-lAeCpOArrD9RzaQXtcCBfkgriEM24t3hS3AvzAXkie6U3hJeoSKy_QjHu6BKVKzW3iE8YDzEaayXA2Jvs9yRDiwF_StswhFDaOjYRo0e8yEUTGhBt-dWWqcnjLcKz7g8/s640/blogger-image--35300665.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">My daughter learned to ride her broomstick this year and boy has she had fun.....</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSiPbTyJfM2b8C-rx6KGmiqEmydYI6kEBnc9UnM_xdZiw_AGhoAJHOOdsrN0F5yn-nJztxRAqICx_VucVW8MjQg9ubdGTrhjPkVCe71nvXf9gG3JtXRgSgFoertxO5hwoBb3PuKeWfPms/s640/blogger-image-1358946405.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSiPbTyJfM2b8C-rx6KGmiqEmydYI6kEBnc9UnM_xdZiw_AGhoAJHOOdsrN0F5yn-nJztxRAqICx_VucVW8MjQg9ubdGTrhjPkVCe71nvXf9gG3JtXRgSgFoertxO5hwoBb3PuKeWfPms/s640/blogger-image-1358946405.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Flying high! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">This year on bonfire night, we challenged ourselves to write with sparklers, it was a great fun filled session and Grandpa certainly had his work cut out operating the camera! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwcMB_ZPk6BpqLBjkc0d-zYEgHT4kjXpH2QxR6FakBlPBy_gbzhY7w3VItvrpJA3nkPD_KOlj8DeEZRqOg9OvobAh0JkxGSPpmpthMBDtC-apugfAXWaoUBouM6IVg0bojnxbs1-kyvQY/s640/blogger-image-1179840167.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwcMB_ZPk6BpqLBjkc0d-zYEgHT4kjXpH2QxR6FakBlPBy_gbzhY7w3VItvrpJA3nkPD_KOlj8DeEZRqOg9OvobAh0JkxGSPpmpthMBDtC-apugfAXWaoUBouM6IVg0bojnxbs1-kyvQY/s640/blogger-image-1179840167.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju0PFYuS1biOI-im1Mn_Lg2bGCMjIi-X08xM5aAxYXTGeOK6LH23rfGWE5OSI65DH99VAk62AbRCptoiAoQ9N8m4nHTFzNV2rc1I0LvHTP6guKeGLOid9r4tD7PgzuUAWiSg7oeFzSAb4/s640/blogger-image-403288895.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju0PFYuS1biOI-im1Mn_Lg2bGCMjIi-X08xM5aAxYXTGeOK6LH23rfGWE5OSI65DH99VAk62AbRCptoiAoQ9N8m4nHTFzNV2rc1I0LvHTP6guKeGLOid9r4tD7PgzuUAWiSg7oeFzSAb4/s640/blogger-image-403288895.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> It had to be hearts! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> Winter days mean chilly walks, kicking leaves and warming up with cuddles and hot chocolate. <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEgt94o2b7Ldw7NOxInuHimu0JgQTL0R35ZuEP9fp4zKYccnxS-KbzQ6dVZVMI0SgV_j-WMQPFtv5Q5wQGX0rNKbOLbr2SUI9pfY_AMQO1Oc-ETUWAcfmJ1EWNkwMOBNpL-KnBvLuu40Q/s640/blogger-image--500881972.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEgt94o2b7Ldw7NOxInuHimu0JgQTL0R35ZuEP9fp4zKYccnxS-KbzQ6dVZVMI0SgV_j-WMQPFtv5Q5wQGX0rNKbOLbr2SUI9pfY_AMQO1Oc-ETUWAcfmJ1EWNkwMOBNpL-KnBvLuu40Q/s640/blogger-image--500881972.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> Who better to walk by my side than these two?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I must admit in the winter it's so much harder to find "some kind if wonderful" but it is out there, we just have to look a little harder and think a little harder. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Something came to me last week as I took yet more photographs of my children. Today's photos are tomorrow's memories. Let's Make them good ones. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">My next post is going to be all about just that...... Memories. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Happy winter x</div></div><br></div><br></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><br></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div></div></div>Maria Davisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14202031301346647651noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5740181548458483057.post-7997621940336569682013-10-02T13:21:00.001-07:002013-10-02T14:43:56.073-07:00The happiness project<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjArsj1HZtd4n2jeVWYIsNxx0oXuFifJlXBBtEEPALrPxq1Ho_J3vuRwdqtbNiwiQVMSRbfBks4Ycrq-5nZ4TkMq3aBaF0e_ZPhXQTfe2UE8urUdEuv3aY2m1t_nDHjRco9SfUTTkyeTFM/s640/blogger-image-601263876.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjArsj1HZtd4n2jeVWYIsNxx0oXuFifJlXBBtEEPALrPxq1Ho_J3vuRwdqtbNiwiQVMSRbfBks4Ycrq-5nZ4TkMq3aBaF0e_ZPhXQTfe2UE8urUdEuv3aY2m1t_nDHjRco9SfUTTkyeTFM/s640/blogger-image-601263876.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">What makes you happy? Like..... Really, really happy, that overwhelming feeling of happiness where for a moment or two nothing else matters? Often we look to others and feel they must have some amazing secret as they always look so darn Happy! But we're good at that aren't we - the looking happy, the talking happy but what is being happy? </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">That exact thought inspired this post, hence I've named it the Happiness project.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAcU6z8-sr7R7yvohWpQ35CglZKIOhPx2NfGToNWa5qx5oHeZvjaHNErmovmaSofXY4iPon4A1fbWgqof0OY9IbwG-3IlBmUGQO6YNlAvTW7bB-t08xCsYxk0F6GYvF0nZCszpHIjhLUs/s640/blogger-image-660188923.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAcU6z8-sr7R7yvohWpQ35CglZKIOhPx2NfGToNWa5qx5oHeZvjaHNErmovmaSofXY4iPon4A1fbWgqof0OY9IbwG-3IlBmUGQO6YNlAvTW7bB-t08xCsYxk0F6GYvF0nZCszpHIjhLUs/s640/blogger-image-660188923.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> Ok, so these two pretty much account for much of my happiness and most of my " some kind of wonderful" includes them. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Just think about all the big things you've done, the planned trips, the " this is going to be a really special day" times. Those times when you think you are going to be happy because you are meant to feel that way, but actually if you're really honest it's all a bit of an anti climax.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">With this in mind I'm going to tell you what I've discovered recently about my "some kind of wonderful" and about feeling truly happy.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUMfEP6NH0Q6ymMc4vhyiTIhaL4LfG90rbvToB1Oxxhp2lvUIvs_d2YksaJSCAv7WfL10BR41Hw1Fa_dAY_Umsxzuya4RalONhdFQAcXPhEwQYA_D0PUsT8VuYfEw_M3psC6SNfYTGLOU/s640/blogger-image--1476857017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUMfEP6NH0Q6ymMc4vhyiTIhaL4LfG90rbvToB1Oxxhp2lvUIvs_d2YksaJSCAv7WfL10BR41Hw1Fa_dAY_Umsxzuya4RalONhdFQAcXPhEwQYA_D0PUsT8VuYfEw_M3psC6SNfYTGLOU/s640/blogger-image--1476857017.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> For me, right now, it's not so much about <i>making</i> days wonderful or doing the big things but about embracing that age old cliche and enjoying the small things. As our children grow and enter into independence, they no longer want or need to spend every waking hour with us, so it really has become about catching the happy moments as and when they arise. A bit if a learning curve for me, the ever planning mummy, packing in all the experiences they "just had to have" and filling their baby days with awe and wonder.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPGCX3eWAiAm81RJPPZZHEOYqRiPAOqmR1ah79byt0HavWNTD5rX2AWog5mAvOBCuKLvgoMEypFSTHSUDiW_sEPaF7InwsFWNulRR8Q6_x4SKXqgWmD0qogslBD5Qm7vwo3PoeasKYf5o/s640/blogger-image--1602912766.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPGCX3eWAiAm81RJPPZZHEOYqRiPAOqmR1ah79byt0HavWNTD5rX2AWog5mAvOBCuKLvgoMEypFSTHSUDiW_sEPaF7InwsFWNulRR8Q6_x4SKXqgWmD0qogslBD5Qm7vwo3PoeasKYf5o/s640/blogger-image--1602912766.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> I'm learning, still learning, to live right here, right now and love the magic of the moment, the moments with my babies, ( yes they're growing up, but they'll always be my babies!) taking in every second,etching it in my mind, imprinting it on my heart.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">So, what happiness moments have I had? ..... Here are a few things I've managed to do lately.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> * jumping into my huge bed, in freshly washed white sheets, one of my darlings under each wing, warm milk and a good old chit chat and giggle.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">* sitting in the back garden in the dark, throws around our shoulders, hot choc and looking for shooting stars.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">*cooking pancakes together on a Sunday morning, seeing who can flip the pancake the highest without dropping it. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">*talking cars with my son, I haven't the slightest interest, but he is car mad so to share some time with him I fake my interest and we read his car book together and it's lovely. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">*having my hair brushed and my nails painted by my daughter then having her tell me I look beautiful. <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh6V1h_s12PsOux5Uzgm75e9XtwTbPF8NdUSYCFjoABcPJnDaNrw0_fJT1MV56QAPzJA8kKXpEHLp4ddfBjwes4kYLwKVBQn45rxtZWxIrKWxefdgovvme8Gz7-nmqK26624AeokQ-3_0/s640/blogger-image-1189074667.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh6V1h_s12PsOux5Uzgm75e9XtwTbPF8NdUSYCFjoABcPJnDaNrw0_fJT1MV56QAPzJA8kKXpEHLp4ddfBjwes4kYLwKVBQn45rxtZWxIrKWxefdgovvme8Gz7-nmqK26624AeokQ-3_0/s640/blogger-image-1189074667.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I'm trying not to rush- because I have a million things to do - but to stop and treasure these moments because in a blink of an eye they've gone from being in my arms to being this big. I know one day soon I'll wake up and they'll be all grown up and I'll wish, really wish, I'd enjoyed these small things just a little more and left all those " important" things until later. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The small things are the memories, the " mum, do you remember when....." Is always a small thing, a by the by moment to us as adults. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We really don't need endless time or pots of money to make our own little happiness project. A little imagination? Yes. A little patience......... ok, a <b>lot </b>of patience!! Yes. But the rewards far out way.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Here are a few " some kind of wonderful" moments that you might like to try</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicTZG2MSSFkozrsg68p8SRSfnsJPDkD_bsdfOPr703Mu8rMPcC1rSmeNynqV9a5Bl2ac2OixOmSW31_wNLWYwa77fYQrq_dlfjPgopnaxr83T5TBi2KCsga0gcw1RjgadVCfwJupFCeRQ/s640/blogger-image--1584160029.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicTZG2MSSFkozrsg68p8SRSfnsJPDkD_bsdfOPr703Mu8rMPcC1rSmeNynqV9a5Bl2ac2OixOmSW31_wNLWYwa77fYQrq_dlfjPgopnaxr83T5TBi2KCsga0gcw1RjgadVCfwJupFCeRQ/s640/blogger-image--1584160029.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> Good old fashioned conker hunting, we had a competition to see who could find the biggest conker, then, when we got home we tried to find out how big, the biggest conker ever found was! We're going to soak them in vinegar and then have a conker competition with a few friends. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7TLBIJ5UNCT_nZ2HcTMoOM1NrpAFJNj-caJS5dkiE7LTWdbeC6GclWYWXBG83Wm9K_PqFgVkVVakE3-MWNtPpX9qIqct_ikJ3Jdvv5rDIPEdRD8Yx1vLJnhpUZMZERSTNO1SdCD6emNY/s640/blogger-image--1863449983.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7TLBIJ5UNCT_nZ2HcTMoOM1NrpAFJNj-caJS5dkiE7LTWdbeC6GclWYWXBG83Wm9K_PqFgVkVVakE3-MWNtPpX9qIqct_ikJ3Jdvv5rDIPEdRD8Yx1vLJnhpUZMZERSTNO1SdCD6emNY/s640/blogger-image--1863449983.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> Build a sandcastle village! Ours started small and by the end we had an army of other children from the beach joining in. It amazes me how children who have never met can be so accepting of each other. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQXJCZh0REcwVlbeRkFQb_U9zG_vKeIMKoRL2AK0IbzcKfonqdVni_VjSh_sqR4YEH-6rQNLmxx08NEwKkgxAQStLJUMpNcNN1Npc-lJjhZgcND_VkJU4P70TkqYAZ1tjnbVLGUh_0q0Q/s640/blogger-image-303747479.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQXJCZh0REcwVlbeRkFQb_U9zG_vKeIMKoRL2AK0IbzcKfonqdVni_VjSh_sqR4YEH-6rQNLmxx08NEwKkgxAQStLJUMpNcNN1Npc-lJjhZgcND_VkJU4P70TkqYAZ1tjnbVLGUh_0q0Q/s640/blogger-image-303747479.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> For me, baking provides a little bit of bonding time. We hunt out the recipe, source the ingredients, then chat while we bake........ Then the best bit, we sit and eat together - perfect! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9mFC6CPoKg5vJOL-C1V2trx-R0g9PqOmYgSxu1Hsi2D6fWYp04zbQ8cg1944IXMyqi735kG-v_s01TBzBp0RflUi8DWrM0L1_AJkQs1HUogDytAlu-qOVInMJSHswiZqguGlBBBIVRC0/s640/blogger-image--1100011394.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9mFC6CPoKg5vJOL-C1V2trx-R0g9PqOmYgSxu1Hsi2D6fWYp04zbQ8cg1944IXMyqi735kG-v_s01TBzBp0RflUi8DWrM0L1_AJkQs1HUogDytAlu-qOVInMJSHswiZqguGlBBBIVRC0/s640/blogger-image--1100011394.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> Just a simple, evening stroll. I love nothing better. We walk many evenings, watching the sun set, hunting for whatever it is we've decided we need and we talk. About our day, about good things, about tough things. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I love it. ❤</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">All these wonderful things making happy moments and happy memories. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Before I sign off I must add a final note....... All of these wonderful moments are short. Wonderful, but short. They are heavily interspersed by bickering, washing, ironing, exhaustion and often wishing for bedtime so I can collapse in a haze of tiredness! Reality.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I'd love to hear your thoughts, your happy moments and your " some kind of wonderful" to complete this happiness project. I'm hoping to have a guest post soon on this subject so watch this space! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhko6c2UVooMD9g9Fzd9Jy7yBBEgo7KeFtAuGOQ3kjd8hc3rqT9jmhRo8wqF_Puk6TlPxBjCsODx-PRVRNIYu-LIkuMzT5gxXaK6TjlwTBJ7Ax1EJo06whOpp08KtD4xR0h4Uxc_oTD_yU/s640/blogger-image-1732976756.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhko6c2UVooMD9g9Fzd9Jy7yBBEgo7KeFtAuGOQ3kjd8hc3rqT9jmhRo8wqF_Puk6TlPxBjCsODx-PRVRNIYu-LIkuMzT5gxXaK6TjlwTBJ7Ax1EJo06whOpp08KtD4xR0h4Uxc_oTD_yU/s640/blogger-image-1732976756.jpg"></a></div><br></div> </div><br></div><br></div><br></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><br></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div>Maria Davisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14202031301346647651noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5740181548458483057.post-89858861425709163622013-09-25T14:20:00.002-07:002013-09-25T14:44:45.290-07:00Autumn calling!<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div>September 25th 2013 <div><br></div><div> The sure signs of autumn have arrived and I'm feeling excited about the weeks ahead and the adventures that are to be had. Autumn trails, conkers, pumpkin picking, bonfire night.... So many things to look forward to. </div><div> Our first autumn "Some kind of wonderful" came in the form of blackberry picking. We sported our wellingtons and long sleeved tops as protection against the prickles and off we went.<div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge_1zlIfeGvDuSrfqZLwvM7ZLcnM99dwV8K36UDt7pfATY51or2L8U3hlNawP01uVpPNTXJsyqa_qXHz8bSrNlleVJz-lR9koajAcMKZe8nW9FgOd28sHkXe6nPuTAHxlYGOOizj9J9Uc/s640/blogger-image-1134839398.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge_1zlIfeGvDuSrfqZLwvM7ZLcnM99dwV8K36UDt7pfATY51or2L8U3hlNawP01uVpPNTXJsyqa_qXHz8bSrNlleVJz-lR9koajAcMKZe8nW9FgOd28sHkXe6nPuTAHxlYGOOizj9J9Uc/s640/blogger-image-1134839398.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>The excitement grew as we dared each other to grab that perfect berry, the one hanging just out of reach.... We soon realised who the bravest was!
</div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPMu_0giyogVHoO5caf1lE3f-i6bl9CTNBAo9cthnvlw33QbXtGii-3r037UXoeB2-elwDV0FW7nUtO4KA9wuLp7_Gjf-nofEYz3xeLjEQnFqsspEf33lf5JEVKumJGn9v48EcxxB2qus/s640/blogger-image--352337897.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPMu_0giyogVHoO5caf1lE3f-i6bl9CTNBAo9cthnvlw33QbXtGii-3r037UXoeB2-elwDV0FW7nUtO4KA9wuLp7_Gjf-nofEYz3xeLjEQnFqsspEf33lf5JEVKumJGn9v48EcxxB2qus/s640/blogger-image--352337897.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div> She just had to have that perfect </div><div> Blackberry! </div><div><br></div><div>The best berries were the ones that were tucked away beneath the branches or high up out of reach, as our adventure increased so did our determination to have those perfect berries.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVkDero4v11Y7WtJoHY_MJxXbiUrfkflfvuT-vYZpLMLI033mrl_eEZvybBQvpXYAh8KmhXb_AXtxwl6V7q3ILsPvcMibgZ-1zBxtTESIHohVvpw3gYipCDcaelgLL41utxA-lKYCKkTs/s640/blogger-image-938872414.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVkDero4v11Y7WtJoHY_MJxXbiUrfkflfvuT-vYZpLMLI033mrl_eEZvybBQvpXYAh8KmhXb_AXtxwl6V7q3ILsPvcMibgZ-1zBxtTESIHohVvpw3gYipCDcaelgLL41utxA-lKYCKkTs/s640/blogger-image-938872414.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> Perfect autumn harvest!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">So, through our adventure I had managed to grab a few hours of quality time with my two little wonders. I find more and more that I have to put a lot of thought into what will inspire and excite them and go with it even though at times it's not what I would choose to do!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">So what to do with our gatherings? </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">"Jam" they yelled. One wanting to wash the blackberries, the other wanting to cook them and check the temperature. Great I thought, how can I turn down the opportunity to spend more time together. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Madeline was thrilled at the water turning pink as she washed them while Fin loved being in charge of the "dangerous" bit and made sure we all stayed clear of the heat! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7C0E6Ak_91XOPOTDUwkoWsIvgv6ZanSSIF7qmZ7KPvQJm54gbndCFJ1qlDKAKV8ciQZL1-0FjI7bF3VNvG3P3LtMYq8_vITRT3vCpCJMJFDOVxoJqF3WrwUr8AFV_fIYYURkZLYF8qSE/s640/blogger-image--448689000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7C0E6Ak_91XOPOTDUwkoWsIvgv6ZanSSIF7qmZ7KPvQJm54gbndCFJ1qlDKAKV8ciQZL1-0FjI7bF3VNvG3P3LtMYq8_vITRT3vCpCJMJFDOVxoJqF3WrwUr8AFV_fIYYURkZLYF8qSE/s640/blogger-image--448689000.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> In less than an hour we had a few small pots of gorgeous home made jam. What a way to spend an afternoon, lots of talking and lots of listening!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0HQtRYPInJQzx1muInUkiSXfL8T24HkTbIgXhCs4sak0w0vJmuf5nA2I3CVux7NArmdiB7r82EFlohbS9w14Msqd_4T0Z60aWkfXZj8tnn9ffIyawQulh35iNv5jKhGh7mbz4qKH9vA0/s640/blogger-image-462722811.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0HQtRYPInJQzx1muInUkiSXfL8T24HkTbIgXhCs4sak0w0vJmuf5nA2I3CVux7NArmdiB7r82EFlohbS9w14Msqd_4T0Z60aWkfXZj8tnn9ffIyawQulh35iNv5jKhGh7mbz4qKH9vA0/s640/blogger-image-462722811.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> Beautiful blackberry jam in a recycled </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> Jar! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">It's was truly delicious - both the jam and the afternoon!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Roll on conker season when we'll be going bonkers for conkers!! </div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><br></div><br></div></div>Maria Davisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14202031301346647651noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5740181548458483057.post-76888001164890699012013-09-18T14:11:00.001-07:002013-09-23T11:45:35.507-07:00Summer dreams and ice creamEarly September 2013 <div><br></div><div> As summer draws to an end and begins to close its doors to make way for autumnal delights, I can't help but think back to the summer adventures I shared with my partners in crime. Summer this year my two little wonders said would always be remembered as "the summer we spent at the ocean, with sand in our toes, licking pastel coloured ice cream and swimming in the sea". "Perfect" I said, "that's just the kind of wonderful memories I hoped we'd make". </div><div><br></div><div>The summer holidays are always a chance to reaffirm the bond with my two, spend some quality time and talk about our dreams and hopes. This summer my son turned 10 and I realised the significance of being 10. It's a turning point, a time of change. No more single digits for one!! But also, I began to see the person he is becoming, he told me of the life he dreams for himself and my heart broke and sang all at the same time. My baby is growing up but he is happy and looking forward to his future and that's what I've hoped for this past decade.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgktBCEp5wUbD7Ap0WCy-vScvYdFa9wtd7B3es148yWGRk5LbfObunbKB5ezACmW0SD2bieU0jn81r6g7DWPfcesGiyRVe8Mi01GKAd42aipElz_vAXDLUqGx9EAMauChKSiqWUypVt6cc/s640/blogger-image--1790984401.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgktBCEp5wUbD7Ap0WCy-vScvYdFa9wtd7B3es148yWGRk5LbfObunbKB5ezACmW0SD2bieU0jn81r6g7DWPfcesGiyRVe8Mi01GKAd42aipElz_vAXDLUqGx9EAMauChKSiqWUypVt6cc/s640/blogger-image--1790984401.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Celebrating a decade of love with my boy. What I wouldn't give to kiss those soft baby cheeks again just for five minutes.</div><br></div><div> As the nights draw in and the sun sits a little lower in the sky, my mind drifts to the long, sunshine filled days we shared and I feel a little sad, it's always the end of a little chapter when school holidays end.......BUT ... It's when my favourite season begins......autumn! </div><div><div><br></div><div>Here are a few shots of our summer of ice cream and dreams </div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzJRgq3JpO_JZFwKAMzgYTS6bZB8oQM0fl-EQt4WgfVSiWJgJ-vxW97G3STOacP5L1Q9h-yFo1JSeByLrx-w4U9n1Vk8YjLT3ZdeFLBESNg4r7PQJzqvZrmC5vKbja-VWiSZm7-OBiN28/s640/blogger-image-291793010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzJRgq3JpO_JZFwKAMzgYTS6bZB8oQM0fl-EQt4WgfVSiWJgJ-vxW97G3STOacP5L1Q9h-yFo1JSeByLrx-w4U9n1Vk8YjLT3ZdeFLBESNg4r7PQJzqvZrmC5vKbja-VWiSZm7-OBiN28/s640/blogger-image-291793010.jpg"></a></div> She loved dipping her toes in the sea even on the chilliest of days! </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHHh5cwsuNrhuT1Zb2L5DKvo3GE5lw0Up11i4pznZPzWnBfnEaODjQem7jpuHBuMEP9QV3-WEyuu5mxNDoGaZC6ix-1Fy8yrVyCf8qKJqXl3-o7M0cWZkNLVB69_lMLHwIwYeklBDa_RU/s640/blogger-image-1252846061.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHHh5cwsuNrhuT1Zb2L5DKvo3GE5lw0Up11i4pznZPzWnBfnEaODjQem7jpuHBuMEP9QV3-WEyuu5mxNDoGaZC6ix-1Fy8yrVyCf8qKJqXl3-o7M0cWZkNLVB69_lMLHwIwYeklBDa_RU/s640/blogger-image-1252846061.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> Jumping the waves!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHEsAIZ15l0kGaLhaW1PBwzJnwI8kwOgug2wddE-fJ_I-FL7vl1RKjf_KKJM96S0KsSIfnTk17onL5H9XG58fdfIBVrc9tnmHFQdhVUUwqTi-itt4YMa9A651W71dpW35P5t7bhQp8lyg/s640/blogger-image-464543484.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHEsAIZ15l0kGaLhaW1PBwzJnwI8kwOgug2wddE-fJ_I-FL7vl1RKjf_KKJM96S0KsSIfnTk17onL5H9XG58fdfIBVrc9tnmHFQdhVUUwqTi-itt4YMa9A651W71dpW35P5t7bhQp8lyg/s640/blogger-image-464543484.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> Buried treasure! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">And so the chapter called summer 2013 draws to a close.... Coming soon..... Autumn and all it's wonders...... </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Enjoy your some kind of wonderful. ❤</div><br></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><br></div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><br></div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><br></div></div>Maria Davisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14202031301346647651noreply@blogger.com0